Guide dogs are not trained for social distancing
PAULSHOF – Members of the public are urged to take the initiative and distance themselves from visually impaired people by giving them space in queues and on pavements.
The South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind appeals to members of the public to be aware that guide dogs have not been trained in social distancing.
Event manager at the association Jackie Quail said, “We appeal to the public to keep this in mind when you see a working dog out in public. Please take the initiative to distance yourself from this person by giving them space on sidewalks or in queues.”
Quail also urges members of the public to be aware, when grocery shopping, that guide dogs are trained to take their person to the desk where an employee will assist them.
“Please be understanding should you see a guide dog disregarding the queueing system,” said Quail.
She also drew attention to the needs of the association during Covid-19.
“It costs the association upwards of R100 000 to train a working dog. We do not receive government funding and rely on the support of the public to offer our services to the visually impaired, physically disabled and children with autism.”
A number of community members rallied together between 11 and 18 May to raise funds through a walkathon. They raised a whopping R291 243.50.
Quail said more initiatives like this and regular donations are necessary to keep the association afloat.
“Making a donation of any amount would be greatly appreciated, now more than ever. This can be done on our website (www.guidedog.org.za/donate/) or email JackieQ@guidedog.org.za for banking details.”
Quail also appealed for monthly donations, which can offer a steady income for the association to rely on in difficult times like this.
The public can also enter a raffle online to win a Suzuki Swift GLK. Tickets cost R50 each.
“We know many people are financially unstable right now, so there are ways you can support us without spending anything. One way to do this is by adding the association as a beneficiary on your MySchool/Woolworths card.”
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