I took a vacation to Scotland and brought my guide dog, Charles, with me. There was a lot of paperwork involved in getting Charles ready for international travel. While it was a bit of a process, we got through it. Scotland was waiting!
When we arrived at the airport, I thought I had everything arranged for assistance. Unfortunately, the medical desk and the actual assistance desk had different ideas about what “assistance” meant.
Charles and I were guided to the security X-ray machine, but when we exited that area, there was no assistance waiting for us. But like everything in life, you find a way. And you most certainly don't feel alone when you have your guide dog by your side.
Whenever I felt a little tense, I would lean down, give Charles a few words of encouragement in his ear and a little direction, and we would be on our way. I quickly discovered just how important the commands we use in everyday life are when you're somewhere unfamiliar.
Navigating an airport means dodging people, suitcases, children, and all kinds of unexpected obstacles. I don't think I have ever appreciated Charles's intelligent disobedience so much! I would try to get Charles to go straight, and he would pull me in a different direction to avoid whatever was in our path. He was amazing!
Then came our gate. We were supposed to depart from Gate 84, but when we got there, our flight had been moved to Gate 69. Of course, Gate 69 was on the other side of the terminal and wasn't even on the same level!
The staff weren't always as helpful as I had hoped. At one point, I asked for help and was told the staff member was too busy before she walked away. So, I asked another passenger for directions. With that information and Charles by my side, we found our way to Gate 69 and still had lots of time before our flight took off.
Once we were on the plane, Charles lay down and completely relaxed. In turn, that helped me relax. We had successfully navigated the first part of our journey, and now we were on our way!
Then we arrived in Scotland. Charles was a trooper. Suddenly, everything was in the opposite direction. Traffic was different. People were walking on different sides of the sidewalk. There were all kinds of little things you don't even think about until you're navigating somewhere completely new.
Through it all, Charles gave me a great deal of comfort, support, and, most of all, trust.
The whole experience was absolutely amazing, and I really believe having Charles with me was a big part of what made it such a relaxed experience. Once you get past one obstacle, the next one doesn't seem quite as nerve-racking.
Would I travel internationally with Charles again? Absolutely.
I've always considered Charles to be my left-handed man, an extension of me. I hope he continues to work well because I plan to take him on many more adventures.
— Lindsay, guide dog handler
From ferries and buses to planes, trains, and cars, guide dogs help make every journey possible for their handlers. Learn more about Guide Dog Access Awareness Month and discover how you can help ensure guide dog teams are welcomed wherever they go. Visit guidedogchampions.ca.