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FRIEND IN HARNESS ISSUE TWO 2014

Ed’s Note - A word from Linda Bowen

Insight - Hydrotherapy

Head Office Report - Events in JHB

Training Report Back - Service Dogs, Guide Dogs and Puppy Raising

Health - Learning about low vision; Quelita has cataract surgery

Inspiration - Mandela Day

Info - The South African Library for the Blind

Meet the team - Jayne Nicolle

Pets - Lyla’s Love

Service Dogs - Our furry friend

Volunteers - Joan Daly

In loving memory - The Final Flight

Nursery news - Puppies galore

Graduates - This year’s graduates

Congratulations - Pieter van Niekerk awarded Honour Roll

Meet the team - Getting to Know Dackley Merafe

Puppy Raiser - For the love of (Guide) dogs

Story line - Music from darkness

Breed feature - Built to work – the German Shorthaired Pointer

Q&A - Dealing with dogs marking territory

COM report - Learning to get around

Bequests - Roye Palmer

Cape Town report - Fundraising news

KZN report - Fundraising news

Goodbye - Farewell Arleen

New ideas - Petsure supports Guide-Dogs Ed’s Note November 2014 Editorial

They say that time flies when you’re having fun. Well that certainly applies to me since joining the marketing department at S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind. It has been a roller-coaster ride of events, expo’s, graduations and meetings. Talk about a baptism by fire.

I have been involved with the Association for about 4 years as a Puppy Raiser and had, what I have since come to learn, a very subjective view of the goings on. As is true I am sure in most cases. I didn’t have a clue of the drive and passion of the people behind the scenes, pouring their hearts and souls into their jobs with such enthusiasm. I am so pleased to be considered a part of this team.

We have had a few staff changes over the last couple of months and whilst it is always sad having to say goodbye to friends, circumstances change and people move on. We hope they will all be very happy in their new ventures.

A huge loss to the Association will be that of the retirement of Arleen Lord. Arleen has been a part of S A Guide- Dogs since time began and will be sorely missed. Please read the article further on in this issue of Friend in Harness penned by her. Arleen you leave big shoes to fill!

As the silly season fast approaches, we would like to take this opportunity of wishing all our supporters the gift of time to enjoy the simple pleasures of this holiday season, and a New Year of Health and Happiness!

Linda Bowen Insight Hydrotherapy Guide Dogs take a walk on the wet side

Before Labrador Retrievers were so named, they were called St John’s Water Dogs so it is fitting that they should return to their ancestral element to recuperate. Hydrotherapy uses water’s magical properties to heal; cold water reduces inflammation; hot water reduces pain and stiffness; swimming is the perfect exercise, because there is no impact on the joints but the water offers resistance.

Sound Dogs The Guide-Dogs Association’s carefully designed breeding programme ensures that most of our dogs are physically sound, however, some may have hip or elbow dysplasia and it is these dogs that benefit from hydrotherapy. Treatment begins immediately the vet is satisfied with post-operative X-rays. It is important to begin hydrotherapy as soon as possible to minimise muscle atrophy - strong muscles will protect the injured joint

Doggy Paddle The first step for a recovering dog on the hydrotherapy journey begins with a trip to Doggy Paddle, a specialist animal hydrotherapy centre, where the dogs are treated to an assortment of aquatic delights: a spa bath; underwater treadmill and a swim in a heated pool. Alison Fantin and the wonderful Doggy Paddle team design a course of water activities to suit each animal depending on age and the nature of the injury. Water is a moderating medium for bouncing dogs that only have an ON/OFF switch – nothing in between.

Last year, GDA decided to supplement the dogs’ weekly Doggy Paddle session by using their own pool for some in- house training. Solar panels were installed to heat the pool and I, in an effort to look the part, went off to the fishing shop to purchase a chest-high-rubber-wading onsie, complete with attached wellies – a dubious sartorial statement.

Fun routine The dogs’ responses oscillate from the “should I go or should I stay” teetering at the pool edge to the “let me at ‘em” exuberance of dogs who clearly were used to swimming with their Puppy Raisers. Most are happy to retrieve the Rogz buoy toy with no more than an instruction to fetch, although, in their enthusiasm, they will occasionally try to retrieve the pool floater as well. We end each session with some stretches; a towel-wrapped cuddle; a slathering of Arnica Ice; and a biscuit.

Do the dogs enjoy their swimming lessons? I can’t say for sure but they get very excited when they hear the swish of my waders coming into kennels to fetch them.

Liz Falconer Head Office Report Events in JHB Marketing Report Back

This year was the 26th edition of the annual golf day held at the Kyalami Country Club on June 20th 2014. 36 teams battled it out on the golf course, with the 6th and 14th holes being the blindfold holes.

Even though the players had one shot under blind fold, it was enough to open their eyes to the hardships experienced by the visually impaired.

After a long day of fun, there was the prize giving to look forward to and every player received a prize.

The trophy was lifted by team Xcorp – of Xcorp business solutions. With Team Clatworthy – an all ladies team – as runners-up.

Special thanks to all our sponsors, players, volunteers and the staff and Puppy Raisers who supported us on the day.

Thank you

Alson Maphosa (Marketing Co-ordinator)

2014 Charity Fly-Fishing Event

On a perfect winter’s morning, 34 anglers set out to catch trout in Dullstroom’s private dams.

These anglers were all participating in the 4th S A Guide-Dogs Association’s Charity Fly-fishing competition organized by Jonathan Bolton of Mavungana Fly-fishing. The main sponsors were Nedbank Private Wealth, De Wit Motors (Ermelo) and Columbia Sportswear. The longest catch of the day would win a once in a lifetime international fishing trip to the Amazon or to Chile.

The winning fish was a whopping 57cm long and the first and second princesses tied at 56cm. Dave Coetzer won the first prize and he will be winging his way to Chile in March 2015. The day ended with a hearty 4 course meal at Walkerson’s Country Lodge accompanied by Môreson Wines. Fishing gear, artwork, wine, books, restaurant and accommodation vouchers were among the items up for Auction.

Clear your diaries for the last weekend in August 2015, and come join us and catch the longest fish for a good cause.

Gail Glover Training Report Back Service Dogs The service dog department continues to improve

Interest in Autism Support Dogs has risen dramatically. Eight applications have already been received over an eight- month period.

Two children from Cape Town received their dogs in August - a female Labrador and Golden Retriever cross and a male Golden Retriever. Many thanks to the Puppy Raisers who ensured that the dogs were so well behaved and socialized.

Three applicants from Gauteng received their Service Dogs this year. Once again the Puppy Raisers made training these dogs much easier for the trainers. The graduates are another male Golden Retriever, a male yellow Labrador and a female yellow Labrador.

Two more training classes have been confirmed for service dog applicants before the end of 2014.

My admiration and respect to all the dogs, clients and my colleagues, Leon and Vincent.

Maxine Geddie Training Report Back Guide Dogs The Johannesburg Training Centre

We started the 2014/15 financial year positively with the training of nine new Guide Dog Owners from the beginning of May to the end of June 2014.

Most Guide Dog Owners attend residential training where they will live at our training centre for three weeks. During this time they will learn everything about working with and caring for their new Guide Dog. A strong bond develops during the class which contributes towards the success of the team (Guide Dog and Owner). We are also able to provide training directly from the Guide Dog Owner’s home in cases where they are unable to attend residential training.

New Owners On 16 August 2014 we welcomed five Guide Dog Owners to attend a 3 week residential training class. The post class aftercare is due to start shortly after that and the trainers worked in the Guide Dog Owners home area for a week to 10 days. The trainer will return to the training centre when the teams are working safely and efficiently on their daily routes.

Half of the people who we have trained this year are being trained with a Guide Dog for the first time and the other half are being trained with a replacement dog. The dogs work until they are about 10 years old and then they retire.

We have Guide Dogs classes scheduled for September, February and March which takes us to the end of our financial year. Karen and Moses passed their six-month examinations and they are proving to be an asset to the training team. Learner Guide Dog Mobility Instructors write exams every 6 months until qualification. It takes three years to qualify as a Guide Dog Mobility Instructor.

I would like to thank the Puppy Raisers and the Trainers for their hard work in ensuring that we provide quality training and service to our clients.

Mandla Nxumalo Training Report Back Kennels and Puppy Raising Report 2014

As always, a report from Kennels and Puppy Raising primarily consists of a long list of thank yous.

Firstly a huge thanks to you our Puppy Raisers. Without the year of hard work and love that you put into socialising and conditioning our puppies, we would not be able to qualify the number or quality of Guide, Service and Autism Support Dogs that we do.

Another huge thank you to our breed stock holders for loving and caring for our very precious brood bitches and stud dogs.

A big thank you to our regular group of weekend homers. They provide home-based socialising for our adult donation dogs allowing them to live in a home over weekends and learning how to behave in a home. We have been able to expand the programme to include dogs who need regular breaks from kennels over the weekends, which helps to reduce the build-up of stress levels over the weekend when the dogs are not getting the stimulation of daily work.

We also would like to say thank you to:  Our little group of puppy handlers for regular and reliable assistance with early handling, stimulation, socialising and conditioning for our pups in Puppy Block.

 Liz Falconer who arrives at the training centre dressed in her waders, three times a week, to swim the dogs needing hydrotherapy.

 Our regular Kennel volunteers, John Stobbs and Joan and Dave Reeks, who help out with human attention and TLC for dogs.

 Karin Lourens for her willingness to lend a hand with her veterinary expertise.

 To Breeders Mike and Di Holman (Manny), Di Begby (Rocky) and Chris and Brendan Charlton (Nougar) who have allowed GDA to make use of the services of their stud dogs.

 To all the individuals and groups who keep our dogs supplied with blankets, towels, toys, chews, treats, biscuits, tinned meat, newspapers and plastic bottles.

 Jan de Waal who checks all our vehicles and ensures that they are properly maintained.

 Identipet for continuing to supply microchips for all our dogs. We have great peace of mind knowing that if one of our dogs gets lost it is always identifiable.

 To Merial who provides vaccines for all our pups, breeding stock and dogs in training, six-month’s worth of Frontline for all our qualifying dogs, Frontline for our house cat, Tatoe, and Frontline for our Puppy Block and Breeding Stock.

 Camsecure who maintains our camera system around kennels and has installed additional cameras in Puppy Block and Kennels.

 Inqaba Biotec who run free DNA tests on all our Breeding Stock.

 Bob Martin who feed our dogs. Caroline Human Health Learning about low vision A misunderstood visual impairment Of all disabilities, low vision or visual impairment is perhaps the most misunderstood. People tend to think of vision in terms of “all or nothing” – either you are fully sighted or totally blind with no in-between. In fact, there are more people with low vision than people with total blindness. Low Vision implies that there is some form of vision remaining but everyday activities such as reading, writing, shopping, cooking, and watching TV may become difficult to perform. Management Options All too often people with low vision are told that there is nothing further than can be done. This might be true from a medical or surgical point of view but is not true from a visual rehabilitation point of view. Optometrists with a keen interest in low vision are able to offer numerous management options which can vary from teaching new eye movement skills to modification of the environment and the addition of low vision magnification devices. The challenge is to identify the remaining areas of vision and make those areas function more efficiently. Have an assessment The starting point is to have a thorough low vision assessment to establish an appropriate treatment plan, taking into consideration the specific needs of the person with low vision. These assessments differ from the regular optometric examination and are not routinely performed in all optometric practices, so be sure to ask when making an appointment. Low vision treatment plans do not cure the cause of the vision problem but rather utilise remaining vision to its fullest potential. Treatment plans may include prescription glasses, therapeutic filters, microscopic - telescopic eyewear, magnifiers, adaptive equipment, closed circuit television systems, independent living devices, training and counselling of patients. Coping with low vision can be stressful but given appropriate information, support training and equipment, people with low vision can and do develop strategies to lead fulfilling and independent lives. (Article By: Hazel Sacharowitz, Dip Optom FOA(SA) FAAO, www.lowvision.co.za) Health Quelita has cataract surgery

The name Quelita originates from America and is a combination of Queen and Lita. She was born to parents Nougar and VB on 12 July 2013.

Quelita was born with cataracts and therefore could not become a Guide Dog. A cataract is an opacity of the lens which results in less light reaching the retina. This in turn can lead to reduced vision and ultimately blindness. Unfortunately for Quelita, the cataracts entirely covered both her eyes, giving her very little vision - about 10 to20% from the day she was born.

Causes There are many causes of cataracts. For Quelita and her sister Quilla the cause was most likely congenital (the two dogs were born with the condition at birth). To be safe, the same two parents will not be bred with again. Fortunately the rest of the litter have all gone in for training. Quelita’s blindness started becoming more problematic as she grew older - she seemed in her own little world and would play quietly in the house with her toys, scared to go outside with the other dogs.

It was concluded in consultation with the Johannesburg Animal Eye Hospital (JAEH) that Quelita was the perfect candidate for a cataract operation. Because she also has a heart condition, Quelita was assessed by Dr R Lobetti, an independent medical specialist at Bryanston Veterinary Hospital. JAEH performed the pre-operative blood tests and confirmed that we could go ahead with the surgery. GDA covered the costs of the cataract operation and we covered the costs of the lens implants.

Surgery Registered veterinary ophthalmologist Dr. Goodhead operated on Quelita. The surgery took about 40 minutes. Quelita had cataract removal and lens implants in both eyes. Cataract surgery removes the contents of the lens, which is the focusing device in the eye. The lens implant placed an artificial lens back into the eyes, which improved her focal ability by 14D. 14D is the focal power of the lens of a healthy, young dog. Since the operation Quelita’s far and short sight and her ability to focus have improved dramatically.

We would like to thank GDA for covering the costs of Quelita’s cataract operation and the JAEH for their excellent technical expertise, professionalism and care of Quelita. The operation is without a doubt, a great success, and it is wonderful to know that her quality of life has changed so dramatically for the better. Today, she is a different dog, confident and lively, chasing birds, running to the gate, and just being a proper puppy like she should!

Trixie-Belle Nicolle, Quelita’s Puppy Raiser Inspiration Mandela Day Celebrating with Mobility!

The 18th of July dawned crisp and sunny, and the College of Orientation and Mandelity – sorry! “MOBILITY” – opened its doors to 67 visitors who came to learn a little about what it’s like to be blind or partially sighted. They each paid R67,00 for the privilege of spending a little more than 67 minutes with us on Mandela Day.

Moira Higgerty, Deputy Head of the College of Orientation & Mobility (COM), had the scouts guessing how to distinguish one coin from another and the adults guessing how to identify different banknotes. Guests were also challenged to explain how a person who is partially sighted distinguishes between various items of clothing, and between all the different tins of food in a grocery cupboard.

Losing sight A sighted guide demonstration showed how to assist a visually impaired person to walk from one point to another, to walk through a narrow space, to enter and exit a lift and to safely take a seat in a chair.

Our visitors were then encouraged to experience what being led by a sighted guide is like, and they bravely donned blindfolds. Working in pairs, they gingerly made their way across paved and grassed areas, under trees, and up and down stairs (under the watchful eyes of the COM staff).

After a tour of the Kennels and Puppy Block, they returned to COM’s training room, where a delicious tea was enjoyed and experiences shared. We would like to think that everyone went home feeling a little more privileged and grateful than when they arrived, and that they had some idea of the challenges faced on a daily basis by those with visual impairments.

Rosemary Alexander

Young minds

Dean Ferguson, a Cub at 1st Eagles (and a grade 4 pupil at Maragon Private School) decided to raise funds for the Association. This was the “personal challenge” that Dean chose in order to achieve his Leaping Wolf badge.

The Leaping Wolf badge is one of the highest achievements for a Cub. Cubs have to be 10 years or older before they can even start working towards this badge. Earning this badge is unique in that each Cub has to select his own “personal challenge”, which can relate to his school, home or even social life.

Dean set himself the challenge of raising R500 for the Association by selling cookies. Due to his hard work and dedication he exceeded his target and raised R800.

It just goes to show that no one can say no to a young man in a Cub uniform selling cookies for Guide-Dogs! Info The South African Library for The Blind Reading material in alternative formats for 95 years

Pasha Alden is a Guide Dog owner and National Braille Consultant for the South African Library for the Blind (SALB).

In doing her job, Pasha is ably assisted by Vanilla, a black Labrador cross Golden Retriever, her trusted guide for the past three years. Vanilla guides Pasha to work, home and other places as trained. She waits patiently till the end of a working day to guide Pasha home. Vanilla has travelled to meetings and school visits and accompanied Pasha on many a personal adventure. Among her many virtues, Vanilla is an excellent and well-behaved flying companion, even remaining calm as passengers nervously hold their breath while the pilot struggles to land the aircraft in stormy weather!

Alternative formats Assisted by a dedicated team of transcribers and narrators the SALB provides reading material in alternative formats to 5000 members, ranging from ages five years old to senior citizens as old as 90 years. Commemorating its 95 th year, the SALB has 14,000 braille and audio titles in its collection.

Titles range from the categories of juvenile fiction, and non-fiction such as pre-school educational tactile picture and story books, to young adult and adult fiction and non-fiction.

The SALB also provides newspapers and magazines in braille and audio formats, among these the titles True Love, Joy, and Juig.

National Braille Consultancy As part of the SALB’S commitment to best braille practice and standard setting, the SALB also hosts the National Braille Consultancy. The core areas of focus of the National Braille Consultancy include standardisation by way of initiatives such as braille code development, national braille examinations for braille learners, and the expansion and development of the pre-school tactile picture book collection in accordance with international standards for tactile pictures.

A further focus of the Braille consultancy is to render advice and support by way of the fielding of telephonic queries and visits to braille teachers and instructors at schools for the blind countrywide. The National Braille Consultancy also focuses on the promotion of braille by way of initiatives such as the upcoming National Book Week reading competition for blind learners, and the drafting of the newsletter of the South African Braille Authority, The Louis Braille Bulletin.

Should you wish to learn more about the services of the SALB or become involved, be sure to contact the Director: Mr Francois Hendrikz Tel: 046 622 7226 [email protected] Meet the Team Say hello to Jayne Nicolle (Finance)

How long have you been involved with the S A Guide-Dogs Association? I started Puppy Raising in 1993, and over the years I have puppy raised 11 dogs. I joined the Committee in 1998 and was Chairperson from 2004 to 2008. I joined GDA in October 2009 as Financial Manager.

Do you have a Labrador or a Guide Dog of your own? Yes I have a whole pack of dogs at home, six in total, five are from GDA. There’s Astrid, a yellow Labrador who I Puppy Raised. After eight years of service as a Guide Dog, she has retired and come back to me. Also Ruby, our office PRO dog, a black Labrador who was withdrawn due to health reasons. Then there’s Gypsy a German Shepard; Oka a black Labrador, Quelita a Golden Retriever and the only outsider, Charlie a Siberian Snow dog.

What initially prompted you to get involved with the Guide-Dogs Association? When my daughter , Trixie-Belle, went to grade 0 in 1992, I had time on my hands. I visited the S A Guide-Dogs stand at the Rand Easter show. I learnt about the inspiring work and impact GDA makes on the lives of the visually impaired. And as the saying goes… the rest is history.

What would you say is the biggest challenge facing visually impaired people in South Africa? In my opinion, the lack of orientation and mobility training and lack of rehabilitation offered to newly blinded people. In South Africa we have a need for an efficient, affordable and accessible transport network. Visually impaired people have huge difficulties navigating outside their known environment without a guide, especially if they have not been trained or educated in the ways to deal with the challenges.

What is your favourite food? Thai and sushi

Where is your favourite holiday destination? Anywhere that there is sun and sea - Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles.

Do you have a favourite Guide Dog at the centre, and if so, what is his/her name? Of course Ruby, who else? She is always there to greet visitors, disrupting the Puppy Raising classes, and at the volunteers’ side at tea time.

Do you have a role model? If so, who is it? Mother Theresa. She is a symbol of love, compassion, honesty and trust. To quote “The miracle is not that we do this work, but that we are happy to do it.” We should all take up a great cause to help others.

What book have you read recently A favourite that I pick up to read again and again, Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts.

Do you have a favourite movie? The Scent of a Woman (starring Al Pacino) is an all-time favourite of mine. Or any movie with Meryl Streep or Jack Nicholson.

Do you have a favourite colleague who you work with? All my colleagues in the Finance Department. They are the most awesome people to work with.

What is your favourite day of the year and why? Christmas Day. It is a day to spend with special friends, family and my dogs. It’s a time to remember and share memories of all our loved ones. Pets Lyla’s Love The dog who healed a family’s heart

I acquired our two Maltese approximately a year apart from each other. Teddy Bear came first about a year after my son was born, thus the name, and then Puffy. I got them so my children could have cuddly friends.

I am not partial to small dogs but the love, loyalty and friendship they provided all of us was phenomenal. I do believe that until Teddy Bear passed in December 2012 at the age of just over 17 years, that I did not realise how much we treasured them.

Constant companion Puffy became a very close companion in the months to follow. She suffered severe depression and withdrawal when her mate died. To cheer her up, she became our constant companion instead of a pet. We took her with us everywhere we could, even if it was just around the block to the café to buy bread. Just like a Guide Dog, always at our side.

Farewell to Puffy On 26 March 2014, I took Puffy to the Vet for an operation. We all knew she probably would not survive. As they took her from my arms, I kissed her head and whispered in her ear, “Please, please try and make it.” At age of almost 16, the operation was a little too much for her and instead of returning home to us she went to join her mate, Teddy.

That night the four of us sat at home staring into space with tears trickling down our faces and I just kept saying, “Darn dogs, darn dogs – I never want another one, this just hurts far too much!” After quite some time of funereal silence, my children looked at me and said: “Stop talking rubbish Mom, you can’t live without a dog, you never have and neither have we!”. My husband grunted agreement and we all cried and nodded and cried some more.

Meeting Lyla What we needed was a part-time dog to help us through the grief. The South African Guide-Dogs Association provided her in the form of Lyla, a five year old brood bitch in need of a home for 22 days. She was shy, reserved, well-mannered, gentle as a lamb and funny. She loved carrying around dishcloths and kept stealing them off the wash line to proudly present them to us. She was the only dog I have ever met who sat on the step of the pool cooling off and then climbed out and walked straight into the house without shaking off first, creating a whole new pool to wallow in inside the house. I am positive she knew exactly what she was doing by not shaking off first. Towels littered our floor for 22 days and the Persian rugs got stowed away. Dishcloths got hung out of reach, except for a few with her name on which got picked up and rehung in Lyla’s reach. On her third or fourth day with us she decided that sneaking into the bed while we slept was allowed and after that she would snuggle between us, preferably lying on her back while we petted and scratched her tummy making a fuss of her.

Multi-talented Lyla was even a guard dog; she would lie on the patio at night making rumbling noises. We eventually discovered that it was our two wooden giraffes at the end of the garden that disturbed her. The giraffes lay down for the duration of her stay. Thereafter she was content to stare out into the night, protecting the patio from would-be wooden intruders. Amazingly, this was Puffy’ s favourite spot too. When it came time for Lyla to return home, our grief had subsided. We were ready to wait for the next dog to choose us and we were able to bear the wait. Ready for Mica Monday 26 May 2014 we went to collect Mica, pronounced MEE-KA, as in Italian Amica, which means “friend”. She is a female, breed unknown, medium to large in size and originally fromTembisa. Her mother was poisoned and her pups were bottle-fed from two days old by the kind people at a rescue centre in Midrand. She is extremely clever, friendly, gentle (for a pup), loves to snuggle, has a “soft” mouth and heavily webbed feet so she probably has some Lab in her.

Without Lyla we would not have managed the wait. We would not have been able to tolerate the silence, the emptiness and the vacuum in our lives that not having a dog had left us with. I have never before lived without a dog and I know now, that if I can possibly avoid it, I never will again.

Lyla, your friendship, love, little snuffly and growly noises, the wet nose greetings, dishcloth and sock gifts, companionship and aide in our hour of need, will forever be remembered. You filled our void and made it survivable. Thank You, Thank you, Thank you.

Michelle Latilla Service Dogs Our Furry Friend A dog can be a helping hand

I am a paraplegic, confined to a wheelchair for the past 30 years. As time has progressed, I have found it more and more difficult to do things for myself. My husband, Craig, is also confined to a wheelchair.

We are both animal lovers and we have always considered getting a Service Dog to assist us in doing small daily chores around the house. I surfed the internet and got excited to see how a Service Dog could make our lives easier. I eventually plucked up the courage to contact the South African Guide-Dogs Association to see if they would come to my assistance.

Like ducks to water After waiting for approximately one year, our dog Burlesque became a part of our lives. We were a little sceptical prior to her arriving, as we have a pedigree Amstaff at home as a pet. These animals are supposed to be vicious because of the nature of the breed – Staffordshire x Bull terrier x Pit Bull - but we were overjoyed when he and Burlesque took to each other like ducks to water.

During my training sessions at home with the Service Dog Instructor, Maxine Geddie, we got to hear the full history of Burlesque. She started with a Puppy Raiser, Linda Bowen, (thank you Linda) and was trained with wonderful Maxine (what a gem of a trainer!)

Training at home The training at home consisted of how to walk her, commands, daily practice sessions and when to reward her. When Maxine left, after spending 2 weeks with me, Burlesque could retrieve and pick up virtually anything off the floor and give it to me, such as pencils, rulers, scissors and even a credit card! She can open the fridge, take out a cooldrink and give it to me. Washing day is hardly a chore anymore, as Burlesque takes the washing out of the washing machine for me. Her tasks include opening and closing the back door, bringing me the TV remotes (when I am sitting on the couch) and believe it or not, retrieving the phone handset for me when it rings. She is the greatest thing since sliced bread! What a star performer!

Shopping buddy Burlesque accompanies us on our shopping trips. Craig waits at the end of an aisle while I select the ‘goodies’. I will give an item to Burlesque and she excitedly takes it to Craig so he can place it in the trolley. If I go shopping without Craig, nobody asks where he is, but should Burlesque not accompany me, it becomes the main topic of conversation with passers-by and shop staff alike.

Her latest task is to open our bedroom curtains each morning. This has resulted in us becoming rather early risers though. Burlesque is just far too eager to assist us and as soon as she sees daylight coming through one of the other windows she rushes to perform her duty.

It has been so rewarding having her help both Craig and I. She is nothing but a Blessing in disguise. We would like to thank the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the opportunity to have a Service Dog. We must also thank Maxine, Linda and whoever else had a part in her life before she became our little “miracle”!

Gail Mathews, Service Dog owner Volunteers Joan Daly A tribute to a loyal volunteer

When I retired in 1994 after working for Haggie Rand for 50 years, I found myself at rather a loose end.

As I had always been fond of dogs I phoned Guide-Dogs and spoke to Ros Kippen about the possibility of doing voluntary work. Ros invited me to come along and see what happens at the Association, with the result that I became a Wednesday Vollie.

A couple of years later I was asked if I would run the Collar & Tie Club, which I did with fellow Vollie Dot McKenna. I think we were both pretty relieved when it all became computerised. Before the Mobility School became a College, when it was still based in the main offices, the Vollies would be asked to be guinea pigs for the students to practice their skills on. We had to have an imitation eye condition, like tunnel vision for example, and we were lead around the grounds blindfolded or wearing simulated goggles, then we were asked to describe what it felt like to us.

I also assisted with the adjudication of the exams for the College of Orientation and Mobility students. Five years ago I was offered Casey, a Guide Dog about to embark on her well-deserved retirement. I took one look at her and said: “YES. I would love to look after her”. Casey was born on 17 March 1999, she spent the first year of her life with Puppy Raiser Mary-Ann Scherer and on returning to the Association was trained by Cheryl Robertson. She qualified on 10 December 2000 together with Magda Barker. Her last day of service was on 24 October 2009 at age of 10 years and seven months.

Casey lived for another five years and what a happy five years we had together. Obviously when dogs are retired, they are the same as humans, rather lost at what to do. For the first few weeks she had me up much earlier than my usual rising time. She was all bright eyed and bushy tailed, saying “Come on we have places to go and people to see”.

Every time I got up out of my chair she would pop up and lead me round the house. How was she to know that I could see? But gradually she learned to be a dog again and we had many happy outings in our local park.

Casey undertook one last venture after she retired. Pieter asked me to take her to collect a cheque from The Edenvale Orchid Society. She behaved just like the lady she was, anyone looking at her would have had no doubt in their mind that this was a Guide Dog.

Casey hated two things: storms and loud noises. She was a good weather prophet because the storm could still be kilometers away and she would start having a nervous whatnot, but other than that she was a very happy dog,

Casey was the one who decided the family bedtime. She would get up any time after 10pm and ask to be let out, with the result that everyone went outside. The three 3 dogs would then sit and wait for their night-time biscuit, a treat that Casey enjoyed right up to the night before she died.

As I am a diabetic I must exercise most days and one way to do that was to walk with Casey. That was a delight, as the world and his wife would stop to chat and I would give them Casey’s history. Now the only people who stop me, are the regulars, who want to know where my companion is.

It was a privilege to have Casey for the five years. In my eyes she was a very special dog. In Loving Memory

The Final Flight Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard his call, I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day, To laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of the day.

If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah yes, these things I too will miss.

Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My Life’s been full, I savored much, Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch,

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heart and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free. Anonymous

In loving memory Christine Rabie – Puppy Raiser and friend to many.

Allan Davies - Puppy Raiser, past board member, stud dog holder and dedicated supporter of GDA Allan was an exceptional man, with a huge heart, and he will be dearly missed by all at the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA). If you had the privilege of being around Allan, you would know his loud, strong voice which could be heard for miles at places like the Rand Show and various expos. This is where Allan would assist GDA in fundraising, and because of his competitive nature he would normally sell the largest number of raffle books. He raised 15 puppies, homed a stud dog and later a brood bitch. He volunteered for many fundraising events and later became a Board Member for GDA.

Allan Davies was instrumental in developing the RYLA (Rotary Youth Leadership Awards) programme and was the facilitator of these seminars. Allan touched so many young lives and equipped them to tackle the future. But Allan was also involved in many other Rotary projects over the years and he impacted many less privileged members of the community. Allan was awarded a Paul Harris and a Paul Harris Sapphire award (the highest recognitions in Rotary) for his contributions.

Not forgetting our loyal Guide Dog friends Carter Casey La Rue Ted Tequila Waitara Wallis Ziggy Nursery News Puppies Galore Greetings from a busy Puppy Block once again

Since our last report went out, we have had another six litters born in Puppy Block, two more litters growing in utero, and a third litter currently in the making.

Angies pups: Angie’s fourth and final litter of Labrador pups was born on 10 March, sired by Di Holmans’ handsome Manny. They are now five months old and keeping their Puppy Raising families busy. Angie will soon be enjoying a well-deserved retirement, and will be missed by those of us who have had the pleasure of working with her. Waldo – Celeste Kusel and family Wellington – Ania Finnemore and family Wallace – Nick Davel and family Wanja – Elizabeth van der Merwe and family Widgeon – Cobus van Niekerk Wella – Lorraine and Russell Dowse Whitney – Barbara Viscito and family Wasabi – Sandra Small Widget – Karen da Silviera and family Wakele – Jenny Lobban and family West – Anne Lishman

Tanika’s pups: Tanika and Frazer’s ‘XYZ’ Labrador x Golden Retriever pups were born on 30 May. It was the first litter for both of them and the pups are a busy bunch who are definitely keeping their Puppy Raising families on their toes. Zayd – Moira Smith and family Zazu – Heather and Barry Potgieter Zumba – Vanessa Rockey in Cape Town Zubela – Joan and Barry King Zeerak – Amy Jafari and family Zitsa – Frikkie and Theresa Loots Zia – Jane Senneck Zeeva – Des and Estelle van Biljon in Cape Town

Luna’s pups: 14 June saw the birth of Luna and Brent’s ‘A’ litter of ¾ Labrador, ¼ Golden Retriever pups. This was Lunas’ final litter of pups, so she too will now be enjoying a well-deserved retirement, and will likewise be missed by the staff, who love her. This litter was especially exciting as it was the first of our Artificial Insemination (AI) litters. Earlier this year we received a generous consignment of frozen semen from a selection of Stud Dogs belonging to Guiding Eyes for the Blind and Guide Dogs for the Blind in the USA. With the use of this semen we hope to improve upon and expand our existing breeding bloodlines. Ash – Monica and Barry Steen Asia – Rene and Mark Clulow Annie – Glenda Dicks and family Almond – Celia and Stephen Welch Abra – Heidi Bergesen and family Aria – Maryna Cotton and family Angelo – Storm Austen Archer – Margaret and Peter George Fiona’s pups: Fiona produced her first litter of Golden Retriever puppies, sired by Chris and Brendan Charltons’ Nougar, on 19 June. Fiona settled down to prove a very capable mommy to her demanding brood, but is very happy to be back home and enjoying some freedom now that the pups have all gone out to their puppy raising families. Brenna – Karen Lourens and family Brio – Sally Richardson and family Barley – Louise Hamilton and family Barkis – Jem Glendinning Beau – Somna Goswami and family Brinkley – Esme and Russell Marshall Bowie – Sue and Jim McKenzie

Etna’s AI pup: 8 August saw the birth of our second AI litter. A single 7/8 Labrador, 1/8 Golden Retriever puppy was born to Etna and Barlow. We have a number of our brood bitches retiring this year, and Etna is another who will be missed by staff working in Puppy Block when she retires later this year. Our little solo ‘C’ girl is growing in leaps and bounds with no competition at the ‘milk bar’. She has gone out to her Puppy Raiser.

Liberty’s E pups: Liberty, sister to Luna, will likewise be missed as she retires after her last litter of pups, born 18 August. Her 7/8 Labrador 1/8 Golden Retriever ‘E’ pups were our third AI litter, and were sired by Jared. They are only two and a half days old as I write, and are a delightfully well balanced litter, with two yellow boys, two black boys, two yellow girls and two black girls.

Fiesta’s pups: Fiesta’s ‘F’ pups, Labrador cross Golden Retrievers, sired through AI by Jay, were born on 30 August. All eight pups and mom are doing well. Five girls (three yellow / two black) and three boys (one yellow / two black). The pups will go to their Puppy Raisers in late October.

Honey’s pups: Honey is a first time mom and produced ten beautiful pups, sired through AI by the delightfully named Flamenco. Her ½ Golden Retriver, ½ Labrado ‘H’ pups were born on 9 October. The new family consists of one yellow and four black boys and two yellow and three black girls. When they are seven weeks old they will start their new adventures with their Puppy Raisers and mom will go home for a well deserved break.

Honore: Honore is back from Onderstepoort, after undergoing AI to Barlow The pups will arrive towards the end of October

In the last few months we have instituted a more intensive puppy handling programme, in line with some of the international guide dog schools. Our small group of volunteer Puppy Raisers start handling the pups at one week of age, gradually increasing their exposure to a variety of sounds, smells, sensory stimuli and experiences. So far the results have been promising, and the pups are enjoying all the human attention and the exciting experiences during the seven weeks that they are in Puppy Block before going out to their volunteer Puppy Raising families.

Caroline Human Graduates 2013 / 2014 Graduates

Graduation days can be a mixture of emotions for many people. Anyone who has played a part in creating this union feels a sense of pride - the breed stock owners whose dogs are used as brood or stud dogs, the Puppy Raiser who set the grounding for the first year, and the trainer who spends months bonding with and teaching the dog its new life skills.

It is also an extremely emotional time for the new Guide Dog Owner and their families who celebrate the gift of mobility, independence and companionship. It is also a very special time for the sponsors, without whom, none of this would have been possible.

We as an Association are very proud of the work that we are able to do and thank all our Vollies, supporters, sponsors and staff for their hard work, dedication and commitment in making a difference in the lives of others.

MARCH / APRIL 2013 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Melette Els Quinn Barbara & Massimo Viscito Leon Van Deventer Bentley Christobel Davidson Colin Willemse Volt Angel Conradie John Chandler Que Carol Blignaut & Adele Germishuizen Andries Coetzee Codah Jennifer Thompson

MAY 2013 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Carol Miller Titan Frikkie & Theresa Loots Sello Leeto Vegas Renee & Jerome Swart Teverina Davite Whistler Glen & Caroline Davidson Marius Jansen Van Rensburg Zebedee Hilda Longster Hannes Jordaan Dougal Stecey & Dale Armstrong

AUGUST 2013 Graduate Guide Dog Daryn Sutton Askii Annette Klaasee Willow Joseph Glad Zar Diana Craig Zingara Antony Hagedoorn Whisper Caireen Van Der Vyver Wilah Heidi Lourens Gulliver Bonnie McMurtrie Kenzo

Graduate Anton Engelbrecht Graham Brooke-Smith Ernie Ferreira Zelda Oosthuizen Leigh Grundlingh Brett Strydom

November 2013 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Danie Breitenbach Chivas Karen & Koos Geldenhuys Jacolene Thiart Eli Kate Gruber Christine Opperman Cayla Mike & Jenny Evans Basheer Claasen ZigZag Liz Falconer Janson Huntly Charlie Adult Donation

FEBRUARY 2014 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Theo Louis Chad Vicky & Tony Mc Mohan Sydney Berrington Tess Adult Donation

MARCH 2014 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Hector Loftus Fagan Christine Voigt Jacob (Japie) Strauss Frisco Joan & Barry King Francois Marais Jago Gail Cretchley Sonet Van Zyl Yoko Antje Herzog

MAY 2014 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Diana Craig Fairway Renee & Jerome Swart Ronald Ready Elliott Veronica Schnippenkotter

Graduate Emma Goodwin Amy Jooste Chantelle Hugo Heaven Botma Estine Smith Kotie Van Coller Fani Daniel

Graduate Neels Trosky Nicollette Labuschagne

SEPTEMBER 2014 Graduate Guide Dog Puppy Raiser Jeanne-Mari Viviers Ebba Sue McKenzie & Jim Donald Theresa Robberts Kelsey Rosalind & Jonathan Lewis Thandeka Zihlwele Jewel Jhanet & Pieter van der Merwe Godfrey Zihlwele Keeli Hilda Longster Celeste Van Staden Kwezi Ann Lishman

SERVICE DOGS April 2013 – September 2014 Graduate Service Dog Puppy Raiser Andries Spies Oreo Deon & Susan Kriek Melissa Gevers Winnie Gillian Ford Mari Nell Umeka Nerene Nienaber Johannes Wagner Darwin Neil & Jaquie Webb Heinrich Williams Viking Thea & Marcel Fauconier Kyle Bos Rhody Adult Donation Gail Mathews Burlesque Linda Bowen Tracy Jacobson Burberry Sandra Small Philip Case Jock Jenny & Eugene Els Kat Swanepoel Hamish Morag Cardoso

AUTISM SUPPORT DOGS April 2013 – September 2014 Graduate Service Dog Puppy Raiser Daniel Kruger Vossie Maria Bounds Wickus Roos Apollo Simone & Nick Davel Craig Pauwels Fargo Chriszelda Pieterse & Gert Bouwer Congratulations Pieter Van Niekerk awarded a prestigious Honour Roll

Our Marketing Head of Department, Pieter van Niekerk, was recently awarded an Honour Roll Certificate by the Board of Trustees of Lions Clubs International Foundation (LCIF) for his remarkable commitment to the S A Guide- Dogs Association for the Blind.

The Glenoaks Club awarded this certificate to Pieter van Niekerk, and his devoted companion and Guide Dog, O’Reilly, for their tireless efforts in promoting awareness and raising the much-needed funds to breed and train Guide Dogs for visually impaired people in South Africa.

Prominent citizens

Pieter received his first Guide Dog in 1987 and has worked at GDA for 12.5 years. Receiving this award means that Pieter’s name will be added to an honorary list of prominent citizens and like-minded people who are committed to making a difference in their community.

One of the most important ways that Lions make a difference in their communities and the world is through LCIF, the official charitable organization of Lions Clubs International. With funding from LCIF, Lions carry out large-scale humanitarian projects in their community

SightFirst The Lions are known worldwide for their work in blindness prevention. Since the SightFirst Program began in 1990, 7.8 million people have had their sight restored through cataract surgeries, 30 million people have had vision loss prevented and hundreds of millions of people have received improved eye care services. Lions and LCIF are continuously establishing and expanding sustainable eye health care systems in under-served areas.

The Lions not only service communities through focussing on issues such as saving sight, but also vital services such as youth development and disaster relief. LCIF, a leading non-profit organisation, uses the funds donated by millions of Lions worldwide for various humanitarian initiatives that impact communities and change lives all over the globe. As the foundation expands its range of services it seeks to take on new and even greater humanitarian challenges.

The Lions Club of Stanger, in KwaZulu-Natal was the first service club to sponsor a Guide Dog over 30 years ago and since then Lions Clubs in South Africa have proudly sponsored hundreds of Guide Dogs throughout the country. Meet the Team Getting To Know Dackley Merafe (Orientation and Mobility Facilitator)

How long have you been working for the Guide-Dogs Association? I have been with the association for five years now.

What do you do for the organization? I am a facilitator/assessor. I also teach visually impaired children, professionals at corporate companies and government departments and community members how to navigate around obstacles with the use of a white cane.

Do you have a Labrador or a Guide Dog of your own? I have a dog at home, not a Guide Dog nor a Labrador.

What initially prompted you to get involved with the Guide-Dogs Association? After having seen an Orientation and Mobility Practitioner teaching a person with visual impairment how to walk independently, safely and correctly using the white cane to navigate his path.

What would you say is the biggest challenge facing visually impaired people in South Africa? Sighted people need to be sensitised to the needs of the visually impaired people by means of workshops. The constantly changing environment due to construction works is also a difficulty.

If you could implement a new law, what would it be? I think we have some excellent laws in this country, for example Inclusive Education. They just need to be implemented.

What is your favourite part of the job? Seeing the smile on someone’s face after having taught them, bringing back their confidence and belief to do things themselves.

What is your least favourite part? Not being able to assist someone living with a visual impairment because of circumstances beyond my control, for instance, with a deaf blind person.

Do you have a favourite Guide Dog at the centre, and if so, what is his name? Pieter’s dog, O’Reilly, due to his obedience and commitment

What is your favourite food? Pap, pork meat, wors and Chakalaka

Where is your favourite holiday destination? Mpumalanga (National Game Reserve)

Are you married? Mmmmmmm!!! Yes

Do you have children? Yes, I am a proud father of six: Lerato, Oratile, Kgosi, Gosego, Marang and Mofenyi What is your favourite Guide-Dogs Association event that is held during the year? Family Fun day

If you could change something about the world, what would it be? I would stop all the wars, rapes, child abuse and killings

Do you have a role model? If so, who is it? Yes, Moira Higgerty

What music do you enjoy listening to? I listen to all kinds of music; it depends on my mood at that time.

Do you have a favourite movie? Yes, The rise and fall of Idi Amin

Do you have a favourite colleague who you work with? Nope, I enjoy working with all my colleagues

What is your favourite day of the year and why? 28 February, my birthday Puppy Raiser For The Love of (Guide) Dogs Tales from a Puppy Raiser

We were recruited into the ranks of Puppy Raisers by Rose Chamberlain in the early ‘80’s. We had just arrived in South-Africa on a contract from a German Multinational and replied to an appeal for volunteers for South African Guide-Dogs Association (GDA). Boy, were we in for a shock, not realising just how much these little pups would ‘bulldoze’ their way into our house and our hearts.

We received our first puppy, a yellow lab called Rusty, in 1982. I still remember my husband’s shocked expression when we found Rusty, in his basket, surrounded by ALL but one of my husband’s prized handmade Scandinavian pipes (the surviving one is still on display today, very high up, although he long ago stopped smoking).

Distressed look I have always been interested in interior decoration, and I have always LOVED the so-called ‘distressed’, or used look. Sometimes very expensive to achieve! Well, here’s a little word of advice. In order to save the expense of an interior decorator, get yourself a puppy! Trust me you will achieve the look in NO-time! Prized Persian Carpets became table-runner’s – I think ‘reducing’ is the professional term. And, ‘making a feature’ out of something with a hole in the middle can be quite tricky. I am sure that the idea of hanging carpets on walls was created by someone with a new puppy in the house. Our last ‘reduced’ Persian went to Cape Town with Happy, for her basket. She definitely had expensive tastes. Cheaper versions now adorn our floors, but strangely they just don’t seem to have the same appeal.

Counting puppies I have been asked many times over the years just how many puppies I have raised through the Puppy Raising scheme. This article has made me finally do the count - no mean feat, after moving between South Africa and Germany three times. The answer - 20 Dogs! Going through all the old handwritten letters, e-mails and files has been a trip down memory lane.

Two of our most cherished dogs changed their ‘careers’ during that time: Cicero, a black Lab, who went back with us to Germany and then out again to South Africa some four years later; and Anushka, also a black Lab, the friendliest dog ever. She would even wag her tail on a vet’s table. She was withdrawn due to arthritis. Anushka, like Cicero, became our family pet and joined me at many fundraising events. Passing away at the ripe old age of 15.5 years.

Never dull Being a Puppy Raiser is a HUGE responsibility! My grey hair a telling sign! Sometimes embarrassing, but certainly NEVER dull. A yellow Labrador, Churchill, who urinated compulsively. He would lift his leg at every male person we passed. Elegantly, economically, hardly anybody noticed. A few drops each time. He even marked a small enclosure with lion cubs, making it quite clear, who the boss was in that ring.

Then there was YokoOno, a yellow Lab and only a couple of weeks old. She wouldn’t eat one morning – warning bells rang. It’s never a good sign when a Lab won’t eat and I was absolutely neurotic. Her tummy was bloated and hard and she seemed in pain when I picked her up. We jumped into the car and rushed off to the vet. Life- threatening? Worried looks! X-rays! With a sheepish smile the diagnosis: a tummy full of food pellets. Back home we found her food bag ripped open and empty. Since then we keep everything in buckets. Neighbours I also learnt that being a Puppy Raiser interfered with the relationship with my neighbours! Anushka had an extremely strong hunting instinct from the word go. As she got older she would do anything to get to a neighbouring game farm. If the fence was too strong, she would dig underneath it. Trust me when I say that nothing holds back a hunting Lab! One morning I came eye-to-eye with our gun-wielding neighbour, who was threatening to shoot Anushka, who was once again on his property. Very calmly (probably due to me being out of breath and having sprained my ankle running after her) I pointed out that he would make the front page of the local newspaper, as he was about to shoot a Guide Dog in training. Thankfully he didn’t and I was extra vigilant in keeping Anushka in our own property. Sadly, we never spoke again.

Seasoned raiser After many years I considered myself a seasoned Puppy Raiser. Our home is pretty much puppy-proofed (or so I thought). Enter our ‘H’ pup. This six-week-old yellow Labrador arrived on a Friday. We normally like to consider character, temperament and the like before naming our pups and this can take up to about three weeks. On Saturday morning the telephone in the kitchen had been chewed beyond recognition. By Sunday morning the entire Telkom-Box on the wall was gone. On Monday morning I phoned Guide-Dogs to give them the happy news - the puppy had a name, What was it? Houston. As in “Houston, we have a problem.”

Suffice to say, he lived up to his name. You name it, he did it; even jumping out of a bedroom window so that he could go for a quick swim. I cannot help smiling to myself when I remember him. For the first time ever I couldn’t wait to receive the call for class. (Sorry Valter, that you read about it here, I really couldn’t tell you where the name came from… and I’m absolutely sure, that he is a stunning dog and a great companion by now!)

I have only been under blindfold once in my career with GDA, and Cheryl vowed to never ever do it again. I was petrified and hardly moved forward at all (my excuse: it was my own dog!) I guess I just couldn’t help but remember the little hooligan I had spent a year raising.

The last puppy we walked was SallyCarrera, born on 9 November 2013 and aptly named and sponsored by Porsche. She is a sweet black Lab/Golden mix and reminds us of Anushka. The whole family love her to bits and if GDA doesn’t act soon, we might start getting ideas…*

* They did not forget us, intake was at the end of August for SallyCarrera. We envy the person who will get her! We welcomed a new little puppy into the Herzog family in the first week of October, a little yellow girl from the E-litter! And we have, while waiting for het, done some interior and exterior decorating… badly needed!

Antje Herzog a.k.a. ‘Anya’ Story Line Music From Darkness Calvin Botha, also known as DJ D@rkn3ss, shares his story

Born prematurely as part of the first set of quintuplets in South Africa in 1990, weighing a mere 960 grams, I had no idea of the adventure I was about to embark upon. Due to an excess of oxygen in the incubator, my eyes are not functional, and are only a decorative feature. This fact must have been quite alarming to my parents, but as they had four of us to cope with, I was treated no differently from my siblings (fortunately).

Passion for music I attended school at Prinshof School in Pretoria, where my love and passion for music was nurtured. I completed my matric (as top of my class), and also managed to reach Grade 7 level as a jazz pianist. The one thing I strived to uphold during those years was independence. Being in a school for the visually impaired, this was not too difficult, but once I entered into the real world, the real challenge began.

I decided to go and study at the University of Johannesburg and opted to stay in a non-disabled residence (Oppierif) whilst completing my BA in Corporate Communication. I am always up for a challenge, but little did I know what a nightmare it would be navigating around the campus, moving from one identical location to another and trying to determine which building was which. This is where an unexpected change in my life occurred, in the form of Dolce my Guide Dog.

Forming a bond Not being very fond of dogs, I started the three-week training program in 2009 with some apprehension. This slowly melted away as the bond with Dolce, my Golden Retriever, began forming. Before I knew it, Dolce and I were going from strength to strength. Navigating the campus like pro’s, going to lectures and parties alike and getting to UJFM to do my shows without needing any assistance from my sighted peers whatsoever!

Success story Five Years and a degree and a half later, our success story is now reaching many as we venture into the IT field and DJ across the country. I can't thank GDA enough for providing me with the ultimate independence! Dolce has changed my life and has helped me in ways I never thought possible! GDA is truly amazing!

Calvin Botha Breed Feature Built To Work The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is an energetic, devoted and loyal companion

The German Shorthaired Pointer is known in Germany as the Deutsch Kurzhaar, meaning ‘short hair’ in German. Ancestry of the GSP goes back to Pointers from Germany, but also Spain and France.

A German Shorthaired Pointer in your home Like other members of the Gundog group, the German Shorthaired Pointer is an affectionate, loyal dog who is suitable for people who enjoy an active outdoor lifestyle. The GSP is a versatile hunting dog, able to point and retrieve. He has a very keen nose and good stamina and endurance to work long distances in the field.

Temperament The German Shorthaired Pointer is a hunting dog with loads of energy. He needs an active family who will provide him with the right stimulation and ample opportunity to work off his energy.

Lifestyle Without human companionship and interaction and plenty of mental and physical stimulation, the GSP can be destructive and hyperactive and a brilliant escape artist. GSPs can be good with children but may be very boisterous, especially as puppies. They need guidance on how to behave and be encouraged to settle down inside the home. Other canine companions are fine, but they may chase cats, especially if they haven’t been brought up together. They need a good-sized yard for exercise and aren’t suitable for townhouses and apartments. Smallholdings must be fenced as they have a strong prey drive.

Exercise and training Obedience training is a must for discipline and self-control of the breed. GSPs respond well to positive training methods and learn quickly. They enjoy retrieving and love the water. GSPs are considered one of the best hunting dogs in South Africa today and are able to work over vast areas of land, even where girds are scarce.

Daily care and health GSPs do shed, so weekly brushing is essential to remove the loose hair. Like other breeds with floppy ears, regular inspections can help to prevent ear infections. They are generally healthy, but may be predisposed to hip dysplasia. Ask about testing on the breeding stock. Hunting dogs may contract certain non-genetic illnesses through their work in the field. Good breeders will always advise on these.

Gina Hartoog Q & A Dogs Marking Monitor your dog closely and take him outside often

My one-year-old male dog occasionally lifts his leg in my home in different places. It seems as if he is marking as he leaves small puddles. How can I discourage him from marking in my home?

This does sound like marking. Marking is natural behavior for male dogs and some female dogs do it as well. If marking in the house is a new behavior that he hasn’t shown before, you may want to take him for a health check at your vet to make sure there isn’t anything medically wrong. If you’ve had a recent change in your home, such as adopting a new pet, this may also bring on this behavior, or it may simply be that he is starting to mark now that he is maturing. If he hasn’t yet been neutered you may find that this will help, although if he is in the habit of marking you will also need to train him out of the behavior.

If medical causes have been ruled out, you will need to address the problem in the same way as regular housetraining. Monitor your dog closely and take him outside often. Praise and reward him for going outside. Try to ensure you are watching him closely enough that he can’t manage to sneak off and mark in the house. If you can’t give him your undivided attention, try tethering him to you by his lead while you are training him.

If you catch him in the act of marking in the house, interrupt him and take him outside. If you miss catching him in the act, avoid rubbing his nose in it afterwards. This will make him much more secretive about marking and will make your job harder. If there is an accident in the house, clean up thoroughly with a cleaner that does not contain ammonia. The scent of ammonia-based cleaners will encourage your dog to mark in that spot again.

Candi Moon, Furbabies Training School. COM Report Learning to Get Around What is the College of Orientation and Mobility all about?

What do you do when you orientate yourself? You ask yourself, “Where am I?” and then you recognise your position or location in relation to the things around you. This is a mental exercise, which sighted people take for granted.

What do you do when you want to move about in your environment ? You ask yourself, “Where do I want to go?” and you move from one place to another, to achieve an objective. This is a physical exercise.

Related skills Orientation and mobility (O&M) skills are closely related, as orientation gives meaning to movement. Without good orientation skills, people move without being able to work out how to get to their destination. To move safely through an environment, you must be able to orientate yourself. It is essential to people with visual impairment that their orientation skills complement their mobility skills. For people with visual impairment to have access to employment, they need O&M skills to enable them to reach their place of work, to orientate and move safely within the workplace, and to then reach home at the end of the working period. They also need O&M skills to independently enjoy everything else that life has to offer, outside of the working environment. If a child has been born blind or has a severe visual loss then ideally these skills can be taught in schools, when learners with a visual impairment are most receptive to this training. However, no matter in what stage of life the visual impairment occurs, O&M training is essential to the effective functioning of the person in question.

How to assist As sighted family members, friends and colleagues, we can assist the person with visual impairment by being very specific when assisting with orientation. Telling a person who is blind that the filing cabinet is “over there” does not help at all. In the same way, pointing to a location has no value, as is making reference to what something looks like in relation to a feature (“the stairs are just after the red door”). It would be far more helpful, for example, to say, “The filing cabinet is at two o’clock” or “The filing cabinet is behind you, on your right” or “The filing cabinet is between you and the door, against the wall, on your left hand side.” As sighted people, we can also assist by guiding a person with visual impairment from one place to another. This is done by the person who is blind gripping the arm of the sighted person lightly, just above the elbow. The person can then be guided through many different environments both inside and out: between obstacles, in crowded areas, through narrow spaces like doorways and up and down staircases and kerbs. Sighted people can assist people with a visual impairment to find their seating – in an office, in a canteen or restaurant, in a vehicle and on public transport.

What does the College Of Orientation and Mobility (COM) do? The college offers a SETA-accredited two-year diploma course which equips the practitioner with the skills necessary to train those with a visual impairment. Four trainees are currently in training at the College, where they are learning the skills that they will then impart to those with a visual impairment. There are only 41 trained O&M practitioners practising in South Africa at present to support a blind population of approximately 388,000 and a partially sighted population of approximately 1,300,000 (calculated from WHO 2010 figures). At COM, practitioners are trained to teach those people with a visual impairment how to orientate themselves and move safely through a space, using the long cane, and also to become or remain as independent as possible at home, adapting skills of daily living as necessary. The trained practitioners enable individuals with a visual impairment to access independence in their own homes, schools, workplaces and in their own communities. About us Debbie Speller is the Head of the College and Moira Higgerty the Deputy Head. There are two O&M practitioners who work extensively providing services directly to clients, and they are at the moment working at Prinshof and Sibonlile Schools for the Blind. Willemien Kleijn is a facilitator who focuses on the training materials, student management systems and lecturing of the generic diploma subjects. Zothile Ndlovu is our administration officer and we have Sylvia who keeps us orderly, clean and tidy!

Why does it take two years for a practitioner to qualify? This qualification has both academic and practical components, requiring specific nationally recognised standards before competency can be attained. All the theory obtained through workshops and lectures is then complemented by the practical work undertaken. Many of the practical components of the course are undertaken under blindfold for the learner to experience the effects of a visual impairment on an individual’s daily life. This type of work involves close supervision by the facilitators providing support and guidance. Various community placements are arranged to then put all this new knowledge and these skills into practice, working with people with a visual impairment in the community and in the school setting. In addition to training O&M practitioners, the college hosts teambuilding events for companies, short courses and visual impairment awareness training .

Team building A typical exercise can involve blindfolded participants undertaking, for example, an obstacle course where another team member provides accurate instructions as to where to walk, turn, step, etc. The participants can then be invited to ‘shop’ and to pay for their purchases, blindfolded. Participants can also experience the difficulties of eating a meal under blindfold.

Short courses These courses can be tailored to suit the needs of individual organisations. For example, a nursing college in Gauteng recently came for a four-day course for their ophthalmic nurses to become more aware of the practical difficulties that their patients may encounter.

Visual impairment awareness training These days or half days can again be tailored to suit the needs of the organisations, including how sighted people can learn how to guide those with visual impairment, how to meet and greet someone with a visual impairment, and how to adapt the environment to suit individual needs.

Re-naming of the college building The College was honoured on 25 July this year, when on a typically sunny Highveld morning, the COM building, situated in the grounds of GDA, was re-named in honour of the late Ken Lord. The ceremony took place on the first anniversary of the sad passing of Ken Lord, and was attended by his family, all of the GDA staff, and about 50 invited guests.

Ken, Executive Director of GDA for 35 years, founded the College of Orientation & Mobility (COM) in 1974. When he qualified as an O&M instructor in 1969, he was the first person worldwide to be dually qualified, both as a Guide Dog mobility instructor and as an O&M instructor. The college became an accredited training provider with the EDTP- SETA in 2005, and has had 18 students qualify on the diploma course. Vodacom CHANGE THE WORLD Initiative This year, the college has a Vodacom CHANGE THE WORLD volunteer. Every year since 2010, Vodacom has invited members of the public to volunteer at a non-profit organisation of their choice, for one year, at Vodacom’s expense. Rosemary Alexander has been with the College since 1 July this year, and her brief is to raise public awareness of the College, and to raise corporate funding for future training of O&M Practitioners.

And finally The College would like to gratefully acknowledge the wonderful support afforded by the John and Esther Ellerman Memorial Trust, which sponsors the salaries of the two O&M practitioners. The College also acknowledges and thanks the GDA Board and Executive Director for their on-going support.

Rosemary Alexander

Bequests Roye Palmer In the company of animals

Roye Palmer was a very private man in his late years. He wasn't blind or disabled - he just loved dogs and appreciated the work of organisations such the S A Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA).

Sound dogs At one time in his life his only friend was his dog. Before he died he made me promise to use my inheritance to benefit those in need - especially animals, African women and children, which I am pleased to say I have been able to achieve.

Misunderstood Imagine you were born with a handicap that no one is willing to recognize or see for what it is. You try to behave correctly in the ‘normal’ world, but for some reason you're always getting into trouble, no one likes you, teachers call you stupid. Roye was born on 28 February 1920 in Norwich, England, at a time when hyperactive children were considered blatantly disobedient, deliberately disruptive, stubbornly rude and selfish. Dyslexia, which often accompanies hyperactivity, was an excuse for more labels: stupid, unwilling to learn, lacking in concentration.

Coping mechanisms By the time Roye reached school-going age he had learned to do things on his own because he believed people didn't like him. He hated school, often spending more time outside the headmaster's office than in the classroom. Being a very bright lad he quickly learned how to avoid the teachers and became a master of the legitimate excuse to play truant.

Horse lover Norfolk has always been a very rural county of England, and while growing up, Roye enjoyed every aspect of outdoor life, despite being born in the city. The only time he felt welcome at school was on sports days. He excelled at most activities, especially on horseback. Roye grew up surrounded by horses. One uncle owned the stud farm, another was a vet; yet another was a trainer... the whole family were horse dealers. Later in life Roye would joke that ‘dealer’ was spelled with a ‘D’ not ‘St’ (for stealer). Roye's father ran the local riding school, and rented horses in the area. Roye was probably sitting on ponies while still wearing nappies! Horses quickly become his friends, and he excelled as a rider. His father soon realised the business potential of such a capable son. A winning pony could be sold for a higher price. A gelding able to keep up with the hunt leaders despite being ridden by a young child could catch the eye of Her Ladyship. And Roye definitely did not mind rising early to take horses with the groom to the hunt miles away. Not only could he miss school, but riding with the adults was fun! It was a very long day for a young lad, and much of what his father encouraged him to do would be frowned on today. But times were different, and Roye thrived with his four-legged friends.

Changing times WWII and the many inventions of the early 20th century meant that the culture of the horse was replaced by horsepower. Yet horses continued to play an important role in Roye's life. After resigning from his commission as an RAF bomber pilot, he came to South Africa, attended a polo match, and ended up playing with the Goodman brothers' team. Later, city living and travel limited his ownership of horses, except for racing. The advantage of being able to identify a winner meant he was soon a recognised member of the racing fraternity. Roye's love of animals meant he usually had a pet, usually a dog. His favourite dog was a Dalmation called Megas, who lived on his farm near Pietermaritzburg. Megas had amazing powers of hearing. Even if he was at the far end of the farm, as soon as Roye started sharpening the carving knife, he would appear at the kitchen door. Yet call him to have a bath, and he became as deaf as a post! Roye used to laugh while recounting his father's experiment with breeding working dogs. One of the problems was taking the boisterous pups for walks. Being an avid pipe smoker, Roye's inventive father devised a belt to which he attached the dogs on individual leashes allowing him to smoke. It worked extremely well, he was able to light his pipe and puff away, until the dogs saw a cat!

Being independent The last few years of his long life Roye had difficulty walking. He still insisted on being independent, to explore beyond the walls of his home. His last horse was an electric scooter which he ‘took for a walk’ early every morning, stopping to chat to the everyday people along the way.

Some years before he died at the ripe old age of 90, Roye started to train me to administer his trust according to his wishes. God had blessed him with good health, long life, and a level of comfort he wished to share with others. Top of his list of priorities was animals. I know he admired the work of Guide Dogs, and would be pleased to have helped in a small way.

Rest in peace, Roye. We miss you.

Wendy Palmer, Roye’s wife (who sponsored a Guide Dog in memory of her late husband) Cape Town Report Fundraising News Feedback from the Cape

We started 2014 with a bang with exciting dinners, expos and a successful golf day!

Môreson Blessing of the Harvest The 2014 Môreson Blessing of the Harvest took place on 1 February which was attended by Guide Dog Owner Michelle Botha and her Guide Dog Panda. Môreson hosts the Blessing of the Harvest event annually. Guests are invited to hand-pick their own grapes, stomp them (the old fashioned way) and the guests are treated to a delightful lunch.

Golf Day We hosted a Golf Day at the Royal Cape Golf Club in March this year. Thanks to good planning, hard work and lots of help from Puppy Raiser Elizabeth Haldane , it was a very successful day. We had great support from sponsors. Thank you to everyone involved.

6th Rondebosch Scout Group raises R32,000 for GDA The Scout movement has always been known for its service to the community and in this spirit the 6th Rondebosch Scout Group decided to raise money for the S A Guide-Dogs Association. The cubs, scouts and parents set up a cake- and-make sale, baking some great cakes, sweets and savories and even made some accessories such as scarves and jewellery. They sold their wares at Woolworths head office and managed to raise R22,000. Their passion and efforts were recognized by the Woolworths Trust who decided to donate an additional R10,000. Thank you to John Fraser and the cubs, scouts and parents of 6th Rondebosch Scout Group.

Lions International Support – Karoo to Coast Cycle Ride GDA was, for the sixth consecutive year, the beneficiary of the Karoo to Coast Cycle Ride. The Cape Town team was so excited to be involved and we received a magnificent donation of R100,000! Our sincerest thanks and appreciation to everyone for making this outstanding contribution to our worthy cause!

Expo’s: We have been privileged to be a part of the following expos this year and we’d like to thank each and every one of the organisers: . Getaway Show

. Petz Expo

. Shed a Pound for a Hound

. Cavendish Charity Book Sale

. Hobby X

. Boat Show

Corporate and third party fundraising . Paarl Rotary Club donated R50 000. . Love Your Guide Dog dinner hosted by Service Dog Owner, Janice Salthouse raised over R20,000.

. ZaPop sponsored their fifth Guide Dog

. 6th Rondebosch Scout Group donated over R30,000 . Food Indaba – Colleen Grove donated R30,000

. Dancers Love Dogs celebrated World Animal Day

. Sotheby’s Realty – Jill Lloyd hosted the golf day at Rondebosch Golf Club in aid of GDA

. Ted Perkins celebrated his 100th birthday on 21 July and was honoured by EGGS and COOTS at a special dinner party. Ted chose GDA as the beneficiary and R15,000.00 was raised through proceeds and donations.

Schools We cannot say thank you enough for the support from all the schools in the Western Cape who have generously donated both time and money over the past year. We feel blessed to have been given the opportunity to visit with our Guide Dogs and their owners. A special thank you to Elkanah House and Sweet Valley Primary School for their ongoing support and generous contributions to the Association.

Thank you The most important part of my report is the many thank yous to those that have supported our Association. A massive thank you to June Colussi and our amazing Puppy Raisers, who we hold so dear, for all your hard work and dedication and for raising such fine dogs. Together we will continue to do the amazing work and change people’s lives. We are proud to be a part of such a wonderful organisation!

Teagan Schwerin

TRAINING Charne and I have had a busy year. We had two classes through the year and all of our clients are happy and working confidently with their new dogs.

We certainly are grateful for all the help we receive from our volunteers and to Teagan and Vivian who look after the dogs for us when we are busy, and who teach them office manners.

I would like to thank all our Puppy Raisers and those people who provide temporary, weekend and holiday homes to our precious pups. We are well aware of the gardening and redecorating skills of our little bundles of fur and you never complain. Thank you for coming back to do it all again once your dogs have left for their new lives. You all play a major role in the success of GDA.

The dogs in training have also been spoilt with lovely blankets, beds and toys. Thank you to everyone who has bought, made and given the dogs so many nice things. When the dogs are happy, we are happy.

Thanks also to Bob Martin for keeping the dogs’ tummies full and Novartis and Merial for keeping our puppies, dogs in training and Guide Dogs flea free

Cheryl Robertson KZN Report August Report – KZN Fundraising News

Well here we are and the year is almost over. My GOODNESS, it has sped past! We had our usual stall at the Highland Gathering, thanks to the Lions, and the Vintage Sports Car Club again gave us a stall at the Cars in the Park show and also sponsored a puppy. Thank you all!!

Our big event was the Royal Show in Pietermaritzburg, and as usual the PMB folk were most supportive and friendly. We again had a car on show like the one we are raffling this year and big thanks to Honda PMB for all their trouble and kindness. We were back there for the Garden Show in September and had a special little raffle of a portrait of one of our dogs, donated by local photographer Doug Morton. Thank you to everyone who supported us.

31 October was our annual Golf Day at the wonderful Umdoni course in Pennington. The usual call for golfers and sponsors of prizes and holes was well received and we are extremely grateful to those who joined us for the day or donated a prize.

6 December is the date set for our annual Street Collection. If you are on my list you will hear from me. If not and you wouldn’t mind helping for the morning, please contact me. We do the whole Durban area from ‘Toti to Umhlanga and up to Hillcrest, but it does depend on the centres giving us permission of course.

Another fundraising event scheduled for later in the year is the ‘Photographers Meet Dogs Day’. We are going to get a whole bunch of different dogs and keen photographers, who have a yen to capture the beauty of our four-legged friends, and let them loose on the beach and a field. It should be great fun!

I still get queries about collecting can ring pulls, and YES we do still do it! Wonderful George Mitchley co-ordinates the sorting and collecting and selling and YES, it is a long, slow process to sponsoring a Guide Dog, but we do get there slowly and are recycling at the same time. So all aluminum is welcome!

To finish, a quick thanks to all who have helped and supported this year, especially as my health has been iffy and I have received a lot of thoughtful encouragement and support. Thank you all!

Di Turner Goodbye Farewell Arleen Arleen Lord retires

Arleen has been an integral part of the Association for many years. Ken and Arleen have been an inspirational team who have touched the lives of many people (Guide Dog Owners, Service Dog Owners, Volunteers, Puppy Raisers, staff members and visitors) with their dedicated and professional service to the Association.

As a House Mother Arleen has looked after our visiting guide and service dog owners so well that many of them are reluctant to return home at the end of their three-week stay. Arleen has ensured that the training centre is a home away from home to our clients and she is a second mother to many Guide and Service Dog Owners.

I’m sure that you will join me in wishing Arleen all the very best for the future as she retires at the end of November 2014. Arleen is an honorary life member of the Association and she will always be an important member of our Guide-Dogs family. I’m sure that she will enjoy relaxing and spending time with her family during her well deserved retirement.

Gail Glover

Arleen’s story On 21 October 1967 Ken and I moved into Vale Cottage in Parkmore, the Residential Training Centre of the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind. With our two beloved children Tracy, aged two, and Rory, a mere five months old, we were ready to embark on a new adventure.

The idea was that I would look after the blind students whilst they were in training with their Guide Dogs. The fact that I knew very little about working with blind folk did not faze Ken in the least. “I will work with you and show you as we go along” he said.

A wonderful journey unfolded itself over the next few decades. Two more children arrived, Leigh-anne and Anthony, who also grew up at the Training Centre.

I started my working career at GDA with three classes a year and two students in each class. That did not last long! Thanks to my parents being able to babysit whenever we needed them, I was able to help Ken in many other ways. Being such a small contingent of staff, it was a matter of all hands on deck and we all had to chip in whenever needed.

Ken spent four months in England learning Orientation and Mobility and we as a family persevered and the Training Centre succeeded. Gladys Evans took me under her wing and taught me the right way to do things and more importantly, how to avoid the wrong way.

In 1985 we moved to our current location in Bryanston, which is was now called the Gladys Evans Training Centre. A very fitting name change. We now had eight students in a class five times a year.

We retired in 2004 and enjoyed our ‘retirement’ until 2008, when we returned to Guide-Dogs. Ken as lecturer at the College of Orientation and Mobility and back in the Training Residence for me.

I was asked to mention some ‘high-lights’ of my 47-year involvement with GDA. Unless I wanted to write a book this is nigh on impossible. My entire involvement with GDA has been a high-light. My thanks to all the people I have been involved with over these many years. The students, staff, Vollies, friends, Puppy Raisers, international visitors, and some extra special people who are too many to name. Heartfelt thanks to our four children who supported us and joined in all fundraising activities, and our precious grandchildren: Rhett, Marrick, Devon, Hayden, Jason, Aimee and Emily, who brightened our lives.

The philosophy that Ken and I tried to strive for was to never forget our greatest treasure, who are the blind and disabled people who we strived to serve.

When I leave in November my wish for you all is to remain true and respectful to the people you work for and those you work with.

I do miss Ken with every passing day and I thank him for making me the person that I am today, and leave you with the great legacy that he gave us as a family, and the visually impaired people of our country and internationally.

Keep in touch. My love to you all, Arleen New Ideas Petsure Supports Guide-Dogs

The South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind (GDA) is very grateful for the ongoing support received from PetSure (pet medical insurance underwritten by the Hollard Insurance Company). This well established medical aid for pets has been in business for over 22 years, helping pet owners to cope with unexpected veterinary bills.

A portion of every premium that is paid by PetSure policy holders is donated to GDA. GDA is extremely appreciative of this regular monthly contribution that we have been receiving for the last few years.

Clive Berman, the Managing Director of PetSure, decided that he would like to assist further by sponsoring the veterinary care of a working Guide Dog. Rina Taljaard and her Guide Dog Keiser, a handsome three-year old black Labrador, have been selected as the brand ambassadors for PetSure.

Rina has been a Guide Dog owner for the past 19 years. She is a mother of three and works in the centre of Pretoria, catching a bus to work and back on a daily basis. Keiser and Rina have been working together for the past two years and they have a very strong bond. Rina says that Keiser is a champion snorer (she often has to wake him up before she can answer the switchboard). He loves car travel and enjoys a bath.

Keiser was Puppy Raised by Elizabeth van der Merwe and he grew up in the Centurion area. Elizabeth and Keiser were regular assistants to the GDA marketing team, and have been involved in several expos, school visits and visits to retirement homes. This early interaction has prepared him well for his current role as a Guide Dog.

If you are interested in medical aid for your beloved pet, and want the peace of mind that you will be able to afford the necessary veterinary bills, then please contact Clive Berman and the team at PetSure. www.hollardpetinsurance.co.za 0860 738 787

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