The Public

 Going out in public was at once exciting and nerve racking.  I wanted to do it right.  Say the right things, do the right things.  A lot had to be taken into consideration when being in public. Perception is everything.  The public was interested in these dogs and why they were admitted into certain places other dogs couldn't be.  Our main focus when out and about is on our dog.  So sometimes being greeted by well meaning people had to be gently discouraged.  It was always and educational process.  We had to inform people to ask permission to approach the dog. Since technically he was learning to work as a guide.  He's attention was to be on me.  If the pup was overly excitable or stressed we had to say no.  Hard to do especially to kids.  But we have to put the puppy first.  Just as parents have to protect their children, we have to look out for these young apprentices.  One bad situation could potentially set this pup back or prevent them from graduating all together.  So a lot is invested.