Guide Dog vs White Cane

There is always this debate between people who are blind or partially sighted, White Cane or Guide Dog ? What is truly better ? 

I am sitting here today writing this after dropping my Guide Dog off at the vet to have a tooth removed. He broke it off somehow. When I woke up this morning I had to get out my cane and just walk him to the vet (I didn't want to work him since he couldn't have any food or water). This brought back a lot of old anxiety and stress that I used to feel every time I left the house. Why what is the difference between using a cane and using a dog ? I have been sitting here trying to reflect on why ? 

The reason for me is because when using a white cane you need to run into things to find them. You walk slower, you miss more things, it takes a lot of concentration and mental work to find where you are going and get there safely. I can do it, I did for years but with my dog, I can take the harness say forward and not have to really worry until he stops at the next curb. When I want to find the door to the coffee shop I get on the block and say coffee and away we go. There is so much less stress when traveling with a Guide Dog, there is a sense of confidence that he gives me. I feel like I fumble around and look less like I am lost when I am working my Guide Dog. 

Now there is a place for a cane, there are always situations where you can not take your dog and need to use a cane but for me I prefer my Guide Dog. I am very capable with a cane and can get to where I need go but I find when I get there I am mentally exhausted and I don't miss that one bit. Having good cane skills is something I am glad that I have but hope I don't have to use very often. 

The choice of a Guide Dog or a White Cane is a very personal choice and I do not think that there is a wright or a wrong answer. Like so many decisions that we make in our lives I believe you have to make the best choice for you and your lifestyle. Just because something works for one does not mean it will work for everyone. 

Thanks for reading my post today ! If you would like to read more posts from me please check out my blog at www.blindmovingon.com or on our YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/blindmovingon 

Until Next Time ! 

Ashley Nemeth