International Guide Dog Day: Why is it celebrated?

New Delhi: From guarding homes to extending support to defence personnel in solving mysterious cases, dogs are considered to be the best companions of humans. Some pet dogs, especially those in the defence sector, are well trained by their owners. They mastered some special skills and became an additional support to the owner. Guide dogs are a great deal to their owners. In addition to extending protection, they also guide their owners throughout the day in various activities as well as provide them a continuous emotional support. It takes a lot of effort for guide dog trainers to help these loyal partners to master their skills. To extend thanks for their loyalty and remarkable support, people from all walks of life observe International Guide Dog Day on the last Wednesday of April. This year, the day is being observed on April 24.

Guide dogs: Serves as eyes for blinds

Several people see these loyal companions as a joy that makes the world beautiful and cheerful for their owners and their families. In some special cases, they serve as eyes for the blind and make their lives smooth and easy. Thus, the day dedicated to these loyal pet animals aims to honour the hard work of these loyal companions.

Historical relevance of the day

The roots of the use of guide dogs can be traced back to around 79 AD, as a painting of a guide dog being used to help the blind was discovered on the excavations in Pompeii, Italy. According to Days of the Year,  guide dogs have been used in various countries throughout the centuries such as medieval Europe and ancient China.

Historians and anthropologists seems to have discovered the uses of guide dogs during the 1700s and 1800s through children’s nursery rhymes and stories.

Facts to ponder

The first attempt to train dogs to assist blind people in their routine works was made at a hospital for the blind in Paris in 1780.

Johann Wilhelm Klein, a pioneer of education for blind people, has also written about the uses of guide dogs to act as helpers for blind individuals.

• General Knowledge