
The first day the GDMI and dog arrive is considered day 1 of training. Most students do not work the dog on the day of arrival. Instead, they take the time to get the dog acclimated and relaxed. Before the team’s first walk, the student may participate in a “Juno” walk with the instructor holding the harness that would normally be on the dog. This allows the student to learn or refresh basic commands and proper technique for working with a guide dog.
The first routes with the dog will be easy walks to nearby destinations or a stretch of sidewalk or bike path, depends on the environment. Later, the training will progress to more demanding environments or routes. The student will also revisit previously learned routes and destinations, ensuring the dog retains them.