A Day in the Life of Navarone: The Guide Dog Extraordinaire
Hello, River Ranch! My name is Navarone, but you can call me Navi, Navaroni Macaroni, or just the best guide dog ever—I humbly accept all titles. I’m a two-year-old black Labrador, and I have a very important job: I keep my human, Pam, safe as she navigates the world.
Name: Navarone (male)
Age: 2 years old
Breed: Labrador
Human: Pamela Latham
The Makings of a Guide Dog
I wasn’t just any pup—I was born into greatness. When I was just a tiny ball of fur, I was chosen to be part of the Guide Dogs for the Blind program, where I learned all sorts of impressive skills. In October 2024, I met Pam, and we became an unstoppable team. Pam has retinitis pigmentosa, which means she has no peripheral vision or night vision, and that’s where I come in. I’m her fifth guide dog, and I take my job very seriously—except when I’m off duty, in which case, I’m a total goofball.
Navigating the World, One Paw at a Time
Being a guide dog is no small feat. I know commands like forward, left, right, halt, and even how to find a chair (whether it’s occupied or not—details, details). I can locate stairs, escalators, and elevator buttons, and I have a special trick called intelligent disobedience—if Pam tells me to cross the street but I see a car coming, I’ll ignore her command and wait. Basically, I’m her furry, four-legged GPS with a safety mode.
Work Hard, Play Hard
One of the things Pam loves most about me is my ability to balance work and play. I’m always ready for a game of fetch, I bring her toys constantly, and I play all the time with Renata, Pam’s retired guide dog. But when it’s time to work, I drop my toy, come to her side, and slip into my harness like a true professional.
My Car-Side Shenanigans
Speaking of professional, let’s talk about my chauffeur service. When we ride in the car, I curl up at Pam’s feet like the well-mannered dog that I am. However, if she steps out for even a second, I take full advantage of the opportunity—I hop up onto the seat, look at the driver, and give my best “Okay, she’s out, let’s go!” face. Pam finds this hilarious, but I consider it a perfectly logical move.
The Life of a Spoiled (But Hardworking) Pup
Sure, I work hard, but don’t let that fool you—I’m very well taken care of. At home, I get to cuddle with Pam in the recliner, munch on carrot treats, and run to the kitchen at the sound of the ice maker, because let’s be honest—ice cubes are just bonus treats. Pam says I spoil her, too, because, well, she wouldn’t be able to live her active life without me.
A Friendly Reminder
I love people, and people love me, but when I’m in my harness, I’m working. If you see me out and about, please don’t try to pet me or distract me—I need to focus on keeping Pam safe. But don’t worry! When I’m off duty, I get plenty of love, belly rubs, and playtime.
Pam and I make a great team, and I wouldn’t trade my job for anything. So, if you see us out in River Ranch, just give us a friendly wave and know that I’m always watching out for my best friend.
See you around, neighbors!
Navi