26/03/2019
Did you know that you shouldn’t stop to allow a guide dog user to cross the road?
This may be something drivers consider as safe and kind to do, however, it actually corrupts a major part of the guide dogs training.
When guide dogs are in training, they are taught to not cross in front of a vehicle with its engine on; this training teaches the dog an understanding that the noise of an engine is not considered safe, therefore, the dog does not allow their owner to cross in front of the vehicle.
Although in some cases, this rule is unavoidable; such as, crossing at some traffic lights, or crossing at a zebra crossing. The dog is taught the difference between when it is safe to cross in front of a vehicle, and when it isn’t.
As much as guide dog users appreciate your kindness, it is simply unsafe for them to cross and therefore may wave you on and thank you for stopping anyways.
We assure you, these amazing dogs know what they’re doing 🐶