Looking Forward to Retirement

The bond between a guide dog and his or her handler is a strong one. They develop a sort of shorthand as they work, using subtle cues that most people don’t even notice and each is very in tune with the other. Therefore as a dog reaches retirement age, the handler is bound to notice the signs.
The guide dogs are typically matched with their handler around age two and are expected to have a working life of about eight years. As the dogs age, they may begin to show signs the handler should be aware of. These signs may be as slight as a slowing in pace or lack of enthusiasm for heading out in the world to work. But if the team ever feels in danger, retirement should proceed immediately.
There are a number of options for the dog’s retirement. If the handler has the space and means, the dog could remain with them and enjoy a life of

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