The Dreaded Day: Turn-In Day. It vexes all puppy raisers, but I’m especially traumatized by turn-ins. You’d think that with enough experience, I’d get better at it. Have fewer tears. Hurt a little less.
Nah.
It’s always the same: the day is filled with dread, I wish that time would stop (and I could run away with Caysun before anyone knew the difference), there’s the final panic when I know it’s time for me to leave, and of course, the inevitable tears.
Yesterday was no different. On a whim, as I was walking out the door to drive to Service Dogs of Virginia, I grabbed my iPad and decided to document the day. Lots of people ask what it’s like to raise a service pup for a year, then just hand him (or her) back over. Let me tell you friends, it’s torture. Not the whole part — most of it’s the most fun you’ll ever have in your life. But you pay for it on turn-in day. Or, at least, I do.
Here are the videos documenting what turn-in day is all about. There were laughs, there were tears.
Video #1:
Video #2:
Video #3:
Video #4:
Video #5:
Video #6 (Final Video):
Even with all those tears, we’re anxiously awaiting the next pup to grace our household. Are we brave? Or stupid? I don’t see the difference, really… Either way, I’ll end up crying.
We LOVE you!
You are a gem, Laurie!
Hope “Little One,” “Caysun Louise,” “Baby Caysun” is doing well! I know she will. You guys are the best and so is she. When you put best together with best, it’s simply amazing! 🙂
Congratulations on Caysun’s turn in! This Saturday is Apache’s turn in day for Guide Dogs of America. Ours is a little different then yours with a thank you luncheon and then walking our pups down to the kennels. I shot video of our last turn in day with my yellow lab pup, Dublin.
Great job! You’re doing something amazing for someone else!
Take care,
Colby
You are brave, brave to do this, and brave to show us how it really is. Thank you for all you do to make the world such a better place. Thinking of you and your (slightly) quieter house today…and waiting to hear about the pitter-patter of new little feet.
hugs, Jeanne
I agree with Jeanne that it took a lot of courage to share so openly with everyone. I hope you get good reports about Caysun’s training soon and that it’s not long before you get your next puppy.
Maybe he or she will be a Great Dane?!