Being a Guide Dog Owner: the threat of Your Dog Being Attacked

Today I read a article that sadly reminded me that everyday I go out with my guide dog, Midge, I am potentially in danger of my guide being attacked. In the 7 years of being a guide dog owner, I (knock on wood) have never had my guide attacked, but I know a lot of guide dog owners have. The article tells the story of a Guide who was attacked by a Pit Bull, or Staffy as they're known in the UK. The owner of the Pit did nothing to stop her dog, and at this point it doesn't look like she or her dog will be penalized for what happened. The guide dog in this case is now refusing to leave the house, and he will likely have to retire early. It is a tragedy whenever a dog is harmed by another dog, but to me a service animal being attacked is even worse. A lot of time and money is invested into a service dog, and quite often, a dog attack will result in the dog retiring before they would have needed to be.

To all guide dog owners, here are some tips for what to do if your dog is attacked:
1. do not try to interfere in the fight. You will likely get hurt.
2. Call for help, or dial 911.
3. If the owner of the attacking dog is there, ask that they call animal control, and if they are willing to assist you and your dog once the fight has ended.
4. Call your guide dog agency to talk about what kind of assistance they can provide you.
5. If your dog requires medical attention, set up transportation to get your dog to the vet.

If you are a pet dog owner, here is a link from Guide Dogs for the Blind that provides some tips on how to prevent your dog from attacking another dog. Please try to be a responsible owner and remember that a guide dog is in charge of a blind person's safety.