Back to work

Ulay is better. She is almost at full capacity - she is waggy bust most of all healthy. Funny how you take using a Guide Dog for granted. 

Having returned to use my cane has been a challenge but it has made me think that what was said about my sight loss last week - I am scared & now reliant on others to help me to do the things we all take for granted.

We went back to work today, Ulay on light duties but she was awesome (as usual). I work at the RNIB care home in Burnham on Sea as a receptionist and we had a fete - lots of people & excited kids. Ulay was not phased.

She is currently in her bed, sleeping after a well deserved brush. Back to work tomorrow.

My poorly pooch

Today I had my first non-routine vet appointment for Ulay. We had a busy weekend with my partner's son, Ulay loved it as usual, this also included a free run.

However, this morning Ulay was slow & sleepy - I feel a bad Guide Dog owner as thought she had the hump because of his son leaving. This was not the case - had my first experience of a poorly dog. I took her to work but she was sluggish, peeing loads & very tired. 

One thing with Guide Dogs is the support you get from them right through training & aftercare. I called the welfare officer who told me to keep calm but get her checked by the vet. I called and awaited for the appointment - leaving early from work.

Both my partner & I tried getting fluids in and succeeded in just a few fingers worth. My instincts were right - cystitis; my poor little girl. Antibiotic bolus and a course to complete, rehydration & rest. Meaning no work fo Ulay. So my cane will be my guide for a day or so.

I have become very attached to Ulay and see her like a family member, we'll wishes welcome. 

Disadvantage of a Guide Dog part 1

Getting wet, Ulay is a German Shepherd/retriever mix and loves the rain. And today it was chucking down.

It is always the day that you have lots of jobs to do but I had to use my Guide Dog as my eyes were bad & wanted to tire her out.

We both got soaked, I fell in a pothole from it being flooded - leading me to be extra wet - Ulay was awesome but once we had finished we headed home in a cab in which both Ulay & I we're shivering like crazy. Bloody British weather.

Now I have the smell of Eau de wet dog & just finished warming up. Hey ho!

Introductions

So, if you are reading this - you have an interest or are bored!

Today is my second week of my traineeship, I am a receptionist for a RNIB care home and I really enjoy it - it makes me wonder about my own future in a sightless world though. My job is varied but still waiting for my Access to Work equipment to come so I can do the job properly. 

So far my week has been okay after some bad news in Monday. A little background is to come shortly but I was told that I am losing my remaining sight and whatever treatment offered will worsen it.

There is no cure for diabetic retinopathy; it can be treated by good control, laser therapy & injections to slow the irregular growth. In late stages, operations are sometimes required. 

I digress, I will have to learn daily living skills and mobility skills as a blind person. I am already a Guide a Dog owner can use mobility aids such a long cane with roller.

My blog is going to enlighten some of you into this world, as most people see me as sighted because I use my iPhone, able to travel across country.

Enjoy & please share and comment.