Phil and Gayla Trower of C.H.I. Overhead Doors volunteer as puppy raisers for Leader Dogs for the Blind, an organization that works to breed, train and match guide dogs with people in need. Each puppy in the organization finds its way into the home of a volunteer dedicated to teaching basic obedience commands and social skills.
On September 25, 2010 the Trowers welcomed Trixie, a black Labrador retriever, into their home. The first two months with Trixie was spent learning housetraining and basic commands such as “sit,” “stay,” “come” and “go to your mat.” Besides basic obedience, Trixie was also learning valuable socialization skills. The dog was the Trowers constant companion and accompanied the couple to stores, restaurants, church and even the movies. “Basically everywhere we go, she goes,” Mrs. Trower said. After a couple of months, Trixie started going to work at C.H.I. She slept all day while Mrs. Trower worked and at lunchtime the two would go for walks.
After spending a year with the Trowers, Trixie returned to Michigan to complete the remaining phases of training to prepare her to work for a blind or visually impaired person. “It’s been a very rewarding experience, especially if she makes it through the program,” said Mrs. Trower of the couple’s work with Trixie. If she doesn’t pass all of her training phases, the organization will give the Trowers the first opportunity to adopt her.
The Trowers plan to raise another dog for the organization when they both retire. For more information on Leader Dogs for the Blind, visit www.leaderdog.org.
