Some riders state the London Transit Commission’s present service animal policy does not consider their requirements
Taking a service dog onto a paratransit bus in London is generally not a issue — as long as the owner keeps the animal leashed and in their care.
But that can be almost difficult for some riders who rely both on a service animal and a wheelchair, said Londoner Liza Worsfold.
To get onto the bus, Worsfold requires to be raised a specialized lift. While her service dog Helix is trained to go on it, there isn’t adequate space on it for them both, she said.
The service appears basic: have the driver hold the dog’s leash while she increases the lift. But that’s an issue for some drivers, Worsfold said.
“They take walkers down no issue. It’s an assistive gadget and my dog, when he’s working, is generally an assistive gadget,” said Worsfold.
She said she’s brought the problem up with London Transit and was informed that she either requirements to take a trip with an attendant or discover various methods of transport.
“I do not take a trip with an attendant. I’m really independent. This is why I have the dog,” said Worsfold. “He’s an extremely clever dog, however he’s still a dog. They still wish to smell around. They still wish to, you understand, be a dog.”
Many drivers more than happy to hold Helix’s leash however others will not, contributing to Worsfold’s aggravation.
Causing additional tension
That gamble is something another rider who requires both a wheelchair and service dog isn’t constantly going to take.
“I will not constantly take my service dog with me since I’m scared of getting a specific driver who will not hold the leash,” said Melissa Brideau. “The last time this occurred, the driver simply handed the leash to somebody I didn’t understand and after that when I got home the driver declined to put it back on my chair.”
She said she had the exact same problem as Worsfold.
“I’ve had my dog for 4 years now however she’s my very first service dog,” said Brideau. “I’m not positive in handling these concerns and I feel that it has actually become worse.”
Anyone who thinks they have actually been dealt with unjustly need to lodge a grievance to London Transit so the claims can be examined, said London Transit General Manager Kelly Paleczny in an email to CBC News.
Worsfold said she’s grumbled many times and thinks the current service animal policy does not take individuals who likewise utilize wheelchairs into factor to consider.
Drivers need to be provided more empathy training so they can much better comprehend the obstacles individuals like her face, she included.
“I’ve had some drivers that get really upset,” said Worsfold. “I’m not stating all of them do. Some drivers are really good.”
“It’s simply amazing that in this day and age, all we’re asking is to hold the leash and they’re informing me that, no, it’s not their obligation. It takes tho minutes to hold the dog’s leash while I get up and down the ramp. That’s all I’m asking.”
