Dedications

Time to read: Approximately 2 minutes

My first Assistance Dog -

Seeing Eye Dog, Walter

Seeing Eye Dog Walter, a black Labrador is standing side on in his blue and white harness, with his head turned toward the camera. His Handler, TravelPaws Founder & Director Nina Smith is kneeling behind him. She is wearing a black leather jacket and red scarf, smiling, and looking happy and proud of Walter.

Walter, I miss you so much. Through you, I regained my independence, confidence, strength and resilience. It is impossible to describe what you gave me. You knew how to enjoy life. You lived it to the fullest; curious, honest, spontaneous, and free. You helped me find the way to be these things myself. Through your final months, I nursed you through your illness. Through your weakness, I learned to trust that I have something to give. You set me free.

Nina Smith
Founder & Director, TravelPaws.

My current Assistance Dog -

Guide Dog, Nixon

TravelPaws Founder & Director Nina Smith, sitting with her Guide Dog Nixon, in a park sharing a hug. Nina sits on some rocks wearing a blue top over a white dress with matching-coloured blue sneakers. Nixon, a golden Labrador is in his brown and white harness with an orange ‘Please Don’t Pat’ sign, gently rests his head on Nina’s lap.

Nixon, you have shown me peace and the ability to live in the moment. I receive so much joy from who you are. You are loyal and affectionate and have eyes for only me. You are the gold star Guide Dog; I have 100% faith in what you do. You are so dependable. You have given me the security and safety to explore the world; the wings to fly.

Nina Smith
Founder & Director, TravelPaws.