en-gb 60 Copyright ipadio 2013 Sun, 19 May 2013 02:31:20 GMT nonadult 34 http://www.ipadio.com/channels/MikeBrace Mike Brace, CEO of Vision 2020 and former Paralympian Skier describes starting life with a new guide dog. Mike Brace, CEO of Vision 2020 and former Paralympian Skier describes starting life with a new guide dog. Mike Brace Mike Brace support@ipadio.com no https://223bf21a13a38d650902-d6d97ab60f88237af384ae0566df7995.ssl.cf3.rackcdn.com/legacy/images/userchannelimage10_16-Aug-10-17-08-32.jpghttp://www.ipadio.com/channels/MikeBrace 46325 I think it is time to hang up the phone. Izzy went to the theater, many meetings, and of course the gym! She was not phased by big bangs unlike me, and did better on routes and walking on the lead. Many thanks for listening and for contacting me with encouragement tips and advice. my contact details are: m.brace@vision2020uk.org.uk so its good night from her (Izzy) and its good night from me! I think it is time to hang up the phone. Izzy went to the theater,... I think it is time to hang up the phone. Izzy went to the theater, many meetings, and of course the gym! She was not phased by big bangs unlike me, and did better on routes and walking on the lead. Many thanks for listening and for contacting me with encouragement tips and advice. my contact details are: m.brace@vision2020uk.org.uk so its good night from her (Izzy) and its good night from me! Sun, 07 Nov 2010 22:16:22 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-46325 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/11/7/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--38th-phonecast 45482 One of the most challenging yet as Izzy was ill! A week where puke, pooh and a trip to the vet are the main highlights, As well as 3 working trips where she did well if a bit disinterested on one occasion. Have a busy week ahead so hope she is well. Also thought fopr the week, how do Vision Impaired dog owners cope with the messing and the sickness when they have no sighted help or other half to spot it and assist in clearing it up? One of the most challenging yet as Izzy was ill! A week where puke,... One of the most challenging yet as Izzy was ill! A week where puke, pooh and a trip to the vet are the main highlights, As well as 3 working trips where she did well if a bit disinterested on one occasion. Have a busy week ahead so hope she is well. Also thought fopr the week, how do Vision Impaired dog owners cope with the messing and the sickness when they have no sighted help or other half to spot it and assist in clearing it up? Sun, 31 Oct 2010 21:33:25 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-45482 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/31/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--36th-phonecast 44456 Well another incredibly busy week with Izzy doing most things really well and me not doing so bad either! However a few situations where Izzy was either losing concentration or confidence on jhourneys that she has now done several times. Kept reinforcing and will check this out with the trainer tomorrow to see if there is anything further I need to do. Mainly on the route to the gym. Also experienced a bit of a strain in a social setting with my wife having to guide me and Izzy whilst holding 2 glasses of wine- not easy! Also found that I was caught out a bit in the gents toilets in that with a stick I was pretty good at finding the urinals and sinks but with the dog it is much more difficult! had a late night too with Izzy getting home at 3.30 am and then she still was up to taking me down to the gym that afternoon. must remember to ask the trainer tomorrow about using the dog whilst carrying wine and about gents toilets! Well another incredibly busy week with Izzy doing most things really... Well another incredibly busy week with Izzy doing most things really well and me not doing so bad either! However a few situations where Izzy was either losing concentration or confidence on jhourneys that she has now done several times. Kept reinforcing and will check this out with the trainer tomorrow to see if there is anything further I need to do. Mainly on the route to the gym. Also experienced a bit of a strain in a social setting with my wife having to guide me and Izzy whilst holding 2 glasses of wine- not easy! Also found that I was caught out a bit in the gents toilets in that with a stick I was pretty good at finding the urinals and sinks but with the dog it is much more difficult! had a late night too with Izzy getting home at 3.30 am and then she still was up to taking me down to the gym that afternoon. must remember to ask the trainer tomorrow about using the dog whilst carrying wine and about gents toilets! Sun, 24 Oct 2010 17:00:39 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-44456 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/24/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--35th-phonecast 43593 Well the last week with Izzy has been really quite illuminating. I have seen different sides to Izzy with her working well on most occasions and then, after a late night, reluctant to get out of bed! The past Monday and Tuesday were busy with trips each day by bus into romford, and then on monday up to Kings cross via taxi and then tubes. Tuesday we came home and then just as Izzy thought it was time for her dinner I took her off to the Gym. She worked well there despite a rumbling stomach but when we came home we got lost or so I thought. we had a difference of opinion which way to go from the Gym and then when I thought we were going in the right direction I heard loud music coming from a building in front of me. We went back and forwards and in the end asked for directions. We had indeed been going right but the circus had been erected next to the park path we used and the evening performance was in operation! Wednesday involved trips to Bakers Street and Edgware road which went well and then Thursday it was our first trip to an area neither of us knew near Westminster. We then went on London Eye and on the Sunday a boat trip down the Thames, quite a lot for a dog to cope with!! Next week it is more trips to London, our first train journey together, a reception at the House of Commons Speaker's residence, and finishing off with a late party on Saturday, more next week. Well the last week with Izzy has been really quite illuminating. I... Well the last week with Izzy has been really quite illuminating. I have seen different sides to Izzy with her working well on most occasions and then, after a late night, reluctant to get out of bed! The past Monday and Tuesday were busy with trips each day by bus into romford, and then on monday up to Kings cross via taxi and then tubes. Tuesday we came home and then just as Izzy thought it was time for her dinner I took her off to the Gym. She worked well there despite a rumbling stomach but when we came home we got lost or so I thought. we had a difference of opinion which way to go from the Gym and then when I thought we were going in the right direction I heard loud music coming from a building in front of me. We went back and forwards and in the end asked for directions. We had indeed been going right but the circus had been erected next to the park path we used and the evening performance was in operation! Wednesday involved trips to Bakers Street and Edgware road which went well and then Thursday it was our first trip to an area neither of us knew near Westminster. We then went on London Eye and on the Sunday a boat trip down the Thames, quite a lot for a dog to cope with!! Next week it is more trips to London, our first train journey together, a reception at the House of Commons Speaker's residence, and finishing off with a late party on Saturday, more next week. Sun, 17 Oct 2010 21:09:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-43593 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/17/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-27 circus, westminster, guide dog owner 51.5063 -0.12714 42569 The past 4 days since the last phlog have been very interesting indeed. After the Trauma of the journey last Tuesday with me and Izzy stuck on the tube for 3 hours Wednesday was fairly straight forward with us going via district and the dreaded Hammersmith line again up to Kings Cross. Thursday saw us doing a completely new route to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists at Baker Street. We managed the stairs at West Ham sation onto the Jubillee line which run up between the escalators and then at Baker Street found there was no stairway up! I learned how to pick Izzy up in my arms and she lay there like the queen of sheebah with her head lolling on my shoulder. It was disconcerting feeling for the escalator with my feet instead of a stick and not being able to hold the hand rail was also a bit scarey! They are looking to change the byelaws where dogs have to be carried on escalators - yes I know the old joke about waiting at the top of an escalator for hours until a dog comes along! But until that happens we have to carry them. once the change happens I expect I will be trained how to get Izzy on and off the escalator without a problem! Most days from now on are likely to be pretty similar so I propose to record my phlogs weekly and if anyone wants to email me please do at m.brace@vision2020uk.org.uk next week I have trips every day to London, a trip to the Olympic and Paralympic site, An event on the London Eye and finishing the week with a boat trip and lunch on the thames I'll let you know how I and Izzy cope next week. The past 4 days since the last phlog have been very interesting... The past 4 days since the last phlog have been very interesting indeed. After the Trauma of the journey last Tuesday with me and Izzy stuck on the tube for 3 hours Wednesday was fairly straight forward with us going via district and the dreaded Hammersmith line again up to Kings Cross. Thursday saw us doing a completely new route to the Royal College of Ophthalmologists at Baker Street. We managed the stairs at West Ham sation onto the Jubillee line which run up between the escalators and then at Baker Street found there was no stairway up! I learned how to pick Izzy up in my arms and she lay there like the queen of sheebah with her head lolling on my shoulder. It was disconcerting feeling for the escalator with my feet instead of a stick and not being able to hold the hand rail was also a bit scarey! They are looking to change the byelaws where dogs have to be carried on escalators - yes I know the old joke about waiting at the top of an escalator for hours until a dog comes along! But until that happens we have to carry them. once the change happens I expect I will be trained how to get Izzy on and off the escalator without a problem! Most days from now on are likely to be pretty similar so I propose to record my phlogs weekly and if anyone wants to email me please do at m.brace@vision2020uk.org.uk next week I have trips every day to London, a trip to the Olympic and Paralympic site, An event on the London Eye and finishing the week with a boat trip and lunch on the thames I'll let you know how I and Izzy cope next week. Sun, 10 Oct 2010 20:25:14 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-42569 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/10/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--33rd-phonecast jubilee line, baker street, last tuesday 51.5349 -0.12359 41879 Three days of different experiences. Sunday after the successes of our maiden voyage together we had a day at home with a calm walk around the block. Day 2 coincided with the tube strike so instead of getting on the tubes to go on our first day at work to Kings Cross, we went to the park to check on a route to the pub. We soon learned that the path we needed was flooded when Izzy returned covered in dirt, water and I think several types of pooh! She then rolled in other kinds and presented herself proudly to us! we then walked back much to her disgust slowly and doing a bit of a divert via Tesco's carpark! Day 3, which was our first proper trip to London together, ended with me taking 3 hours to get to Kings cross and Izzy sleeping on the floor of the tube train for most of it! we then went by taxi to a university which took an hour, she then sat through four hours of meetings with a short break and then another hour in the taxi home! she was fine! however she had water and went to the toilet whereby I just had to hold on have no drink and get back in the taxi! it's a dog's life! Three days of different experiences. Sunday after the successes of... Three days of different experiences. Sunday after the successes of our maiden voyage together we had a day at home with a calm walk around the block. Day 2 coincided with the tube strike so instead of getting on the tubes to go on our first day at work to Kings Cross, we went to the park to check on a route to the pub. We soon learned that the path we needed was flooded when Izzy returned covered in dirt, water and I think several types of pooh! She then rolled in other kinds and presented herself proudly to us! we then walked back much to her disgust slowly and doing a bit of a divert via Tesco's carpark! Day 3, which was our first proper trip to London together, ended with me taking 3 hours to get to Kings cross and Izzy sleeping on the floor of the tube train for most of it! we then went by taxi to a university which took an hour, she then sat through four hours of meetings with a short break and then another hour in the taxi home! she was fine! however she had water and went to the toilet whereby I just had to hold on have no drink and get back in the taxi! it's a dog's life! Tue, 05 Oct 2010 20:21:50 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-41879 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/5/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--32nd-phonecast 41374 Well have just returned from my maiden voyage with Izzy to the Gym. Today is the first time I have been out of my home alone without my white cane for nearly 50 years. The route is difficult but she managed it with only one or two small problems which we solved pretty easily. We missed the pavement leading to the sports centre but I soon realised Izzy was following two football players and got her back on the right path. We then nearly missed the path to the Sports Centre as Izzy was intent on getting into someone's car right by the entrance. The staff were good looking after Izzy and I phoned my wife from the changing room to have someone share this emotional and monumental moment. Unfortunately she was out shopping so I had a tearful minute in the changing rooms on my own before pulling myself together and getting on with my training. When I came out Izzy was being adored by the staff! As she is an absolute Star it is only her due. So am back home now, elated, emotional and very proud of my dog Izzy!! Well have just returned from my maiden voyage with Izzy to the Gym.... Well have just returned from my maiden voyage with Izzy to the Gym. Today is the first time I have been out of my home alone without my white cane for nearly 50 years. The route is difficult but she managed it with only one or two small problems which we solved pretty easily. We missed the pavement leading to the sports centre but I soon realised Izzy was following two football players and got her back on the right path. We then nearly missed the path to the Sports Centre as Izzy was intent on getting into someone's car right by the entrance. The staff were good looking after Izzy and I phoned my wife from the changing room to have someone share this emotional and monumental moment. Unfortunately she was out shopping so I had a tearful minute in the changing rooms on my own before pulling myself together and getting on with my training. When I came out Izzy was being adored by the staff! As she is an absolute Star it is only her due. So am back home now, elated, emotional and very proud of my dog Izzy!! Sat, 02 Oct 2010 14:09:55 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-41374 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/2/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--31st-phonecast 41358 Well yesterday was again very interesting. I did some more bus work and because the buses were different Izzy tried to get off where we got on and having got the lead and harness rapped around an innocent passenger he and we nearly got off together which was sad as he was travelling further on! The other thing yesterday which was really interesting was that I think it was the first time I've been out in the rain with Izzy, and realised why I could not use an umbrella because I had to use my hands to signal to Izzy! Also we have got into the habit of her going into her spending run not on the lead. I took her there this morning and went off to make the tea and when I came back she was not in the pen waiting. I reached over, but shock horror, no dog! I then felt a nudge by my leg only to find that Izzy had not gone into the pen at all and had been around the garden and was eagerly looking into the pen to see what I was looking at! Silly me! Well yesterday was again very interesting. I did some more bus work... Well yesterday was again very interesting. I did some more bus work and because the buses were different Izzy tried to get off where we got on and having got the lead and harness rapped around an innocent passenger he and we nearly got off together which was sad as he was travelling further on! The other thing yesterday which was really interesting was that I think it was the first time I've been out in the rain with Izzy, and realised why I could not use an umbrella because I had to use my hands to signal to Izzy! Also we have got into the habit of her going into her spending run not on the lead. I took her there this morning and went off to make the tea and when I came back she was not in the pen waiting. I reached over, but shock horror, no dog! I then felt a nudge by my leg only to find that Izzy had not gone into the pen at all and had been around the garden and was eagerly looking into the pen to see what I was looking at! Silly me! Sat, 02 Oct 2010 09:34:07 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-41358 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/2/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--30th-phonecast 51.385 -2.36132 41247 Well today's work with Izzy has been largely around My home area. We went up to Elm Park on the bus and coincidentally met another guide dog owner and her dog of course. We got off at the stop and then we did some refresher work really with Izzy going to have a look at the post office and the bank and the baker's all of which she found perfectly and she'd only been there once before about 3 weeks ago! So we managed to find all of the counters and do the posting and banking.We walked back from the station and again she went around obstacles on the pavement. Also had vet issues to discuss and learn about which was facinating. Well today's work with Izzy has been largely around My home area. We... Well today's work with Izzy has been largely around My home area. We went up to Elm Park on the bus and coincidentally met another guide dog owner and her dog of course. We got off at the stop and then we did some refresher work really with Izzy going to have a look at the post office and the bank and the baker's all of which she found perfectly and she'd only been there once before about 3 weeks ago! So we managed to find all of the counters and do the posting and banking.We walked back from the station and again she went around obstacles on the pavement. Also had vet issues to discuss and learn about which was facinating. Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:09:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-41247 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/10/01/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-22 elm park, izzy, dog owner 40968 Today was one of the most challenging to date not so much regarding me and Izzy but the environment I was asking her to navigate. I had a meeting at offices near Traffalgar Square which entailed going via embankment tube up to the strand, over Traffalgar Square to the offices. I felt pretty stressed out with the noise and the crouds but Izzy seemed unphased by it all. Even found a tree area for her to spend near the office and then back home. Today was one of the most challenging to date not so much regarding... Today was one of the most challenging to date not so much regarding me and Izzy but the environment I was asking her to navigate. I had a meeting at offices near Traffalgar Square which entailed going via embankment tube up to the strand, over Traffalgar Square to the offices. I felt pretty stressed out with the noise and the crouds but Izzy seemed unphased by it all. Even found a tree area for her to spend near the office and then back home. Wed, 29 Sep 2010 08:27:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-40968 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/29/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-21 40770 Today Izzy and I were assessed as to how we were doing and we passed! I signed the guide dog agreement and paid my 50 pence - well worth it! We travelled from home to RNIB at Judd Street with the trainer and an assessor. There were a couple of mistakes/divergencies but Izzy coped well with them and showed that we worked as a team with me exercising control and Izzy exercising her superior brain power and common sense. Also her rubber Chicken sadly announced a few days ago as giving up the ghost, has mirraculously risen from the dead and is now alive and squaking well! Also did some new routes to Euston mainline station as well which proved much easier than expected. Felt somewhat emotional today when we passed and I got my badge. Didn't think I would have been quite so moved! Today Izzy and I were assessed as to how we were doing and we passed!... Today Izzy and I were assessed as to how we were doing and we passed! I signed the guide dog agreement and paid my 50 pence - well worth it! We travelled from home to RNIB at Judd Street with the trainer and an assessor. There were a couple of mistakes/divergencies but Izzy coped well with them and showed that we worked as a team with me exercising control and Izzy exercising her superior brain power and common sense. Also her rubber Chicken sadly announced a few days ago as giving up the ghost, has mirraculously risen from the dead and is now alive and squaking well! Also did some new routes to Euston mainline station as well which proved much easier than expected. Felt somewhat emotional today when we passed and I got my badge. Didn't think I would have been quite so moved! Mon, 27 Sep 2010 18:53:02 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-40770 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/9/27/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--27th-phonecast 40489 Well just back from the Caravan. Krissie the guide dog trainer came all the way down to Northampton to help re routes there which are quite difficult in that there are no pavements and we needed to ensure that Izzy's traffic awareness and caution was not impaired by us walking towards moving cars. She was very interested in ducks, geese, swans, squirrels and of course anyone that came bye. With no landmarks for me to identify easily other than speed humps it was largely down to repeatedly going over the routes with Izzy and she then learned them pretty quickly. we erected a temporary spending pen which she ignored and got back to her old tricks of getting onto the settee which of course was our fault as we did not put any barriers up as at home so who's fault is it then? big test tomorrow re regular routes and going to Kings Cross so fingers crossed! Well just back from the Caravan. Krissie the guide dog trainer came... Well just back from the Caravan. Krissie the guide dog trainer came all the way down to Northampton to help re routes there which are quite difficult in that there are no pavements and we needed to ensure that Izzy's traffic awareness and caution was not impaired by us walking towards moving cars. She was very interested in ducks, geese, swans, squirrels and of course anyone that came bye. With no landmarks for me to identify easily other than speed humps it was largely down to repeatedly going over the routes with Izzy and she then learned them pretty quickly. we erected a temporary spending pen which she ignored and got back to her old tricks of getting onto the settee which of course was our fault as we did not put any barriers up as at home so who's fault is it then? big test tomorrow re regular routes and going to Kings Cross so fingers crossed! Sun, 26 Sep 2010 20:37:30 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-40489 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/9/26/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--26th-phonecast 42.9735 -70.8335 40488 havbe had 2 very interesting days and experienced very much what it will be like in the future as both days had meetings, deadlines and a few issues. Spending or the lack of it was an issue again but that is usual I believe! Krissie and Izzy got into the pit again and I also used my stick (encouraged by Krissie) to orientate myself for one route section which I could not quite visualise with the dog. Trains were really crowded which changed things a bit re Izzy getting her tail out of the way of the closing doors, people standing on her and time scales ie having to allow more time with the dog than when I used the cane. havbe had 2 very interesting days and experienced very much what it... havbe had 2 very interesting days and experienced very much what it will be like in the future as both days had meetings, deadlines and a few issues. Spending or the lack of it was an issue again but that is usual I believe! Krissie and Izzy got into the pit again and I also used my stick (encouraged by Krissie) to orientate myself for one route section which I could not quite visualise with the dog. Trains were really crowded which changed things a bit re Izzy getting her tail out of the way of the closing doors, people standing on her and time scales ie having to allow more time with the dog than when I used the cane. Sun, 26 Sep 2010 20:28:05 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-40488 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/9/26/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--25th-phonecast 39848 Well we've had another good day of mainly familiarising again over one or two routes that we already used before. And interestingly finding new challenges or differences on both routes. First route was to approach the area where she would normally have a free run on the weekend but not obviously going to the park itself. So we had a different approach this time to find a little alleyway near where I live that would bring us down to the main road which leads to the park. There were some interesting roads with very rounded corners. So no easy straight bits for Izzy to direct me. Well we've had another good day of mainly familiarising again over... Well we've had another good day of mainly familiarising again over one or two routes that we already used before. And interestingly finding new challenges or differences on both routes. First route was to approach the area where she would normally have a free run on the weekend but not obviously going to the park itself. So we had a different approach this time to find a little alleyway near where I live that would bring us down to the main road which leads to the park. There were some interesting roads with very rounded corners. So no easy straight bits for Izzy to direct me. Tue, 21 Sep 2010 21:18:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-39848 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/21/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-17 ricing, challenges 39749 today we did a new route up to st. Dunstans at Edgware Road. Izzy coped with the station like a veteran, and then we were faced with a new problem at the station ie a blocked pavement. No easy crossings and therefore had to seek assistance to get across a main road and then was fine down to the crossing and up to St. Dunstans. We then had the proverbial ongoing issue of finding somewhere for madam, ie Izzy to spend! She would not go and we managed to get home with Izzy clenching her bottom and us clenching our teeth! today we did a new route up to st. Dunstans at Edgware Road. Izzy... today we did a new route up to st. Dunstans at Edgware Road. Izzy coped with the station like a veteran, and then we were faced with a new problem at the station ie a blocked pavement. No easy crossings and therefore had to seek assistance to get across a main road and then was fine down to the crossing and up to St. Dunstans. We then had the proverbial ongoing issue of finding somewhere for madam, ie Izzy to spend! She would not go and we managed to get home with Izzy clenching her bottom and us clenching our teeth! Mon, 20 Sep 2010 22:24:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-39749 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/20/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-16 39447 I havbe just returned from a great weekend where I learned a lot re Izzy. I initially got refused entry into a restaurant, found out that Izzy is good with small children, frightened of cats, especially those that spit at her, and also realised that she can't walk backwards out of tight corners which she got herself into trying to avoid the cat! Also I have to sadly announce the untimely demise of Izzy's favourite toy, a rubber chicken! I havbe just returned from a great weekend where I learned a lot re... I havbe just returned from a great weekend where I learned a lot re Izzy. I initially got refused entry into a restaurant, found out that Izzy is good with small children, frightened of cats, especially those that spit at her, and also realised that she can't walk backwards out of tight corners which she got herself into trying to avoid the cat! Also I have to sadly announce the untimely demise of Izzy's favourite toy, a rubber chicken! Sun, 19 Sep 2010 17:28:53 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-39447 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/9/19/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog--22nd-phonecast 39439 One Man and his Guide Dog - Episode 14. Today's work with Izzy has again been spectacular with she and I undertaking a route from Canary Warf Station to the London 2012 offices that neither of us had ever been over before. Getting her to spend was also an issue and we found a dog pit but Izzy was not that impressed with it and wouldn't go! Krissie even got into the pit ()a picture which I took of her is coming - not bad for a totally blind photographer even though I do say myself) but still Izzy wouldn't perform. Krissie definitely went that extra mile! we used lifts for the first time and found central stairways and talked a bit about dogs being carried on escalators! One Man and his Guide Dog - Episode 14. Today's work with Izzy has... One Man and his Guide Dog - Episode 14. Today's work with Izzy has again been spectacular with she and I undertaking a route from Canary Warf Station to the London 2012 offices that neither of us had ever been over before. Getting her to spend was also an issue and we found a dog pit but Izzy was not that impressed with it and wouldn't go! Krissie even got into the pit ()a picture which I took of her is coming - not bad for a totally blind photographer even though I do say myself) but still Izzy wouldn't perform. Krissie definitely went that extra mile! we used lifts for the first time and found central stairways and talked a bit about dogs being carried on escalators! Sun, 19 Sep 2010 17:21:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-39439 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/19/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-14 38993 Well today's training was also really interesting. I had a different trainer with me for the first time and I think that made me a bit nervous in terms of obviously trying to perform adequately making sure that Izzy was on good form and I think we probably didn't have the best of routes to start with. The other day when I did the free running with Izzy we went through a difficult route by the Supermarket to the park. There appeared to be a better alternative route which meant crossing my road and then down a side road, past the school and then down an alliway near a crossing. We had difficulty finding the right place to cross but Izzy managed the barrier fencing fantastically so not perhaps our best day! Well today's training was also really interesting. I had a different... Well today's training was also really interesting. I had a different trainer with me for the first time and I think that made me a bit nervous in terms of obviously trying to perform adequately making sure that Izzy was on good form and I think we probably didn't have the best of routes to start with. The other day when I did the free running with Izzy we went through a difficult route by the Supermarket to the park. There appeared to be a better alternative route which meant crossing my road and then down a side road, past the school and then down an alliway near a crossing. We had difficulty finding the right place to cross but Izzy managed the barrier fencing fantastically so not perhaps our best day! Thu, 16 Sep 2010 22:25:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38993 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/16/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-13 t text, supermarket, little bit 38795 I think the key words from today's training with Izzy, are public transport, dogs being dogs and socialization and perhaps jealousy! This morning we did the first part of training on public transport and that went really smoothly. We walked to the local station at Elm Park and she did that almost perfectly. I mean really difficult crossings fiding areas to cross etc. she found the gate. First time instead of vearing over to the shops! Superb! Down to the front of the train and then the process is when the train comes in you tell the dog to find the doors. Izzy came up to the door, paused on the brink of the tube step so you can locate the step and go in. She then found a seat which is no mean feat at the best of times! I think the key words from today's training with Izzy, are public... I think the key words from today's training with Izzy, are public transport, dogs being dogs and socialization and perhaps jealousy! This morning we did the first part of training on public transport and that went really smoothly. We walked to the local station at Elm Park and she did that almost perfectly. I mean really difficult crossings fiding areas to cross etc. she found the gate. First time instead of vearing over to the shops! Superb! Down to the front of the train and then the process is when the train comes in you tell the dog to find the doors. Izzy came up to the door, paused on the brink of the tube step so you can locate the step and go in. She then found a seat which is no mean feat at the best of times! Wed, 15 Sep 2010 08:51:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38795 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/15/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-12 public transports, difficult crossing, elm park 40.6321 -74.1351 38596 Well today's training really was quite interesting. We went down to the gym and that was quite illuminating. It involved finding a very difficult area to cross a slip road onto a bridge. It was difficult to find with a stick and equally unclear with the dog. I should have had more confidence in Izzy as I think we have found a route and we will put it to the test on Wednesday when we try the route again! Having managed the Bridge we then had to walk through a very narrow pavement area with loads of cars parked very close on the pavement. There were three side roads to cross which were very noisy! Well today's training really was quite interesting. We went down to... Well today's training really was quite interesting. We went down to the gym and that was quite illuminating. It involved finding a very difficult area to cross a slip road onto a bridge. It was difficult to find with a stick and equally unclear with the dog. I should have had more confidence in Izzy as I think we have found a route and we will put it to the test on Wednesday when we try the route again! Having managed the Bridge we then had to walk through a very narrow pavement area with loads of cars parked very close on the pavement. There were three side roads to cross which were very noisy! Mon, 13 Sep 2010 20:04:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38596 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/13/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-11 narrow areas, slip road, traffic areas 38501 Well we've just had a wonderful weekend with Izzy and I think the key words really summing up the weekend have been orientation skills, fun and the integration of Izzy into your lifestyle. I think that there's some interesting issues that have arisen. Firstly on the orientation skills. When I first thought of having a dog, I think I erroneously thought that basically I would rely on the dog to do ost of the work and decision making! the dog would do everything and that basically all I would do is walk along behind her. I wouldn't need to use most of the other techniques and skills I had built up over the past 50 years using a white cane. Well we've just had a wonderful weekend with Izzy and I think the key... Well we've just had a wonderful weekend with Izzy and I think the key words really summing up the weekend have been orientation skills, fun and the integration of Izzy into your lifestyle. I think that there's some interesting issues that have arisen. Firstly on the orientation skills. When I first thought of having a dog, I think I erroneously thought that basically I would rely on the dog to do ost of the work and decision making! the dog would do everything and that basically all I would do is walk along behind her. I wouldn't need to use most of the other techniques and skills I had built up over the past 50 years using a white cane. Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:44:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38501 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/13/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-10 orientation skills, wonderful weekend, key words 38355 Well this is the end of the fifth day of my training with Izzy and I think the keywords to think about today have been trust and I suppose the role of other interested parties in this case my wife. The trust issue was very interesting today. I thought it might be an issue for me having been a white cane user for so many years and it was really interesting today on an area that I knew well but the dog knew less well. I found myself trying to preempt what the dog was doing and where it was going. So I was almost trying to correct it at times wrongly and other times correctly because I knew the environment and what should happen! Well this is the end of the fifth day of my training with Izzy and I... Well this is the end of the fifth day of my training with Izzy and I think the keywords to think about today have been trust and I suppose the role of other interested parties in this case my wife. The trust issue was very interesting today. I thought it might be an issue for me having been a white cane user for so many years and it was really interesting today on an area that I knew well but the dog knew less well. I found myself trying to preempt what the dog was doing and where it was going. So I was almost trying to correct it at times wrongly and other times correctly because I knew the environment and what should happen! Sun, 12 Sep 2010 09:45:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38355 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/12/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-9 other interested parties, izzy and trust 38062 Well, I've just finished the fourth day of my training with Izzy and she's now just flopped down at my feet under the table while I'm sitting at my computer desk. She is pretty shattered and I must admit so am I. It's been a really exhilarating day though, because we really did work quite hard this morning. We were doing some areas around where I live and I think Guide Dogs are going to adopt the Elm Park shopping area, as it's probably the best training point for guide dogs in Essex. It really is quite hazardous, quite difficult and I must admit, I think I was quite anxious, but also really interested and I had "my fingers crossed" that Izzy would rise to the challenge. Well, I've just finished the fourth day of my training with Izzy and... Well, I've just finished the fourth day of my training with Izzy and she's now just flopped down at my feet under the table while I'm sitting at my computer desk. She is pretty shattered and I must admit so am I. It's been a really exhilarating day though, because we really did work quite hard this morning. We were doing some areas around where I live and I think Guide Dogs are going to adopt the Elm Park shopping area, as it's probably the best training point for guide dogs in Essex. It really is quite hazardous, quite difficult and I must admit, I think I was quite anxious, but also really interested and I had "my fingers crossed" that Izzy would rise to the challenge. Thu, 09 Sep 2010 18:20:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-38062 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/09/One-Man-and-His-Guide-Dog-Episode-8 feet under the table, guide dogs, elm park 51.5466948 0.2069435 37946 With day 3 of my training just about coming to a close it's been quite an eventful day. I got up this morning earlier as we had a slightly earlier start and I think I mentioned yesterday that Izzy had been on the settee. We were advised to put stuff on the settee to put her off from getting on there which we duly did. We put a washing basket on there and a stool and some papers. So we thought that was pretty fail safe. I then came down to find the dog had then been on the chair. Now that probably was our fault. In that we didn't put the same barricades on the chair to tell her she shouldn't go on there. But I did have to tell her off later when I found her on there again!. With day 3 of my training just about coming to a close it's been... With day 3 of my training just about coming to a close it's been quite an eventful day. I got up this morning earlier as we had a slightly earlier start and I think I mentioned yesterday that Izzy had been on the settee. We were advised to put stuff on the settee to put her off from getting on there which we duly did. We put a washing basket on there and a stool and some papers. So we thought that was pretty fail safe. I then came down to find the dog had then been on the chair. Now that probably was our fault. In that we didn't put the same barricades on the chair to tell her she shouldn't go on there. But I did have to tell her off later when I found her on there again!. Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:08:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-37946 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/08/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-7 stool, barricades, settee 37740 Day 2 of Mike's training with Izzy. Mike has been putting her through her paces... or has Izzy been putting Mike through his? Day 2 of Mike's training with Izzy. Mike has been putting her through... Day 2 of Mike's training with Izzy. Mike has been putting her through her paces... or has Izzy been putting Mike through his? Tue, 07 Sep 2010 18:26:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-37740 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/07/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-6 37622 Izzy arrived to start her life with Mike, bit of a pen trauma, but Guide Dogs helped out with a temporary one. Man and dog getting to know each other. Izzy arrived to start her life with Mike, bit of a pen trauma, but... Izzy arrived to start her life with Mike, bit of a pen trauma, but Guide Dogs helped out with a temporary one. Man and dog getting to know each other. Mon, 06 Sep 2010 17:07:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-37622 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/09/06/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-5 guide dogs 51.5466948 0.2069435 36734 Hi, it's now 7 days to go before Izzy arrives and I'm getting very excited. I feel a little bit like grandparents or the parents of a newborn child cos I just come back from a shopping trip. Instead of buying booties and wondering which color of outfit to get a child I've just been out deciding on the size and color of a dog bed or dog beds in this case cos I need one for the caravan and one for home. I then been looking at fleeces and squeaky toys. I bought her an elephant and a duck. I'm not sure if that's right given that there's ducks down the caravan! So she has 2 toys that she can play with a bowl for food and drink, a bone and all sorts of things including something called a cigar and I've just spent over £100 on Izzy for her arrival. I've got the men coming from the local fencing company tomorrow to look at the options of building a pen for her to go and spend in in the garden on the driveway and I'll obviously see what they'll come up with tomorrow, but hopefully they'll have something before she arrives on September 4th. I haven't quite got to having pictures of her in my wallet yet but I think its only a matter of time, I've already got some pictures of her that are doing the rounds not just on the website but obviously I'm sending them via e-mail. So as you can gather I'm getting very excited, and very soppy about the prospect of getting a dog. She's now got a bed, a fleece, toys, her bowls, got her drinking bowls and eating bowls and ones I can carry around with me that are light for me to carry. I think I'm all set I'll let people know what will happen after the pen builders have been and Izzy should be with me Saturday 4th. Hi, it's now 7 days to go before Izzy arrives and I'm getting very... Hi, it's now 7 days to go before Izzy arrives and I'm getting very excited. I feel a little bit like grandparents or the parents of a newborn child cos I just come back from a shopping trip. Instead of buying booties and wondering which color of outfit to get a child I've just been out deciding on the size and color of a dog bed or dog beds in this case cos I need one for the caravan and one for home. I then been looking at fleeces and squeaky toys. I bought her an elephant and a duck. I'm not sure if that's right given that there's ducks down the caravan! So she has 2 toys that she can play with a bowl for food and drink, a bone and all sorts of things including something called a cigar and I've just spent over £100 on Izzy for her arrival. I've got the men coming from the local fencing company tomorrow to look at the options of building a pen for her to go and spend in in the garden on the driveway and I'll obviously see what they'll come up with tomorrow, but hopefully they'll have something before she arrives on September 4th. I haven't quite got to having pictures of her in my wallet yet but I think its only a matter of time, I've already got some pictures of her that are doing the rounds not just on the website but obviously I'm sending them via e-mail. So as you can gather I'm getting very excited, and very soppy about the prospect of getting a dog. She's now got a bed, a fleece, toys, her bowls, got her drinking bowls and eating bowls and ones I can carry around with me that are light for me to carry. I think I'm all set I'll let people know what will happen after the pen builders have been and Izzy should be with me Saturday 4th. Fri, 27 Aug 2010 16:38:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-36734 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/08/27/One-Man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-4 squeaky toys, newborn child, booties 36233 Mike describes how his life will be affected with the arrival of his new guide dog Izzy. He describes how he lost his sight when he was 10. Mike describes how his life will be affected with the arrival of his... Mike describes how his life will be affected with the arrival of his new guide dog Izzy. He describes how he lost his sight when he was 10. Sun, 22 Aug 2010 19:56:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-36233 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/08/22/One-man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-3 35833 Mike meets Izzy for the first time - a quite emotional moment. The guide dog needs to match the person and today was the big day. Looks like Izzy and Mike worked well together. Mike meets Izzy for the first time - a quite emotional moment. The... Mike meets Izzy for the first time - a quite emotional moment. The guide dog needs to match the person and today was the big day. Looks like Izzy and Mike worked well together. Tue, 17 Aug 2010 18:40:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-35833 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/08/17/One-man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-2 51.5466948 0.2069435 35742 Hi this is Mike Brace doing my first phonecast. It's ironic actually choosing today to do it because I'm on the eve of quite a monumental decision- shall I get a Guide Dog?.... Hi this is Mike Brace doing my first phonecast. It's ironic actually... Hi this is Mike Brace doing my first phonecast. It's ironic actually choosing today to do it because I'm on the eve of quite a monumental decision- shall I get a Guide Dog?.... Mon, 16 Aug 2010 15:18:00 GMT http://www.ipadio.com-35742 http://www.ipadio.com/broadcasts/MikeBrace/2010/08/16/One-man-and-his-Guide-Dog-Episode-1 monumental decision, guide dog, eve