Seeing Eye Dog - Ulrick
Overseas,
Belgian Shepherd Dogs have been used for many years as Therapy
and Assistance Dogs for people with physical or sensory
disabilities. In Australia, being a relatively new breed (in
comparison to many others), they have only recently been
recognised as able to perform these tasks.
In the last couple of years Seeing Eye Dogs Australia have
included a small number of Belgian Shepherds (Groenendaels &
Malinois) in their training program, to date two Groenendaels
have successfully completed training and are now fully working
Seeing Eye Dogs.
Mirribandi Xtra Vision
Dam: Aust Ch Mirribandi Kiara Vision x Sire: Aust Ch Fakaiser's Ulrick d'Unforgettable (Imp Nor)
10th April 2002 to 17/03/2012
Update January 2007
"Ulrick was introduced to the concept of an office job (and so was I) at the beginning of October. This isn't an experience either of us is overly enjoying but it does pay the bills and give us money to play with. Ulrick has been fairly good (well he could be a lot worse) about lying under the desk while I sort through and answer hundreds of emails, (ahhh! the joys of work!). When we first started he used to entertain the office with renditions of the "I'm bored, why can't we go home?" and "I want to go home right now" songs but luckily he's given up his singing career and even manages to get in 40 winks while I work, when he's not using me as his own personal chew toy. I think he can tell the time cos as soon as it hits home time, he's up and hassling me to get going, he gets particularly annoyed with me if we have to work late and is very vocal about it. Everyone at the office loves him but as he's a "Dog with responsibilities" he refuses to socialise unless he's told it's OK and even then it's not for long.
He enjoys playing silly games every morning on the way to work to see if he can convince me we shouldn't go, the most frequent of which is to walk past the building, but unfortunately for him I'm wise to it so he never succeeds. It is great to have a cheeky pup with a sense of humour, it makes the hour of travel in the morning much more bareable. Of course we have found a workmate who lives just up the road so we often get a lift which makes the furry one much happier and the day a lot shorter. This workmate also has 2 beagles so not only did we find a ride to work but Ulrick has 2 new playmates."
Update April 2012
RIP Special Boy
He led the life he was meant to lead while on this earth, his
memory will live forever in everyone whose lives he touched and
was lucky enough to meet him.
Some words from his owner -
Ulrick passed away peacefully surrounded by his most favourite
people after lymphoma took over his body. It was just under a
month from diagnosis to end and he was never in any pain or
allowed to suffer.
Everyone who knew my gorgeous pup couldn't help falling in love
with him and we have all been changed for the good by knowing him.
He was the best guide and companion ever and he will never be
forgotten.Ulo was a truly exceptional dog and did amazing things
as a guide. He had the most wicked sense of humour and loved
showing off and being the centre of attention. He had many
adventures with me during his nearly 10 years and I hope he loved
every second of it.
Thank you to all who helped breed, train and love my fluffy boy!
Carry him in your hearts forever.