When Harley returned to the Seeing Eye in December 2006, we learned that his whole litter was being evaluated for breeding. Eventually, Harley and one of his sisters, Hanna, ended up at the Seeing Eye Breeding Center. Harley was there for 2 years and Hanna was there for a little bit longer.
We raised Ava, who was from Harley's litter with Fancy. Our puppy club also had other Harley and Hanna pups -- Harley's pup, Quinn joined our club in 2008 and two of Hanna's pups, joined our club -- Milo and Scott.
Harley was so proud when we received the latest Seeing Eye e-newsletter because his nephew, Milo, was the lead story!
Here's what the story said...
A Different Kind of Road Test
Imagine yourself crossing the street with only a dog to guide you. Now, imagine that the dog is a recently graduated Seeing Eye® dog that you are still getting to know. Students are told that the first six months of their time with a new Seeing Eye dog is a critical bonding period. They must learn to read each other and develop a relationship foundedon trust in each other’s judgment. One Seeing Eye team found out first hand just how important that trust can be.
Milo is Edmundo Gaul’s fifth Seeing Eye dog, a 2-year-old yellow Labrador retriever. They graduated just three months ago from theNovember class. Edmundo says that Milo had already proven to be even better than his previous dogs. Then, on February 24, the new team had an incredible experience.
The pair came to a busy intersection and Edmundo listened for traffic as Seeing Eye dog handlers are taught during their month long training period at the school. Because it sounded all clear, Edmundo gave Milothe “Forward” command. Milo took a couple steps, and then did something incredible. The Labrador quickly curled around Edmundo and guided him backwards toward the curb.
“He was telling me, ‘Don’t go!’” Edmundo described.
A hybrid car had nearly hit them but Milo’s quick and decisive action kept them out of harm’s way. Hybrid cars are nearly silent, so it was almost impossible for Edmundo to hear its approach. He didn’t realize there was a car coming until Milo performed this lifesaving maneuver that all Seeing Eye dogs are trained to perform. Another pedestrian confirmed the close call.
Edmundo beams when asked about Milo’s work. “I trust him all thetime. He’s very good. I never feel scared.”
Whether working in town or resting at home, he says Milo is theperfect companion, seeming to know how to behave in each situation without being told. He credits his Seeing Eye dogs for allowing him to lead an active lifestyle.
“I’m very independent,” said Edmundo, “If I have to go to a place, I pick up my dog and go. I don’t have to wait for anyone to help me.” Edmundo plays Latin drums and tenor saxophone in a local band, takes regular trips to Puerto Rico and visits schools to talk to children about Seeing Eye dogs. Although their partnership is just beginning,the connection between Edmundo and Milo is already strong enough to lead them anywhere.
Harley is very proud of his nephew, Milo. We know Ava would be very proud of her cousin too!
