Meet Ineko and guide dog Frisco
Ineko Gary and guide dog Frisco
Tampa, FL
Ineko waves as she walks with guide dog Frisco.
Ineko Gary has always loved dogs of all sizes, especially big ones. She’s had three previous guides from Southeastern Guide Dogs: Sophia, Pal, and Tidy. Now she’s been matched with Frisco, an affectionate and spunky yellow Labrador. Ineko is completely deaf and legally blind and says that larger dogs make her feel safe. The youngest of seven children, she lives alone in Tampa and is the only family member with a disability.
Fun-loving Frisco matches Ineko’s personality. “He’s crazy,” she says laughing. “But he is a good crazy!” In the morning, Frisco will tap his feet liked a drum until she wakes up. This morning ritual is followed by a shower of kisses before they go outside and start their day. Having Frisco will help Ineko get to and from her job at the Marriott Hotel in Tampa. She is grateful that the trainers conditioned Frisco to respond only to hand signals, as she prefers not to use her voice.
When she returns home, Ineko will be on vacation from work, “so I can sleep, watch TV and work with Frisco,” she says. Frisco will make an excellent companion and guide, as Ineko says “he’s perfect for me.”
