As we all learn to social distance, it is important for those of us who are sighted to help people with guide dogs know we are there and help keep a safe distance. The Seeing Eye, one of 90 accredited guide dog schools in the nation, has updated their 5 Tips to reflect new social distancing norms.
- Guide dogs don’t understand social distancing. Please help keep a safe distance by staying 6 feet away.
- Please don’t let your pet near a guide dog, even if your pet is leashed. Even allowing your pet to visit or “say hi”, for just a moment can cause the guide dog to lose focus on the important job he has to do.
- It’s helpful to let a person who is blind know that you are nearby and tell them if you have a dog with you.
- Do not pet the guide dog, call the dog’s name, make eye contact, feed or talk to the dog. It’s always best to treat the dog as if he is not there.
- Do not shout directions, take the person by the arm or interrupt them, especially when they are crossing the street. Always ask the person if they need help first.