Goodbye to our lovely Hector, as he moves on to greater things!!!!

1/11/2012

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One of Hectors great moments, in the water yet again. He doesn't mind if it's winter or summer, he just loves the water!!

Lots of tears were shed this morning when alas we had to say goodbye to Hector.  I think I was close to being inconsolable.  Myself and Hector got up real early and had our last walk on the sea front at 7am.  Then it was home for breakfast, a play in the garden and a nice groom.  Before we knew it the phone was ringing just after 9am to say that Stephen was on his way to collect Hector.  We packed up his freshly washed favourite blanket and some of his favourite toys to have in the van on the journey to Cork.  The task of putting Hector in the van was made easier because Nikita, his good friend was already in the van and they were going to travel to Cork together.

I still can't believe he is gone.  Every time I came back into the house today I was expecting to be met with his wonderful and enthusiastic greeting that he always gave.  The guys in Cork now have the privilege of having his most exuberant and joyous welcomes.  That is something we will all miss dearly.

I am sure the Guide Dogs will keep us posted on Hector's progress.  Heres wishing Hector the best of luck from us and to say we love him and we will miss him lots and lots.
Hugs and kisses from Aidan, Michele, Alice and Sarah.

 
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Marguerite brought Hector for a run on Monday with the delectable Chenna.
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Hector and Sarah having there last little chat and play this morning.
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The time eventually arrived where we had to say goodbye. Not one of my better moments, the tears were welling up and I could hardly talk.
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    About this Blog

    Welcome to Puppy Hector's Blog:
    Follow RTE 2fm's "Breakfast with Hector" adopted pup's progress as he trains to become a guide dog for a person living with sight loss or an assistance dog for families of children with autism.

    RTE 2fm & Hector Ó hEochagáin:      RTE 2fm's Breakfast Show Crew and host Hector ÓhEochagáin have been supporting pup Hector since adopting him at 8 weeks of age. During the last year, they have been helping us create awareness about our work and just what goes into into training a guide dog. Their support has been invaluable and has helped to raise much needed funds towards Hector's training. 

    About the Blog Authors, Susan Turtle and Michele Munnelly:
    Susan Turtle has been with Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind as a trainer for over
    13 years. Puppy Hector joined her in January this year to commence Early
    Training. She'll be keeping you posted on his progress over the next few months. Prior to January, Hector was with Volunteer Puppy Walker, Michele Munnelly who helped him get started
    on his journey to becoming a guide or assistance dog.        

    About Puppy Hector:
    Hector was born on 17 October 2010 and is German Shepherd x Golden Retriever. He is an intelligent, lively dog destined to become a life changing partner to a person living with sight loss or a family of a child with autism.   

    The role of a Puppy Walker:
    A Volunteer PW fosters a pup
    from 8 weeks of age to 12 months. During this time, the
    pup becomes part of their lives
    at home. A PW cares for and trains the pup to become a well rounded, confident, calm, willing, mannerly and socially acceptable dog.  The main focus
    is on obedience and socialisation, ensuring the pup is comfortable in many different environments like shops, restaurants, buses, trains, busy streets and malls etc.  Also the dog must get on with and not be distracted by people and other animals.  All of this provides the pup with a solid foundation for their future training and role as a guide or assistance dog. All training is done through positive reinforcement, learning should
    be fun, "a happy pup is a willing pup".

    Supported by PW Supervisors:
    Volunteer PWs are supported by our PW Supervisors who provide training and ongoing guidance. This is done through practical Puppy Training Classes, home visits and one‐on‐one training in supermarkets, shops, train
    stations etc.  The PW Supervisors provide valuable guidance and support to help equip our Volunteers for the task at hand and to monitor each pup's progress. All veterinary fees and feeding costs are covered by The Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind along with placing pups in homes when Volunteer PW's go on holidays.

    Come on and become a Puppy Walker for Irish Guide Dogs!
    It is a commitment but one that is rewarding and great fun!
    Go to www.guidedogs.ie to apply!

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[email protected] www.puppyhector.weebly.com Hector having a snooze in his cozy dog crate after our walk and bus ride this morning