The use of guide dogs should be expanded
- The public death of a guide dog prompted some people to question their use and call for a ban. But the animals provide a valuable service and the need for them far outstrips the current number in service
Guide dogs transform the lives of their visually-impaired owners, allowing them to become more active and independent.
The well-being of the dogs is also important. The sad death of a guide dog in Hong Kong last month sparked much debate on social media.
The five-year-old Labrador retriever collapsed at a shopping centre while out with its visually-impaired owner. A picture of the motionless dog circulated on social media.
It prompted some internet users, concerned about animal welfare, to question the use of guide dogs and to call for them to be banned. One even described the practice as “the lifelong enslavement of dogs”.
The dog was a service animal from Hong Kong Seeing Eye Dog Services. The charity issued a statement to dispel rumours, revealing a vet who examined the dog suspected it had been poisoned.
An autopsy showed it had been in good health prior to its sudden death and tissue samples have been sent to a local lab for analysis. Police are investigating.
There should not be speculation about the case or misinformation on guide dogs. The dogs are well-trained and steps taken to ensure they are matched with a suitable owner, whose family situation and living conditions are considered.
There is no evidence the animals are unhappy. These intelligent dogs appear to enjoy their work.
Owners usually form a strong bond with their beloved dogs. The animals are taken for walks and have opportunities to socialise with other dogs. When at home, they are treated like any other valued pet.
The charity, which checks in regularly with owners and has a policy on the well-being of the dogs, extended its condolences to the owner of the animal who died.
There are around 50 guide dogs in use, but the charity says 1,900 are needed. Finding foster families for puppies, while they are trained, has been a problem.
There is also a need to clarify the law on the ability of guide dogs to access public areas and to boost public education about the animals.
Guide dogs provide a valuable service. Their welfare, like that of all animals, must be maintained. But their use in Hong Kong needs to be expanded, not restricted.
