Access for assistance dogs
As a registered assistance dog, a hearing dog should be afforded the same access to public places as a guide dog. With the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) 1995 now law, cities, towns and service providers need to show they are compliant with the regulations.
Hearing Dogs works closely with the recipient and service provider to resolve any problems that arise around accessibility for hearing dogs.
The umbrella organisation Assistance Dogs (UK) (ADUK) - of which Hearing Dogs is a member - focuses on accessibility and has worked closely with numerous service providers to help bring their policies in line with DDA regulations.
- Assistance dogs can now accompany their recipients in the cabin of an aeroplane on international flights with UK airlines provided they comply with regulations laid out in the Pets Travel Scheme (PETS)
- Foot passengers travelling by train to Europe on Eurostar can now bring their assistance dogs with them
- AD (UK) has worked with private hire vehicles companies and taxi firms to ensure that assistance dogs are accepted in cabs as well as public transport
AD (UK) issues leaflets, posters and stickers to be displayed in shops, hotels and other public buildings.
Hearing Dogs launched an initiative in 2003 to recognise and encourage good practice among towns, cities and service providers. The 'Hearing Dog Friendly Award' invites nominations for public places that make an effort to welcome people with hearing dogs and who ensure their premises are accessible for people with disabilities. Click here to find out how to nominate a town, city or service provider.
Entries have steadily increased which is a reassuring reflection of the fact that more public places are taking DDA regulations on board.
Best practice case study - Arriva Trains Wales (ATW)
Rail users travelling with assistance dogs are set to benefit from an innovative scheme being piloted by Arriva Trains Wales (ATW) in partnership with Assistance Dogs (UK).
The scheme’s main objectives are to secure a ‘protected space’ in front of a seat for the handler’s dog and further raise awareness of the needs of disabled customers among staff and passengers.
Highly visible seat reservation cards have been provided to all ATW conductors, which will advise passengers that an empty seat next to an assistance dog owner is being reserved for the dog to travel in safety and comfort. Click here to read more.
photo: Betina Skovbro
