Travelling with guide dogs

There are approximately 4,000 guide dog owners in the UK. Guide dogs help their owners go about their activities safely and with confidence, and can also accompany their owners during travel further afield.

Tanya is a guide dog owner and has lived on the Isle of Man for over 40 years. Tanya was partnered with her current guide dog Delsie last summer. We caught up with her recently to find out how it is going now that she has started travelling with Delsie.

Tanya has lots of experience flying on planes and using the boats from the Isle of Man to mainland UK. Tanya speaks positively about her travel experience and says she has always received excellent service when travelling. When Tanya is booking her travel, she books her ticket as normal online and then telephones the airline or travel provider to let them know she will require special assistance in the airport or ferry port.

Tanya’s top tips for flying or travelling by boat:

Have all your dog’s information to hand when booking your travel and when you are travelling as well. When you call to book your assistance, you will need to declare your dog’s weight, breed and recognised assistance reference number.

Get organised with your dog’s packing! It is a good idea to weigh and pack individual portions of food for your dog and a dog bowl with water to carry in the airports or ports. Be prepared for delays that happen frequently, so it is always good to have extra food on hand for your dog.

If it is the first time your guide dog is travelling, be prepared to provide your dog with some comfort and reassurance, especially if they are finding the new experience a little strange. Having their favourite toy on hand in your carry-on bag will be beneficial for your dog. Booking your assistance promptly is important as the airline will keep the seat next to you free so your dog can lay down next to you.

As with all more complex journeys, you should first consider if it is appropriate to undertake the journey with your dog. If you are not sure, you should contact Guide Dogs Guide Line on 0800 7811444 (open Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm) or the assistance dog organisation who trained your dog for advice.

For more information visit: https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/gettingsupport/information-and-advice/travellingwith-your-assistance-dog/