Access & Advocacy
Guide Dog At Work
Tips For Pet Owners
To the casual passerby, the confident strides of a blind person with a guide dog seem almost effortless. Yet in reality, it takes a great deal of skill and concentration for guide dogs to do their work.
Ever wonder what to do when you and your pet meet a guide dog team? It’s easy –just keep your dog a safe distance away!
It may seem harmless for pets to “visit” or “play” with a guide dog at work, but remember that the dog is responsible for leading someone who cannot see. A lapse in the guide dog’s concentration or alertness could endanger the team’s safety.
Tips to help guide dog teams stay safe
Always keep your pet away from a guide dog, even if your dog is leashed. Staying a safe distance away helps the guide dog remain focused on its work.
Let the blind person know you are there. A quick greeting such as “Hello, I have a dog with me” is often appreciated.
Never let someone walk your pet who is unable to control it. Even a friendly dog can be difficult to manage at times.
Keep your dog under good control at all times. Using a retractable leash in populated areas or leaving your dog tied up outside unattended in a public place can endanger both the guide dog team and your own dog.
Please don’t take chances with the safety of others. Remember to keep your pet away from guide dogs at work.
