From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Wed Dec  3 18:47:15 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Wed, 3 Dec 2008 18:47:15 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] guide dog attack
Message-ID: <EDEB393238724063979453460B378259@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  John Vandervort's guide dog Billy was attacked by a Pit Bull around 
5:30 this evening.  John was walking to a piano tuning job when the attack 
occurred on Dawn Ave. Stockton Police responded quickly, and as I write 
this, Billy is being treated at the emergency vet clinic.

    Those wishing to contact John can call him at 209-957-3500. 



From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Wed Dec  3 19:47:14 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Wed, 03 Dec 2008 19:47:14 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] guide dog attack
Message-ID: <200812040353.mB43r9gu010937@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Ken and all,
I have spoken with John, who is very shook up, and could use a 
phone call from any one who wants to call.
His dog is most likely going to go home tonight, but it has a 
puncture on his neck, as well as two puncture wounds on his ear.
The ear is the worst and needed stitches.  They have put a tube 
in for drainage, and are watching it very closely.
The police stated, that they could not do anything, for it is up 
to animal control and they will not be available until tomorrow.
Keep john and Billy in your thoughts.

Robert Stigile


> ----- Original Message -----
>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>Date sent: Wed, 3 Dec 2008 18:47:15 -0800
>Subject: [Cagdu] guide dog attack

>Hi all.  John Vandervort's guide dog Billy was attacked by a Pit 
Bull around
>5:30 this evening.  John was walking to a piano tuning job when 
the attack
>occurred on Dawn Ave.  Stockton Police responded quickly, and as 
I write
>this, Billy is being treated at the emergency vet clinic.

>    Those wishing to contact John can call him at 209-957-3500.

>_______________________________________________
>Cagdu mailing list
>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu


From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec  4 16:00:47 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 16:00:47 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: On D.C.'s streets, blind injustice
Message-ID: <200812050027.mB50RdTN004524@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

D.C.'s streets, blind injustice

On D.C.'s Streets, Blind Injustice
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/12/03/AR2008120303
752.html
Jim Dickson, with his 3-year-old black Lab, Pearson, says he and others with
guide dogs or wheelchairs often have trouble getting cabdrivers to stop for
them in the District. (By John Kelly -- The Washington Post) 

By John Kelly
Thursday, December 4, 2008; Page B03
The Washington Post
Jim Dickson had the feeling empty cabs were zipping past him without
stopping as he stood at 17th and L streets NW the week before last, his hand
raised for a taxi. He didn't know for sure, though. Jim is blind. Standing
next to him was his 3-year-old black Lab guide dog, Pearson. 

I watched for a few minutes as taxis -- their rooftop lights lighted, their
back seats vacant -- ignored Jim and Pearson, then I walked up and suggested
he might have better luck at the Mayflower Hotel's cabstand. 

"This is not a unique experience to me," Jim said. "People with guide dogs
and people with wheelchairs complain all the time about cabs refusing to
take them." 

That seemed pretty cold -- refusing to stop for a disabled person? -- but
then we got to the Mayflower. There were no cabs at that moment, but
National Cab No. 64 soon pulled up and disgorged a passenger. The hotel
doorman held the door for Jim and Pearson, but when the cabdriver saw them,
he started shouting. The cab rolled forward a few inches, the door still
open. Then the driver got out and started swearing at the doorman. After the
door was shut, he got back behind the wheel and drove off. 

The doorman was as disgusted as I was. Jim took the next cab. 

A few days later, I spoke with Jim, who is vice president of government
affairs for the American Association of People with Disabilities. Lots of
drivers don't like dogs and won't stop, he said. "The only place it doesn't
happen is up on Capitol Hill," said Jim, 62. "I usually get a Capitol
policeman to flag the cab for me." 

Mario Bonds, a 21-year-old student from Bowie who travels with his black
Lab, Sydney, said the same thing. He often needs a cab at the New Carrollton
Metro station. "I've felt quite stupid standing there for a long time, when
a regular sighted person says, 'There's plenty of cabs here. I don't know
what these guys are doing.' " 

George Merriweather said it was so hard to get a cab for him and his
standard poodle guide dog, Gambit, that he stopped coming into the District
from Olney for doctor's appointments. "They're hard on blind people," said
George, 61. "Especially if you've got a dog, you don't get in a cab." 

Why wouldn't a cabdriver stop for a blind person with a dog? Some might be
concerned that dogs would make the vehicle dirty, though Jim makes Pearson
sit on the floor and on wet days carries paper towels to wipe the seat. Some
might be allergic, though Jim said that if so, they're supposed to have a
doctor's letter on file. Jim and Mario said some drivers have told them it's
against their religion to have a dog in the car. Could that be true? 

Some Muslims believe that dogs are unclean, said Abdullahi An-Na'im, a
professor at Emory University who specializes in Islamic law, but this is
more a cultural notion than a religious one. He said nothing in the Koran
stipulates that dogs must be avoided. What's more, two Islamic tenets would
override any reluctance to take a guide dog: the imperative of being helpful
to someone in need, and what's known as darura, or necessity. If you're
blind and need a dog, darura means that's okay. The same goes when you're a
taxi driver who encounters blind passengers. 


Said the professor: "I don't think that's acceptable for a Muslim" not to
take a service animal in his cab. 

The Big Apple solved this problem nine years ago with an awareness campaign
and an undercover sting operation, said Allan Fromberg of New York's Taxi
and Limousine Commission. Plainclothes officers and guide dogs were used to
catch drivers who wouldn't stop. 

tent that you post. 

Who's Blogging? Links to this article
When I called Leon Swain, chairman of the D.C. Taxicab Commission, and told
him what I'd heard from visually impaired people, he was furious. "That's
something that I have zero tolerance on," he said. "If you have a bona fide
service animal, you need to be transported to the location." He invited Jim
to file a complaint and has set up a meeting between cab company owners, the
Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind and other local disability rights groups. 

I asked the owner of National Cab Co., Balwinder Singh, to look into what I
saw. He said the driver of No. 64 told him that he already had a passenger
in his cab (an invisible one, I guess). "It's hard to prove for me," Singh
said. "I'm telling you what he told me." He said licensed drivers "should be
picking up whoever comes next" -- blind people and their dogs included. 

Anyone can see that -- and every time I take a cab in the future I'll be
reminding the driver of that fact. 

_______________________________________________
nagdu mailing list
nagdu at nfbnet.org
http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/listinfo/nagdu_nfbnet.org
To unsubscribe, change your list options or get your account info for nagdu:
http://www.nfbnet.org/mailman/options/nagdu_nfbnet.org/tinadt%40sbcglobal.ne
t

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8:05 AM
 



From julietcody at cox.net  Thu Dec  4 21:51:42 2008
From: julietcody at cox.net (Juliett Cody)
Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 21:51:42 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] guide dog attack
References: <200812040353.mB43r9gu010937@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <2AA7D85B36E1409E80480783886BF71C@user1b3ecca35d>

Hi all,
I am very upset about Billy (John's dog). I will give John a call tomorrow. 
Also I e-mailed Jonathan and Eric to get that officer's number that we had 
at our seminar last summer who was interested in dog attacks. Perhaps he can 
guide John as what to do. Also I am going to contact GDB about it if John 
hasn't already. We need to do something. Ken, can you  and John contact the 
animal control  and find out what they plan on doing. CAGDU will help and 
support John, in anyway we can.  But please have John contact the local 
newspaper and get the story out to the public. Whether it is animal control 
or the police someone has to do something. This is very serious , and we can 
not let the owners of the pit-bull    get away with this.

JC  Message ----- 
From: "Robert Stigile" <rstigile at sbcglobal.net>
To: <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Wednesday, December 03, 2008 7:47 PM
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] guide dog attack


> Hello Ken and all,
> I have spoken with John, who is very shook up, and could use a
> phone call from any one who wants to call.
> His dog is most likely going to go home tonight, but it has a
> puncture on his neck, as well as two puncture wounds on his ear.
> The ear is the worst and needed stitches.  They have put a tube
> in for drainage, and are watching it very closely.
> The police stated, that they could not do anything, for it is up
> to animal control and they will not be available until tomorrow.
> Keep john and Billy in your thoughts.
>
> Robert Stigile
>
>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>Date sent: Wed, 3 Dec 2008 18:47:15 -0800
>>Subject: [Cagdu] guide dog attack
>
>>Hi all.  John Vandervort's guide dog Billy was attacked by a Pit
> Bull around
>>5:30 this evening.  John was walking to a piano tuning job when
> the attack
>>occurred on Dawn Ave.  Stockton Police responded quickly, and as
> I write
>>this, Billy is being treated at the emergency vet clinic.
>
>>    Those wishing to contact John can call him at 209-957-3500.
>
>>_______________________________________________
>>Cagdu mailing list
>>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus 
> signature database 3662 (20081203) __________
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
> http://www.eset.com
>
>
> 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec  4 22:14:46 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 4 Dec 2008 22:14:46 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
Message-ID: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu.  Animal 
Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than it 
should have, but it is working.

    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out 
through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before. 
According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can where 
the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence with 
the Record.

    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds. 
They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for the 
vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and lost 
wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John 
that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Fri Dec  5 09:30:47 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 09:30:47 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e>

The Pit Bull has been turned over to animal control and will be put down. 
The dog's owners will only pay for part of the bill, so this story isn't 
over yet.  I gotta go.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 



From julietcody at cox.net  Fri Dec  5 15:18:44 2008
From: julietcody at cox.net (Juliett Cody)
Date: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 15:18:44 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <1371926F2B03400793CF60B6B0DDA523@user1b3ecca35d>

Thanks Ken,
I will talk to John tonight and yes, we will support him.
JC
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus 
> signature database 3667 (20081205) __________
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
> http://www.eset.com
>
>
> 



From regenerative at earthlink.net  Fri Dec  5 08:00:06 2008
From: regenerative at earthlink.net (Fred Chambers)
Date: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 08:00:06 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
In-Reply-To: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <2A65ACB9-1662-48CF-8B39-FDCF7E36B4D0@earthlink.net>


Hey!

We should encourage Animal Control and the Police to charge the owners.

Throw the book at them!

Fred
PS:  Peter, what is that gadget that you carry?  Is it a stun gun?   
How do you carry it?  Who made yours?  How easy is it to use?
  


From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Fri Dec  5 20:52:23 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 20:52:23 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
In-Reply-To: <E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <200812060519.mB65JENo002021@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>


Hey Ken- John can get the maximum in small claims court. I had  the same
situation happen to me some ten years ago and the people didn't want to pay
the vet bills. When we went to court, the Judge ordered them to pay me the
maximum amount allowed for the state in small claims court. I will be giving
John a call tonight. 
Tina   
-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Ken Volonte
Sent: Friday, December 05, 2008 9:31 AM
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update

The Pit Bull has been turned over to animal control and will be put down. 
The dog's owners will only pay for part of the bill, so this story isn't
over yet.  I gotta go.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly 
> than it should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got 
> out through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my 
> correspondence with the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay 
> for the vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical 
> bills and lost wages because he won't be using Billy for the next 
> week.  I've told John that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  
> Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.15/1833 - Release Date: 12/5/2008
7:08 PM
 

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.15/1833 - Release Date: 12/5/2008
7:08 PM
 



From ecwogan at aol.com  Sat Dec  6 07:57:18 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Sat, 06 Dec 2008 10:57:18 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
In-Reply-To: <1371926F2B03400793CF60B6B0DDA523@user1b3ecca35d>
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
	<1371926F2B03400793CF60B6B0DDA523@user1b3ecca35d>
Message-ID: <8CB25D2738EBCFD-1160-80@WEBMAIL-MC19.sysops.aol.com>

Juliet,
Joe and I talked to John the other night and I gave him some suggestions about getting all the info together for the court. Even though we don't have a dog we are giving him support. He needs all the support right now. It was terribly sad what happened to Billy. He didn't deserve it at all. Joe and I are keeping in touch with John as much as we can. If there is anything we can do let us know. Talk to you later.

L&J?


-----Original Message-----
From: Juliett Cody <julietcody at cox.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 3:18 pm
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update








Thanks Ken,
I will talk to John tonight and yes, we will support him.
JC
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'l
l be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus 
> signature database 3667 (20081205) __________
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
> http://www.eset.com
>
>
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



 




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From ecwogan at aol.com  Sat Dec  6 08:14:38 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Sat, 06 Dec 2008 11:14:38 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
In-Reply-To: <E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e>
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e>
	<E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <8CB25D4DE51A873-1160-113@WEBMAIL-MC19.sysops.aol.com>

Ken,
Joe and I just want you to know we are behind John in giving him support. We feel that the animal control stepped in. We felt very sad for Billy and John. I feel that everything is going to turn out very well. The owners should pay for the vet Bills. I am glad to hear that you are going to court with him. We are thinking about Billy all the time. No dog should go thru this at all. I don't want to be negative but, we are glad the the pit bull is going to be put down.?

Eilleen and Joe


-----Original Message-----
From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 9:30 am
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update








The Pit Bull has been turned over to animal control and will be put down. 
The dog's owners will only pay for part of the bill, so this story isn't 
over yet.  I gotta go.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole=2
0was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



 




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From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Sat Dec  6 13:31:44 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Sat, 6 Dec 2008 13:31:44 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e><E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e>
	<8CB25D4DE51A873-1160-113@WEBMAIL-MC19.sysops.aol.com>
Message-ID: <CE6E497DB801403C889C60077734B5D4@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi Leener.  There is, of course the problem of Billy's being able to work as a guide again.  To that end, Edison and I will be around to work with John.  We've got some puppy raisers here also that will work with John and Billy.  

    Under the law, the Pit's owners should also pay a $2000.00 fine for interfering with a service dog in performance of his working.  Juliet, what's that law exactly?  Thanks.  Ken
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: ecwogan at aol.com 
  To: cagdu at nfbcal.org 
  Sent: Saturday, December 06, 2008 8:14 AM
  Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update


  Ken, 
  Joe and I just want you to know we are behind John in giving him support. We feel that the animal control stepped in. We felt very sad for Billy and John. I feel that everything is going to turn out very well. The owners should pay for the vet Bills. I am glad to hear that you are going to court with him. We are thinking about Billy all the time. No dog should go thru this at all. I don't want to be negative but, we are glad the the pit bull is going to be put down. 
  Eilleen and Joe


  -----Original Message-----
  From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
  To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
  Sent: Fri, 5 Dec 2008 9:30 am
  Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update


The Pit Bull has been turned over to animal control and will be put down. 
The dog's owners will only pay for part of the bill, so this story isn't 
over yet.  I gotta go.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte@
comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my correspondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu


------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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From ecwogan at aol.com  Sat Dec  6 17:18:00 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Sat, 06 Dec 2008 20:18:00 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update
In-Reply-To: <CE6E497DB801403C889C60077734B5D4@ken5f734aa928e>
References: <65BCBF6AE63E439A89158C4B28FBD6D1@ken5f734aa928e><E7655E119374462BB7DDAEA10A8CF681@ken5f734aa928e><8CB25D4DE51A873-1160-113@WEBMAIL-MC19.sysops.aol.com>
	<CE6E497DB801403C889C60077734B5D4@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <8CB2620C759FED7-6D0-CDE@mblk-d44.sysops.aol.com>

Ken,
I am hoping he will be able to work. John is so lucky to have so much support with all of us. I agree with you on the owners paying a fine along with the vet bills. Ken you should find out soon before your court date. I am glad that you and Edison are there. I am also glad to hear that there are puppy raisers to help him. If you talk to John please tell him we are here. Please keep us informed about this. Have a great week-end.?

Leaner and Joe


-----Original Message-----
From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Sat, 6 Dec 2008 1:31 pm
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update















Hi Leener.? There is, of course the problem of 
Billy's being able to work as a guide again.? To that end, Edison and I 
will be around to work with John.? We've got some puppy raisers here also 
that will work with John and Billy.? 


?


??? Under the law, the Pit's owners 
should also pay a $2000.00 fine for interfering with a service dog in 
performance of his working.? Juliet, what's that law exactly?? 
Thanks.? Ken



  
----- Original Message ----- 

  
From: 
  ecwogan at aol.com 
  

  
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org 

  
Sent: Saturday, December 06, 2008 8:14 
  AM

  
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update

  


Ken, 

  
Joe 
  and I just want you to know we are behind John in giving him support. We feel 
  that the animal contro
l stepped in. We felt very sad for Billy and John. I 
  feel that everything is going to turn out very well. The owners should pay for 
  the vet Bills. I am glad to hear that you are going to court with him. We are 
  thinking about Billy all the time. No dog should go thru this at all. I don't 
  want to be negative but, we are glad the the pit bull is going to be put 
  down.?

  
Eilleen 
  and Joe


-----Original Message-----
From: Ken Volonte 
  <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Fri, 5 Dec 
  2008 9:30 am
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Billy update


  

The Pit Bull has been turned over to animal control and will be put down. 
The dog's owners will only pay for part of the bill, so this story isn't 
over yet.  I gotta go.
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte@
comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 04, 2008 10:14 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update


> Hi gang.  I sent the Record a copy of my original message to cagdu. 
> Animal
> Control has been contacted.  The process worked a little more slowly than 
> it
> should have, but it is working.
>
>    This is not the first complaint about this particular dog.  She got out
> through a hole in the fence.  Officers had been to the house before.
> According to John, they told the owners to just put an empty trash can 
> where
> the hole was.  I had some things to say about that in my co
rrespondence 
> with
> the Record.
>
>    At this point, Billy has two tubes in his neck to drain the wounds.
> They'll be removed on Monday.  Meanwhile, John is out $280.00 to pay for 
> the
> vet bill.  He'll be suing in small  claims court for medical bills and 
> lost
> wages because he won't be using Billy for the next week.  I've told John
> that we'll be with him in court if he wants us.  Bye for now.  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu




  


  


  Listen to 350+ music, sports, & news radio stations ? including songs 
  for the holidays ? FREE while you browse. Start 
  Listening Now! 

  

  




  

_______________________________________________
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  list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu




 





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From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Tue Dec  9 13:55:55 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Tue, 9 Dec 2008 13:55:55 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy update, the final chapter
Message-ID: <FC9154364F7F4F6A836A65C9EAB071A7@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  Today I called Stockton Animal Control because I wanted to be there 
when they did a behavioral evaluation on the Sorel Pit who attacked Billy. 
The dog was euthanized yesterday.  For reasons passed knowing, I feel badly 
about this.

    Billy certainly didn't deserve to be attacked while in the performance 
of his duty.  The attacking dog was the product of poor breeding and even 
poorer ownership, and nobody cared.

    The puppy mill in Florida certainly didn't care.  The dog's owner didn't 
care.  Hell! he turned his own dog in.  He said he didn't want that 
responsibility.

    And so, a dog is dead and another dog may never guide again.

    Billy is still getting warm compresses twice a day and antibiotics and 
steroids for the swelling.

    This will be one of John Vandervort's last weeks here in Stockton.  He's 
moving away to some place where people are kinder and where the light rails 
run every ten minutes.  I for one shall miss him.  Good luck John. 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec 11 03:35:38 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:35:38 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
Message-ID: <C143D6C74F86479C8053F46F8F628105@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with the vet 
bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an unforeseen 
expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm putting our 
conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a short 
meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?  John can 
present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if we have 
sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to get-er done. 
What do you think?  Ken 



From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 11 07:36:18 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:36:18 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
In-Reply-To: <C143D6C74F86479C8053F46F8F628105@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <200812111603.mBBG36BE012559@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Ken- 
Does John plan on filing a claim with small claims or has he filed a claim
against the owners of the pit bull? 
Tina   

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Ken Volonte
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 3:36 AM
To: Cagdu
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort

Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with the vet
bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an unforeseen
expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm putting our
conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a short
meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?  John can
present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if we have
sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to get-er done. 
What do you think?  Ken 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.16/1841 - Release Date: 12/10/2008
9:30 AM
 

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.16/1841 - Release Date: 12/10/2008
9:30 AM
 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec 11 08:46:45 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 08:46:45 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
References: <200812111603.mBBG36BE012559@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <B2588927504C431C9699282F3706B63D@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi Tina.  I've sent a message on this to Robert.  I'll try and forward it to 
the cagdu list.  The brief answer is that the owner of the attack dog has 
been ordered by animal control to pay up, and John's been contacted by the 
owner.  Everything's in flux and everything's on the table.  Bye for now. 
Ken
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "tina thomas " <tinadt at sbcglobal.net>
To: <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 7:36 AM
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort


> Hello Ken-
> Does John plan on filing a claim with small claims or has he filed a claim
> against the owners of the pit bull?
> Tina
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
> Of Ken Volonte
> Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 3:36 AM
> To: Cagdu
> Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
>
> Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with the vet
> bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an unforeseen
> expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm putting 
> our
> conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a short
> meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?  John can
> present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if we have
> sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to get-er done.
> What do you think?  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> No virus found in this incoming message.
> Checked by AVG.
> Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.16/1841 - Release Date: 
> 12/10/2008
> 9:30 AM
>
>
> No virus found in this outgoing message.
> Checked by AVG.
> Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.16/1841 - Release Date: 
> 12/10/2008
> 9:30 AM
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu 



From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 11 09:56:50 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 09:56:50 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
Message-ID: <200812111821.mBBILGQe018922@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Ken and All,
I know that the owner has stated, or that the Animal control 
people stated that the expenses will be paid for.
This could take a while, so I would have no problem seeing CAGDU 
help John out.
I am wondering, if John has contacted South Eastern guide dogs to 
see what they say and how they will help.
Thanks,

Robert Stigile


> ----- Original Message -----
>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:35:38 -0800
>Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort

>Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with 
the vet
>bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an 
unforeseen
>expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm 
putting our
>conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a 
short
>meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?  
John can
>present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if 
we have
>sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to 
get-er done.
>What do you think?  Ken

>_______________________________________________
>Cagdu mailing list
>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu


From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec 11 13:38:58 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:38:58 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
References: <200812111821.mBBILGQe018922@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <ECC9FDDB0340496D87E1B528EB7E701B@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi Robert and all.  John has contacted South Eastern Guiding Eyes and they 
say there's nothing they can do.  This is according to John in a 
conversation I had with him yesterday.

    Our chapter meets tomorrow, and we might start up a collection within 
the community, the whole community, to help with this.  I'm beginning to 
think that too much is on the table. Bye for now.  Ken
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Robert Stigile" <rstigile at sbcglobal.net>
To: <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 9:56 AM
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort


> Hello Ken and All,
> I know that the owner has stated, or that the Animal control
> people stated that the expenses will be paid for.
> This could take a while, so I would have no problem seeing CAGDU
> help John out.
> I am wondering, if John has contacted South Eastern guide dogs to
> see what they say and how they will help.
> Thanks,
>
> Robert Stigile
>
>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:35:38 -0800
>>Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
>
>>Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with
> the vet
>>bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an
> unforeseen
>>expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm
> putting our
>>conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a
> short
>>meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?
> John can
>>present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if
> we have
>>sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to
> get-er done.
>>What do you think?  Ken
>
>>_______________________________________________
>>Cagdu mailing list
>>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec 11 13:44:36 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:44:36 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
References: <200812111821.mBBILGQe018922@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <11DBD6249E864C5F98921EC3A7848CAC@ken5f734aa928e>

Since the school can't do anything, Maybe we should reach out to Flagdu. 
This is getting out of hand.  KenPS Robert, could you please forward my 
reply from early this morning to the cagdu list?  Thanks.  I have trouble 
with the things sent box.  KV
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Robert Stigile" <rstigile at sbcglobal.net>
To: <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 9:56 AM
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort


> Hello Ken and All,
> I know that the owner has stated, or that the Animal control
> people stated that the expenses will be paid for.
> This could take a while, so I would have no problem seeing CAGDU
> help John out.
> I am wondering, if John has contacted South Eastern guide dogs to
> see what they say and how they will help.
> Thanks,
>
> Robert Stigile
>
>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:35:38 -0800
>>Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
>
>>Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with
> the vet
>>bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an
> unforeseen
>>expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm
> putting our
>>conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a
> short
>>meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?
> John can
>>present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if
> we have
>>sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to
> get-er done.
>>What do you think?  Ken
>
>>_______________________________________________
>>Cagdu mailing list
>>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 



From tmanosh at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 11 13:56:54 2008
From: tmanosh at sbcglobal.net (Tiffany Manosh)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 13:56:54 -0800 (PST)
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
In-Reply-To: <ECC9FDDB0340496D87E1B528EB7E701B@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <15671.19429.qm@web83503.mail.sp1.yahoo.com>

Hi Ken and CAGDUers,
?
I am not a board member, however, as a member I think that if CAGDU has the funds to help John then we should help him out.? I know he would greatly appreciate any assistance CAGDU could provide him.
Tiffany

--- On Thu, 12/11/08, Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net> wrote:

From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Date: Thursday, December 11, 2008, 1:38 PM

Hi Robert and all.  John has contacted South Eastern Guiding Eyes and they 
say there's nothing they can do.  This is according to John in a 
conversation I had with him yesterday.

    Our chapter meets tomorrow, and we might start up a collection within 
the community, the whole community, to help with this.  I'm beginning to 
think that too much is on the table. Bye for now.  Ken
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Robert Stigile" <rstigile at sbcglobal.net>
To: <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 9:56 AM
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort


> Hello Ken and All,
> I know that the owner has stated, or that the Animal control
> people stated that the expenses will be paid for.
> This could take a while, so I would have no problem seeing CAGDU
> help John out.
> I am wondering, if John has contacted South Eastern guide dogs to
> see what they say and how they will help.
> Thanks,
>
> Robert Stigile
>
>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 03:35:38 -0800
>>Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
>
>>Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with
> the vet
>>bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an
> unforeseen
>>expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm
> putting our
>>conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a
> short
>>meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?
> John can
>>present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if
> we have
>>sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to
> get-er done.
>>What do you think?  Ken
>
>>_______________________________________________
>>Cagdu mailing list
>>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
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From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 11 14:07:32 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 14:07:32 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] John
Message-ID: <200812112231.mBBMVu5L013385@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>



 ---- Original Message ------
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
Subject: Re: John
Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:43:37 -0800

Hi Robert.  John hasn't moved yet.  That will come around new 
years.  He's
been moving stuff to San Jose where he'll be living closer to his 
Mom and
sister.

    As for court filing, John's been contacted by the dog's owner 
and has
been told that he'll pay up.  John wants to give him a chance.  
John has
four copies of all vet bills and will receive today the order to 
the owner
of Unsub dog that it is his, the owner's responsibility to pay 
all vet bills
arising from this event.  So if cagdu or our chapter decides to 
help, it
will be in the nature of a loan.  John understands that.

    John can't use Billy until the end of the month.  The 
stitches are out,
but the vet doesn't even want a collar on Billy's neck right now.  
Billy
appears to not be fearful of other dogs for now, but he's still 
being
medicated with steroids and antibiotics for the next little 
while.

    Part of why I feel so bad about this is that I don't want one 
of John's
last memories of living here to be such an unpleasant one.  He's 
become sort
of an institution here.  Bye for now.  Ken
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Stigile" <rstigile at sbcglobal.net
To: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
Sent: Thursday, December 11, 2008 7:03 AM
Subject: John


> Hello Ken,
> Has John filed in court against the owner of the dog.
> How is Billy doing, and how is John holding up.
> Where did he move to.
> Thanks,

> Robert Stigile




From regenerative at earthlink.net  Thu Dec 11 07:36:41 2008
From: regenerative at earthlink.net (Fred Chambers)
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:36:41 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
In-Reply-To: <C143D6C74F86479C8053F46F8F628105@ken5f734aa928e>
References: <C143D6C74F86479C8053F46F8F628105@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <3EDE0A18-947F-4139-88B9-7F5CD9678D86@earthlink.net>


His dog school will probably help, right?
Is he reporting all this to them?

Fred

On 11/12/2008, at 3:35 AM, Ken Volonte wrote:

> Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help with  
> the vet
> bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an unforeseen
> expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm  
> putting our
> conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have a  
> short
> meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?   
> John can
> present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this if  
> we have
> sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to get- 
> er done.
> What do you think?  Ken
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Fri Dec 12 09:21:53 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 2008 09:21:53 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort
Message-ID: <200812121748.mBCHmNi3017259@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Fred,
The school has stated they will not help.

Robert Stigile


> ----- Original Message -----
>From: Fred Chambers <regenerative at earthlink.net
>To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
>Date sent: Thu, 11 Dec 2008 07:36:41 -0800
>Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Vet bills for John Vandervort


>His dog school will probably help, right?
>Is he reporting all this to them?

>Fred

>On 11/12/2008, at 3:35 AM, Ken Volonte wrote:

>> Hi all.  I got a call from John yesterday, and he needs help 
with
>> the vet
>> bills for Billy.  I think we should help him.  This was an 
unforeseen
>> expense, and it's bad enough Billy was attacked at all.  If I'm
>> putting our
>> conversations together right, John owes $473.88.  Could we have 
a
>> short
>> meeting on Sunday to discuss this, or can we do this via email?
>> John can
>> present his own case if we meet, but I think we should do this 
if
>> we have
>> sufficient funds.  We promised our support.  Now it's time to 
get-
>> er done.
>> What do you think?  Ken

>> _______________________________________________
>> Cagdu mailing list
>> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

>_______________________________________________
>Cagdu mailing list
>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu


From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Sat Dec 13 10:40:10 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:40:10 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] John's forum
Message-ID: <7D1F0B0948BD453EB5AA13776D0C6DDA@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  John Vandervort and I will be on the old Cagdu conference line 
tomorrow, the 14th.  That way, John will be able to answer any remaining 
questions.  I know this is a busy season and I know that most of the 
questions have been discussed.  Still, John is in need of our emotional and, 
perhaps, financial support.  Below is the Cagdu number.
616-347-8400 Pin: 184220. We'll be there at 6:30:pm.  Thanks for all your 
input and help.  Ken



From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Sat Dec 13 11:30:46 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 11:30:46 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] John's forum
Message-ID: <200812131957.mBDJvAHu016494@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Ken,
We met last night, and this has been resolved.
We are giving John a loan of $400.
Take care,

Robert Stigile


> ----- Original Message -----
>From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net
>To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org
>Date sent: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 10:40:10 -0800
>Subject: [Cagdu] John's forum

>Hi all.  John Vandervort and I will be on the old Cagdu 
conference line
>tomorrow, the 14th.  That way, John will be able to answer any 
remaining
>questions.  I know this is a busy season and I know that most of 
the
>questions have been discussed.  Still, John is in need of our 
emotional and,
>perhaps, financial support.  Below is the Cagdu number.
>616-347-8400 Pin: 184220.  We'll be there at 6:30:pm.  Thanks for 
all your
>input and help.  Ken

>_______________________________________________
>Cagdu mailing list
>Cagdu at nfbcal.org
>https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu


From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Sat Dec 13 18:35:27 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 18:35:27 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] woops
Message-ID: <8C28D1D5067C4669862DAE7795F5C645@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  I didn't check my phone messages when we came back from dinner, so 
I didn't know about the board meeting.

    Our chapter took up the question of John's vet bills.  There was 
universal outrage at this irresponsible owner, etc.  Vet bills paid.  We're 
done.

    Thanks everybody for your help with this unpleasant business.  It's so 
unexpected it makes me a little scared to go out.

    We've got to follow through now with this here in Stockton, because the 
police should have taken Brandy the Pit Bull right down to animal control. 
Court papers will be filed on Tuesday.  Bye for now, and thanks again. 



From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Sat Dec 13 18:54:29 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 2008 18:54:29 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] john's forum
In-Reply-To: <8C28D1D5067C4669862DAE7795F5C645@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <200812140254.mBE2sfVH025640@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hello Ken- what did your chapter decide to do concerning  Billy's vet bills?

Also for future reference, The National ?Federation of the Blind of
California and its chapters are not in the business of making loans. CAGDU
is setting a very dangerous precedence. 
Tina   

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Ken Volonte
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2008 6:35 PM
To: Cagdu
Subject: [Cagdu] woops

Hi all.  I didn't check my phone messages when we came back from dinner, so
I didn't know about the board meeting.

    Our chapter took up the question of John's vet bills.  There was
universal outrage at this irresponsible owner, etc.  Vet bills paid.  We're
done.

    Thanks everybody for your help with this unpleasant business.  It's so
unexpected it makes me a little scared to go out.

    We've got to follow through now with this here in Stockton, because the
police should have taken Brandy the Pit Bull right down to animal control. 
Court papers will be filed on Tuesday.  Bye for now, and thanks again. 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.17/1846 - Release Date: 12/12/2008
6:59 PM
 

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.17/1846 - Release Date: 12/12/2008
6:59 PM
 



From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Sun Dec 14 00:54:08 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Sun, 14 Dec 2008 00:54:08 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] woops
In-Reply-To: <8C28D1D5067C4669862DAE7795F5C645@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <200812140921.mBE9L0wj021066@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Yes we know, John already paid the vet bills. Being he had to take his dog
to an emergency   vet clinic. 

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Ken Volonte
Sent: Saturday, December 13, 2008 6:35 PM
To: Cagdu
Subject: [Cagdu] woops

Hi all.  I didn't check my phone messages when we came back from dinner, so
I didn't know about the board meeting.

    Our chapter took up the question of John's vet bills.  There was
universal outrage at this irresponsible owner, etc.  Vet bills paid.  We're
done.

    Thanks everybody for your help with this unpleasant business.  It's so
unexpected it makes me a little scared to go out.

    We've got to follow through now with this here in Stockton, because the
police should have taken Brandy the Pit Bull right down to animal control. 
Court papers will be filed on Tuesday.  Bye for now, and thanks again. 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

No virus found in this incoming message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.17/1846 - Release Date: 12/12/2008
6:59 PM
 

No virus found in this outgoing message.
Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.17/1846 - Release Date: 12/12/2008
6:59 PM
 



From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Mon Dec 15 22:41:46 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:41:46 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] the law
Message-ID: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi all.  I'll be speaking to the City counsel tomorrow..  The  thrust of my 
comments will be that the response by Stockton Police was a little 
lackluster. It was two days, remember before Brandy was taken down to Animal 
Control and euthanized.

    I don't think that the City Counsel and the Police Department and Animal 
Control took into consideration that a Guide dog is the same to a cop as is 
a guide dog or service dog to another person.   Immediate accommodation to 
mitigate these circumstances is the law. 



From julietcody at cox.net  Tue Dec 16 07:34:32 2008
From: julietcody at cox.net (Juliett Cody)
Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 07:34:32 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] the law
References: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <2C4F9D4FC1134DAEA618CC14ACDE6F78@user1b3ecca35d>

Go Ken.
Thanks,
JC
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Monday, December 15, 2008 10:41 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] the law


> Hi all.  I'll be speaking to the City counsel tomorrow..  The  thrust of 
> my
> comments will be that the response by Stockton Police was a little
> lackluster. It was two days, remember before Brandy was taken down to 
> Animal
> Control and euthanized.
>
>    I don't think that the City Counsel and the Police Department and 
> Animal
> Control took into consideration that a Guide dog is the same to a cop as 
> is
> a guide dog or service dog to another person.   Immediate accommodation to
> mitigate these circumstances is the law.
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus 
> signature database 3695 (20081216) __________
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
> http://www.eset.com
>
>
> 



From ecwogan at aol.com  Tue Dec 16 08:04:01 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:04:01 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] the law
In-Reply-To: <2C4F9D4FC1134DAEA618CC14ACDE6F78@user1b3ecca35d>
References: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>
	<2C4F9D4FC1134DAEA618CC14ACDE6F78@user1b3ecca35d>
Message-ID: <8CB2DAF0B947869-B38-665@webmail-me08.sysops.aol.com>

Juliet,
I totally agree with you. He will get the point across.?

Leaner




-----Original Message-----
From: Juliett Cody <julietcody at cox.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 7:34 am
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] the law








Go Ken.
Thanks,
JC
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "Ken Volonte" <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: "Cagdu" <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Monday, December 15, 2008 10:41 PM
Subject: [Cagdu] the law


> Hi all.  I'll be speaking to the City counsel tomorrow..  The  thrust of 
> my
> comments will be that the response by Stockton Police was a little
> lackluster. It was two days, remember before Brandy was taken down to 
> Animal
> Control and euthanized.
>
>    I don't think that the City Counsel and the Police Department and 
> Animal
> Control took into consideration that a Guide dog is the same to a cop as 
> is
> a guide dog or service dog to another person.   Immediate accommodation to
> mitigate these circumstances is the law.
>
> _______________________________________________
> Cagdu mailing list
> Cagdu at nfbcal.org
> https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu
>
> __________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus 
> signature database 3695 (20081216) __________
>
> The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.
>
> http://www.eset.com
>
>
> 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



 




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From ecwogan at aol.com  Tue Dec 16 08:10:07 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:10:07 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] the law
In-Reply-To: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>
References: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <8CB2DAFE5C0C39F-AB8-2B@webmail-me08.sysops.aol.com>

Ken,
I totally agree with you on this. Joe and I are sending you support on talking with the city counsel. Good Luck Ken. Go Ken. Go for it! Please let us know what happens.

Joe and Leaner


-----Original Message-----
From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>
To: Cagdu <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:41 pm
Subject: [Cagdu] the law








Hi all.  I'll be speaking to the City counsel tomorrow..  The  thrust of my 
comments will be that the response by Stockton Police was a little 
lackluster. It was two days, remember before Brandy was taken down to Animal 
Control and euthanized.

    I don't think that the City Counsel and the Police Department and Animal 
Control took into consideration that a Guide dog is the same to a cop as is 
a guide dog or service dog to another person.   Immediate accommodation to 
mitigate these circumstances is the law. 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



 




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From its_mike at sbcglobal.net  Wed Dec 17 03:08:46 2008
From: its_mike at sbcglobal.net (Michael Peterson)
Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 03:08:46 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] : Skidboot
Message-ID: <8A1164DBB8D846B2BDBE94DAF0530946@MikePC>


This is a video about an incredible dog!
Watch it all.  It's a good one...


http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=5249518974978628334
Have a merry christmas and a fantastic new year.
Mike Peterson


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From shannonldillon at hotmail.com  Wed Dec 17 08:24:56 2008
From: shannonldillon at hotmail.com (Shannon L. Dillon)
Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 08:24:56 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] the law
In-Reply-To: <8CB2DAFE5C0C39F-AB8-2B@webmail-me08.sysops.aol.com>
References: <3088D55D04784A6E8895BD8E3BE86460@ken5f734aa928e>
	<8CB2DAFE5C0C39F-AB8-2B@webmail-me08.sysops.aol.com>
Message-ID: <BAY140-W2157070C3E8DA0FC15859ED4F20@phx.gbl>


I'm curious-what is the time limit under the law for euthanizing the dog? Did the police violate the law?  
 
SHANNON L. DILLON



To: cagdu at nfbcal.orgDate: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 11:10:07 -0500From: ecwogan at aol.comSubject: Re: [Cagdu] the lawKen, 
I totally agree with you on this. Joe and I are sending you support on talking with the city counsel. Good Luck Ken. Go Ken. Go for it! Please let us know what happens.
Joe and Leaner-----Original Message-----From: Ken Volonte <kenvolonte at comcast.net>To: Cagdu <cagdu at nfbcal.org>Sent: Mon, 15 Dec 2008 10:41 pmSubject: [Cagdu] the law
Hi all.  I'll be speaking to the City counsel tomorrow..  The  thrust of my 
comments will be that the response by Stockton Police was a little 
lackluster. It was two days, remember before Brandy was taken down to Animal 
Control and euthanized.

    I don't think that the City Counsel and the Police Department and Animal 
Control took into consideration that a Guide dog is the same to a cop as is 
a guide dog or service dog to another person.   Immediate accommodation to 
mitigate these circumstances is the law. 

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



Listen to 350+ music, sports, & news radio stations ? including songs for the holidays ? FREE while you browse. Start Listening Now! 
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From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Wed Dec 17 11:24:18 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 11:24:18 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Message-ID: <200812171951.mBHJpFWK022269@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Hi Everyone- 
This is Nina and my mom and I wanted to send all the cagduers our favorite
Christmas poem. 
Merry Christmas doggies and mons and dads too. 
Guide dog Nina and mom Tina    
 
 Subject: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS



guide Dogs' Night Before Christmas.

Twas the night before Christmas and the kennels were still,

with most dogs now asleep having eaten their fill.

The Labradors sprawled out, quite snug in their beds,

while visions of ANYTHING edible danced in their heads.

sthe Goldens and Shepherds curled up on the floor,

some twitched in their sleep and some even did snore.

The dog food was stacked in the feed room with care,

in hopes that a trainer soon would be there.

On the window ledge, one of the kennel cats lay,

surveying the lawn at the end of this day.

Something was different, that little cat knew.

Tonight something would happen, it had to be true.

For that day as the workers had left to go home,

They'd wished Merry Christmas! before starting to roam.

The dogs had noticed it to during this past week's walks,

the trainers seemed just that much happier and eager to talk.

In the mall where they worked through the maze of people and stores,

there were decoration and music and distractions galore!

Most dogs pranced along without worry or fear,

but some balked at the man on the sleigh and those fake looking

deer.

The cat was almost asleep too when he first heard the sound,

a whoosh through the air and a jingle around.

It reminded him of a dog's collar when the animal shook,

but this sound kept on growing. He'd better go look.

>From the ceiling there came a faint sort of thunk,

as the kennel cat climbed to the highest pile of junk.

Once before people had worked on the roof,

and come down through the trap door to a chorus of "Woooof!"

But the dogs still were quiet, all sleeping so sound,

as this man dressed in red made his way right on down.

He patted the cat as he climbed past his spot,

then made his way right to the trainers' coffee pot.

A shepherd sat up, not fully awake,

then a Golden followed her with a mighty loud shake.

That did it! All the dogs sprang to life with loud noise.

In spite of the din, the old man kept his poise.

He filled the pot full and it started to brew,

then he pulled up a chair and took in the view.

Dogs all around him, so carefully bred,

he knew well their jobs, the blind people they led.

Some had stopped barking and looked at him now,

while others delighted in their own deafening howl.

Laying a finger in front of his lips,

the jolly old man silenced the excitable yips.

"You all may not know me, but I'm Santa Claus,"

the old man smiled and took a short pause,

While he filled up his mug with hot liquid and cream,

"I've always wanted to stop here. It's been one of my dreams."

The cat had climbed down and was exploring Santa's sack.

"Yes, little kitty, that's an empty pack."

Santa smiled as he drank and looked at those eyes,

deep brown ones and gold ones held wide in surprise.

Some of these dogs, he'd seen just last year,

in their puppy homes, cute and full of holiday cheer.

He'd seen the effects of a pup on the tree,

but now they were here at the school, just waiting to be.

"I didn't bring you presents or bones just to chew.

I'll tell you something better, what you are going to do."

"You all will work hard and the trainers will share,

both praise and correction, gentle and fair."

"You'll go lots of places and face big scary things.

You'll ride buses and subways and hear fire sirens ring."

"Cars will drive at you but you will stand strong,

not moving into danger, not moving toward wrong."

"And then just when you think that this trainer's the best,

the kindest, and funnest person, toss away all the rest,"

"That trainer will begin to ignore you and give you away,

handing your leash over despite your dismay."

"Now the person who pets you and feeds you will be

a blind person. That's a person who can't see."

" This man or this woman may see just a tad,

but their view's missing parts or the focus is bad."

"So you, well trained dogs, will act as their eyes.

You will work as a team and discover the size"

"Of this great world we live in, because you will go

a million new places with this person, you know."

Santa sipped at his coffee and looked over the brood,

knowing what he had to say next might sound kind of rude.

"Not all of you will make it and become canine guides.

Your time here isn't wasted though. You won't be cast aside."

"Some of you will be drug dogs and some will find bombs.

Some will become pets in a home with a dad and a mom."

"All these things are important. People wait on long lists,

to receive such good dogs as you, the school folks insist."

The last drop of coffee had gone into his cup

as Santa turned, smiling at each wide eyed pup.

"The best gift of all is to give something back.

That's why there's nothing for you all inside of my pack."

Draining his mug, Santa went to each pen,

and petted and scratched each dog again and again.

"Now next year and many more years after that,

you all will give gifts wherever you're at."

"You might lick a hand that's had a bad day,

Or notice a car and step out of the way."

"You might help catch a crook or discover some loot,

Or just bring some joy to a tired old man in a funny red suit."

"Your master will love you and treat you with care.

In return, your training and trust will always be there."

After the last dog had been petted and soothed,

Santa put away the coffee pot and made ready to move.

Up the ladder he rose to the door high above,

with a smile and a wave as he slipped on his gloves.

And all the dog ears were pricked as he disappeared out of sight.

"Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!"

(Author Unknown)



__._,_.___ 
HYPERLINK
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From julietcody at cox.net  Wed Dec 17 17:51:19 2008
From: julietcody at cox.net (Juliett Cody)
Date: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:51:19 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
References: <200812171951.mBHJpFWK022269@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <325B6EB8AD3A4113B36E98EA8438A4CF@user1b3ecca35d>

Thanks Nina.
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: tina thomas 
  To: cagdu at nfbcal.org 
  Sent: Wednesday, December 17, 2008 11:24 AM
  Subject: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS


  Hi Everyone- 
  This is Nina and my mom and I wanted to send all the cagduers our favorite  Christmas poem. 
  Merry Christmas doggies and mons and dads too. 
  Guide dog Nina and mom Tina    

   Subject: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS


  guide Dogs' Night Before Christmas.

  Twas the night before Christmas and the kennels were still,

  with most dogs now asleep having eaten their fill.

  The Labradors sprawled out, quite snug in their beds,

  while visions of ANYTHING edible danced in their heads.

  sthe Goldens and Shepherds curled up on the floor,

  some twitched in their sleep and some even did snore.

  The dog food was stacked in the feed room with care,

  in hopes that a trainer soon would be there.

  On the window ledge, one of the kennel cats lay,

  surveying the lawn at the end of this day.

  Something was different, that little cat knew.

  Tonight something would happen, it had to be true.

  For that day as the workers had left to go home,

  They'd wished Merry Christmas! before starting to roam.

  The dogs had noticed it to during this past week's walks,

  the trainers seemed just that much happier and eager to talk.

  In the mall where they worked through the maze of people and stores,

  there were decoration and music and distractions galore!

  Most dogs pranced along without worry or fear,

  but some balked at the man on the sleigh and those fake looking

  deer.

  The cat was almost asleep too when he first heard the sound,

  a whoosh through the air and a jingle around.

  It reminded him of a dog's collar when the animal shook,

  but this sound kept on growing. He'd better go look.

  From the ceiling there came a faint sort of thunk,

  as the kennel cat climbed to the highest pile of junk.

  Once before people had worked on the roof,

  and come down through the trap door to a chorus of "Woooof!"

  But the dogs still were quiet, all sleeping so sound,

  as this man dressed in red made his way right on down.

  He patted the cat as he climbed past his spot,

  then made his way right to the trainers' coffee pot.

  A shepherd sat up, not fully awake,

  then a Golden followed her with a mighty loud shake.

  That did it! All the dogs sprang to life with loud noise.

  In spite of the din, the old man kept his poise.

  He filled the pot full and it started to brew,

  then he pulled up a chair and took in the view.

  Dogs all around him, so carefully bred,

  he knew well their jobs, the blind people they led.

  Some had stopped barking and looked at him now,

  while others delighted in their own deafening howl.

  Laying a finger in front of his lips,

  the jolly old man silenced the excitable yips.

  "You all may not know me, but I'm Santa Claus,"

  the old man smiled and took a short pause,

  While he filled up his mug with hot liquid and cream,

  "I've always wanted to stop here. It's been one of my dreams."

  The cat had climbed down and was exploring Santa's sack.

  "Yes, little kitty, that's an empty pack."

  Santa smiled as he drank and looked at those eyes,

  deep brown ones and gold ones held wide in surprise.

  Some of these dogs, he'd seen just last year,

  in their puppy homes, cute and full of holiday cheer.

  He'd seen the effects of a pup on the tree,

  but now they were here at the school, just waiting to be.

  "I didn't bring you presents or bones just to chew.

  I'll tell you something better, what you are going to do."

  "You all will work hard and the trainers will share,

  both praise and correction, gentle and fair."

  "You'll go lots of places and face big scary things.

  You'll ride buses and subways and hear fire sirens ring."

  "Cars will drive at you but you will stand strong,

  not moving into danger, not moving toward wrong."

  "And then just when you think that this trainer's the best,

  the kindest, and funnest person, toss away all the rest,"

  "That trainer will begin to ignore you and give you away,

  handing your leash over despite your dismay."

  "Now the person who pets you and feeds you will be

  a blind person. That's a person who can't see."

  " This man or this woman may see just a tad,

  but their view's missing parts or the focus is bad."

  "So you, well trained dogs, will act as their eyes.

  You will work as a team and discover the size"

  "Of this great world we live in, because you will go

  a million new places with this person, you know."

  Santa sipped at his coffee and looked over the brood,

  knowing what he had to say next might sound kind of rude.

  "Not all of you will make it and become canine guides.

  Your time here isn't wasted though. You won't be cast aside."

  "Some of you will be drug dogs and some will find bombs.

  Some will become pets in a home with a dad and a mom."

  "All these things are important. People wait on long lists,

  to receive such good dogs as you, the school folks insist."

  The last drop of coffee had gone into his cup

  as Santa turned, smiling at each wide eyed pup.

  "The best gift of all is to give something back.

  That's why there's nothing for you all inside of my pack."

  Draining his mug, Santa went to each pen,

  and petted and scratched each dog again and again.

  "Now next year and many more years after that,

  you all will give gifts wherever you're at."

  "You might lick a hand that's had a bad day,

  Or notice a car and step out of the way."

  "You might help catch a crook or discover some loot,

  Or just bring some joy to a tired old man in a funny red suit."

  "Your master will love you and treat you with care.

  In return, your training and trust will always be there."

  After the last dog had been petted and soothed,

  Santa put away the coffee pot and made ready to move.

  Up the ladder he rose to the door high above,

  with a smile and a wave as he slipped on his gloves.

  And all the dog ears were pricked as he disappeared out of sight.

  "Merry Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!"

  (Author Unknown)



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From rstigile at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 18 09:42:55 2008
From: rstigile at sbcglobal.net (Robert Stigile)
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 09:42:55 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas
Message-ID: <200812181808.mBII8l9o003211@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

  On the first day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  The Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the second day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the third day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fourth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fifth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the sixth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the seventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eighth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the ninth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the tenth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eleventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eleven unwrapped presents
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the twelfth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  A dozen puppy kisses And I forgot all about
  the other eleven days.
Merry Christmas
Robert Stigile


From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 18 10:31:50 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:31:50 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas
In-Reply-To: <200812181808.mBII8l9o003211@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <200812181858.mBIIwdeO024509@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

I like this one. 
Tina 

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Robert Stigile
Sent: Thursday, December 18, 2008 9:43 AM
To: Julietta Cody
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas

  On the first day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  The Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the second day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the third day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fourth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fifth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the sixth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the seventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eighth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the ninth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the tenth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eleventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eleven unwrapped presents
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the twelfth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  A dozen puppy kisses And I forgot all about
  the other eleven days.
Merry Christmas
Robert Stigile
_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

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From ecwogan at aol.com  Thu Dec 18 13:19:42 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:19:42 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas
In-Reply-To: <200812181808.mBII8l9o003211@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
References: <200812181808.mBII8l9o003211@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <8CB2F6D7A76A727-1410-849@FWM-M03.sysops.aol.com>

Robert,
I really like this one also. It is a different ?version of the twelve days of Christmas. ?Merry christmas to you and Joy and a great new year.

Joe and Leaner?


-----Original Message-----
From: Robert Stigile <rstigile at sbcglobal.net>
To: Julietta Cody <cagdu at nfbcal.org>
Sent: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 9:42 am
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas








  On the first day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  The Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the second day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the third day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fourth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fifth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the sixth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the seventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Seven scr
aps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eighth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the ninth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the tenth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eleventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eleven unwrapped presents
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Si
x yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the twelfth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  A dozen puppy kisses And I forgot all about
  the other eleven days.
Merry Christmas
Robert Stigile
_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu



 




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From ecwogan at aol.com  Thu Dec 18 13:21:46 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:21:46 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas
In-Reply-To: <200812181858.mBIIwdeO024509@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
Message-ID: <8CB2F6DC41AC59E-1410-877@FWM-M03.sysops.aol.com>

Tina,
I couldn't agree more. Have a great holiday and new year.

Leaner and Joe


-----Original Message-----
From: tina thomas  <tinadt at sbcglobal.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 10:31 am
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] Christmas








I like this one. 
Tina 

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Robert Stigile
Sent: Thursday, December 18, 2008 9:43 AM
To: Julietta Cody
Subject: [Cagdu] Christmas

  On the first day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  The Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the second day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the third day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fourth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the fifth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the sixth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the seventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eighth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the ninth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the tenth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the eleventh day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  Eleven unwrapped presents
  Ten Christmas cards I shda mailed
  My wreath in nine pieces
  Eight tiny reindeer fragments
  Seven scraps of wrapping paper
  Six yards of soggy ribbon
  Five chewed-up stockings
  Four broken window candles
  Three punctured ornaments
  Two leaking bubble lights
  And the Santa topper from the Christmas tree.
  On the twelfth day of Christmas my puppy gave to me
  A dozen puppy kisses And I forgot all about
  the other eleven days.
Merry Christmas
Robert Stigile
_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

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From ecwogan at aol.com  Thu Dec 18 13:25:47 2008
From: ecwogan at aol.com (ecwogan at aol.com)
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 16:25:47 -0500
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
In-Reply-To: <325B6EB8AD3A4113B36E98EA8438A4CF@user1b3ecca35d>
References: <200812171951.mBHJpFWK022269@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>
	<325B6EB8AD3A4113B36E98EA8438A4CF@user1b3ecca35d>
Message-ID: <8CB2F6E539D656B-1410-8C6@FWM-M03.sysops.aol.com>

Juliet,
I thought this is really cute. You and Peter have a great holiday and new year.

Leaner and Joe


-----Original Message-----
From: Juliett Cody <julietcody at cox.net>
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org
Sent: Wed, 17 Dec 2008 5:51 pm
Subject: Re: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS













Thanks Nina.



  
----- Original Message ----- 

  
From: 
  tina thomas 
  

  
To: cagdu at nfbcal.org 

  
Sent: Wednesday, December 17, 2008 11:24 
  AM

  
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: GUIDE DOGS NIGHT 
  BEFORE CHRISTMAS

  



  
Hi 
  Everyone-?

  
This is Nina and my 
  mom and I wanted to send all the cagduers our?favorite ?Christmas 
  poem.?

  
Merry 
  Christmas?doggies and mons and dads 
  too.?

  
Guide dog Nina and mom 
  Tina ???

  
?

  
?Subject: GUIDE DOGS 
  NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS



  


  

  

  

  
guide Dogs' Night Before Christmas.

Twas the night before Christmas 
  and the kennels were still,

with most dogs now asleep having eaten 
  their fill.

The Labradors sprawled out, quite snug in their 
  beds,

while visions of ANYTHING edible danced in their 
  heads.

sthe Goldens and Shepherds curled up on the floor,

some 
  twitched in their sleep and some even did snore.

The dog food was 
  stacked in the feed room with care,

in hopes that a trainer soon would 
  be
 there.

On the window ledge, one of the kennel cats 
  lay,

surveying the lawn at the end of this day.

Something was 
  different, that little cat knew.

Tonight something would happen, it had 
  to be true.

For that day as the workers had left to go 
  home,

They'd wished Merry Christmas! before starting to 
  roam.

The dogs had noticed it to during this past week's 
  walks,

the trainers seemed just that much happier and eager to 
  talk.

In the mall where they worked through the maze of people and 
  stores,

there were decoration and music and distractions 
  galore!

Most dogs pranced along without worry or fear,

but some 
  balked at the man on the sleigh and those fake looking

deer.

The 
  cat was almost asleep too when he first heard the sound,

a whoosh 
  through the air and a jingle around.

It reminded him of a dog's collar 
  when the animal shook,

but this sound kept on growing. He'd better go 
  look.

>From the ceiling there came a faint sort of thunk,

as the 
  kennel cat climbed to the highest pile of junk.

Once before people had 
  worked on the roof,

and come down through the trap door to a chorus of 
  "Woooof!"

But the dogs still were quiet, all sleeping so 
  sound,

as this man dressed in red made his way right on down.

He 
  patted the cat as he climbed past his spot,

then made his way right to 
  the trainers' coffee pot.0A
A shepherd sat up, not fully 
  awake,

then a Golden followed her with a mighty loud shake.

That 
  did it! All the dogs sprang to life with loud noise.

In spite of the 
  din, the old man kept his poise.

He filled the pot full and it started 
  to brew,

then he pulled up a chair and took in the view.

Dogs 
  all around him, so carefully bred,

he knew well their jobs, the blind 
  people they led.

Some had stopped barking and looked at him 
  now,

while others delighted in their own deafening howl.

Laying 
  a finger in front of his lips,

the jolly old man silenced the excitable 
  yips.

"You all may not know me, but I'm Santa Claus,"

the old 
  man smiled and took a short pause,

While he filled up his mug with hot 
  liquid and cream,

"I've always wanted to stop here. It's been one of my 
  dreams."

The cat had climbed down and was exploring Santa's 
  sack.

"Yes, little kitty, that's an empty pack."

Santa smiled as 
  he drank and looked at those eyes,

deep brown ones and gold ones held 
  wide in surprise.

Some of these dogs, he'd seen just last 
  year,

in their puppy homes, cute and full of holiday cheer.

He'd 
  seen the effects of a pup on the tree,

but now they were here at the 
  school, just waiting to be.

"I didn't bring you presents or bones just 
  to chew.

I'll tell you something better, what you are going to 
 
 do."

"You all will work hard and the trainers will share,

both 
  praise and correction, gentle and fair."

"You'll go lots of places and 
  face big scary things.

You'll ride buses and subways and hear fire 
  sirens ring."

"Cars will drive at you but you will stand 
  strong,

not moving into danger, not moving toward wrong."

"And 
  then just when you think that this trainer's the best,

the kindest, and 
  funnest person, toss away all the rest,"

"That trainer will begin to 
  ignore you and give you away,

handing your leash over despite your 
  dismay."

"Now the person who pets you and feeds you will be

a 
  blind person. That's a person who can't see."

" This man or this woman 
  may see just a tad,

but their view's missing parts or the focus is 
  bad."

"So you, well trained dogs, will act as their eyes.

You 
  will work as a team and discover the size"

"Of this great world we live 
  in, because you will go

a million new places with this person, you 
  know."

Santa sipped at his coffee and looked over the 
  brood,

knowing what he had to say next might sound kind of 
  rude.

"Not all of you will make it and become canine 
  guides.

Your time here isn't wasted though. You won't be cast 
  aside."

"Some of you will be drug dogs and some will find 
  bombs.

Some will become pets in a home with a dad and a 
  mom."

"All these things
 are important. People wait on long 
  lists,

to receive such good dogs as you, the school folks 
  insist."

The last drop of coffee had gone into his cup

as Santa 
  turned, smiling at each wide eyed pup.

"The best gift of all is to give 
  something back.

That's why there's nothing for you all inside of my 
  pack."

Draining his mug, Santa went to each pen,

and petted and 
  scratched each dog again and again.

"Now next year and many more years 
  after that,

you all will give gifts wherever you're at."

"You 
  might lick a hand that's had a bad day,

Or notice a car and step out of 
  the way."

"You might help catch a crook or discover some 
  loot,

Or just bring some joy to a tired old man in a funny red 
  suit."

"Your master will love you and treat you with care.

In 
  return, your training and trust will always be there."

After the last 
  dog had been petted and soothed,

Santa put away the coffee pot and made 
  ready to move.

Up the ladder he rose to the door high 
  above,

with a smile and a wave as he slipped on his gloves.

And 
  all the dog ears were pricked as he disappeared out of sight.

"Merry 
  Christmas to all, and to all a Good Night!"

(Author 
  Unknown)



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From kenvolonte at comcast.net  Thu Dec 18 15:27:02 2008
From: kenvolonte at comcast.net (Ken Volonte)
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:27:02 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy's law
Message-ID: <48BB860372D74A1E8639FE2D8DB56774@ken5f734aa928e>

Hi everybody.  On Tuesday, John and I spoke to the Stockton City Council 
about Billy's attack.  Today, I had a conversation with Lieutenant Mize of 
the Stockton Police in which I explained that Billy's attacker should have 
been immediately impounded for evaluation or disposal. This is a nice clear 
procedure which we will be taking to the new city council. Mr. Mize agreed 
and offered the additional information that since attacks on service dogs 
were so rare that it wouldn't be a problem.



From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Thu Dec 18 15:43:07 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Thu, 18 Dec 2008 15:43:07 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy's law
In-Reply-To: <48BB860372D74A1E8639FE2D8DB56774@ken5f734aa928e>
Message-ID: <200812182343.mBINhGC0003057@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Excellent Ken. 
Tina 

-----Original Message-----
From: cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org [mailto:cagdu-bounces at nfbcal.org] On Behalf
Of Ken Volonte
Sent: Thursday, December 18, 2008 3:27 PM
To: Cagdu
Subject: [Cagdu] Billy's law

Hi everybody.  On Tuesday, John and I spoke to the Stockton City Council
about Billy's attack.  Today, I had a conversation with Lieutenant Mize of
the Stockton Police in which I explained that Billy's attacker should have
been immediately impounded for evaluation or disposal. This is a nice clear
procedure which we will be taking to the new city council. Mr. Mize agreed
and offered the additional information that since attacks on service dogs
were so rare that it wouldn't be a problem.

_______________________________________________
Cagdu mailing list
Cagdu at nfbcal.org
https://www.nfbcal.org/mailman/listinfo.cgi/cagdu

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Checked by AVG. 
Version: 7.5.552 / Virus Database: 270.9.19/1855 - Release Date: 12/18/2008
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From tinadt at sbcglobal.net  Fri Dec 19 09:50:50 2008
From: tinadt at sbcglobal.net (tina thomas )
Date: Fri, 19 Dec 2008 09:50:50 -0800
Subject: [Cagdu] FW: Results of Morris Animal Foundation Survey of
	guide-doghealth
Message-ID: <200812191751.mBJHp1nn021589@lothlorien.nfbcal.org>

Subject: Results of Morris Animal Foundation Survey of guide-doghealth

Guide Dog Health Survey
Morris Animal Foundation
November 2008
Background: In 2008, Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) received a grant from
the Laura J.
Niles Foundation to address health and injury issues that lead to early
retirement of a guide dog team or prevent the team from performing
optimally. Although guide dog schools in the United States have considerable
information on health issues that affect dogs under the age of 2, less
information is available on those issues that affect working guide dogs
later in life. To obtain information, MAF surveyed U.S. guide dog handlers
(guide dog handler: an individual who is blind or visually impaired,
partnered with a dog specially trained to safely guide), asking for
information on diseases and injuries, reasons for retirement and issues that
were of concern to them. Based on data received, the foundation will be
developing a request for proposal
(RFP) to
address issues requiring additional research. In addition, some issues were
identified that could have immediate intervention strategies.
MAF, established in 1948, has a 60-year history of addressing health issues
that affect dogs, including guide dogs. MAF was initially called the Buddy
Foundation, named for a guide dog owned by Morris Frank, who was the first
guide dog user in the United States. Dr.
Mark L.
Morris Sr., a visionary veterinarian, researched and developed a nutritional
diet to control the kidney disease that was affecting Buddy. Thus began a
partnership between a veterinarian and a client that resulted in better
health for a guide dog. Since our beginning, MAF has funded more than 1,600
research studies benefiting animals around the world.
Methodology: An online survey was created using Survey Monkey. The Internet
surveying tool was first tested with visually impaired handlers to ensure
accessibility and accuracy. U.S.
Guide dog schools and advocacy groups were sent a letter or e-mail
requesting their support to notify constituents, and a Web link to the
survey was provided. The survey did not ask constituents to name the school
that trained their dog, but it did ask for ZIP codes to assess whether any
health issues were more prevalent in certain geographic locations.
Demographic information was obtained on handlers, including age, gender and
number of years that a person had been a guide dog handler. Demographic
information was also obtained on current and previous guide dogs, including
breed, gender and age at retirement. Respondents were asked to rate their
current and previous guide dogs for guide work, enthusiasm, personality,
stress and behavior. They were also asked to provide health diagnoses for
their current or previous guide dog, captured into the following categories:
orthopedic,
skin, ear,
cancer/tumors, gastrointestinal, eye, endocrinologic, neurologic, kidney,
heart, respiratory, blood/lymph and liver disorders. Information was also
obtained on injuries the guide dog may have sustained. Overall, the survey
consisted of 72 multiple-part questions.
The
survey was
online from July 14, 2008, through August 14, 2008.
Results: More than 1,000 respondents answered the survey. The survey had a
margin of error of ?3 percent. Respondents were not required to answer every
question, which resulted in lower sample size for some questions.
Demographics of respondents:

Sixty-seven percent of the handlers answering the survey were women

Fifty-two percent of all handlers answering the survey were over the age of
50

Thirty percent of the handlers had been guide dog users for more than 20
years

Forty-five percent of the handlers reported that they had had four or more
guide dogs

Most respondents indicated that they paid for their dogs veterinary care,
24 percent
reported that veterinary care was supported by the both handler and the
guide dog school and 5 percent indicated that the guide dog school provided
all support for veterinary care

Respondents represented more than 1,500 guide dogs Demographics of guide
dogs:

The breed representing the highest percentage of both current and previous
guide dogs was the Labrador retriever (59 percent for both categories)

Although not statistically significant, German shepherd use among
respondents tended to decrease slightly from the previous to current dog
categories (17 percent to 12 percent), and the use of crossbreeds tended to
increase (7 to 15 percent)

Male and female dogs were nearly equal in distribution, and nearly all were
neutered

A majority of current guide dog users (89 percent) indicated that their dog
slept in the handlers bedroom Health issues reported by respondents:

No difference in health issues was identified in the survey between male and
female dogs

Orthopedic problems were reported as the top issue affecting previous guide
dogs
(42
percent).

Arthritis was the most commonly reported orthopedic disorder (10 percent of
current guide dogs and 36 percent of previous guide dogs)

Orthopedic diseases were higher in the South than in the West

Skin problems occurred in 30 percent of current guide dogs and 40 percent of
previous guide dogs

Golden retrievers were reported to have more skin conditions than Labrador
retrievers

Overall, skin disease for current guide dogs was reported to be higher in
the South than in other regions (95 percent confidence level) ??
Allergies for current guide dogs also tended to be higher in the South (90
percent confidence level)

Ear-related health issues were reported in 21 percent of current guide dogs
and 35 percent of previous guide dogs

Cancer and/or tumors affected 28 percent of previous guide dogs

Lymphoma was the most common diagnosis; 6 percent of handlers named this
cancer as a health issue for a previous guide dog

Gastrointestinal disease was reported to have occurred in 14 percent of
current guide dogs and 19 percent of previous guide dogs

Parasites were reported for 8 percent of current guide dogs and 7 percent of
previous guide dogs

Inflammatory bowel disease was reported for 5 percent of current guide dogs
and 8 percent of previous guide dogs

Bloat was experienced by 3 percent of previous guide dogs, whereas 5 percent
of previous guide dogs had experienced colitis

Cataracts were reported to have occurred in 15 percent of previous guide
dogs

Eye diseases for current guide dogs were higher in the Northeast United
States than in the West and Midwest (95 percent confidence level)

Kidney disease for current guide dogs was higher for those living in the
South than in the Midwest (95 percent confidence level)

Guide dog handlers ranked cancer as their top health concern followed by
arthritis Guide work, enthusiasm, personality, stress and behavior reported
by
respondents:

Current guide dogs received higher ratings compared with previous guide dogs
for guide work, enthusiasm, personality and stress

Male guide dogs were rated highest in their enthusiasm and were also rated
to be less stressed

Golden retrievers were rated highest for outgoing personality and were
reported to be less stressed

Twenty-nine percent of handlers gave their current guide dog a low rating
for ability to deal with stress

Nearly one-third of current guide dogs and slightly more than 20 percent of
previous guide dogs were rated by handlers as being easily distracted

Food scrounging was reported as an issue for 28 percent of current guide
dogs and
24
percent of previous guide dogs

By breed, the lowest percentage of food scrounging behavior was reported for
German shepherd dogs (8 percent) compared with Labrador retrievers (31
percent), golden retrievers (29 percent) and crossbreeds (29 percent)

Thunderstorm phobia was reported in 21 percent of current and 16 percent of
previous guide dogs

Handlers reported more thunderstorm and noise phobias for female guide dogs
than for male guide dogs Injuries reported by respondents:

Eight percent of current and 12 percent of previous guide dogs had been
attacked by another dog

Three percent of previous guide dogs and 1 percent of current guide dogs had
been hit by cars (some while working) Age at retirement:

The average age at time of retirement was highest for German shepherd dogs
(n=115
dogs) at 96 months compared with 86 months for Labrador retrievers (n=313
dogs) and
88 months for golden retrievers (n=47 dogs) (99 percent confidence level for
German shepherd dogs versus Labrador retrievers; 95 percent confidence level
for German shepherd dogs versus golden retrievers)
Discussion: Guide dog wellness is the result of a complex interaction of
genetics, environment, training, nutrition, care, socialization and
exercise. Although the current survey was not intended to address risk
factors for health, obtaining information from those constituents who live
and work with guide dogs was deemed a critical step toward developing future
research priorities. In some cases, immediate intervention strategies can be
implemented whereby the guide dog team can have a longer and healthier life
together.
For example, further control of intestinal parasites might reduce the
incidence of dogs suffering from gastrointestinal disease and thereby
enhance work. Similarly, schools and advocacy groups could use information
about dog attacks to address the injuries associated with dog bites. The
survey suggests that attacks of teams by off-leash or uncontrolled dogs are
a serious issue. In addition to the immediate harm from an attack, the guide
dog often becomes fearful and unable to perform its critical work.
One handler wrote, 
[My dog] suffered mental trauma after being attacked
three times.
 Another respondent commented that the dog was retired (due to
stress) after an unprovoked attack. And yet another person explained, 
[It]
happened within [the] first year of placement & [my guide dog] was jumped by
an off-leash golden retriever on our way to work one day. [He] was unable to
defend himself. A construction worker was nearby and was able to pull the
other dog off my guide. [He] had no physical injury from this attack, but he
did become fearful of going past that house. We had to change our route to
work &.
 The information presented in this report is MAFs first attempt to
collect information on the overall population of working guides, age 2 years
and older. The U.S.
population
of guide dog
handlers has been estimated at 10,000 to 12,000. If this estimate is
accurate, then approximately 8 to 10 percent of the entire U.S. guide dog
handler population was included in the survey.
The respondents (n=1,003) represented more than 1,500 guide dogs working
between
1985
and 2008. In addition to the three traditional breeds (Labrador retrievers,
golden retrievers, and German shepherd dogs), respondents also reported that
other purebreds were used as
guides: Akita, smooth coated collie, Australian shepherd, boxer, vizsla,
Airedale terrier, Belgian sheepdog, collie, Weimaraner, Doberman pinscher,
border collie, Bouvier, Newfoundland dog and poodle. In addition to purebred
dogs, several dogs were listed as crossbreeds
(n=185
crossbreeds).
Based on 612 responses, the average age of death for a guide dog in the
survey was 10 years 7 months. A few dogs lived to be as old as 16 years. For
dogs dying under the age of 9, three- fourths died from cancer. This could
be the reason most guide dog handlers listed cancer as their top health
concern, rather than skin disease, arthritis or ear-related issues, which
may be debilitating but are generally not fatal. Respondents comments
suggest that it is particularly devastating when a dog retires prematurely
due to a fatal disease.
One handler wrote, 
He developed a brain tumor. He was confused and [after]
collapsing for five days, I [had him] euthanized. It was 11 years ago and
Im still distressed about it.
 Another respondent wrote, 
Cancer [was]
first diagnosed when he was 4. [He was] treated, recovered and worked
another few years. The original kind of cancer and another came back very
aggressively. [I] put him to sleep and still cry about it.
 Management
decisions at any guide dog school should be made on the overall assessment
of multiple factors and variables for teams, not solely on information from
this or any other survey. Nevertheless, the survey does suggest the need to
obtain complete metrics on a guide dogfrom birth to death. Obtaining
information on the health and training success during the first two years is
not a complete picture of team health and longevity. For example, the
working life of a German shepherd was longer in our survey than for Labrador
retrievers or golden retrievers. However, this information must be
considered along with many other factors, such as trainability.
In addition to specific information, respondents gave more than 11,500
open-ended comments.
No attempt was made to analyze these comments, but unedited remarks might be
of interest to the professional training staff at U.S. guide dog schools.
Guide dog teams have been referred to as the gold standard for a bond
between a person and his or her dog. Handlers provide love and care to their
dogs; the dogs provide independence and loyalty to their handler. The
overwhelming response to the survey made it abundantly clear just how much
guide dog handlers appreciate and love their dogs.
Any work that allows these wonderful teams to enjoy even better health and
wellness is very important to MAF. After all, it was important in our past
to help Buddy and remains important in our future to give all guide dogs
better health.
Acknowledgments
MAF would like to sincerely thank the Laura J. Niles Foundation for funding
this survey and subsequent research that will address issues of high
significance. We would also like to thank the incredible work of volunteers
who helped make this survey possible: Jane Brackman, Ph.D.; Sharon Brandt;
Jim Kutsch, Ph.D.; Elizabeth Lund, DVM, Ph.D.; and Sheila Styron.
MAF is extremely grateful to all guide dog handlers who shared their
personal perspectives and experiences.
Patricia Olson, DVM, Ph.D.
President/CEO







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