A year ago, visually impaired Sam met her new guide dog Ziggy — and that’s when the hard work really began
28 June 2018
Meeting Ziggy the guide dog
Sam Little, who is registered blind and hearing impaired, was paired with the black lab after spending almost a year on a waiting list for a guide dog.
The benefits are enormous: with Ziggy by her side Sam doesn’t need to use her cane, as he can take her safely to where she wants to go.
Knowing Ziggy is guiding her is huge confidence boost for Sam, but this isn’t a quick fix. It takes a year for pair to get to know each other and for their relationship to cement.
What are the best-dressed guide dogs wearing these days?
Ziggy was trained to work as a guide dog since he was a puppy.
He’s well used to being out and about in public places.
He wears a variety of items which allow Sam to keep him under control, but which also act as reminders to the public that he’s a working guide dog and shouldn’t be approached.
What Do Guide Dogs Wear? | Guide Dog Life
Ziggy the guide dog has a few special things he wears while he's working.
The difficulties of crossing a road
Crossing a busy road can be , let alone someone relying on a dog to take them safely to the other side.
As Sam and Ziggy got to know each other, they encountered a problem: .
When taxi drivers choose to break the law, and refuse your dog a ride
A taxi ride can be a welcome relief for Sam during bad weather, when she’s fatigued or travelling to a new destination.
By law, guide dogs must be allowed to accompany their owners in taxis. But Sam has discovered on more than one occasion that the law is flouted and Ziggy isn’t welcome.
Getting A Taxi With A Guide Dog | Guide Dog Life
Sam and Ziggy have been refused access to taxis in the past.
When crowded places can cause problems
A visit to a busy Christmas market proved a daunting task for Sam and a disorienting experience for Ziggy.
The dark winter night and jostling crowds unsettled the young dog, which in turn impacted Sam’s confidence and safety.
Christmas Shopping | Guide Dog Life
Sam shows us what it's like to go Xmas shopping when you are visually and hearing impaired
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The challenges for owners on the retirement or death of a guide dog
There are about 5,000 guide dog owners in the UK; the impact can be huge.
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