Abstract
The services and concessions available to guide dog owners in the United Kingdom are fully described, with particular reference to veterinary, transportation, commercial, and state sectors. The facilities and allowances provided by the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association (GDBA) are detailed, together with financial implications. Physical and mental standards expected of guide dog applicants and the subsequent interview procedure are discussed, as is the residential course of instruction leading to graduation. The selection and training of acceptable dogs are outlined; desirable physical and temperamental characteristics are enumerated, together with factors relating to the ultimate quality and safety of the guide dog unit. The follow-up services of the GDBA are described and a short explanation of what a well-trained and suitably matched guide dog unit can do is provided.
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