Menopdating - Irvine

Pupdate 5

Hi, I’m Jade, Irvine’s Advanced Trainer. I’m preparing him to be matched with a new owner! I’ve been training guide dogs for 6 years. I love seeing the owner and dog partnership growing from strength to strength. I can’t wait to see this affectionate boy giving someone their freedom.

Finding his feet

At first, I gained Irvine’s trust by carrying out bonding activities such as grooming and visiting relaxing environments such as the coffee shop. This made sure the transition into advanced training went smoothly.

Irvine still has the big teddy bear that he’s had since puppy walking which is his all-time favourite toy. He also loves running around with fellow trainee guide dog, Scouter, a golden retriever. Irvine also has a cheeky side and likes to steal the brush from me during grooming sessions!

Making decisions

I start the day by giving Irvine a groom and health check. We jump in the car and visit environments where he will need to make complex decisions such as walking through crowds of people. Initially, Irvine liked to rush when wearing his harness but I’ve developed his patience and now he takes his time. Irvine moves around obstacles naturally and even makes sure to leave enough room for me too!

Irvine is an absolute pro on public transport, including the Tube! He tucks in under my legs so he is not in the way of other passengers. He is also starting to learn how to find the pedestrian crossing box so that his future owner can press the button to cross the road; I’m looking forward to seeing him master this skill soon.

The true test

We’ve also completed a blindfolded walk together which was a true test of Irvine’s skills. As his handler, I give off subtle body language that gives him an indication of what to do next. However, when I was blindfolded, Irvine needed to make decisions unaided. I am pleased to say he was brilliant! Irvine is known to be unsure of his harness and this has started to show again recently, I will be working on building his confidence to hopefully overcome this.

The perfect match?

Irvine will suit someone who is very calm and not in a rush so that he can relax and perform at his best.

...So, it seems that Irvine may not be quite as laid-back and serious on his task as Isaac was before him, but is still doing well. Let's finish with his latest video clip.