I may have raised 3 dogs - but turn in is NEVER easy.
Toby left me yesterday morning. I will never forget that moment, handing over a dog that I've raised for the past 10 1/2 months, who went everywhere with me, never leaving my side. And then having the thought in my head that I would possible NEVER see him again.
You are correct that was NOT easy. Of course Toby didn't mind - he just "trotted" off with the SEGDI trainer like he didn't care.
Toby isn't mine. I remember signing papers stating that this is a temporary home - he doesn't belong to me.
I am okay with that, I know that Toby has a job to do, whether it's leading a blind person, helping a disabled girl, sniffing out drugs, or maybe even being a sweet pet to a lonely family. He has many choices and I know he will pick the right one.
I will always miss Toby, I still stop at the doors waiting for him to "find the door", does he? No, because he is down at the school finishing training... taking the path that he wants, choosing a career and sticking with it.
Good luck Toby, you will always be in my heart, I love you and will NEVER forget you. Have fun with all your buddies down at the school and PLEASE listen to your teachers - college isn't just a party!
Toby's Raiser
The human without a dog that has a blog
SUNday Sharing
18 hours ago
25 comments:
A piece of you will go with Toby on whatever journey he is chosen to do. So in a sense, you two will be together forever.
I'm at work reading this and I almost started crying...
You're right it never is easy but think of the wonderful foundation you've provided for him. His first experiences were with you and that will be with him forever.
There is always pain when we put our heart and souls into what we do, especially when it's done well -- and what you do is amazing.
I hope you are able to assist another guide dog in training.
Thank you for sharing Toby's adventures with all of us.
Best,
Claudia
Wow, so the time finally came. Toby is not mine you said, because it was on some paper. Well, my mom is not big on being called my parent yet she uses that term because the alternative would be "owner". She feels that none of us are "hers". You should find peace knowing that Tobby walked away as he did, ready to seize his new life, a life he's going to have thanks to you. May you both have a wonderful future from now on filled with many beautiful relationships with friends and furiends. So long, Tobby. We'll be getting your updates and we'll be rooting for you!
Twinkie and family
Your post is especially poignantfor me, Dublin is now 9 mos. old, and as you know time is ticking away. What lets me do this is knowing how much the blind person (hopefully he makes it as a guide) loves them too. The few bloggs from blind people that I have found help a lot. (((hugs)))
Our first one is a working guide in St Paul Mn. That is all worth it!!
I think I've said it before but I thinks you are very much brave and have a big heart. You did what lots of other humans couldn't and there's another human out there who will be forever Most Grateful to you for that.
If I could gives you hugs, I would. I hope wiggles & wags will do instead.
Wiggles & Wags,
Mayzie
I'm on my third now...I'll know exactly how you feel when the time comes again. It was only 3 months ago I dropped off Doni. It is hard! Whoever said it gets easier with each pup surely is wrong! Toby will pick the right one and will be happy with his "job" whichever it may be, now it's time to sit back and really let him shine :)
Mom is leaking so I'll paw this fur her...
All the other khommenters have all inkhluded the same words we would use too!
You helped make him what he is to this point in time
THAT is a gift not all humans are selfless enough to attempt!
We'll be looking furward to the new arrival!
Maybe one day your paths will khross - so it truly is just bye fur now!
Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra & Her Leaky Mom too
we also wish toby the best of luck
I knew that saying good-bye would be tough, but you've done an awesome job!
I know this has to be one of the hardest moments in life and truthfully that is why I'm not doing what you're doing right now. But I applaud you and thank you for being able to give so selflessly. You have enabled someone to have a miracle in their life.
Lynn
I was doing ok until that last sentance. *sniffle*
Jayden is next to me on the couch right now and you know what? I don't know how I managed without my guide dog. I can't say enough about his raisers because they gave me such a perfect guide, companion and friend. I know it's hard right now and I know it will never get easier, because what you're doing matters so much. I can't wait to hear about whatever Toby chooses, and you're right, he'll be great no matter what he does.
*hugs*
Walking away from someone you love is never easy whether you have loved them for just one day or for thousands of days. Our momma says that she will keep you in her thoughts and will cuddle you close in prayer.
You have the biggest heart! I am so very impressed that you can love him like that and then send him on his way. My mom got a bit weepy just reading about it.
Hopefully you can live through all of us until you get your new puppy!
Wags!
Mr. Nubbin'
This must be such a bittersweet mix of emotions for you.
I hope it helps to know that your efforts have helped mold Toby into the very special dog he has become.
Pat
I put off reading this post all day because I knew it would make me totally happy sad and it did. I sure will miss Toby. Good luck with your job. You are going to change some human's life forever and be his best pal.
Slobbers,
Mango
As usual, it is so hard for me to console someone through these internets, but you and Toby truly are special.
Big Hugs,
Dory, Bilbo and Beth
As one door closes, another one opens. Enjoy life's circle.
Hi, I have been thinking about you and Toby a lot these past few days. What you do is wonderful and so many people must benefet from your kindness. But you must feel sad also letting Toby go. But knowing that Toby will help someone must be so gratifying for you, beyond words can say. I hope you continue to visit your bloggy friends. I can only say that I think you do wonderful work and everytime I see a therapy dog, I think of Toby.
Thank you for sharing Toby with us. xxoo
Deborah
It is not any easier the fifth time around either. He will have a ton of fun and he gets to be roomies with Rocky and Spike. I hear they are doing very well.
I think it is a truly wonderful, selfless, amazing thing that you do - and that was the most touching post.
Toby - and all the dogs - were lucky to have spent even a short part of their lives with you - they will never know how much they owe you.
We will all miss Toby and wish him well in his new "career" - and hope that you won't be too lonely before the new pitter-patter of paws in your home! :-)
Hsin-Yi
I wished I has da words to help you feels better but I don't...unfortunately. But, you both are much an inspiration. You have taught him well and loved him. He will be in our hearts forever.
Puddles
We salute you both and think this is a wonderful thing you are doing. We can only imagine how hard it is.
Bless your heart - you are amazing, and we wish you comfort as you adjust to life without him. Thank you for being an inspiration!
Awww I don't know how you do it. I'm glad that you can though, because Toby will be doing something great with his life!
we've just found your blog - how cool are you!!!
loves and licks!!
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