Guide pups in training explore the City
As part of their 16-month-long puppy training, the pups spent the morning with their volunteer raisers traveling from Sandton to OR Tambo International Airport on the Gautrain.
Pups in training at the South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind recent spent their day exploring the adventures of public transport.
As part of their 16-month-long puppy training, the trainees spent the morning with their volunteer raisers traveling from Sandton to OR Tambo International Airport on the Gautrain.
The association helps provide services to individuals who have visual, physical or developmental needs through the training of guide dogs, service dogs and autism support dogs.
According to puppy raising supervisor Kelly Malleus, it is important for the puppies in training to gain exposure to not only people but also different environments.
“Whilst they are in the puppy programme, we have to expose them. We do this through weekly classes and this training experience on the Gautrain, which forms part of their public transport exposure.”
She added that there are many guide dogs that use public transports so it is important for the puppies to gain that experience.
“We look for any negative reactions, any fear reactions, how they do overall on the trip and if they comfortable with the motion.”
In the end, the trip was an all-round success for both the pups and their puppy raisers.
Details: SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind 011 705 3512.
Related articles:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/308242/successful-fundraiser-aids-guide-dogs/
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/313189/guide-dog-pups-graduate-to-be-the-eyes-of-the-visually-impaired/
