Ann's Thoughts and Rants about People

When I first met Alan, the last thing that came into my head was that he was blind. It didn't really occur to me until later that it was going to affect my life. Below is a list of things that happen to us in public that really piss me off in general. Remember to never do these things when you meet: someone who is blind, their dog partner, or their sighted guide. I realize these are not complete sentences, but it is simply a list.

1. When someone asks me a question for Alan when he is standing right beside me (i.e. "Would he like some more water?"). He is blind, not deaf, he can speak for himself.

2. When someone offhandedly pets the dog (while he's working) Right in front of me and Alan (i.e. walking along and nonchalantly skating your hand across Kincaid's back as you pass him). If you are one of these people, please realize you are not being sly. 99.9% of the time, Alan knows when someone has pet his dog, and it really makes me angry.

3. When people park in the middle of crosswalks (I realize sometimes this is a mistake, I've even done it, but people blatantly do it all the time!). Alan is very independent and likes to get around on his own, so when there is a car parked in the middle of the crosswalk, I have to just sit there while he runs himself directly into someone's car, and then they give me the dirty look!

4. When people try to feed the dog, especially on the sly. This one needs nothing further.

5. When people blame me for things Alan or the dog does. I am simply Alan's companion, he is an individual, and I have very little control over what he does or what he does with his dog. Don't give me dirty looks or speak rudely to me about him, talk to him! Just because he's blind doesn't make him non-existant or not accountable for his actions.

6. When people speak rudely to me or Alan about the dog or how he is being treated, here is a list and below are the reasons the make me angry. This includes: when Kincaid does something wrong and needs a leash correction; when they complain about the small space Kincaid exists in; that he can't go into certain places of business; or when make comments in public, like we can't hear them.
     a. Kincaid has been professionally trained and receives certain rewards or discipline for his behavior. Nothing is ever done to abuse him or hurt him in any way. He is a very loved animal and is very happy. Yet, sometimes he needs a leash correction to let him know he needs to react in a certain way. Alan puts his life in Kincaid's hands (or his paws) and Kincaid needs to know when his behavior is not up to par. Don't tell him he's doing it wrong or being cruel; you are being ignorant and I can assure you that if you do this to Alan, a fight will ensue.
     b. Kincaid was brought up to live in a kennel, he is used to it, it is the only thing he knows, as far as I can tell, he likes it. He is trained to stay in small spaces for long periods of time. Let him do it!
     c. All I'm going to say about this one is read the ADA. Dog partners are allowed anywhere but a Surgery Room and a Zoo. Unless you want to get sued, remember it.
     d. Alan is blind, not deaf, he can hear you when you make rude comments about the dog. I, on the other hand, have excellent vision and hearing, so I don't know why you would be so tactless as to make rude comments around me, it is quite irritating. Another thing, just because Alan is blind, doesn't mean I am. When you point, make nasty faces, stare or otherwise attract attention in regards to the dog, you look quite silly. I can see you!

Ahhhh, I feel better. If this was utterly offensive or you have any questions email me.

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