Keeping two-meter distancing is easy for those without seeing difficulties, but for some, they need the help of the community to stay safe.

For people who have no difficulty seeing, practicing physical distancing is simple. Those who require the services of a seeing guide dog are unable to see if someone is too close and needs assistance from the public to stay safe during the pandemic.

 

A dog cannot be trained to practice two-meter distancing. Those nearing a team are asked to respect distancing for them.

“Many people don't know how to react to a guide dog,” Bergeron says. “Practising proper guide dog etiquette is important year-round, but especially during this pandemic.”

Bergeron is reminding Canadians that guide dogs are working professionals and are not ordinary dogs. They require some assistance form the public to be able to do their jobs well.

As tempting as it may be, CNIB is reminding people that guide dogs are not to be petted and cannot play with other dogs. Guide dogs are also unable to accept food as it conflicts with their training.

“It’s always best to ignore a guide dog in harness,” says Bergeron.

Bergeron adds that once the harness comes off at home, belly rubs are fair play.