International week of guide dogs is traditionally celebrated from August 1 to 7.

International Guide Dog Week in History

The first mentions of such dogs were dated 79 AD. Paintings with their images were found among residents of the city of Pompeii who died from the volcanic eruption. Historical documents of ancient countries of Europe and Asia have also been preserved, where four-legged assistants were described.

• Interestingly, in 1838, a decree was issued in Britain, according to which blind owners were exempted from paying license fees for their guide dogs.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the first schools for dogs appeared in Germany. Experienced trainers trained guide dogs to help veterans who lost their sight during the First World War get around. Later, such schools began to be created in other countries of the world.

The purpose of International Guide Dog Week

The purpose of the event is to draw attention to these fiercely loyal special dogs who accompany their blind owners everywhere.

Unfortunately, conflict situations still occur when a blind person uses public transport or enters a store or other establishment with a guide dog. These issues are also discussed at the legislative level, and in the first week of August, citizens’ attention is drawn to them.