Here is my first story for THE RUFF TIMES...

I am an avid dog fan who enjoys their caring attitude towards their loyal owners. Jonca who is now retired was my friend Susan's Guide Dog. When I first met Jonca I was amazed at her calm demeanor considering she is a black lab. When I saw my friend Susan guide Jonca around I was amazed at the numerous commands Jonca could respond to. For instance when we went into the local community Jonca could ascend the steps, navigate the crosswalks, find the door and most of all keep Susan safe while taking a walk in the community.

Jonca who still lives with Susan is the talk of the West Valley College community(www.westvalley.edu). Jonca would wander around the classroom during the many lectures Susan would give. When Jonca was off her harness we could pat her and allow her to kiss us. On one occassion in Susan's office Jonca was laying there and she put her paw on me as if to say" Pet me" . So I took the tame to give Jonca a nice belly rub and she gave me so many kissess. I could sense her warmth and her caring attitude towards people who took thec chance to get to know her.

Jonca will forever be one of the most memorable dogs around town. She really has made this community a better place to live in for a person who is blind. I am always amazed at how fast dogs can learn the commands and execute them under stressful situations.

I urge you to volunteer and raise a puppy for the California Guide Dogs for the Blind located in San Rafael CA. You will be doing a great service to the community while enjoying the companion of Men's Best Friend. But I will warn you that when it comes time to give the pet to the new owner there will be a sense of sadness as well as happiness that you have dedicated the many hours working with the dog for a person who could really use that extra support.

by Daniel Dogman - Reporter at Large - December 2008