OTTAWA - April 1, 2009 - The Canadian Transportation Agency today released two reports which found that the majority of key transportation service providers are compliant with two important sections of the Code of Practice: Removing Communication Barriers for Travelers with Disabilities.

Guide Dog Users of Canada advises Toronto handlers to be aware that there is a known electric shock hazard with certain metal sidewalk plates that they should be aware of. Toronto Hydro has acknowledged that some metal covers may be electrified by leaked current from nearby equipment. Numerous pets and at least one child has been shocked, and a guide dog stepping on one of these plates may be shocked as well.

The end result may not be fatal, but the psychological effects of the experience could negatively impact on your dog’s work. GDUC has written a letter to Toronto Hydro (and the Toronto Star) in response to the January 30, 2009 article about the issue.

Montreal, QC, June 14, 2008 — For many Canadians who are blind or who have low vision, a guide dog affords unparalleled independence and mobility to its handler. Even amidst the apparent chaos of the busy downtown core in any urban center, guide dogs and their handlers travel, navigate, and negotiate sidewalks, intersections, busses, subways, and a never-ending flow of pedestrians day in and day out. How do these teams work, why do they work so well, and how can they work even better together? That is the purpose behind the 2008 Guide Dog Users of Canada Conference & AGM, to be held November 1, 2008 at the Days Hotel & Conference Centre in downtown Montreal.

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