I ran into a guide dog in the elevator the other day in New York City, just him, his handler, and I. With both of us going to the 47th floor, we stared at each other for what seemed an eternity. Floor 10, floor 20, floor 28!! He wasn’t turning away?! Do I pet him? Do I say “Hey little guy” and scratch his ear?! Should I give him a piece of my candy bar? Oh wait, pups cant have chocolate..!! Assuming his mommy was blind, she was oblivious to our stare down! BING! Floor 47! I let him go first, then stepped out and wiped the sweat off my forehead..Phew I’m off the hook, but…what about NEXT TIME?!
PetSugar offers up a few “quick” tips on “meeting and greeting” a guide dog, according to the “Guide Dogs for the Blind“.
“First and foremost, remember guide dogs are responsible for leading someone who cannot see and should never be distracted from their duties.
- Remain calm in your approach and mannerisms in the pup’s presence as to not take away concentration.
- It is okay to ask someone if you can pet their guide dog, but you should never simply stick your hand out to do so. Before asking, make sure the duo has completed the task at hand.
- Don’t offer a guide dog treats as it can hinder his performance. These dogs are allowed to accompany their handlers in places where ordinary dogs cannot go. For example, it is important not to interfere with their training to never beg or accept food in restaurants.
- Although guide dogs cannot read traffic signals, they are responsible for helping their handlers safely cross a street. Don’t be a distraction and never call out to a guide dog or block his path when walking, and don’t honk your horn or call out to cross when driving.”
Source: PetSugar
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