Going out when it is dark

Walking around outside in dull or dark conditions can be very challenging however; there are some precautions that I can take to help me. When leaving a brightly lit place at night, it is advisable for me to give my eyes time to adjust to the new conditions. When I am out with my guide dog at night, I wear my fluorescent jacket that was provided by ‘Guide Dogs’, as it is essential that road users and pedestrians can see me. I have got some fluorescent arm bands and belts similar to those that are worn by cyclists but I rarely use them preferring to use my jacket instead.

My guide dog, Ishka

Since I qualified as a guide dog owner and Ishka as a guide dog on the 26th June 2012, a whole new world  has opened up for me — Ishka goes  everywhere with me , we explore the environment, go shopping, visit friends and relatives and go for leisurely walks ─ she loves going to Holmebrook Valley Country Park. We travel on the public transport but I have not been on a train with her yet but will do one day. Ishka has given me the freedom to go out to different places on my own and she has given me back my confidence, dignity and zest for life. My life with Ishka is so much better now because I have only had one fall since we have been together and that was my fault.