Elmo, a long-coat chihuahua, came to us from Calgary Alberta as an 8-week old puppy, and as a companion for Paddington our then 8-year old long-coat chihuahua. Elmo excelled in basic and advanced obedience classes, and even completed a rally obedience course.
Elmo is now 8 years old. A few months ago, he suddenly lost all vision and was subsequently diagnosed with sudden acquired retinal degeneration syndrome or SARDS. There is no cure, and his vision loss is permanent. So, while Elmo has an amazing mental map of our home and backyard, numerous modifications, as well as the removal of previously non-hazardous items, was needed for the safety of our newly blind dog.
In his new world, we wanted to provide Elmo with an outlet to enhance his other senses and felt tracking could achieve this. Elmo and I joined a tracking class with Gary Roe at Surrey Dog Obedience Club. As soon as the car turns down Gary’s Street, Elmo starts squeaking with excitement. I am truly amazed by Elmo’s focus and attentiveness before starting each track. Like Gary says, “he never quits, he’s always working.” Gary has provided excellent training circuits and suggestions for me as a (new) handler.
Tracking has provided a new perspective and life purpose for Elmo. It helps us focus on his abilities, rather than his disability. He enjoys the work and has become more reliant on his sense of smell in all his daily activities. I plan to keep training Elmo in tracking. With Elmo, it is my goal to apply to take the CKC tracking dog (TD) test. It is all about focusing on what he can do, rather than what he cannot, and it gives me an outlet to bond with him as we both navigate his unfortunate situation. Who knows? Perhaps we will make history being the first blind chihuahua to achieve a tracking certificate!