Independence With Paws

Dear Readers,

I read an interesting comment today. It was posted on the wall of a Facebook group for guide dog owners. The original post mentioned concern about people thinking her dog was her main source of independence. Comments were made in regards to this post. Some commented on the annoyance of such claims, suggesting that blind people are independent apart from their dogs. Others were upset by her original post, feeling that the dog does provide independence and that she should not even question such a thing. The issue stuck with me and prompted me to write my thoughts.

Does a guide dog provide independence? My gut reaction is that he or she does. I think about the freedom Renee gives me to walk in difficult places such as construction zones on sidewalks or in busy cities. This is all true.

Then I think about other sources of independence. I didn't have a dog for many years of life and was still independent. I lived in my own apartment for two years. I worked, got through college, and functioned as a member of society who happened to be blind.

So is Renee my only source of independent? The answer is surely no. I also believe that other people in the blindness community can be independent with or without a dog.

I think independence is far more about one's mindset. Living independently requires a person to do things for him or herself. The person must be diligent and determined to overcome issues such as transportation to and from work, life on the job or in school, and how to he social. A dog is merely a tool to assist a person in maintaining and strengthening that independence.

Now, even as I write that, I cringe. I just called Renee a tool I use to help me be independent. I cringe again as I take another step forward and say I don't need Renee to be independent. I could continue to live the way I have always lived and still be independent. I could also use a white cane rather than a dog and be independent.

The reality is that even people with guide dogs are not always independent. Just because someone has a dog doesn't mean he or she has the other tools necessary for independence. The dog may, however, provide an opportunity for more independence than without the dog. Again, it comes back to mindset. If a person has a guide dog but doesn't have the confidence or other skills to live an independent life, he or she may still not be independent.

So does a dog matter? Is he or she just a tool to help bring independence? Dogs are far more than tools. They provide opportunities for confidence, security, and companionship. Still, all of these qualities, like independence, cannot be fulfilled without the determined mindset of the owner. I have chosen to let Renee help me find safety as I continue my independent life. I have also deeply indulged in the inseparable bond between dog and human, a friendship that makes our team stronger every day.

In short, dogs do not create independence. The person must find that for him or herself. But when independence is enjoyed together, the possibilities are endless.

Sincerely,

Sara