Guide Dogs for the Blind

This example of the dog at work represents a high point of the relationship between human and dog. The dog actually becomes the eyes of the owner and the two work as a well co-ordinated team. The use of guide dogs for the blind was developed after the First World War when a lot of soldiers returned home from the trenches blinded by gas.

It took a lot of trial and error to select the most suitable breed which needed to be intelligent, obedient, conscientious and willing to learn. Nowadays Labradors are usually chosen and are bred by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association from a selected pool of even-tempered dogs. The training of the animals is a long and painstaking business and is undertaken by special instructors.

After eight months, the blind person has to attend the course too in order to learn how to handle their guide dog. Then, when fully trained, the guide dog leaves to join the blind person’s home and helps them to lead a fuller and more satisfying life.

The valuable work that these dogs perform is a tribute to the patience and loyalty of the dog and also the dedication of the staff of the Association.