Guide Dogs Attacked


Three guide dogs are attacked by other dogs every month in the UK according to shocking new figures. A report published by the British Medical Journal analysed 100 canine attacks and found that 61% of guide dogs were attacked whilst in a harness and working with their blind owner. The UK Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has voiced its concern that many blind people in Britain may be left without valued assistance as some guide dogs have been withdrawn from service following the brutal attacks.

Research shows that guide dogs are more likely to be attacked by guard dog breeds who were not leashed at the time of attack. The attacking dogs were also likely to injure the guide dog's blind handler - with over 19% reporting that they had sustained injuries including scratches, bites and bruising. Blind handlers were also left considerably distressed by the event and were unable to tell whether their dog needed veterinary treatment.

The UK Guide Dogs for the Blind Association has warned that the attacks may have untold financial and emotional repercussions - as many blind people will be left without needed assistance as it is extremely costly and time consuming to properly train guide dogs to replace the ones withdrawn from service. Over 4,500 guide dogs are currently in service across the UK.

21st June 2010

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