My New Guide Dog Crimson Had Big Shoes to Fill
Last July, I had to say goodbye to my gorgeous guide dog Pelham that passed away due to aggressive cancer. Pelham and I shared an unbelievable bond that became stronger over time as he brought safety and efficiency to my life.
To make things worse, I was informed I’d have to wait UP TO 1 YEAR for a new guide dog.
Due to COVID-19, both Guide Dog’s campuses (in San Rafael, CA and Boring, OR) were closed. This closure was exacerbated by the dramatic fires in both States which caused “Guide Dogs for the Blind” to fall far behind in delivering dogs. I felt desperate.
What a Joyous Day When Crimson Finally Arrived at My Doorstep!
You can imagine my excitement when I got the call in March 2021 (8 months later) letting me know that they could fly Crimson to me. Also, instead of me having to travel to campus for training they would send a trainer to train me out of my home. 5-star service for sure!
Before pursuing the idea of getting a dog for mobility, I was functioning with a cane. This seemed like enough for me until I met other visually impaired people who had guide dogs. I was impressed by their level of happiness and enthusiasm which inspired me to get a dog as well.
So there I was at my doorstep, eagerly greeting my new guide dog Crimson. He is a loving, 70-pound yellow lab with the “red fox” coloring, just like Pelham was! I have to admit, Crimson had big shoes to fill.
I researched the symbolism behind the color Crimson and it turns out it used to be worn by the highest nobility in the Elizabethan era. It represents vigor, passion, and courage. Crimson the guide dogdemonstrated all, during his training.
Crimson Took to Training Like a Fish to Water
Crimson just came out of the Guide Dogs for the Blind campus in Oregon, but he was raised near San Jose California by a family that has trained NINE DOGS for Guide Dogs for the Blind. The trainer that brought him to my home was impressed by his perfect behavior on his first flight.
She said Crimson was an absolute picture of perfection, getting under the seat and staying there for the entire duration.
We started our training the very next day, and he took to it like a fish to water. He was a pro, and eager to demonstrate it.We graduated, nine days later, and he has never made a mistake yet.
We have already been on the road together, and he has demonstrated his ability to steal hearts, just like my beloved Pelham used to do.
If you do see us walking down the street and Crimson is in his harness, please understand that there are certain protocols to be mindful of:
Friendly pets and belly rubs are allowed as long as Crimson is out of the harness
Most people don’t realize that a guide dog in a harness is actually working. Petting him or sending your doggy to sniff him will disrupt his training process, and cause stress. If the situation allows I will remove the harness to let him know he’s not working. This is the time for him to get belly rubs, socialize, and show affection.
Feeding him snacks is a huge No-No
Every dog loves a treat, but guide dogs have to be on a special diet. They are hardworking dogs and any extra snack outside his daily food regime places Crimson at risk of getting sick. So instead of offering him a treat, you could say something sweet, and he will appreciate it for sure.
Crimson and I are excited to meet you
As days go by Crimson and I continue to build an amazing connection. He has already established a feeding routine that he won’t break (even if it’s 7:30 AM on a Sunday and I’m trying to sleep in). In the afternoon he will find me at exactly 6 PM. He then proceeds to lick my face letting me know it’s time for his meal.
So far, my favorite moment was introducing Crimson to the miracle that is snow, as he had never seen it growing up in California. Experiencing snow was completely new and exciting.I could hear his enthusiasm and my heart melted.
