Could an assistance dog help you?

Hi @Cher_Scope, 
                             Thank you so much for sharing this with us. I have a friend who has an assistance dog to help with picking items up off of the floor and opening doors as well as other tasks. It is truly inspiring the difference that an assistance dog can make to a wide variety of people with different disabilities. I am in awe of these amazing animals and those who train them, I salute them and thank them for their hard work to help people with disabilities to lead a more independent life. Thank you. 

Hi!  Really wanted to join in on this.  I got a guide dog last year while I had no vision, and while I have since recovered some of it, getting my dog was the best decision I ever made in my life.  Putting the physical help to the side, for me his presence and love he has for me gives me so much confidence to go out as I know he'll be able to help me if I need him.  Aside from that, the training that he had received was far, far superior to what I was expecting.  And I think this goes across for all service dogs - they can do things you really wouldn't believe!  

Plus, they're a great conversation starter  

The biggest drawback for me is getting taxis.  I can't count how many times I've ordered one and for them to drive off when they see my dog.  I have to get someone I'm with to film them just so I can report it! 

His name is Branston!  I'm afraid this is the only one I've got as the others are all on my phone!  

Thanks to this chat. Very useful information here. Thanks once again Scope.

Hi @Hugo_Lamb, 
                             Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful photo with us. Branston looks as though he is an absolute star and I agree with @Cher_Scope the photo shows you two have a real bond and are best friends. I'm sorry to hear of the difficulties faced for you and Branston with regard to taxi, this really needs to be addressed so good for you for reporting it. Thank you. 

Thanks all.  He is a real lovely boy, although he isn't the bravest and is scared of puddles and pigeons!  

Guide dogs are very much aware of taxi issues, there was also a recent legal case where a guide dog owner was refused entry to a restaurant.  It's probably getting better but changing awareness is never a quick process.  

Thanks Chloe!  Do you know when you will get yours?  I hope it's not too disrupted by covid! 

Hi @Hugo_Lamb, 
                            Sometimes you don't have to be the bravest to be the best and to be fair pigeons aren't my favourite thing either Thank you for sharing your experience, unfortunately you are right change doesn't happen quickly but we must continue to try to educate people. I am really saddened when I read of the experiences with taxis and restaurants, there needs to be a better understanding as it is like saying to me you can't come in this café because you are in a wheelchair. (Don't get me wrong I have experiences of this but I am using it as a principal) My wheelchair supports me to lead an independent life and a guide dog or assistant dog does so for people with a range of disabilities including visual impairments. I hope what I am trying to say comes across as it is meant too and does not cause upset, apologies if it does. Thank you.