Why is a dog career changed?
A career change can happen at any stage of the dog guide program. Often times these dogs are not able to pass the scrutiny of our medical exams or personality assessments. Some dogs just don’t have the desire to work in this way, or are too interested in chasing squirrels! A common problem with large breed dogs – and the reason we career change many of our dogs – is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia ranges from minor to severe. Minor dysplasia may never result in serious problems if preventive measures, such as proper exercise and weight control, are taken. Severe dysplasia is likely to result in restrictive movement, arthritis, and possibly surgery as the dog ages.
