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Humans with CNIB Guide Dogs: Dean & Myra

A man sitting on a paddle board in a lake, with a black Labrador retriever sitting, facing him and wearing a bright yellow life vest.
"Recently, we took a board with us and Myra really enjoy riding on the board with me. We look forward to her getting more comfortable on the water this summer.” – Dean

"The three words I would use to describe Myra are curious, social, and interactive. Myra loves to explore and smell the world. When she’s working, she’s always excited to see where we go and what we may find. Riding the bus is a favourite, and she loves going for walks in the park. She is always very excited to say hello to our friends and will wiggle so hard she almost hits herself with her tail. She has also enjoyed meeting a few of the neighbourhood dogs. Myra loves to play and spend time together. Her favourite games are tug-of-war and keep away; she has a toy and wants you to catch her. In the winter, she will use me as a pillow. In the summer, she will happily bask in the sunshine. Myra has helped me look ahead, instead of down at my feet. She has helped me get out for walks and encouraged me to explore. She gives me peace of mind and, above all, helps keep me safe. She has been particularly good at helping me navigate unexpected construction sites around the neighbourhood, especially in the dark when I literally can't see anything. My wife and I like to paddle board, so we've started taking Myra to the river for 'swimming lessons'. As far as I know, Myra has never been swimming and she's undecided about being in the water. Every time we go, she seems to enjoy it a little more. Recently, we took a board with us and Myra really enjoy riding on the board with me. We look forward to her getting more comfortable on the water this summer.” – Dean