I've been putting off doing a post on his blog for days, as I can't
handle to think about him.Obviously I really hope he does well with his training, and can make it as a guide dog; but I keep having this feeling in the back of my mind - that he's going to get CC due to allergies/such.
Please keep him in your prayers, not only for him to do well with training - but for him to also pass his medical exams.
Since I don't have another puppy at the moment, but I'm really wanting to keep this blog updated - I will be "drawing out" the pictures and such. So this post will only have pictures of the acutely "drop off", but the pictures taken on the way down, will be posted later.
We arrived at the guide dog school a little before 10am on Monday morning. Showing up a little early, as I wanted a couple pictures in front of the guide dog sign.
Rudy was quite interested in the dog scent that was everywhere - but did obey his sit-stay for the photos.
We were turning in Rudy on Memorial Day (as we were unable to attend the IFT date), so they had very few staff there; which ended up being quite nice...
Normally, once you hand over the dog - it's just taken away (heading to the IFT kennel). And we don't see them again (for now).
But since they didn't have a trainer there to take Rudy, they allowed me to walk him to the IFT kennel (which I've never seen!) - while a kennel assistant escorted us.
I was quite happy to be able to have Rudy for those few extra minutes, but the second I handed over that leash - I was in tears.
Did Rudy care? Not one bit!
Maybe after a little while he started wondering where I was, but he's quite dog distracted... and thought he was in doggy heaven.
When people ask what's the hardest thing to do with puppy raising - the "IFT Time" is always my answer. Giving up a pup that you've had since a young age, while keeping in mind that you may never see him/her again - is what I call hard.
I will be posting some more pictures soon, and Rudy also wanted me to let you guys know the "surprise animal" we picked up down in FL (still not a new puppy - or kitty).
Rudy's Raiser
17 comments:
Bless you for the hard and necessary work you do. We can't wait to hear what comes next.
Nubbin wiggles,
Oskar
Sending you more hugs.
You are very brave, very generous, and we can tell that throughout this difficult time all your thoughts are still going out towards what is best for Rudy.
You have done a wonderful job, the best job you could, and that is more than many people can say about their lives.
Rudy looks so grown up and official in those pictures! I have my fingers crossed that he's going to do great, but even if he doesn't work as a guide dog, he might still do some really important job like Toby did. I think he'll touch lives and hearts no matter what he does!
You could always share about your current dogs that live there on the farm with you, or the baby goats as they grow up. I know you've got lots of interesting things that we dogs could get a good sniff of at the computer screen!
Bunny
I am so very much PROUD of YOU and RUDY!!!
Maybe you can stick in his Mango Minster post and such.. We would all love to see all of that again.
I will cross my paws fur Both of you!
What you do is amazing. My Mom says she could never be so brave to let go of a puppy she had raised for a year. I hope you do continue to post and let's us know how you and Rudy are doing.
I'm proud of you too! You are a part of something wonderful! :)
Like Wilma said... please continue to post and let us all know how you're doing. :)
Woofs and lotsa hugs,
~Bailey
Thank you for stopping by our blog - it made me remember to come by here. I forgot that this was the time you had to return Rudy - such a difficult time I can only imagine and such a wonderful thing that there are people like you who are willing to do all you do. I pray that both you and Rudy make it through this time with flying colors.
Kim, Shiloh and Shasta
all our paws crossed for Rudy. How about a post about you are your dedication to train these guys to help others. We give you LOTA a credits for doing this rewarding and difficult job.
Snuggles
Benny & Lily
We think you and Rudy are both amazing! I know Rudy is going to do GREAT!
Your pal, Pip
What a bittersweet post. I can feel how emotional it must have been when you said your final "good-bye." And of course Rudy cared! Perhaps not at that moment, but I know that at some point he wondered where you were, and why you were not with him. But fear not, Rudy will always have you in his heart. :->
My prayers are with Rudy that he passes all of her physical exams.
The photos are beautiful, and such a wonderful keepsake of the precious time you two had together.
K and Suka
What you do is great! Best of luck to Rudy!!! We'll miss him!
-Corbin
A very difficult day we know but we also know the huge difference Rudy will make to the person Rudy goes to 'work' with eventually!
We are keeping paws and fingers crossed here that all goes well with the advanced training.
The very best of luck to you both!
take care
Clive and Murray
WOW, I can't believe Rudy is gone to IFT already. Boy time flies by fast. I hope he does well and I hope you do too.
xxoo
Deborah
PS I can't wait to see more pictures.
GO RUDY!!
I'm crying too! That must be so difficult.
Mango Momma
Words really can't put into words what an incredible act of service you are/have done. Inspiring.
I can't even imagine doing what you do. You are so amazing that you do this - when the ending for you is so sad. I hope everything went well with Rudy and he is on his way to be the best guide dog he can be (corny, I know) :)
I know Rudy will do well. Thank you for the wonderful, heartfelt service you provide!
Pat
www.critteralley.blogspot.com
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