Being Around Dog-Guides

1. When the master is holding the dog's harness, the dog is working. Do not speak, pet or play with the dog because such actions might distract the dog.
   
   

2. When offering your assistance to an individual with a dog-guide, let the dog-guide owner decide how to use your assistance. The owner may wish to take your arm and relax the dog's harness, or may choose to instruct the dog to follow you.
   
   

3. When approaching a dog-guide user, make yourself known first to the person, not the dog.
   
   

4. Don't give commands to the dog, such as "stay" or "sit." This is the owner's responsibility and for you to do so might confuse the dog.
   
   

5. If you see a dog-guide do something inappropriate, such as bare his teeth, growl, relieve himself indoors, or take food off a table, get the owner's attention by gently touching his arm to let him know what has happened. Then, if necessary, seek assistance from building staff if there is a mess that needs to be cleaned up.
   
   

6. Don't be shocked if an owner seems to correct his dog somewhat harshly. Dog-guide users entrust their safety to these dogs and are trained to correct them sternly when they do something inappropriate.
   
   

7. Don't feed the dog or give it anything to drink unless the owner gives you prior permission.
   
   

8. In crowded places, avoid pushing against the dog or stepping on its paws.
   
   

9. Be familiar with the dog-guide relief area. You may need to show someone where it is, or assist them in getting there.
   
   

10. Some dog-guide users may greatly appreciate your offering assistance by taking their dog to the dog park relief area.
    
    
    
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