New guidebook to ‘lead the way’ for a more inclusive community for guide dogs

The Equal Opportunities Commission on Thursday introduced a new guidebook “Guide Dogs: A Practical Guide” to enhance public awareness and acceptance of guide dogs and their users.

The equality watchdog said they received seven complaints over the past five years from visually impaired individuals who were denied services or entry to premises due to being accompanied by a guide dog. Some individuals also reported experiencing discrimination during the job application process.

The commission said the new guide was launched after consulting local guide dog service organizations, visually impaired individuals, and relevant institutions, as well as referring to legal protections for guide dogs in other jurisdictions and relevant information in Hong Kong.

The guidebook includes definitions and identification methods for guide dogs, as well as positive and negative experiences shared by guide dog users.

It provides practical information for stakeholders in different sectors, including transportation, restaurants and hotels, premises managers, and employers, in order to safeguard the rights of guide dog users in various public domains.

The watchdog reminded members of the public that under the Disability Discrimination Ordinance, it is prohibited to directly or indirectly discriminate against individuals with disabilities, including unjustified discrimination against the use of guide dogs by persons with disabilities - which could be considered illegal.