Ali is a trainer for Fidelco guide dogs. Trainers and their German Shepherd dogs are often seen around West Hartford Center. Ali told me that they take the dogs everywhere to give them a wide variety of experiences. This dog has finished its training and will be placed soon.
Fidelco is located in Bloomfield, a town just north of Hartford. Fidelco was founded in 1960 by Charles and Roberta Kaman. Charlie Kaman was an interesting guy who founded a company that makes helicopters and guitars. I really have to do a post about him some day.
22 comments:
That guide dog is gorgeous, and what a gift for someone!!
A great idea and a nice portrait. What do have in common helicopters and guitars?
this dog really does look ready. what a difference he is about to make in someone's life.
in France, we use labradors as guide dogs;I like the portrait of that girl.
I haven't seen too many German Shepherd's as guide dogs. I'm sure some one is going to have a fabulous relationship with this onw.
Great! Love German Shepherds.
Love the look of working dogs - different than pets. Look how relaxed Ali and the dog are! Wonderful portrait!
Maybe fewer people would try to come up and pet a working guide dog if the dog is a German Shepherd compared to a Lab.
Fabulous: the trainer, the dog, the image. :)
I, too, have owned several German Shepherds. Fantastic dogs! We currently have Labs that we show in Agility. Our son has two Therapy Dogs - both Labs.
This is a super post! Love it. :)
Beautiful dog, wonderful trainer and both a blessing for so many! Terrific capture, Jack, as always! I am curious about the company that makes helicopters and guitars! Intriguing combination! Look forward to a post about Mr. Kaman! Hope you've had a great week!
sylvia
Are they seeing-eye dogs or another type of helper dog? I am always amazed at how much dogs can do for people with problems - from the blind to diabetics to epileptics. I think we need to give man's best friend more credit! :)
Yes they are mostly Labs here too but they are all wonderful!
Oh, what a great job and I love her dog!!!!
It is amazing to see the helping and learning capacity of aid dogs!
Nice double portrait. We don't see a lot of German shepherds around here anymore...
A wonderful picture of two hardworking individuals!!
Nice team shot.
Strenge. Helicopters and guitars. Like Jimi said, 'scuse me while I kiss the sky.
A lovely post- I really enjoy your biogs of locals (and their owners in this case!)
I admire both the dogs and the trainers.
It's a beautiful picture, the dog is a cute friend.Ali is doing an important job there!
Léia
Charles and Roberta Kaman are good people hey Jack! I was thinking it must be hard for the trainers to say goodbye to the dogs they work with for so long.
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