safari

Very Long Update

2009-11-07T00:09:58Z

It's been ages since I have updated this journal.

Well I have had a very busy year.

On February 28th, I went to Launcestion, Tasmania to visit my puppy carer.

My mummy took me on Virgin airlines and she was very nervous as it was her first time on the plane. However I have been on a plane twice already without my mummy.

Anyway mum got to get updated to first class for free because she had me. It was nearly an hour to fly to Tasmania and we were last to get off the plane. Virgin airlines got a lift to take us off the plane as there was only stairs to the tarmac then the friendly airline staff escorted mum and me to my puppy carer Jill.

As soon as we got to the car I was still on professional mode but when we got to Perth (little old Tasmanian town, my harness was taken off and I ran straight to my puppy carer and was very excited. Of course I remembered her.

The next day we went to the Salvation army church in a suburb called Kings Meadow. I also remember attending church as a wee little pup. On Monday Jill took mum swimming in Kings Meadow. I just stayed nice and calm near the water. I was a good boy!!

Tuesday 3rd March, Jill took me and mum to her volunteer work at a place called Escleigh where they have disabled adults. Mum took my harness off so they could pat me.

On Wednesday we went into Launceston, did some shopping, took photo's and had a look at places such as an old anglican church,princess square,launceston hill and had a look at the gorge which turns into the tamar river. That night we all went to Evandale to listen to Jill do choir practise.

On Thursday we went back into Launceston.We went out to dinner at a chinese restaurant then made our way to Albert Hall to see a concert called "With Russia with love". Before that we had a look at city park and looked at the braille display at the sensory garden and mum found it fancinating.

Friday we took a drive to Tasmanian Zoo and mum brought some souveniours but didn't go to the zoo itself then we drove back to Riverside to visit Jill's friend. We had a lovely lunch and went home.

That Friday night 6th March, mum got a phone call from her mum to say Victoria had a tremor which was 4.6 and it really rocked the house.

Saturday 7th March, we took a Virgin plane home and mum's parents took her to lunch at Macdonalds at the Melbourne airport.

Apart from my great holiday in Tasmania, I have had a busy year.

We still volunteer for Seeing Eye Dogs Australia.

This year mum noticed I was limping a little and made cracking noise and was diagnosed with arthritis in my left front paw. She now has me on special powder and every once in awhile I get a carthophin injection.

My weight has stayed the same at 27kg, so mum is really looking after me.

In September I turned 6 years old. We had a birthday party on September 12th with myself and another Seeing Eye Dog named Sage and 30 pups attended.

Will hopefully update soon.

Woofs For Now

Safari

This Is Safari Hijicking His Own Journal

2009-01-03T01:09:00Z

Woof Woof I had to hijack my own journal as my mum always writes in here on my behalf.

I love my mum so much the mean bugger hasn't given me a bone for a year now. I do hope she keeps giving me sheeps neck. She reckons she will. It's not my fault that I was allergic to the beef bones. She could of given them to me but I would of been sick. I understand she loves me and doesn't want me to suffer if I have the beef bones.

I'm glad mummy got me shaved. It is so hot having all my fur and now it's beautiful being shaved.

I have had a lot of nice comments about my appearance. I am back down to 26kg and everyone says I look handsome.

I can't wait until the end of February. I get to meet up with my puppy carer Jill. I haven't seen her since I was 1 years old.

Well I better get off the computer and give it back to my mum.

Tail Wags
Safari

Safari had his Annual Vaccination on 29th December 2008

2009-01-03T01:03:10Z

On the 29th December 2009 I took Safari up to his vets to have a shave and to have his annual vet check and vaccination.
All went well for Safari but the only problem that he had is tar tar and haliotis (smelly breath).
As Safari is allergic to beef bones I told the vets this and they advised to give him a sheeps neck once a week as they are low in fat content. Well I gave Safari a sheeps neck and he had no diarrhoea or vomiting so we have a winner.
Hopefully the bones will clean his teach or else he will need to have an operation to clean his teeth.

Safari hated new years eve. There was fireworks right outside our house and it scared Safari which I don't blame him. It was so dam noisy. I got him calmed down and he layed by my feet for awhile.

I must admit I have been very slack in writing in Safari's journal. I must write more in here.

Safari is doing really well. Next month he is going on the plane to go to Tasmania to see his puppy carer Jill. It will be my first time on a plane but not for Safari. He has been on the plane 4 times before I had him so that's good. We are both looking forward to seeing Jill and of course going over to Tasmania.

Take Care
Safari and Melissa

Two Very Special Seeing Eye Dogs Safari and Sage Celebrate There Birthday

2009-01-03T00:54:03Z

Two Very Special Seeing Eye Dogs Safari and Sage Celebrate There Birthday!!

On the 30th August, two very special Seeing Eye Dogs celebrated there birthdays.

I thought it would be a nice idea to hold a birthday party for Safari and Sage to thank all our friends and the puppy carers for all there support and friendship.

We had the birthday party at the Dorset Gardens bistro in Croydon to celebrate Sage turning 3 and Safari turning 5.

Safari is my handsome Golden Retriever and Sage is S's beautiful black labrador.

We had 19 friends attend and 18 Seeing Eye Dogs come along and Ian Cox kindly came down for a short visit which is much appreciated.

For the birthday party, I decided to craft 18 birthday hats for the dogs as I do scrap booking and really wanted the party hats to be pretty. I had some stencils to write the dogs name in the middle and cut out some hearts and flowers to go around the name. At the bottom I put the dogs name in braille as well.

For the humans they received a delicious lolly and chocolate bags but all the dogs didn't miss out at all.

S B kindly offered to bake a cake for the dogs and they enjoyed eating there piece of cake when they got home.

Safari and Sage's party started around 12:30pm and the day was filled with a yummy lunches and drinks.

After lunch both Safari and Sage received some very special gifts of dog toys which they both enjoyed.

All dogs and humans had a great day and I just want to thank all the puppy carers, Ian Cox and my friends for coming along to Safari and Sage's birthday party. Without your support it would not be possible for Vision impaired and blind people to have a Seeing Eye Dog to live a fully independant and happy life.

From

Melissa Ryan

I had my Annual Vaccination and Check Up Today!!

2007-12-28T00:48:54Z

My mummy took me to the vets today and Neil gave me a good look over. I got weighed and am a healthy 29.4kg. While my mummy was patting me Neil came up behind me and gave me an vaccination but I was a very good boy and didn't complain.
I'm glad all went well for me.

After the vets, my mummy and nanna took me to coles and we shopped and then I took my mum to the chemists and she got herself some eye drops for her eye. She needs to take these drops at bed time. They are called prednerfrin forte and it's an anti rejection drops for the cornea transplant that she had in 2004, even though that eye is now totally blind.

Will update this journal some time next week.

Woofs
Safari

Happy 4th Birthday Safari

2007-09-05T03:27:54Z

It was 4 years ago that my Safari boy was born. I just can't believe that Safari is 4 already. I want to wish Safari a very happy 4th birthday and hope you have liked all my presents that I have brought you.
I also want to wish your other siblings who are Santo, Shelby, Sabre, Storm and Sarina a very happy birthday too and hope there handlers are spoiling there dogs as well.
I gave Safari a dog coat, natural dog treat for his birthday and mum gave him a ball that has a round rope around it. Then this morning we went to the shops and I brought Safari two bandana's which are like a collar which are red and yellow in colour.

Anyway Safari happy birthday sweetheart.
Love From Your Mummy
xoxo

Happy 1 Year Anniversary To Safari and Me

2007-08-24T23:35:33Z

One year ago it was Safari and mine 1st year anniversary since I have had him.

We have had our many up's and down's especially when I first had him, but now that things are finally working out and Safari is healthy life has been great for us.

I can't believe when I first got him and he was poisoned by an old neighbour that my Safari was going to die, but thanks to my lovely vets they saved his life and I am forever grateful.

Safari acts like a puppy when he is out of harness but as soon as I put him on the harness and work with him, he is really professional.

Sometimes he get's dog distracted but we are slowly working through that problem. Safari can now tolerate most dogs apart from the little yappy buggers or vicious dogs.

So to my dear buddy and soul mate, I thank you for all your fantastic work and I hope we have many more happy working years together. I also want to thank you for making me a happier and more confident person and I am very proud to walk around knowing I have you to guide me safely.

Safari I love you boy.

Love from your mum
Melissa
xoxo

Safari's Horoscope

2007-06-06T03:48:22Z

I found the following information about what the star sign means for you dog....

Here's Safari...

VIRGO (Aug 24 - Sep 23)
Virgo dogs are very very clean and precise. They never seem to spill their food and actually love to be bathed. They are also one of the most loyal dogs around and are very protective.
Virgo Pet Archetype: Any Seeing Eye Dog
Apt Names for Virgo Dogs: Lady, Trusty

Long Time Since An Update...

2007-05-03T04:19:11Z

Well Safari has been doing really well and so have I. Our bond has become very strong and I find that I can now fully trust him.
About one month ago, I took Safari back to the vets to check his bloods again and the good news is that they are all clear this time, so Safari does not need any further blood tests. He certainly is a miracle as my trainer told me that he didn't believe that Safari was going to live when he first got sick.

Safari is also a whole lot better with other Dog Guides. There is only one or two that he doesn't like but the rest he does, but that is just like humans, we don't always get friendly with each other.

Last week Safari went on a long bushwalk at Blackburn Lake with Vision Australia. Safari met 2 other Guide Dogs called Vallie and Zanthie and my friends Seeing Eye Dog called Destiny who is a sweet dog. Anyway Safari had a ball hanging around them all. I think Safari may have remembered Destiny when they were both in the kennels at Seeing Eye Dogs.

This week I have done hardly anything with Safari as I am getting over a cold but feel much better now.

Yesterday we walked to my local shops and I brought Safari two packets of dog poo bags and a packet of smacko's as a treat.

I have changed Safari's diet around a little bit st dinner time which now includes one cup of Royal Canin dry food and I now cook boiled rice with carrots and corn and he is loving it.

Also about one month ago my Dog Trainer Ian came out to my house and we went to both Chirnside Park Shopping Centre and Eastland Shopping Centre and taught me how to get Safari to use the walkalators and escalators. Now Safari has no trouble using them, but at first he used to try me out and not go on them at all so it was up to me to be strong and get him on by encouraging him to get on.

Today mum came shopping with us to Chirnside Park and I found some dog biscuits that a lot of my friends use for there Dog Guides which are called Box 4x2's which are actually the same as Farrells. I will add two of these biscuits to Safari's dinner to help clean his teeth.

Hopefully it won't be too long until my next update.
Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari...
"Well things are going good with me and my mummy. I can't wait to try out the new biscuits that mummy has brought me. Anyway I have been really good with my guiding work. I don't know if I am going out tomorrow, it depends if my harness is dry as before mummy put my harness in the washing machine to give it a good clean. I have also been informed that when my grand dad is off work that I will be taken to a local vet and will have a hydro bath...I can't wait.
Anyway my love to you all
Woofs Safari xoxo"

Long Time Since I've Updated In Here!!

2007-03-15T02:40:02Z

Well I have been so lazy updating in Safari's journal. I guess it's because I am so busy with him now. The last time I wrote an entry was 7th Feb,2007.

Last Thursday, 8th March, my mummy was on the radio on 11.79AM. She was talking on the SEDA News segment about her training with me and tonight she is back on the radio to talk about how she trained me to use a toilet harness. Don't tell mummy, but I think she is a bit of a star anyway. I knew she had those qualities within her.
Mummy now wants to help Seeing Eye Dogs and help out with the Community Education team.

On February 26th, mummy took me on a long train ride up to Bendigo as she just joined the White Cane wanderers group. Even though she doesn't use the cane she has me instead but everyone loves me and says that I am a gorgeous pup.
We toured the Bendigo Pottery and then caught the train back home but Mummy stopped off at Kyneton Station and we slept the night at her nanna's. I had a ball up there as mummy's nanna has a real huge yard and I ran up and down it.

Apart from that mum has her computer course or we might go out daily shopping or for real long walks.

Just recently mummy had her O&M from Vision Australia help us find our way around Melbourne Central station and shopping centre as I can't use the escalators as SEDA never trained us to use them.

Yesterday I took mum to Vision Australia, Prahran so she can attend a mock job interview as she is looking for some sort of work.

Last week I had my first ever marrow bone and enjoyed it but was disappointed that mum took it off me after 30 minutes as she has been told to do this so I don't get germs from the backyard. This morning I received a Dentabone to clean my teeth in which I get one once a week.

I am able to eat some vegetables such as carrot,peas,corn with no hassles and the vet said I can have some pumpkin or potato with no skin on it as well as mum went to the vet yesterday for her brothers kittens to be vaccinated and she asked if I am alright to have some vegetables instead of Royal Canin all the time as I am getting sick of just Royal Canin. Sometimes mum puts my food into the blender and makes it looks like mush and I eat it straight up.

Well that's about it for my news now. I am all healthy now and am loving life and working with my mum.
Love and TailWags
Safari xoxo

Safari's Story In The SEDA Newletter

2007-02-07T03:05:29Z

I thought I would share a story that I had published in the recent SEDA newsletter called "Paws For A Moment".
Cheers
Melissa and Safari

"Independence through Safari

My name is Melissa and I am 26 years old and blind. I live with my family in Croydon, Victoria and my hobbies include reading Braille, listening to Audio Books, socialising with friends and playing the keyboard.

In February 2006, I made the decision that a Seeing Eye Dog would help me with my independence so in March I applied and was put on the waiting list.

I didn't have to wait too long as I got a call in July to say that they think they may have a dog for me, so it was arranged for me to meet the dog and then have it sleep overnight to see how we were compatible.

On August 1st, I met my dog named Safari who is a 2 year old Golden Retriever Male and we went on a walk around the block in harness for the first time. Paul from SEDA left some food and a bed for Safari to sleep overnight. Amazingly Safari got on well with my pet cats and the next day I was told I would be training with Safari at the end of August.

My trainer Ian was really good and he is so dedicated to his clients and especially the dogs as he was there anytime for Safari and me and continues to offer me advice and support.

I have been so happy since having Safari in my life and it has been good having all the independence to do all the things I wanted to do like Computer and Braille Courses, Swish and just going out shopping.

I wasn't too happy when I had to use the long white cane as I found that it used to hurt my fingers and hands a lot and since swapping to the harness, my hands are so relaxed and no longer in pain either.

All my friends and relatives have commented on how confident and happy I am since receiving Safari and I am forever thankful to SEDA for giving my independence back and giving me such a great dog. Thank you everybody"

Mum is going on RPH radio

2007-02-07T02:31:51Z

I can't believe it. This morning I got a call from a guy called P R who is a community educator at SEDA and he deals with media and he has asked me to do an interview with the Vision Australia radio (formally RPH) on my training experiences with Safari and how he has helped me. On February 21st, I will go into the Kooyong studios to do a pre-recording of the interview. I think the actual segment will be the next night Thursday 22nd February. There is another girl who is coming in the same day named V M and she has just got her dog and is doing the same interview.

I am so excited and shocked to be selected. I have never been on radio.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari..
"Wow because of me, my mummy will be going on radio. She is such an inspiration and has dealt with her blindness real good. She did tell me that when she first went blind, she was a wreck, but thankfully now she has got her life back onto track and I am so happy that I can help her with her mobility and independence."
Barks and Tail Wags
Safari xoxo

I have been lazy Updating!!

2007-01-18T09:31:51Z

I just want to say that I definately feel that the bond between Safari and me has grown over the past few months.
I am still in awe of how amazing he is on harness and his guiding abilities.

As it has been very hot this week, I haven't really taken Safari out too much. Plus I have been pretty crook as a result of a bad tooth abscess but I'm sure my boy forgives me.

Today I took Safari up to the vet's as we had my brother's two kittens Smokey and Tiffany vaccinated. After this the vet and the nurses were giving my boy plenty of attention. It is so weird how he loves the vets as that is the place that he was in major pain.

This afternoon as it was quite warm, I took Safari on a short walk to the park and sat down there for 30 minutes and drank my soda water and just enjoyed the sun and the couple of rain drops that didn't last long.

When I got home, Safari met up with my brothers physiotherapists and reaped up the attention and ahile after that I fed him as he has been a bit finiky with his food again but that is normal for Golden Retrievers.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari..
"I have been the usual fussy boy again but my dear mummy has been so patient with me but that's because she adores me. I love the new kittens but sometimes they annoy me (espcially Tiffany) as she has a habit of biting my feet, but I can excuse that as she is only a baby. Apart from that, life is pretty good and have enjoyed the break this week. Mum has told me that there is plenty more hot weatehr to come over the next week so she will not be out long with me.
Take Care
Safari xoxo"

Safari Had His Blood Test

2007-01-04T00:46:51Z

Safari had his final blood test today to check his kidney enzymes level, so I should get the results by either tonight or tomorrow. While at the vet, Safari also received his yearly vaccination as well.

The vet gave Safari a genral health check and he is very happy with Safari's health and appearences. I am to feed Safari 1 and a half cups of Royal Canin in the morning and the same at night. When Safari was sick he had 6 cups a day.
Safari now weighs 28.4kg, and we want to keep it about that. When Safari was sick he got down to 20kg which was pretty shocking.

Just glad things are finally starting to work out for me and Safari. It wasn't looking good when I first trained with him when he got all sick but he is back to normal now and is a well adjusted dog.

Take Care
Melissa and Safari xoxo

We Wish You A Merry Christmas!!

2006-12-24T00:44:18Z

I have been so lazy lately that I have neglected to write some updates in here.

I feel so awful because 15 days ago I gave Safari a lamb shank bone thinking that was the bone recommended but it turns out the correct bone was beef marrow bone and it gave Safari diarrhea for 4 days. I informed my trainer and he told me that his stomach would be very intolerable to lamb shank so hence the reason for his diarrhea and that's when he told me which bone he can have. So I went to the vets and brought some more Hills ID Diet to firm Safari's stools up and to settle the tummy as well.
Safari is back to his normal diet again and is going all well.

My trainer I from SEDA came around to my house last week on Monday 18th, to do my 3 month assessment and he was really pleased with our work together. He told me to just walk up to my local newsagent which is 13 minutes up the road and he would give me a lift back home as it was an extremely hot day. He did that famous thing where he goes to run you over and Safari stopped instantly.

I haven't had much walks with Safari this week due to the heat and bad smoke from the bush fires as it affects my asthma. I can't wait to the bush fires are fully out so Melbourne won't get the smoke and plus the people, homes and animals are in danger in the fires.

On Wednesday I from SEDA popped into my house and handed me a dog whistle for obedience purposes. I use it for eating and free runs. So far the whistle works.

On Friday Safari and me walked up to the vet clinic and I just spoke to the vet nurse and asked her about some sort of treat that I can give Safari for the free runs and she quickly asked the vet what he can have and it's the product called Eukaneba low fat chicken treats as Safari can't have any fatty products due to his tummy being real sensitive plus I don't want him getting fat. I will only use these treats on free runs when I call him and blow the whistle 3 times and he comes back to me.

Well I better go, merry Christmas all from Safari and myself.
Love and Hugs
Melissa and Safari

Safari Is Much Better Now and Walks

2006-11-26T07:42:38Z

Yesterday I let my brother J take Safari out for a long walk around the block. Safari didn't end up going near his wheelchair at all which is good and he behaved himself really well for him. I didn't walk him as I had a really bad migraine especially around the eyes. That took me a lot of trust to let J walk him. I'm wondering if Safari remembers his old owner being in the wheelchair and that's why he was so good on the walk.

Good news, Safari now weighs 27.45kg. Just glad Safari has managed to put some weight on after his illness as he got down tp a shocking 20kg.

Last night Safari finished off his Hills Prescription ID diet and he no longer is suffering from very loose stools.

This morning Safari's diet consisted of half a can of Hills Prescription KD and 2 1/2 cups of dry KD. Safari managed to wolf all his food down which is good.

Later on in the morning dad and me gave Safari a nice warm bath. He smells much better now and not so dog like *laughs*. Actually he smells kind of peachy. After the bath, I gave Safari a good brush and then used the Zoom Groom on him. You should of seen all the hairs that came off him. I literally had to change my pants because silly me wore dark pants and dad said they were full of hairs. Theres nothing like Safari hair on you, but he is my baby boy so I don't care.

After lunch me and Safari were out in the backyard enjoying the sun. Dear Safari was enjoying running around the backyard and then I got dad to watch him out there and I went back in and got the vacuuem out and cleaned J's room and also Safari's bed and rug. I then took his bed and rug outside to lay in the sun for awhile. I have yet to bring them back in.

After this I got all of Safari's toys and gave them a wash.

At 4pm,J and me went for a walk around the block but this time we went through the park. Safari did really well on the walk today. It was only once that we had to stop because J said there was a dog approaching, so I sat Safari down, got in front of him and was ready to tell him off which I had to. I had my hand out in a motion to say stop and with the other hand I pulled the chocker and yelled out "Ignore Safari, No". Safari really has a problem with other dogs. He just barks and growls at them and tries to jump but I don't let him.

When we got home Safari had a long drink and a rest in which he is still doing.

Real soon I will be off to have my dinner and then will feed him some time after that.

Take Care
Melissa

Here's Safari...
"Woof Woof Woof, I'm so excited. I went on some really long walks with my handler and I was real good. I tried to test my mummy out *hehehe* by barking at the other dog. Mummy is not stupid though because she corrected me.
I'm hungry but mummy won't feed me until after she has eaten, darn her.
I haven't felt the best this week with my belly but luckily the vet helped me.
Well if I leave hopefully this will give mummy the hint to feed me "Woof woof tail wags please feed me, I'm giving you puppy dog eyes mummy" Nope that didn't work. Oh well patience is a virtue.
Woofs For Now
Safari xoxo"

Safari is sick and a bad boy

2006-11-21T03:07:30Z

Just when I thought that things were going all good for my Seeing Eye Dog Safari a huge wave comes along and crashes my hopes and dreams. Well this is only a minor glitch, well I hope so anyway.

Last week on Tuesday 14th November, Safari woke up and had the poops and I didn't think much of it so I brought him to my computer class in Prahran. In the middle of the class Safari kept on barking and I thought this is weird so I took him to the dog run and he had the poops again. So I went and told my computer teacher K B that I will have to go home as the dog is sick. We managed to get home without any more poops and I made sure Safari didn't eat that day.

On Wednesday Safari's diet consisted of just plain rice and chicken. Thursday I reintroduced Safari's KD and royal canin diet and you guessed it the next day Safari had the poops. So Friday we went to the vets and had a health check. It was found that Safari had a bowel infection. So the vets gave me a Hills Prescription ID diet and some antibiotics.

This morning Safari vomited some Bile so I took him to the Vets yet again. He was given some anti nausea injection and was told to rest today.

Now heres the fun part. When we got home Safari has been an extra bad dog. He has been continually jumping all over me, running around all silly and whining and barking like he is a puppy again.
I rang the vet to ask why he is doing all this and it is an effect of his medication. I was informed to lock him in the room while he is being naughty. So on and off today he is going to his room for being naughty. Apparently it can take up to 6 hours for the effect of the drug to ware off.
It get's so frustrating but hope he settles down soon.
Take Care
Melissa

Long Time Since An Update!!

2006-11-01T08:15:23Z

Well I have been so slack putting in an entry about my Safari boy, but here I go.

Today was quite a warm day so I did only a short walk to the local shops which was quite good. I cashed in some tattslotto scratchies that my mum and brother donated to me which was only $12 then I went to a discount store and brought my boy a squaky hedgehog toy which he loves. When I got out of the shopping centre, I gave Safari some drink of water and then walked across the road to the vets to say hello to them. Was talking to the lovely Vet Nurse S for awhile and then she weighed Safari and he now weighs 27.4kg which is really excellent. S is so happy about Safari's condition and is saying how healthy and happy he looks.

Yesterday we received a surprise in the mail. It was a toilleting harness from SEDA. I tried using it tonight but Safari didn't need a poop so I will try him tomorrow morning when he usually goes.

Monday I went to the local gym with Safari and I had him sitting next to me as I didn't want to leave him by the desk as I don' want people to touch him.

Other things Safari has been doing is taking me to the computer classes at 201 in Prahan and going shopping and lots of walks.

On October 20-22nd me and Safari went to the Blind Citizens Australia Convention in Tyabb. I found my own way to Richmond Station and then got on the train to Frankston. At Frankston I met up with J, R and R and some other people I met. Safari behaved himself quite well but was a little unsettled at times because when I got back to my motel room, Safari would bark at people walking past my room but he soon settled a little.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari....
"My mummy is a real meanie don't you think so??? She is making me poop into this toiletting harness. How mean can she be. She told me the reason she is teaching me this is because she can't see where it is and doesn't want to step on the poop. Apart from that I love her. She just spoils me rotten. I always look at her adorably. I can also pick up on my mums moods and we are getting on like a house on fire. Mummy forgot to mention some other things such as last Friday 27th October, we went to the low vision group in Boronia and mummy gave a speech on her training experiences while training with me and afterwards she went to Boronia petshop and brought me a grooming brush called a Zoom Groom which is a fantastic brush as it gets rid of all the hairs off my body real easily. On Sunday mum and grandpa gave me a lovely bath and mummy used the Zoom Groom to lather the shampoo/conditioner in my body real well. Afterwards after I got dried my granpa used my mums hairdryer from afar and tried some of me off while mum groomed me and I ended up all soft and shiny. I just want to brag and say I look real handsome. Also my mummy has given me a middle name which is Cody after my father. Unfortunately she couldn't use my doggie mothers name at all..Bella Rose.
My new diet this week is 1 can of KD diet and half a cup of Dry Royal Canin. On Sunday I go off the canned food altogether. Well I better sign off as my Grandmother wants to use the computer. More news later on
Love and Woofs
Safari xoxo"

Vet Visit Today

2006-10-13T05:13:35Z

Things are just looking up for my Safari.

I got a phone call from Ian at 1:30pm and he told me to ring the Vets so we can arrange for Safari's diet to change. I did so and saw the vet at 2pm. Safari got weighed and he is now 24.66kg which is nearly his normal weight of 26.5kg.

For about a week I have to feed Safari his canned KD diet which consist of 1 1/4 can in the morning and the same at night plus 1/2 cup of KD dry food added to the canned food. After this we will slowly over time add some of his normal food (Royal Canin Adult Maxi dry food).

I am very impressed at how well Safari is going and so is Ian and the vets. Ian told the vets he is really impressed at how well Safari is working too.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari...
"Woof Woof Woof, I'm so excited to hear the good news off the vet today. I am certainly a miracle the way I have recovered after such a serious illness.
I have been a real good boy for my mummy. She is just amazed with me. Well I'm off to rest now as I have been running around before as I have been very hyper.
Tail Wags
Safari xoxo"

I'm Back Out Guiding!!

2006-10-12T04:22:56Z

As of Monday October 9th, I have been back at work guiding my mummy around. Ian is doing some more training with us as we didn't get to finish the training before my major illness.

Anyway here is what I have done all week:

Monday~ I was shown how to Guide my mum to the Australian Hearing Centre in Croydon. After this I went back on the bus and went home again.

Tuesday~ A very long day or me. We caught the bus to Croydon and then got on the train and went into Flinders Street Station. We then boarded the tram to go to Prahran as my mummy had a computer class to attend to. After class, it was just me and mummy that found our way home. Mummy caught the Belgrave line and got off at Ringwood. Then mummy got on her dads bus and we went home with him. I was so tired that day that I had a long sleep until 7'15am the next day.

Wednesday~ We caught the bus to Croydon and mummy took me to the Australian Hearing Centre and got her hearing aids tested out as they were annoying mummy. After this Ian showed us how to get to the gym and then I was registered with the local council. On the way I got real distracted with all the duckies but mummy handled me good. On the way home, we all had subway for lunch (well mum and Ian did anyway) and then mummy went home as it was a really hot day.

Thursday~ It's another hot day today and I don't have to work. Instead I am enjoying the air conditioner and resting and playing today.

I also found out my parents names and they are:
Mother (Bitch): Bella Rose
Father (Sire): Cody

Barks and Tail Wags For Now
Safari xoxo

Safari Came Back Home On October 6th.

2006-10-08T02:04:29Z

SEDA rang me on Friday morning and told me that Safari is ready to come home. So in the afternoon Ian dropped Safari off and he was so happy to be back home again. Ian told me to walk Safari up to the local bus stop and he will be watching from the car.

Safari did well on the walk and was slow at first due to being unsure about my walking speed but he soon sped up to my normal pace.

On Saturday, Safari mainly played with all his toys and also went out the backyard to enjoy some of the lovely sun.

Today he is having anotehr quite day as he will be working tomorrow with me and Ian.

We plan to go to Croydon and teach Safari some of the shops over there. Me and Safari have to start off with some new things as we didn't get to finish them before Safari's sickness.

I can't believe the change in Safari. He seems to be his old self again. Just glad that he is off those darn Zantac's. They certainly made him go crazy.

Let's hope he stays well now.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari...
"Well I feel great now. I came home on Friday and was over joyed to see my mummy and her family and of course mum's pet cats. I have been really good this weekend. Mummy says that I am being an angel and keeps reassuring me that she loves me. Actually mum has been spoiling me a little as she keeps brushing me (which I love) and is giving me plenty of pats. I don't blame her though as she knows that I have been through a lot. Thank you mummy and her family for being great to me during my sickness and for being patient when I was having the drug reactions to the Zantac.
Tail Wags For Now,
Safari xoxo"

More Safari Updates

2006-10-04T01:24:33Z

Hi All,

My mum got a call from SEDA yesterday as I was at my computer class and they gave her the following news about Safari.

The vets decided to take Safari off the Zantac's as it was literally sending him crazy. The puppy carer has said that Safari has been a very naughty dog but it's due to frustrations and the Zantac. Safari kept on running in circles snapping at the air as if he was catching flies which is the frustration. He since hasn't vomited so let's hope that SEDA can get Safari's problems all sorted out because it would be a shame if he can't become a Guide Dog again. I never doubt SEDA though because all Safari needs to do is recover and get rid of the drug reactions. I never realised Zantac could do this but then again medications can cause different reactions.

All we can hope for that Safari keeps improving with his behaviour and that I can one day work with him again.

Safari would be so confused in where he belongs. First he had his first owner, then me and then he gets sick, comes back home to me, get's ill again and is now at the puppy carers and then will probably be with me again, so he won't know where he lives. It's no wonder why he is so frustrated. I can fully understand his behaviour!

Sometime today I will be hearing from SEDA so I will know more anyway.

I also want to thank you all for your fantastic support when Safari was ill. You have helped me out so much. My spirits are kept up high.

Take Care all and have a great day.

Hugs

Melissa and Safari

Very Good News About Safari!!

2006-09-27T03:07:54Z

The Vet rang just before and she told me that Safari's kidney levels are all normal.

I asked her if Safari can go back onto the harness and she said that she can find no reason not to but he has to do light work only for awhile.

I am so rapt and never thought this day would come again *huge smiles*

All I need to do is ring SEDA today and organise for them to see me again, so they can see how we work together again.

Take Care
Melissa

He Looks Like He Is Improving

2006-09-27T01:19:08Z

Well my Safari looks like he is improving but the results of the blood test today will only tell. Let's hope he keeps improving and can get back onto his harness as at the moment he is really missing it.

Last night, Safari accidentally did a pee in the hall. I don't know if it was laziness or a accident, so I took Safari outside and just said to him "This is where you are meant to wee". I couldn't tell him off because he is sick after all.

Yesterday after we went to the vets, dad took us on a little drive in the countryside which is 5 minutes away from me. Safari really enjoyed the drive and fresh air. Dad then drove to the side of the road at a little park and we had a quick walk around and then went back home.
Then Safari was just playing with his toy bone all day.
He certainly has more energy now compared to the start of last week.

Take Care
Melissa

Note From Safari...
"This is my first note since I was really ill. My mummy has been really fantastic through my illness. I don't know how she kept so sane. She is always so willing to help me out. I have so much energy now and don't understand why my mummy isn't putting me on the harness again and all she tells me is that I need to rest. I guess your mum knows best.
Barks For Now
Safari xoxo"

Safari is Improving

2006-09-25T01:29:44Z

Safari is home again, after spending 5 days at the vet again. He could of come home Saturday but we had my brother's wedding so we couldn't take Safari along.

Anyway on Sunday my parents and me picked Safari up from the Vet's. As soon as we entered the Vet's we heard him bark and he half jumped up on the counter trying to get to us. He was so excited to see us.
The lovely Vet nurses never locked him up in those dog cages as Safari hates it, they just had him sleeping by there feet at the counter. They wouldn't normally do this but because Safari is a Guide Dog he get's special treatment *smiles*

We found out that Safari wasn't born with the kidney failure. Our neighbour had been poisoning his garden and it ended up killing our lawn too. As Safari eats grass that's how he got sick. It wasn't the neighbors fault or anything it is just stupidity on his behalf.

So now I take Safari to another place to go to the toilet (away from any neighbours) and just leash relieve him. Dad is going to build a dog run soon so Safari can run around freely and not have to leash relieve as well.

Tomorrow Safari needs another blood test but let's hope things go all well.

I'm really pining not going out there on the harness and I really want to not be stuck in the house. This is so unfair that Safari and my life has been stuffed up because of a stupid neighbor.

More news later

Take Care
Melissa and Safari