LETTERS: ADVICE ABOUT ASSISTANT DOGS

To the editor:

I am handicapped and have been since birth. I have an assistant dog called Tom Dooley which is a black Labrador. I'm writing this to let the public know what they should never do when they see someone with an assistant dog and why.I've been asked this question a number of times and thought maybe Be Kind to Animals Week would be a good time to do this.

Let me tell you a little about Tom Dooley. He had an abusive owner and was about to be put to sleep when Happy Canine Helpers from Johnstown, Ohio, found him. He was very weak also from the abuse. They nursed him until he was well enough for a suitable owner, which I was lucky enough to be. I love my assistant dog, and I guess I'd like everyone else to also.

These are some of the things he can do for me besides being my loving companion. He can turn on lights, although with my being blind that isn't necessary. He can pick up things for me should I drop something. And Dooley can also pick up a dime. He helps me if I should fall, and I've done that a few times. He takes me where I want to go. He stays beside my bed at night. He opens the door for me. He loves to play with my nieces, Laura, Carla and Alice, and he really loves to play with my sister, Alice.

Now for the do's and don'ts. First, never walk up to an assistant dog and try petty him without first getting the owner's permission. Then let him smell your hand and clothes. The reason for this is because it is distracting to the dog. He is working, taking care of his master. The next thing is never walk up to the assistant dog and stand and stare at him. The reason is because it is very intimidating to him. When you do any of these things, you could get bitten. Assistant dogs are trained to take care of their owners and don't know what you are going to do.

I hope this has answered many of the question from people who have wondered and asked how they should behave around an assistant dog. Thank you all for wanting to know. And thank my mother for taking the time and letting me dictate this for her to write.

SUSAN M. NOLAND

Jackson