SquareOne Features
by Lou Hardless
Regular users of Portobello Promenade might well be familiar with the sight of obedient dogs under going training. These guide dogs, along with their handlers have been using the prom for the last seven years, since moving from Milton Road in Edinburgh to nearby coastal resort of Portobello.
Gavin Neate a Guide Dog mobility instructor, explains why Portobello was such a good base for Guide Dogs in Scotland, formerly known as Guide Dogs for the Blind:
"Originally the dog training centre was based in Forfar, which proved to be far from our main client group. In 2001, we relocated our services to Edinburgh and Hamilton, and expansion into the Borders and East & West Lothian is being planned for the future."
Portobello offers a wide variety of training areas for the dogs, with a number of key features they are likely to come across when they are eventually put to work. The busy High Street with it's pelican crossings, low and raised kerbs, along with the beach, buses and trains mean the animals will be well equipped to deal with whatever challenges they face when re-homed.
From young the dogs are socialised with families and other pets. At a year they begin eight months of basic training before moving onto more advanced levels. Once finished they are matched with suitable owners. Previous assessments and comprehensive training for both parties takes place, followed by yearly aftercare visits.
So when you see a guide dog out and about on their training exercises, do your best not to distract them.
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