Tabitha — Service and Guide/Hearing
Tabitha was my first Guide Dog, I obtained her from Leader Dogs for the Blind in 2004. Although now retired, she was and always will be my Hero Dog. Tabby Girl, as I called her, was the one that not only comforted me through the shock and depression of losing my sight, she welcomed me into a new life. By her love and skills, she showed me that life was still the same, I could still go and accomplish things, I just needed to go about some things a bit differently. It was with the new found courage that I gained from Tabby Girl’s guidance that I continued to experience so much in life. ??I completed both my undergraduate and graduate studies with her by my side. I overcame the fear of “the dark.” I learned to trust myself once again, as well as others. There were so many things that she did over the years for me too numerous to mention in this short essay. Suffice it to say, Tabby Girl saved my life, not only physically, but emotionally, and mentally as well. Without Tabby Girl, showing me the way to my new life, I really don’t know where I would be right now. Tabby Girl will always be my Hero Dog.??Tabitha is supporting Leader Dogs for the Blind that since 1939 has provided guide dogs to people who are blind and visually impaired to enhance their travel mobility and independence. Over 14,000 clients from 39 countries have attended Leader Dog training programs and utilized its services. All services are provided free of charge.
