Seeing Eye Dog

Trekker has found a new job at our house, seeing eye dog. The vet tells us that Shiloh’s sight is getting bad and Trekker seems to feel that it is his job to assist his best buddy.

Shiloh has always believed it is his job to keep our yard clear of squirrels and rabbits. Actually he’s done a good job, but over the past months he’s begun to miss some of the invaders. Trekker, on the other hand, has never cared whether they’re in the yard or not but was aware of Shiloh’s interest. As it became apparent to all of us that Shiloh couldn’t see the distant intruder, Trekker began to sound the alarm. Trekker spots the invader and runs for Shiloh. Shiloh becomes alert and Trekker leads him to squirrel or rabbit. Then other senses seem to kick in and Shiloh is on duty. With a job well done, Trekker heads off for more interesting adventures.

The dogs were kenneled while we were in Phoenix. I was told that while gone Trekker became very protective of his older charge and did not want Shiloh out of his sight. The only way to quiet him was to place Shiloh directly across from him so that he could stand guard.

Shiloh’s aging process is sad to watch and yet it’s gratifying to watch Trekker come into his own. He doesn’t herd livestock, but instead herds his buddy so that they both fulfill their destiny.