Presto! Where did that dog come from?

The best part of our trip this week to Tel Aviv was when I went to sleep in the little niche between the seats on the train. I crawled deep inside and stretched out to go to sleep where no one would step on my paws and tail. And believe me, I was glad to get out of the way. The train was packed with people and I was tired from maneuvering through the mall and down the moving stairs and along the crowded train platform. But when we got as far as Kiryat Motzkin, I woke up and decided to crawl out and beg Bracha for a pat and a treat. Presto! Out I came! Imagine the surprise of the people on the train who had gotten on after our stop and didn't even know I was there! It was like being a magician! What fun to see the people all surprised at the big white dog crawling out and standing in the aisle!

And if that wasn't all, I got taken to two kindergartens where Bracha told the children all about me. Now those little kids will know more about guide dogs than a lot of adults do. They know what I do, what my harness is for, and not to touch and pet me when I'm working. They also know there is a law that says that I am allowed everywhere. Now they can help teach all those adults like the guard at the supermarket who just can't learn that I'm allowed inside. How is it that some children are smarter than grownups?

A visit to the Vet

I had a nasty feeling when we got to the bus stop on Herzl Street that we were going to that awful place where I get shots. So I dejectedly put my head on my paws and waited for the bus. I knew I could make one more try to avoid going in there when we arrived. which, of course, I did. I ground to a halt outside the door of the clinic and made sure Bracha understood that I didn't want to go in. Does she think I don't remember her trying to con me inside last time? But Bracha just bent town and patted me and talked softly in my ear and there was no avoiding it - we had to go in. But that didn't mean I didn't stall outside the waiting room door and attempt to get out again!
The first thing they did was get me to stand on the scale. Bracha stood on it with me so that I wouldn't be afraid and then she got off. I weigh the same as I did last time - 36 kilo and 100 grams! The vet looked at me admiringly and said that I was just fine, and that I must not get any heavier than this. I know Petel has been dieting and she has lost three kilo! But I'm longer than Petel and therefore can have, er, a few extra kilo. And then it came. I got a shot. Bracha held me and both Avi and Noam were holding out treats for me, and I soon forgot about the shot since it was over anyway. Then Avi checked my ears, paws, and dew claws and nails. All OK.
Why is it I get so worked up about it when in the end it is nothing?
And Avi and Noam said I was the prettiest golden retriever in the entire clinic! They told Bracha waht a lovely dog I was! So I left happy and proud. And now I don't have to have another shot for another three months!

Welcome Guide Dogs!

Tel Aviv sure is a big city. Bracha and I drove to a place in the city where we had never been before and we walked down a street in the dark, but Bracha just took Rotem's hand and we walked right down the sidewalk and I led the way. Soon we got to a restaurant and when we got to the door I couldn't believe my eyes! There was a little blue sticker on the door with a picture of a person with a guide dog, and it said "Welcome!" This was a restaurant where they wanted people with guide dogs to come in! Now, why couldn't we just make thousands and thousands of these little stickers and put them everywhere, and then there would be no questions asked? As we walked down the street I saw there were a lot of other restaurants with the same sticker on the door. How wonderful!
Now what I don't understand is why some people are so afraid of me. ON the train on the way back Bracha sat down in the first seat available. There weren't a lot of seats. Suddenly a woman started screaming "No, no! he's touching me! Get him away from me!" We suddenly realized that, er, she was talking about me. Bracha asked her to please stop shouting and she would be glad to put me in the aisle, where there was also little room. But she was still upset. Evidently she was unhappy because I was next to her baby. But I love babies! This baby was smaller than the Emma, and I know I would have loved just sitting next to it, but finally a nice man across the aisle offered to change places with Bracha to quiet things down.
So I finally went to sleep and there was no more arguing. I hope this mother eventually decides to give her baby a chance to play with dogs. Otherwise he or she will miss out on a lot of fun when they are growing up!

Excuse me, but you're breaking the Law.

Here we were, entering the department store in Nahariya when suddenly the security guard stopped us and said that we were not allowed inside. This was new. We had never had any trouble here before. No doubt a new guard unaware of the law. Bracha sighed, pulled out her little card, and explained.

"excuse me, but what you are doing is against the law. This is a guide dog for the blind. She's allowed everywhere, without exception."

The guard grudgingly looked at the card.

"What can I tell you? I can't let you in."

"What can you tell me?" replied Bracha. "You can tell me good morning and please come in just like everyone else." Meanwhile a woman, impatient with the doorway being blocked, shoved her way through.

""All right, all right, why are you shouting?"

"I'm not shouting," said Bracha. I'm simply telling you that I have a right to shop here just like everyone else."

Bracha selected some socks and paid for them, and then asked the checkout lady where she could find the store manager. Uh oh. Here we go again. Su up the escalator we went to the little office. There Bracha asked for the manager, but he was not there. She explained the problem. The woman immediately apologized and said she would take care of the matter. She called down to the guard and asked him why he had shouted at Bracha.

"When she leaves, you are to apologize to her."

Bracha asked her to please tell the manager that each new security guard should be instructed about the law and left. And sure enough, when we left the store the guard apologized.

Happy Birthday Suki!

I'm three! No more "almost three" when people ask how old I am! Today we went to the pool and then went to town and as Bracha promised, there was a special trip to the pet store. We came away with a brand new bed for me, and if that wasn't all, I got a new rawhide bone and rope toy. After a year I totally destroyed my other one and it was time for a new one. So I'm so happy with my presents. Now Nuala can have my old bed, which was a bit small anyway, and then there won't be any more jostling for the soft bed at night any more!

Now I have to tell you about the weekend because it was very special. We went to the folk festival again! I was delighted to be back at the Kinneret and it was a bit chilly for swimming, but I did manage a good run on the beach and around the lawn before the storm hit. And the biggest surprise was that Bracha got on stage and sang my song! I was so proud when she introduced it that I stood up in the front row and barked. I couldnot resist. And the entire audience laughed and clapped, so I barked again just to make sure that everyone had heard. There was no way that I wasn't going to get to say something as well. And I stood in the middle of the circle in the Irish session and made sure that all the jigs and reels were especially lively. I had a wonderful time.
Now winter is really here! It rains and hails, and there are flashes of lightening and crashing thunder. I'm not afraid of these things because I know if Bracha isn't than I have nothing to worry about. It sort of reminded me of Saoirse who used to be afraid of thunder and I used to snuggle up against her and make her feel better. And even Nuala, who usually likes to be outside, comes in when it's cold and rainy. So now we can look forward to cuddling up beside the stove together all winter long.

Here I am with my new bed, my new rope toy, and rawhide bone!

Fire and Water

It's been a busy week. There was little time for hiking or swimming with Nuala, but Bracha took me to two more schools. At the first one I met my friend Yuni, as well as Yudka (I think she speaks Russian!), Norma, and another guide dog named Chica. Some of the people let the children walk with their dogs, but Bracha does not approve of this, and only let some kids take me on leash to do busy at the edge of the school yard. I had to sit and listen as Bracha talked to the children, and they were pretty noisy, but I had it easy. The other dogs had to walk through an obstacle course again and again. But later in the week we went to a school and only Bracha and I were there. Bracha talked to the kids and the teachers said they were more quiet than they ever were in class. That's because they were so interested in me! Now, these kids were smart! They asked a lot of interesting questions and Bracha answered them and we showed them how much better walking with a dog is than walking with a cane.
Now on the way back something pretty scary started going on. Deep inside me, as in all animals, there is a fear of fire and smoke. And when we took the bus from the school back to Haifa there was a strong smell of smoke in the air and sure enough, the whole big mountain was on fire! I felt very unhappy and skittery and kept gazing out the window, and so were all the other people on the bus.
We finally got to Tel Aviv and people lit candles and everyone started giving out presents. Bracha gave the Rotem an umbrella that she could color on with markers, and Rotem started decorating it right away, but there is still no rain, only wind and fire outside. And then I got a present, too! Saba and Savta gave me a doughnut - shaped chew toy and a little bag of treets! I was so happy that I settled down right then and there in the middle of the carpet and went to work on the chew toy.
And even on the train on the way back from Tel Aviv there were still flames and I smelt smoke. I hope they put that fire out soon. I don't like it.

School Again

Bracha took me to school again. This was a special school that had little buildings for classrooms, and they even had a round classroom that was very special. But I enjoyed it all because I got a lot of attention and petting. Larry and a new friend, Tommy, also came, and the three of us were very impressive. Then Bracha and I had to get up in front of all the children and walk through the obstacle course. I'm not sure why we do this: I already know how to walk an obstacle course and things that are much harder. But Bracha and Eli insisted, so I walked through, even did it again for the second group of children. but when Bracha commanded me to turn around and walk back through it again the other way, I just couldn't figure it out. I thought she had made a mistake and I'd better turn her around and keep going in the same direction and besides, I was getting a little tired of it. And to make things even more difficult there was a cat that kept appearing on the edge of the lawn. Well, Bracha didn't like the fact that I was told to go forward through the obstacle course again and I decided to stand still!
"You stubborn golden retriever! Kadima! This isn't the time for stubbornness!"
Oh, there was that cat again. I stood my ground.
"Psssst, Suki, Kadima!" Bracha meant business. There were 150 children watching us and I was supposed to make a good impression of an obedient and dependable guide dog, so I decided that fun and distraction would have to be reconciled for the sake of publicity, so I went back through the obstacle course again. What do they think I am? A newly trained dog?
Well, I guess it was worth it. At the end they gave me a little bag of treats with a note that said "Suki, you are a wonderful and excellent guide dog." I was so happy! They even gave Bracha some home-baked cookies too because they knew she could not eat mine.
The only thing I regret about this visit is that when they took us on the tour of the community and showed us the lovely lake with the little bridge over it and the green lawn next to it, I was not allowed to go for a swim! It would have been paradise! But when Bracha and I stood on the little bridge she looked down and petted me and I knew she was thinking that if she could, she would have let me off leash right then and there!

A Day with my Best Friend Petel

I've met a lot of dogs and Nuala and I are always happy together, but I think of all the guide dogs Petel is my best friend. We were together at Beit Oved in the same cage and ever since then we get all excited every time we see each other.

Today we got on a bus and went into Nahariya to the train station and Bracha told me Petel was coming and to help her find her and Liron when they got off the train. Bracha woke me up when the train pulled into the station and I stood up on the platform, shook myself, and looked for Petel. Sure enough, there she was as Bracha had promised! We did the usual jumping about until we got out of the station and started walking down the street - all the way to the beach!
Well, you can't imagine how excited I was! To go to the beach and have Petel there too! At first she was a bit scared of going in, but once she saw how much fun I was having she got in the water as well. When we were both good and worn out Bracha and Liron washed us off and we walked down to a restaurant, where we were quite content to rest under the table. This is an especially nice restaurant where the waiters and waitresses treat guide dogs and their owners really nicely, helping with the menu, making suggestions, and offering us dogs water. After that we got on the bus and went back to Ben Ami.

For once I was pretty tired running through the field, but I was happy just strolling along with Petel and Nuala. Petel doesn't have such nice places to walk in Tel Aviv, and I think she was happy in such a big open place where there were no cars. And all too soon it was time for Petel and Liron to get in a taxi and go home. I lay on my rug, a bit sad, but more tired out than anything. And I know Petel will come visit me again. After all, I did share my rope toys and my treats, and I know Bracha was poud of me.

Home Alooooone

I hate being left home alone. Yesterday when Bracha clipped me on my chain to my place on my little rug and left me a kong with peanut butter and a bowl of water and a bone I knew something was up her sleeve, and as soon as she shut the door I started barking. I just don't like it when Bracha goes off without me. but I know sometimes I'm better off at home. What fun is it for me to sit under the table a dinner surrounded by lots of smells of food that I can't have anyway? I guess she's right. But I still don't like it. And I think she has plans to leave me home next week and not take me to the turkey dinner with her friends. It would be so tempting for me smelling that roast turkey all evening (though Bracha is a vegetarian and can't stand it).

But I do get to go to the pool and we are doing very well there. I have my own little place where Bracha clips my leash and I can watch her swim and take a drink of water from my bowl whenever I want. And no one objects to my being there! Today for the first time the life guard came up and asked if he could ask a question. "Do you have permission to bring your dog here?" Bracha answered politely that I'm a guide dog and don't need any permission - I already have permission from the Knesset. So there.

Now it's already the end of November but it's still summer. And Bracha has promised me that we are going to the beach again on Sunday - perhaps even with Petel! Hooray! I want it to be summer all year round!

Meeting the Minister of Well Fare

Today Bracha took me to Haifa to stand in a demonstration with the rehabilitation teachers and meet the Minister of Well Fair. Now, I don't quite understand why he's called the Minister of Well Fair because he doesn't seem to be doing things well, and what he is doing is not fair. But he's a politician and politicians are never quite honest.

We stood there waiting for a while and finally the Minister Herzog arrived. He shook hands with everyone there, including Bracha. Some of the teachers began accosting him and telling him he had better get some money together and pay their salaries so they could go back to work. Sometimes they argued and when that happened it was sort of like a lot of dogs barking all at once - nobody hearing anyone else. Then things quieted down and Bracha told him that she did not approve of outsourcing services that should be provided by the government, and he attempted to brush her off, saying that that had been 30 years ago, but Bracha said that didn't mean things couldn't be made right and that the government had to be responsible for tending to all its citizens. He did stay to talk with us and everyone was pleased that he had stayed to listen. . Then he went inside to do whatever ministers do inside.

There were some other exciting people there in addition to the minister, though. We met a lot of other rehabilitation teachers and a man whose name was Ilan who has a guide dog called Rio, whom I made friends with right away. Ilan cannot see or hear, and he is a very special because he is determined to communicate to people despite the fact that he cannot see or hear, and knows how to use a computer that does everything he needs to communicate with people. He whipped out a tiny laptop out of his bag and showed Bracha the tiny screen and braille keyboard. Evidently he's a real whiz, but I could not understand what Bracha said to him because Shosh and his rehabilitation teacher showed Bracha how to communicate with him by writing on his hand. Bracha got his email address and will write to him. When the minister met him he shook his hand and Ilan's teacher later explained to him that he had shaken hands with the minister, and explained to Herzog that Ilan could not speak to him or hear him and that she was his teacher and he and a lot of other people needed her help. And if that doesn't convince the minister of well fair that he had better solve the problem, I don't know what will.

We Won!

I could tell that when we got into the room where the meeting of the Aguda was being held that everyone was excited. There were, as usual, dozens of dogs there, but of course the only one I paid any attention to was Petel. She and I lay on the floor in the aisle licking and pawing at each other. She is, really, my best friend among all the guide dogs.

Anyway, for the past two weeks all I have seen Bracha do is sit with a phone held to one ear. Sometimes she would talk on one and the other one would ring as well. She called this "camp Ayning". I don't know what this has to do with camping, but it sure requires a lot of talking on the phone and writing at the computer.

Well, I soon figured out what was going on. There were about 14 people who wanted to camp ayn like Bracha and her friends and be elected to the board, and soon each one of them got up to talk. Bracha stood up and talked to all the people and I could tell she was excited and happy. A lot of people yelled and whistled when she was through so I guess they liked what she had to say. When she sat down again I jumped up and put my paws in her lap to show her I was excited, too. Then all the people started going out to vote and the excitement got higher and higher.

Finally, after we had eaten some sandwiches outside (I admit to helping to clean up the floor) everyone went in to hear the results. Bracha and I went to stand with Adi, Guy, Benny, Erez, and all the other people who had been campaigning together and they started reading off names, but they didn't call Bracha's name, or Adi's, or Benny's or Erez's or Guy's name until the very last. That meant they had gotten the most votes and they had won. Then everyone started screaming and hugging and I jumped up on Bracha because I was so excited, too.

So now Bracha is on the executive board! And if Benny, Guy, Adi, and Erez are on the executive board, than, well, naturally, Turner, Alice, Lady, and Yuni and I are, too. We promise to do a good job! And we will sit under the table quietly at meetings, and oh yes, clean up the cookie crumbs.

It's a Long Way Off

Now, I know it's a long way off. But Bracha talked to me about my retirement when I finish working. I think the reason she had it on her mind was because she talked to two other women. One of them had a dog who worked until she was 14 and went on to the place where guide doggies go. Another is still working and he's 11! She doesn't believe in retiring dogs at all!

Now, I guess it's nice to be with your owner but I can't imagine that I'll have the energy when I'm old to go running around the way Bracha and I do. Today, for example, we got lost in the suburb of Yoseftal going to the clinic. Bracha thought it would be nicer for us to walk through the neighborhood rather than along the highway, but we took a wrong turn and soon we were exploring new streets where we had never been before. It took us almost an hour to get there, and I had to work hard all the way.

The other woman Bracha talked to was just about to retire her dog. She was not seeing well and could no longer work as a guide dog , and they had a little apartment and could not keep two large dogs. They were going to give the retired dog to a family who would give her a loving home, but it would be far away. The new family was about to come see her and decide whether or not to take her and give her a new home.

Now I'm not sure I like the sound of this either. Go live with someone else? Work hard all my life until I can't work any more? But Bracha got down on the floor next to me like she does when we have to have a really serious talk. And she told me something wonderful. She has two dogs now. Before she had three. So there would always be room for me here - even if I have to retire and Bracha gets another dog to help her get around. I can live a life of leisure when I retire years and years from now. And I will always live here with her. We have plenty of room. She will never give me away ever. That made me so happy that I just licked her face and closed my eyes and sighed and went back to sleep. And what was that about going to the beach for a run tomorrow?

But why am I wondering about these things now? I'm going to be three in another month and a half! I have lots and lots of years to work yet!

It's Hard to Believe

One year ago - leaving Beit Oved and coming home for the first time!
It's hard to believe, but it's been a whole year since Bracha and I came home from Beit Oved together and she led me into the house for the first time. I was more than a bit skittery - er, a bit thinner than I am now because I was pretty stressed out from three weeks of getting to know Bracha and working hard on the course every day. But I felt sure that I would be in good hands - even when Saoirse and Nuala and all the other dogs barked and ran out at me for the first time.

At first Bracha was scared even to open the front door. She was afraid I'd run away! And I was more than a bit scared of going out alone as well. All those dogs outside! The first time I got off leash outdoors and dashed off she was terrified. But I came back, of course. Today Bracha even lets me stay outside without her being there with me. I love to lay on the patio in the sun or even on the lawn, and I admit I occasionally wander off, but Bracha never really worries when I meander into the orchard a bit. She knows that when she blows her whistle I'll come back. So I think we've come a long way.

And for all Bracha complains about people who hassle us, there is a place where she doesn't like to go too much but I love it. It's the dental clinic. Kids are always crying there and the adults don't seem to feel very happy there either. But the moment Bracha and I walk in there the entire place goes crazy. The secretaries come out from behind their desks. The doctors and nurses come out of the little treatment rooms, and everyone is calling me, wanting to give me water, and pet me. And that makes Bracha forget that she has to have her teeth taken care of and makes her happy. And that reminds me, I have to remind her to buy me some more toothpaste!

Who says dogs don't remember?

Last night when Bracha took me out into the yard to throw my rope toy around it was almost dark. I had a great time running after my toy and bringing it back to Bracha and dropping it so that she'd throw it again. And when we were through playing I threw my head back happily and the rope sailed out of my mouth into the garden. But it was dark and we couldn't find it.

"No matter," said Bracha. "Come in and eat and we'll find it tomorrow."

So this morning after we got back from the pool we went outside again. Bracha asked me, "Suki, ayfo hachevel? Where's your rope"

Well, what else did she expect me to do except fish it out from among the bushes where it had been lying since last night? After all I remembered where it fell.

Now, a word about going to the new pool. Strange how the man in charge was so upset about my coming into the pool. He was afraid I'd attack someone, or that customers would leave the pool and hurt his business. But everyone loves me there. Even the life guard asks if he can pet me and sees how I watch Bracha in the water constantly and lie quietly. And people are always asking Bracha about me and admiring me. Funny, it doesn't seem like anyone there has a problem with my being there except the manager.

And hey, we're running for office! Bracha is running for the board of the Israeli Guide Dog Users! And if she's running, well, so am I! I want them to vote for us! We'll make sure no one ever throws us out of anywhere again!

A Handy Dog to have Around

I know I can avoid obstacles, stop at curbs, cross streets, find ATM machines, garbage cans, and benches. But today I really outdid myself. Here's what happened.

Bracha and I cut through the fields on the way out of the moshav today to go to town. Things were going well. I pushed up against Bracha and made her go over to the right side of the sidewalk when she didn't see a man coming along on a bike. And Bracha praised me when she realized what had happened. She also gave me a lot of petting and praise when I walked very nicely through town. But when we got back home Bracha realized that her cell phone was missing. Bracha's phone is very important to her. It has all her friends' phone numbers in it, and has an expensive program in it that makes it talk and chatter all the time all by itself and makes the letters and numbers big so she can see them. So she was pretty upset that it was lost.

She clipped my leash on and we wet out over the fields where we had gone in the morning. Bracha brought another phone with her.

When we got close to the place where she thought she had dropped it she unclipped my leash, told me , "Suki, go find the phone!" and dialed her own number. Sure enough, the phone started ringing. I stopped sniffing around and walked up to it. Bracha bent down and picked it up and shouted, "Good dog, Suki!" Well, that was easy enough. After all, it's not every day that we hear Irish reels coming out of the underbrush.

I guess I am a very handy dog to have around.

Suki the Desert Dog

I like this place they call the desert. Bracha took me down there by train again, but this time Yagu' the guide dog in training was not there. He's been returned to Beit Oved to begin his training. I hope he makes it through.

Everything in the desert smells different. There is a sort of dusty smell of desert soil and a scent like I smelled once on the mountain near Adamit where goats wander about. I soon learned what made this strange goat smell. There were some other animals there and I can't quite figure out what they are. They have large horns on their heads and at first I didn't know whether to be afraid of them or not. The moment their scent reached me I stopped in my tracks and planted all four feet on the ground and Bracha had to really coax me to move on down the path. I just didn't know whether I could tend with those horns, and they were a lot bigger than me. Bracha said they were called ibexes and wouldn't hurt me, and I sat and stared at one of them and he stared back at me. They were strange and beautiful.

But we were a long way from home. On Saturday night we rode the bus to a train station and we got on a train and rode for twice as long as we usually do. Bracha was a bit worried that I would be uncomfortable on the train for so long, but I really managed all right and slept through most of the ride. But it was good to get home to my own bed. I like traveling, but there is no place like home. And now I'm happily situated on the front patio. But that's because I went in the open sprinkler and got nice and wet and muddy!

Suki and I Together from October 19th, 2009 to October 19th, 2010!

Liron, Moshe, and I on the Course One Year Ago

Suki is letting me take over the blog for a day. I've made it clear to her there are a few things I want to say. Suki and I have been together for an entire year as of today! It's hard to believe that an entire year has gone by since Ami walked into my room at Beit Oved and gave Suki to me. I remember our first days together – a lot of affection, some frisking about (including a shredded roll of toilet paper all over the carpet of my room when I left Suki unattended while I was in the shower), the fear we all felt before going on the traffic simulation walk and then seeing how Suki stopped whenever the school car pulled up deliberately alongside us, and finally, the real thing – Suki stopping in the middle of a side street to prevent us from walking into the path of a car speeding around the corner, and a walk through pitch dark streets in Rehovot at night. It was then that I knew I could trust Suki, and I know now more than ever that I can depend on her. Just the other night I crossed a busy intersection in the middle of Tel Aviv. I would have been terrified to do it without her, but off we went, and she performed perfectly.
It's not always easy. We still get hassled a lot and there are days when I come home frustrated at people's ignorance and rudeness. But Suki is always there, tail wagging, wet nose prodding, as if to say, "Hey, you've got me, it's not so bad. We'll show 'em." And so we do. Walking everywhere with a beautiful white dog is always exciting, and I am so proud of her.
Sure, we've gone lax in a few things: Suki still barks and gets upset if she is left alone in the house. We have to work on that. And what about that sitting down at the top step of descending stairs, and pausing with her front paws on the bottom stair going up? Sometimes Suki, er, jumps the gun and knows what is coming and does not wait for my command. But a couple of days with the clicker and she'll brush up on that quickly - just like she learned to locate ATM machines, seats at bus stops, mailboxes, and garbage cans. .Oh, and I almost forgot – water fountains, but that she really taught herself. I never showed her. But my thirsty golden retriever knows where the water fountain is at the train station and leads me to it every time.
So, Sookers, we'll keep up our agreement. You take care of me and I'll take care of you. And no more of that sneaking cat food, avocados, and accepting candy from the life guard at the pool. I want you to be healthy for a long time.
Today we are going to have a special day together. You'll get a run on the beach and a swim in the sea, a walk through town, and, oh Okay, a new toy. You deserve it.

Fighting Our Way into the Pool

Here we go again. It's time to switch swimming pools. Bracha wants to go to the pool at Country Gan Evron because sometimes people will drive her there and it's easier. And the people at Nahariya aren't treating us very well lately. Yesterday I listened in when Bracha talked to the manager on the phone. He said he had clarified things and that the Ministry of Health had a law that prohibits animals from entering the pool. (sigh). Bracha explained to him that guide dogs were an exception to that law and offered to refer him to the Law Against Discrimination Against Blind People Accompanied by Guide Dogs, but he told her to listen and be quiet. Then he said he had two reservations about letting us in: the first was that I might attack someone (at this I had to go into the other room because I was laughing so loud) and the second was that other customers might object and leave the pool, causing him economic setbacks to his business.
Bracha was, I could see, on the verge of losing patience with this nonsense, but she told him calmly that she felt that as the head of a business it was his duty to obey the law of the Knesset and that his other clients should also learn the law and understand it. She suggested he put a sign in the entrance to the pool with a picture of a guide dog so that the people and the guards would know about us going in. He said no, he didn't want to make a "festival" around me. Putting up a sign stating what the law is about doesn't seem to be a festival to me. It's a fact.
So finally he and Bracha came to an agreement that she would pay for a month's entrance and I would be with her all the time at the pool. If, after a month, everyone was satisfied she would buy a membership. Bracha decided to go for it. She explained to me that it was a win win situation for us. Either he lets us in after a month, or if he tries to throw us out and claims that his customers don't like it, than bye bye see you in court! Then we will get the Aguda to intervene. I wish I could tell him that he'd better let us in or he will be sorry, just like the owner of that restaurant that didn't let a guide dog in and it was all over the newspapers. I dare say that will do his business a lot more harm than clients who would leave the pool because they don't like my being there.

Hey, if clients don't like swimming in a pool when I am sleeping next to the side of the pool, maybe they would like to swim in the sea all winter, or perhaps in their own bathtub at home. Bracha and I will swim wherever we like, and I promise to be well behaved.

Jerusalem and Back

I have never been to Jerusalem before. The first part of the trip was pretty much like going to Tel Aviv on the train, except the train wound around and around and rattled and banged until we got there. It was late at night but we finally made it to Carol's house after crossing a very complicated intersection. Her house is very small but I was on my best behavior and Carol was very tolerant of my large presence even though I had to pick my way around the furniture and often I had to back up rather than turn around.
Walking in Jerusalem is hard. The sidewalks are always blocked by parked cars, garbage cans, and branches, and sometimes there isn't even any sidewalk at all and we had to walk in the road. But I think I did very well, and I had a couple of good runs in the park, so I was happy.

Back home again, things aren't working out well at the pool at all. The security guard stopped us yet again, and the lady at the the desk yelled at the guard not to interfere and let us in, and Bracha was yelling at the guard and at the lady, telling her it was about time that someone bothered to tell the security guards that guide dogs are allowed at the pool and she was tired of being treated rudely when she comes to swim. I could tell she had really had enough. When we left the guard just sat there and didn't even bother to let Bracha and me out through the gate, and the lady yelled at him again. I can see why Bracha wants to go to another pool. The life guard there is nice to us, but I don't like being told I'm not allowed. After a year you'd think they'd learn already.

Now I have some good news. On October 19th Bracha and I will have been together for exactly one year! It's our anniversary! I hope Bracha has some surprise in store. I've hinted at a day at the beach, and I don't mind if she goes and has coffee afterwards because they always treat us well at Aroma and give me water and bring Bracha coffee right to the table instead of her having to go to the counter and get it like the other customers do. And er, a trip to the pet store would not be bad either…

I hope you're not angry, but...

It had been a rough morning. First we went to the new pool to see about getting membership and letting me in. First the guard would not open the turnstile for Bracha to even enter the building, and Bracha had to tell them nicely that I was a guide dog and we wanted to come in to discuss joining the pool. When we got in, , the secretary said, "Sure, you can bring your dog here. You can tie her up outside at the bike rack."

Bracha explained that this was not a solution. I would be out in the hot weather and the rain and besides, someone might steal me. I am, after all, rather attractive.

Then Bracha's friend went in to talk with the manager and explained the situation. He said he'd call the Ministry of Health to clarify the matter. Bracha offered to save him a phone call. The Ministry of Health would tell him that no dogs were allowed - except for guide dogs, who are allowed everywhere. From there we went to get a taxi back to Nahariya, and the driver refused at first to take us. He claimed he was allergic to dogs. Bracha was in a hurry and got pretty agitated about having to waste time arguing.

And if that wasn't all, the life guard at the regular pool walked over to the jaccuzi to speak to Bracha.

"I hope you're not angry," he said, "but I just gave your dog a piece of candy."

OK. I admit it. I ate it. And if Bracha had been around to see I know she would have said no. And I admit to taking advantage of the situation. Bracha told him that she was not angry (though I think she was) but told him under no uncertain terms was he to feed her dog again.

So her friend who had told her that morning that she sounded just a bit aggressive when people got tough with us and told us we could not come in began to realize just what a typical morning is like walking around with a large wuite guide dog and deal with ignorant stupid people. It gets tiring. No won der Bracha gets aggressive sometimes.

Shiatzu for Dogs?

I don't think I'd ever been so tired as I was when we got back from the beach yesterday. We were there for a long time and I lay in the shade under our umbrella and rested after I had a few swims in the water and chased a little white dog around the sand. But it was very hot, and I felt like all four of my paws were maed of something very heavy and when Bracha put my haerness on me after she showered me and toweled me off it felt as if it were the heaviest thing in the world. That didn't stop me from being very upset when they left me at home and went to the supermarket without me. Of course I was too tired to want to go. But on principle, I don't like being left at home. Even when the little dog they called Shmoo was there too, I still didn't like it. But then something happened that I really loved that made me forget all about my state of being tired and unhappy. Naomi, Bracha's friend said she knew how to do something called "she hat soo." Now, I am not sure what this is all about, but suddenly she was pressing down all along my back, sort of like Bracha does when she ruffles my fur, but it made me feel really nice. Soon my eyes were closing and I just couldn't keep them open. Then I started sliding down to the floor, like when I do when Bracha tells me "artza" but I sort of don't want to lie down. And I felt like I was swimming in the sea, except there were no waves to jump over. It was like swimming when the water is all smooth and lovely. I wonder if Bracha will do this for me, too. I know she already does a lot of things for me, like letting me swim in the little pool and run free and buying me toys. And if I have a choice between choosing to get a bone and having some "she hat soo" I really don't know which I would choose. They are both wonderful.

The Three Dog Day!

Have you heard of the Aboriginies referring to a three dog night - a night that's so cold you need to sleep with three dogs to keep warm? Well, yesterday we had a three dog day!

Petel, Yuni, and I in the house

It finally happened - Petel and Yuni both came to visit! This was the first time that I had two guests at once. Bracha had given me the usual reminders of sharing my pool and my toys, and since it was a terribly hot day I had no objection to everyone going in my pool. First we all sat quietly under the table in the restaurant while Liron, Adi, and Bracha had lunch. We were all very good. Then we walked all through Nahariya to the bus station, and all three of us got on the bus. Unfortunately Bracha and I were a bit ashamed because the driver did not receive our guests nicely and was not nice, said he did not like dogs, and rudely ordered Bracha, Liron, and Adi to go to the back of the bus. Bracha told him she'd darn well sit wherever she wanted to and that actually, he should let us sit in the front of the bus so that he could help us if we needed. But when we got to Ben Ami the fun really started, and we forgot all about the mean bus driver. We walked to the path that leads into the orchard and Bracha told Adi and Liron to let us run free. And it was then that I had the great idea!

Now, you know how I love to get wet and muddy. There were some terrific leaks in the irrigation lately because it has been so hot that they have been turning the water on. Well, I found a really good one. And I thought to myself, "Petel and Yuni never get to do this because they live in the city, so here's my opportunity to be a good hostess and show them how to have fun! They can get wet and muddy, too! Now Petel started right in, but Yuni was a bit hesitant, but soon I emerged, proudly covered in muck, and shook myself all over everyone just to show how nice and cool it was. I'm, er, not so sure Bracha was pleased about this. Soon she had the hose out and all three dogs had to get a bit of a wash. But then I knew Bracha wasn't too angry because she brought out my swimming pool. Petel and I ran right in, but Yuni was a bit afraid and skirted around it, even when Bracha stood in it and offered her a treat. But I guess not everyone likes the same things.
Before long it was time to say goodbye and Adi and Liron got in the taxi with Petel and Yuni. I was sad to see them go, but Bracha said they would come visit again. But I think next time she'll take us all running in the basketball court where we are certain not to get muddy. . Bathing three dogs is a bit difficult.

One Year Ago -the Day We Met!

It's hard to believe, but Bracha and I officially met as potential dog and handler exactly one year ago. Those of you who have been following this blog and remember the beginning when Bracha was given Petel to walk on the first course know that we did not walk together on that course at all. Bracha says she remembers me as a big and very pretty golden retriever who Orelia was having trouble getting to sit down and artza when she wanted to. But the day before Yom Kippur last year Ami called Bracha and told her they wanted to consider giving me to her and wanted her to come down to Rehovot and walk with me.

I remember that day very well. Roi and Ami put me in the big cage in the back of the van and drove me to Rehovot. They had brushed me very carefully and I had a feeling that something was going on because there were two trainers and no other dogs on the outing. When Bracha came through the turnstile at the train station I remembered her from the course. She shook hands with Ami and Roi and then bent down to pet me and say hello. Ami gave her my leash and we walked outside to the car.

The walk we had together was not too long and not difficult - a square route around the block. I remember Bracha handling me rather hesitantly at first, but, well, she'd only had two days of walking with Petel. I got into a little mischief and chased a leaf, causing Ami to jerk on the extra leash and call me to order. But I sort of wanted Bracha to see that I could get a bit rambunctious at times. She wanted me really badly after that. I could tell. And when Ami and Roi put me back in my cage at the end of the walk and we drove Bracha back to the train station, she looked at me for one last time through the bars of my cage and I could tell she wanted to take me home right then and there. So I was terribly excited when I heard Ami call Bracha on the phone from the car and tell her that they had decided to give me to her! And that was the beginning of the story.

Bracha took me to the beach the other day and I got to show off my new present that she bought me - a bright purple collar. And after that we went to dinner at a friend's house, and I know I behaved very well - er, once they had remembered to take the bowl of the cat's food off the floor. But hey, I had been jumping the waves all afternoon, and I was hungry. So I think I needed to be forgiven for that little misdemeanor. After all, Bracha knows from since I chased a leaf on that first walk and refused to sit down when Orelia told me to - that I can be a bit rambunctious. That's what makes me special.

I'm Allowed By Law!

One of the reasons that I love riding the train is that everyone admires me. And yesterday we found that there was really someone watching. All the way I lay sleeping happily under the table, enjoying the cool air and soft blue carpet. When we got to Tel Aviv we got off at a different station and went up lots of moving stairs over the big bridge and into the large shopping mall. I love moving stairs, and one of them ran high up over the bridge and the street far below. But I handled them like a pro. We zipped out of the station and into the mall, and then went to the store where Bracha bought some floating balloons that she gave to my grandparents. I didn't like that too much - filling up the baloons made a loud hissing noise that I don't like, and one of them burst when the man filled it up, making a loud explosion that made me jump, but Bracha assured me that it was OK and that it was a special surprise for my grandparents.

They seemed to like the balloons a lot, and soon we got into Yael's car to go to the restaurant to celebrate their 65th annie verse aree, what ever that is, but it all sounded good. When we got there there was a security guard at the door who asked Bracha if she had a certificate. He was very polite. Bracha said she had one, and that only people with certificates have guide dogs anyway. He got up and went into the restaurant and told the woman at the door that I was a guide dog and was allowed in by law, and in we went!

I soon settled in a corner under the table and observed the proceedings. Everyone was happy and there was a lot of laughing and fun going on. I lay under the table and watched it all. Part of this celebration seemed to involve taking lots pf pictures and Rotem and Hadar making special hats and costumes out of the drinking straws, but as usual everyone soon settled down to eating. At the end the waitress brought out several dishes with fire coming out of them like on Saba's birthday, and everyone had a good time.

Soon it was time to go and we got into the car to go to the station. Bracha rode in back with the Rotem and the Hadar and Yael sat with me in front and petted me all the way. And when we got on the train a man came up to us. He said he had been on the train when we came to Tel Aviv. "I saw how she led you," he said. "She's an amazing dog, and very pretty, too." I felt so proud!! And then, of course, I went to sleep.

At the Crossing

Here we are again at the hospital crossing. It's a horrible place and we both hate it. There are two lanes of traffic moving by at 80 kilometers per hour with an island in the middle, and a stoplight that is so short that you would have to fly across the street in order to get across in time. When you are halfway in the middle of the road the light changes, and drivers start to gun their motors, mgetting ready to bolt. And when one lane of traffic is standing we mustn't be fooled and start walking because the other is still whizzing by and has a green light! It's a lot of work and concentration to figure out when to cross and Bracha has to work hard at it. She knows: when the traffic coming out of the hospital at the 12:00 position starts moving, it's our green light.

So here we are again, the traffic coming out of the hospital has just started coming out, and that means it's our turn to cross. Off we go, and we get to the island. Bracha waits for the traffic in back of us to start moving and then lifts up her hand to signal me to start walking. But not fast enough for these people, who are always eager to point out our deficiencies. Suddenly a voice calls out from one of the cars: "Nu, you have the green light! Why doesn't he tell you to cross?" First of all, your light changes before theirs does. Second of all, I'm a she, not a he. and third of all, Bracha has to tell me to cross. Not the opposite. Wen will people learn?

When we get on the bus the driver asks Bracha to go to the back with her dog, but Bracha says she'll sit where there is a free space and sits in the front seat by the door. My favorite spot! I gaze out the window happily and Bracha praises me and gives me a treat.

And here we are again at the bank. We go up the stairs and there is a machine there for getting a slip of paper with a number on it to wait in line. But the machine has a touch screen that Bracha can't read. I can see she's beginning to get frustrated. There is no one around from the bank staff to help get a number out of the machine. Finally we stand in front of the machine and Bracha says, "Can someone please help me get a number?" A few clerks look up from their work but none move. Finally a man comes over and punches his finger at the screen and gets a number out. Then we sit down.

It seems that people at the bank are determined to make things almost as difficult as crossing the road at the hospital. Bracha can't read the badly printed number on the little slip of paper, so she asks the man next to her what humber she has. Now there is a dinging noise from the desks and a person gets up and goes to sit down. Bracha asks what number is next. There is a bigt screen up high and of course, need I say, it's too far away to see. Then a nice lady in a purple dress tells Bracha that her turn is next. Then the dinging noise sounds again and Bracha asks where to go. Evidently the screen tells people where to go, but ah yes, Bracha can't see the screen. We run around till we find the teller who has just become free. What a production. She tells the man, "I know it's not your fault, but there are a lot of problems here with accessability. I'm going to write a letter to the bank's customer service." The man agrees. Then he passes Bracha a piece of paper and asks her to sign it. Bracha asks him to show her where and he points to a place on the paper. This is also a pain in the neck and I can tell that Bracha just wants to get out of there.

I know that Bracha and most of her friends who have dogs like to do things for themselves. But being in the bank is sort of like the obstacle course we had to walk at Beit Oved.

The Art of Ignoring Ignorant Security Guards

Here's how it's done: the art of ignoring impolite and ignorant security guards.
Bracha and I enter department store and proceed down the aisle.

Security Guard: Lets us enter store and then does a double take: "Giveret..."

Bracha and I ignore him and keep going.

Security Guard: "Giveret!" (This time louder)

Bracha and I ignore him and keep walking.

Security Guard: HEY, GIVERET!!! This time in a loud bellow that the entire store can hear and is impossible to ignore.

Bracha: Turns around, innocently asks, "Excuse me, were you talking to me?"

Security Guard: "Uh, er, no nothing......", returns to place and shuts up.

Guess he didn't bother to notice I'm a guide dog and not just a large golden retriever being brought into the store for the fun of it.

Since when is 06:30 too early to get up? How should I know that we have turned the clocks back an hour and when I want to get up it's now 05:30? Anyway, Bracha had just finished telling me "Suki, leeeeshon!" trying to get a few more minutes in bed when there was a strange pattering noise outside. No more pleading. Bracha was up and out of bed, calling me to come outtside and see. It was raining! There was a dark cloud overhead and soon my fur was wet. I shook myself but it kept coming. So winter is on the way. But today in town the pavement was still very hot under my feet. I couldn't stand still at the stoplight and kept prancing around. I was not very cooperative because I kept pulling over to the shady part of the sidewalk, but Bracha didn't get angry and seemed to know that my paws were getting hot. She petted me and told me that tomorrow we would bring my shoes. I would like it to rain some more so that the pavement will cool off. Then my paws won't get so hot.

Call Me Surfing Suki

You've got to catch the right wave...


Ride it for a while...



And jump at exactly the right moment...



Can we go to the beach every day??? Please???

Emma and Mysterious Goings On

After eight months of looking at the Emma through the glass doors, we finally got to meet. I know it was sort of hard for Itai and Hilla at first, but they soon saw that I was on my best behavior. I lay very quietly and still on the floor and Emma crawled and played next to me. Soon she even touched my fur! I was so happy that I could hardly keep from thunping my tail and that made her even more interested. So I think we will be tgood friends.



Now, the next thing we did over the holiday was even stranger. We went to a large building. Bracha said it was called a Mew Zee umm. They had machines there that looked like animals, and one man came out and put a mechanical dog on a table that made barking noises and walked around when he petted it. I couldn't see the point of this dog. It had no smell, and it certainly was too small to be a guide dog. So I went to sleep until the show was over.


But there were some mysterious things in this building that I truly could not figure out.

We stood in front of some pieces of glass and suddenly there were a lot of guide dogs that looked just like me. But they had no smell.







And if that wasn't enough, suddenly Bracha started to disappear and reappear again. It was all very strange and curious. And I guess I'll never know what made these strange things happen in this mew zee umm.

But one good thing happened. I remember almost eight months ago we went to a restaurant in Haifa and a mean waitress and shift head tried to throw us out. Today we went back there. No one said a word. I lay down under the table and went to sleep, and the waitress even admired me. I guess they learned how to treat people with guide dogs properly.

On Vacation!

Yes, we did go on vacation – just as Bracha promised. At first it was like any other trip, getting on the train and going to the bus station. But soon we met Yuli and got on the minibus. Then the fun started. There were Yuni, Disney, and a few other dogs as well. And after a while we got to the hotel. It was a nice place with lots of green lawns and stairs, doorways, and elevators, and Bracha led me into our room and unpacked my water bowl and two brand new bones for Petel and me! Soon Petel arrived, too. Then the fun really started. We had a great time together. I admit that I barked when we were left alone in the room, because even having Petel there with me I still felt unhappy when Bracha went out without me. You see, 50 dogs in one dining room would have been a bit much, so every time Bracha went to meals I had to stay in the room with Petel. But we all came to the pool and the lawn and did everything else together. I spent a lot of time sleeping and keeping cool and happy. And what could be better than a vacation together with Yuni, Petel, Wendy, Disney, Knight, Ringo, Simbo, Pupick, Hero, Nellie, and countless other dogs whose names I can't even remember. And everyone kept commenting on what a large dog I am! At first this made me feel bad, but Bracha assured me that of all the dogs there – even the jet black Labradors, she loves me the most and wouldn't trade me for any other dog. So I hope we go on vacation again. But isn't there any hotel where dogs are allowed in the swimming pool???

Petel and I relaxing in our hotel room


No, we're not fighting. Petel (left) and I are only playing. more fun and frolics

The Beach and Reconcilliations

I love the beach. I just can't get enough of it. Bracha says she wished she could get a picture of me jumping over the waves, which I now have down to a technique. As soon as I see one coming I get ready and then leap over it. Sometimes they catch me by surprise and I get underneath them, but I pop out right away and keep swimming. I'd stay in all day but Bracha pulls me out before I get too tired, and then we sit on the beach and I look out at the moving water. Today even the life guard came up and petted me and said he watches me in the water. But I know I have to watch Bracha. I don't trust anyone else! he said I was a beautiful dog. And that was when I was all wet and covered with sand!

When we got home today a man called from the company that runs the supermarket where they tried to make us leave last week. . he was very pleasant and said that he knew the law. He even trains a blind golf champion! He told Bracha that they were going to inform all their staff and workers that guide dogs were allowed in the supermarket, and that they would send Bracha a gift and a letter. Bracha said the best gift would be going into the store without being hassled.

And now I have real news! We are going on vacation! We're going to a hotel and there will be a lot of other guide dogs there! Even Liron and Petel will be there, and we will even get to share a room together! And I think Bracha has bought some new toys and surprises for Petel and me so that we will have a good time, too! I promise to be good on vacation and not get into mischief. I admit I did the following things in the past two days:
I got up on the table and ate the cat's food again.
I got into a mud puddle and got really dirty on our walk, and Bracha had to shampoo me again.
And yesterday I found some food in the orchard and didn't come back when Bracha called me. I was too busy eating. Yep, I got yelled at, and I deserved it. And now I'm not going to be let off leash all week because Bracha wants me clean and nice to go to Tel Aviv and on vacation. I guess I was wrong. But you know me when it comes to food...

Hot Paws and Hot Tempers

There certainly seem to be a lot of people around who don't like me. Or who are just ignorant. Every store we walked into this morning had someone in the doorway who didn't like my going in. Bracha brushed off the first guard in the clothing store who told her I wasn't allowed, and a woman from the cash register called to him to stop bothering her, and he scuttled away with, "I just said that without thinking..." Bracha agreed with him.

But the big supermarket was something else. We went inside to get out of the heat and stand quietly in the entrance to wait for Bracha's friend to drive us home. And the guard starts up with the usual stuff about no dogs allowed. Bracha told him he was wrong.

"The manager says that it's forbidden."

Ah, the manager says so?? Than bring me the manager please, says Bracha. And up he comes.

"Sorry, but the Ministry of Health has a law that no dogs are allowed in stores where there is food being sold."

Bracha got out her little card with the law on it. She explained that he was wrong and that guide dogs are allowed everywhere. Including in food stores. But the man didn't even want to read the law. Then Bracha got really angry. I think she'd had enough from the other day in the clothing store and oh, yes, there was also the security guard at the train station who told her I needed a muzzle. Just exactly how much of this crap Bracha is willing to put up with without really losing it is well, I soon found out because Bracha really lost it. She told him that he was wrong, that not letting a blind person into the store to shop was against the law and punishable by a ten thousand Shekel fine, and that as manager it was a disgrace that he did not know the law. "I expect to be greeted here with hello and good morning just like every other customer," she yelled. He then snidely said good morning. I think Bracha is going to contact the company and complain. Soon customers were coming over to tell Bracha she was right, ask her if she needed help, and to ask to pet me. I lay down on the air conditioned cool floor and went to sleep. But I did notice that when I looked up at the ceiling there were birds flying around, and bracha kept swatting at flies that were landing on her. So why was this manager so concerned about me with the food? I don't make dirt in the store. WEhy are the birds and flies allowed but me no? I just don't get it!

Hey, Geveret!

Boy, is it hot! I can't seem to get up the energy to do anything except sleep all day. Even Nuala, who usually likes being outdoors, has found that the floor in the bedroom is cooler and goes in there to sleep most of the day, too. I pester Bracha to give me ice whenever I can, and she always seems to be making more and more of it. And when we are in town I'm awfully glad to have my shoes. The sidewalk is so hot that even trotting along is uncomfortable, and standing at the corner waiting for the light to change makes me prance about.

I pulled Bracha over to the edge of the sidewalk where the doors to the stores are. IT's shady over there and there is always cold air blowing out. For once she didn't make me go back in the center of the sidewalk again and decided to go into one of the stores and started looking at clothes. Hooray! Cool air! I'd just settled down on the nice cool floor when it came.

"Allo, Giveret!"

Here we go again.

"Excuse me," says Bracha with deliberate casualness. "Are you talking to me?"

"You can't bring a dog in here."

"She's a guide dog for the blind."

"I don't care. It's forbidden."

Bracha got me up and marched over to the counter. This was no sales person. This was the store owner. She whipped out the little card with the law written on it and presented it to him. "If you don't let me shop here because I don't see and have a guide dog with me, you are discriminating against me. Here's the law. You're welcome to read it."

The owner insisted. "But what if she ruins something in the store?"

"She won't."

"Yes, but what if…"

"She won't damage anything. People damage things, but my dog won't." Bracha didn't stay to listen. She marched through the entire store, pretending to look at the clothes. Then she walked right past the counter again, said thank you politely to the owner, and marched out the door. I was glad she didn't buy anything in there. Why should she give that man her business when he doesn't want me in his store? I have a feeling she won't go in there again. Boy, if we had a Shekel for every time someone says I'm not allowed somewhere, we'd have enough money to buy me a new Kong!

 

 

Children

It's hard for me to understand why children are so different. They are small and to them I must seem as big as a horse would seem to an adult. But they are as different as different kinds of dogs. Some are nice and some are not.

Yesterday we headed for town in a taxi with the nice driver who patted my head and called me by name all the way. And when we got to the clinic a man in a white coat gave me water and petted me a lot. Then we went to the pool. Boy, was Bracha angry when the life guard started up with the schpiel of my not being allowed in the pool.

"She's a guide dog..." and the usual polite explanations.

"I don't care what kind of dog she is. I didn't make up the rules."

Bracha grew impatient. I think she was hot and wanted to get into the water and resented being stopped and told she was not allowed to bring me into the pool again and again.

"No, you didn't make up the rules. The Knesset did. Guide dogs are allowed in the pool. Go ask the manager. I've been coming here for months with my dog. I'm tired of being told to leave. It's very unpleasant and I'd like to be able to come here and swim without being hassled."

He retreated and no more was said. Bracha swam and went to the office and complained to the manager, who explained that this life guard was new.

"It would be nice if you informed every new lifegard that my dog is allowed here. It's very upsetting to be told again and again that I'm not allowed to bring my dog in here whenever there is a new employee." We'll see if he bothers to do that.

And then, as promised, Bracha took me out through the snack bar to the beach. And what a racket. Kids started screaming in there as if there were a ferocious lion on the loose. "A dog! Look at that huge dog! Yikes!" And all I did was walk past them in my harness.

But the kids on the beach were different. They came up to me in the water and started petting me. They got so close to us swimming that Bracha had to tell them to keep back a bit because when I swim my claws get, well, a bit dangerous and wild in the water and I might accidently hurt someone or rip one of those inflatable toys kids like to use. But they liked me an awful lot. They made me feel good after those kids in the snack bar that screamed when I came near.

I guess the kids who like me learned from the adults who like me, and those who don't learned from the adults who are afraid of me and yell, too. And I also don't understand how Bracha sometimes makes the water at the beach into those big waves and sometimes it's smooth and flat. Maybe it has to do with her making water into ice cubes. Or anything else that I like.

Lots of Work Left to Do

We had an exciting afternoon yesterday when we went to Haifa to sit at a booth in a shopping mall and explain to people about guide dogs. When we first got to the mall Bracha went into the big Super - Pharm. Funny that we were on an outing to promote awareness but soon the nonsense started. Suddenly a woman came up to Bracha and told her she was not allowed to bring me into the drug store.

"This is a guide dog," explains Bracha. You're wrong. She's allowed everywhere by law."

"I don't care waht kind of dog it is," the woman replies. "There's a pharmacy here." Evidently she thought that I might contaminate the medicine or something. Little does she know that I've even been inside hospitals!

"Yes, thank you, I know..." repliesBracha. "And I want to buy something there." She just turned her back on the woman, and on we marched right past her.

When we first got to the booth I was pretty anxious because the booth next to us was a booth belonging to some people who trained dogs. They had several dogs there. One was even lying on top of the table! But I soon got to know them and we were soon all wagging our tails and getting acquainted. And then Adi showed up with Yuni! I was delighted to see her and we did more than a bit of romping under the table until Bracha and Adi settled us down.

I guess that being on display is not so bad. Lots of children and adults came by and petted me all the time, and I just lay on the floor and let them pet me all afternoon. Soon it was time to go, and we made our way through the huge mall to the bus stop.

Well, it seems that Bracha is going to have to sit with me at a lot more booths and do a lot more explaining. As soon as we got onto the bus to Nahariya the driver reached out to pet me and say hello. A woman started up that I needed to have a muzzle, and for once the driver sided with us and told her firmly that I was a guide dog and needed no muzzle. And another woman started yelling at Bracha saying that she didn't feel she needed to "suffer" having a dog on the bus with her. I waited for Bracha to come up with one of her stinging comments. Sure enough:

"I'm terribly sorry you're suffering from my dog. She's my eyes. Why do I have to suffer your shouting?"

Then the other passengers all chimed in and told the woman she had a lot of nerve talking to Bracha that way. Couldn't she see that I was a guide dog? How inconsiderate and thoughtless. The woman shut up right away and we sat down. I guess we have a lot of work left to do.

Strange Conversations

I had to deal with my disappointment today when we went into the pool and I knew I was going to be standing by the water looking longingly into the blue depths wishing I could go in. I was good though - I only barked once and stood quietly the rest of the time. So it was quite surprising when we got back into the dressing room and Bracha tied my leash to the bench and went to go to take a shower and the woman near us pipes up..

"I'm sorry," she says primly. "But I'm not willing to share MY space with a dog."

I eagerly waited to see what Bracha would come up with this time.

"It's my space, to. This is a guide dog and she's allowed in here." That was it. No more hassle. The other women, of course, joined in and I could hear comments such as "It's a guide dog," and "She explained to her," etc. How very rude people can be.

Sitting in the doctor's office, the doctor started chatting with Bracha and said he had adopted four dogs! He must really like dogs and I know he really likes me because he's always happy to see me. he explained that he'd brought a puppy home and it had large paws. Why are his paws so large? Is that usual? Bracha laughed and said he'd better be ready to have a dog about the size of me. Bracha also said that I weighed about 35 kilo. I think I've slimmed down a bit over the summer and I certainly have a lot less fur. Thank goodness! They've invented a new term: extreme heat!

Water!

Now that it's summertime and it's hot I think about water all the time. If I had my way I'd be swimming in it all the time, or at least getting my paws wet. But since that's not possible, at least I've learned to find water whenever I can. That helps Bracha fill up our bottle and make sure that we both have enough to drink.
I take my share of the responsibility. I make sure to stop at the water cooler at the entrance to the train station in Nahariya. I know where the cooler is at the station in Tel Aviv, too. And There is also one in Haifa that I can find if we are on the right platform. So that's easy. All Bracha has to do is say, "Suki, ayfo mayim?" and I'll find the cooler.
Now I discovered that on our hike through the fields by the river there is one irrigation outlet that has a plastic hose that Bracha can open and let me have a drink or get my paws wet. All the outlets look alike, but I know exactly which is the right one and go up to it and wait for Bracha to turn the water on! We've been there enough times for me to recognize it. Now I know how to drink water out of the end of the hose and I'm not scared of it any more. Saoirse used to do that, too. I think I learned from her.
Now there is only one strange thing that I can't figure out. When we go to the beach, the water we swim in doesn't taste good. As a matter of fact, once it made me feel a bit sick. It's strange, but Bracha has to give me water out of my bowl on the beach because I can't drink the water in the sea. The world sure is a strange and interesting place.

A Muzzle? On Me???

We finally got back into our usual routine after Rotem was here for a few days. I guess it's hard for Rotem to walk as far as we usually do. She's not a fully grown person and her legs aren't that long yet. And it's quite hot. She seemed to be content with playing at home all day and one day Bracha took her to the pool and I stayed home and cried. Yes, I know I shouldn't. But the thought of all that water and me not being able to go in was more than I could bear. Bracha explained to me that I would not be allowed in and that just standing around in the sun would be awful for me. And today she let me go into the river, get dirty, and then have a splash in my pool. So all is forgiven.

But yesterday when we took Rotem back on the train, someone had a very strange idea. The man in charge on the train came up and told Bracha that she had to put a muzzle on me. Bracha gave him the usual speech about me being a guide dog and not having to wear a muzzle according to the law.

"But," he insisted, "If someone steps on a dog, it's instinctive for him to bite."

"Why should anyone step on her?" asked Bracha. "She's here next to me under the table. Perhaps people should be careful and not step on her."

Gee, I don't think I could bite anyone. I've been known to demolish Kongs, bones, and er, once I even chewed up a clothespin, but to bite anyone? I'd have to be a mean dog to do that.

But generally things are better. We haven't been yelled at by a bus driver for a long time. And Bracha made an agreement with the taxi station dispatcher that when I ride in the taxis SHE will bring a cloth for me to sit on so the drivers don't have to deal with my white fur. That way we should keep the peace.

Meeting Friends

Here I am with Casper. He's a golden retriever, too, and belongs to Dina. We had a very nice chat under the table while Bracha and Dina were eating salad and zuccini pancakes. I think he's very handsome. And he thinks I'm pretty, too. We giggled about the little dog at the table next to us who barked constantly throughout the meail, while we behaved beautifully. It seems that in Tel Aviv all dogs are allowed in restaurants - no matter if they behave badly!



Here we all are in a football huddle waiting for the bus. My new friends are Luccia, Wendy, and several others, and of course, Lady and Yuni whom I already know. Then I met Hugo and even Naama's dog who understands both Hebrew and English! I think we are all very special!

A Magic Dog?

What an amazing group of people we met at the bus stop in Haifa. First we met two young boys, one of whom said he was afraid of me. Bracha told him not to worry, that I would be next to her all the time and that I was not aggressive. Then a man came along and said he had worked with a search dog in the army and had been sent to Haiti to help find and rescue people. After he left another man came along and said that he had a guide dog puppy from Beit Oved at home. Bracha told them they could look forward to meeting the person who would receive their dog if she passed the training and became a guide dog. That made him happy. I guess he will be sad when he has to give the dog back to Beit Oved. And he was the only person who ever said, "I have a dog just like that at home," and was really telling the truth! The rest of them only wish they had a dog like me...

When we got to the train station we met a mother and several young children on the train platform. At first they were afraid of me and one of them shouted, "Look at that HUGE dog!" Am I huge??? Bracha told them that I was a magic dog that could do all sorts of things. At first I was a bit anxious - maybe she was going to ask me to do something that I don't know how to do like fly or disappear. But I soon realized that she was only referring to the things I really know how to do. To some people it is like magic. I really was not bothered when the children wanted to pet me. But the stroking and pleasantness soon got to be tiresome. Bracha told them to pet my back and shoulders. She knows that I don't like children stretching their hands out into my face and she knows I can't stand people fiddling around with my tail. But despite that, they started poking in places that I didn't like, so I quickly got up and shook myself. Their mother intervened and told them I had had enough. They wanted to pet me more, and Bracha said no.

Finally we got on the train, and I lay down in my favorite spot on the rug. And oh my, there they were again, and thank goodness Bracha told them firmly that now I needed to rest and that they had to leave me alone.

When we got to Nahariya we started walking...yes! To the beach! Even when Bracha saw that I was jumping around the hot pavement and stopped to put my shoes on, I was eager to keep going and get there. We had a wonderful time and I had to be told to come lay down and rest. Otherwise I think I would have stayed in the water until I was too tired to walk back to the bus. I love leaping over the waves when the water comes and rushes over my head. I could do it all day. It's even worth having to stand under the shower afterwards and get all the salt and sand washed off. I guess sometimes you have to put up with something you don't like in order to enjoy something that you love.

Petel and Me

What a wonderful day Petel and I had together! Here we are having a quiet conversation in the pool. I remember Petel from Beit Oved when we were training to be guide dogs together. Bracha remembers her because she was the first guide dog she ever walked with, and I think Petel remembers her, too. And finally the day came when Petel and Liron came to visit! When Liron and Petel got off the train we were so excited that we could harely keep from jumping all over each other, but eventually Liron and Bracha got us out of the train station and onto the street. We walked all the way down to the beach and then Bracha went down on the sand with us and let us both off leash. At first Petel was a bit timid and kept running back to Liron and Bracha, but soon I showed her the water and we were soon both wet and sandy, as dogs should be at the beach. After that we both settled down while Liron and Bracha had lunch and were unnoticed by everyone in the restaurant because we were good and quiet. Then we got into two taxis (we have not yet found a driver willing to take two dogs) and went back home. Then the fun started. Bracha gave Petel and me a nice leather chew toy and we both settled down, and then someone said something about "free run." So off we went into the avocados! Petel has no place to run like this in the city, so she had a wonderful time. And then Bracha got the pool out. Well, I don't even know how to tell you what a great time we had. We ran into the water, around the yard, back into the pool, and out to run again. I haven't had so much fun in a long time. When Bracha lets me get wet and swim it's fun, but having a friend around is even better. When Bracha left me home to take Liron back to the train station I was unhappy and barked, but Bracha came back, fed me, and explained that it was too difficult to take two dogs in one taxi. But I had done what she promised - I shared my pool and my toys and I want Petel to come back again!