Nikki

This is Nikki, the 2nd puppy we are raising for The Seeing Eye™
Jill brought her on 1/12/05.
Nikki is 3/4 Labrador, 1/4 Golden Retriever.

Precious and Nikki

Nikki is the 2nd dog we're raising for The Seeing Eye™ . Part of our responsibility is to take her with us to as many places as we can.

Normally when we bring Nikki to church with us, we sit in the back row on the right side of the crying room. Today I moved us to the left far side. Nikki sat beautifully as commanded ... but I noticed her staring up at something over my shoulder. I turned to look ... and behind me in the corner is a statue of Jesus. He's elevated up on a table, standing taller than me, with one hand pointing to His heart and His right hand making a peace sign.

Nikki continues to stare at the statue for quite a while ... it's obvious she's uncomfortable. Finally she lays down at my feet and settles, but every now and then I catch her staring up at Jesus.

Halfway through mass, I come to a realization -- there are times that I not only give Nikki a command, but I follow up with a hand signal. Jesus was coming very close to using what I do for "sit." Poor Nikki didn't know whether to listen to me, or to Jesus! <grin>

Although taken at a different time, this picture shows her expression beautifully!

4/5/06
We learned a week ago that Nikki is due to go back to The Seeing Eye.
She will be picked up on Tuesday, April 11th. This is when I need to
remind myself that we didn't take her to get another dog for ourselves;
we are raising her to help a person who needs her more than we do.
It won't make me miss her less, but it may make it easier to let her go.

7/14/06
Last week we received a postcard "from Nikki."
Just a short note to let you know how well I am doing at school. I have adjusted well to kennel life and get along wtih all my kennel buddies. My trainer says I am bright and am learning so many new skills with an eager, happy attitude. You should be proud of your hard work in making me such a confident, obedient puppy.
with fond memories,
Nikki & Susan (trainer)

Along with the arrival date and name of our next puppy (Jamaica will join us October 16th), Jill passed on the news that Nikki is in class with a student. Lead a long and happy life as a guide for your person, my girl.
I'm so proud of you!

12/5/06
Nikki has been placed with an Analyst in Rhode Island. Remember how much I love you, Nikki; and continue to make us proud!

The Dogs We Have Raised for The Seeing Eye™:

Precious
Nikki
Anika
Jamaica
Harlow

For information on raising a puppy for The Seeing Eye, visit The Seeing Eye™