A guard dog…

A pet….

A fury baby…

Since Fudge has joined the family, I have come across some pretty interesting assumptions of what her purpose is. Well, more like, what people “think” her purpose is…

Now that our training has come to an end, I have been taking Fudge pretty much everywhere I go. Each time I have been to a new place, someone states something about Fudge that I am sure even makes her laugh. I don’t want to be mean or criticize anyone, but all these moments made me realize that people are a little more ignorant to people with disabilities than I had thought. As per personal experience, I know that some people don’t want anything to do with a disabled person, but not even having knowledge of general assistance that we have….

Fudge has been called my guard dog, or bodyguard, if you will. This happened in the mall when people saw us leaving towards the underground parking. I’m not going to lie, this is her new nickname in public now. These people were shocked when it was explained to them what Fudge was really there for.

Fudge and I love going for our walks around our neighborhood and so do many people in the area. We have encountered some of our surrounding neighbors and many have referred to Fudge as an adorable pet. The thing that many people don’t seem to understand, is that she is a working dog. She has gone through many months of training and is not just any pet Lab.  This is not to say that she is not treated as well as my other pets are, but there is a sterner way with fudge. When she is in harness, she knows it is time to work, but once it comes off, she knows that she needs to run and grab a toy for a game of fetch. It is not just playing all day when it comes to a working dog as you have to ensure that their previous training is not in vain and is remembered and practiced.

Now, the most interesting comment about Fudge was the most unexpected. It was her first trip to a restaurant, so I called the manager a few days before to make sure she was allowed. When I spoke to the first person that answered the call, the conversation turned completely on its head. After I put in the question of whether Fudge was allowed, the response I got was the following….

Prepare yourself…

“Madam, I’m not sure. You see, we only have a playground and jungle gym for small children so….”

I’m sure you can understand why I say that this was an interesting response. Again, Fudge was mistaken for my furry baby and not my working dog. I’m not exactly sure how that message was put across, but as I said before, some people don’t seem to completely understand the topics of disabilities.

I honestly can’t wait to see what other surprising moments we are going to receive in the future. It certainly does entertain the both of us. Although, I’m going to try my best to spread a great understanding of disabilities and the aid that we require so that these instances are less frequent.  Or, I don’t know, they do say ignorance is bliss. Ignorance is definitely amusing in this case. But I must admit that it is not often we do see a guide dog in public.  A first for many…

“Ignorance should not be tolerated.  It isn’t worthy of our understanding or sympathy.’ – Ethan Hunter