What's this thing called Retirement?
I've had many questions, suggestions, and misconceptions about this thing called retirement. So I'll try to clarify. Service dogs retire when they are either no longer physically able to work, or they are no longer motivated to work. Shelby's problem with her legs is not a life threatening condition, but it does affect her ability to perform those tasks that I require of her. Lately, she has also become resistant to working so I knew the time was nearing. As a graduate, I get to choose where Shelby will spend her "golden years" (though I suppose all her years are golden). This is the hardest decision of all. I'm going to try to keep her (with several weeks off during team training and afterward to get situated with the new dog). As a retiree, Shelby will finally become "just a dog" albeit a very smart, talented, loving dog. She will not have to accompany me everywhere and get to take life easy. She certainly deserves it. I'll still be able to take her places where dogs are welcomed as health permits. Once I have a successor dog, she will no longer accompany me to strictly "people places." Some dogs do not do well with having a new dog in the house that goes every where while they are left home. After all, she has been by my side 24 x 7 x 365 for almost 12 years. I am told that other dogs find it a relief to not have the responsibility of being constantly on call. If Shelby does not handle the transition well, then I have folks that are willing to give her a carefree retirement. I am praying that she will be OK with the new circumstances. I have already started to feel the repercussions of her retirement on my community of family and friends. This will be a transition process for all of us. God bless you all for your support. Other questionsIf you have other questions, e-mail me. |
