Post by Ms. Kathy on Jun 14, 2004 3:54:40 GMT -6
This is an article from the American Foundation for the Blind site located at www.afb.org
I believe it is important for our kids to know that
[glow=red,2,300]Dog Guides[/glow]
Dog guides are carefully trained service animals used as travel tools by people who are blind.
Dog guides and their masters undergo rigorous training to work safely and effectively as a team.
People who are blind are responsible for the health and well being of their dog guides at all times.
Dog guides should always be kept under control by their masters.
Dog guide users are trained to relieve their dogs regularly and to clean up after their dogs.
Dog guides work most effectively with persons who have very little vision. It is likely that most of the dog guide users you will meet are totally blind.
Dog guides move only in response to directions from their masters. They disobey commands only to avoid danger.
Concentration is essential when a person travels with a dog guide. Petting, feeding, or distracting a dog guide disrupts concentration and can cause serious danger.
Public and private organizations are required to admit dog guides and all service animals into their facilities.
I believe it is important for our kids to know that
- a guide dog is not for every blind person
- a guide dog is not a replacement for lack of mobility skills. You don't get one because you don't want to learn or use orientation and mobility skills taught by your O&M teacher
- you can't tell the dog where you want to go and have it take you there.
- other people are not to be responsble for your dog. YOU are to feed him, walk him, clean up behind him, etc.
[glow=red,2,300]Dog Guides[/glow]
Dog guides are carefully trained service animals used as travel tools by people who are blind.
Dog guides and their masters undergo rigorous training to work safely and effectively as a team.
People who are blind are responsible for the health and well being of their dog guides at all times.
Dog guides should always be kept under control by their masters.
Dog guide users are trained to relieve their dogs regularly and to clean up after their dogs.
Dog guides work most effectively with persons who have very little vision. It is likely that most of the dog guide users you will meet are totally blind.
Dog guides move only in response to directions from their masters. They disobey commands only to avoid danger.
Concentration is essential when a person travels with a dog guide. Petting, feeding, or distracting a dog guide disrupts concentration and can cause serious danger.
Public and private organizations are required to admit dog guides and all service animals into their facilities.
