Guide Dog Ava is a working assistance dog who will be joining our school community. Guide Dog Ava wears a white and neon yellow harness to show she is working.

Guide Dogs like Ava are trained for years and must pass tests to support a blind person. Amy was born with a visual impairment and Ava helps her to be independent and safe. Ava is trained to guide Amy across roads, around obstacles and prevent falls. As a blind parent, Amy relies on Ava to support her with her two children, this includes safely using road crossings and navigating to and from school and nursery.

Guide dogs are highly trained to be calm and safe. Ava will not jump up or bite. If you are nervous of dogs, just give Ava space and she will not approach you as she is focused on supporting Amy and her children. It is important that children and parents do not distract Ava when she is working. This includes talking to Ava, screaming or shouting at Ava, trying to pet her or feed her.

We understand seeing a special dog like Ava walking to school is exciting, but Ava needs to focus on her job. Amy is happy to answer questions to help everyone learn about Ava.

Find out more:

• Guide Dogs, What does a Guide Dog do?