Handle Work- Introduction

Question 1

Describe the rationale and considerations for the #3 position?

Answer 1

• Provides space for the dog to accurately guide when moving to allow for safe obstacle work and straight line travel.
• Ensures good guiding.
• Blocked up= left.
• Hang back= right.
• Excess or insufficient speed may cause inaccurate position.

Question 2

Describe the rationale for correct “forward”/#1 position and considerations?

Answer 2

• Ensures that client is well balanced and ready to move.
• Hand signal is a visual reinforcer to dog.
• Command is invitation rather than command e.g. obstacles, traffic- ‘intelligent disobedience’.
• Tone is positive and encouraging.
• Wait for dog to move first.

Question 3

Why is it important for the client to adopt the #1 position whenever the unit stops?

Answer 3

• Maintains straight line travel/position.
• Allows Handler to physically praise the dog without causing a change of direction.
• Is the starting point for all turns/directions.

Question 4

Why is it necessary that the client is able to stop their Guide Dog?

Answer 4

• Safety.
• Reinforce skills and work errors.
• Speed control.
• Social control.
• Route reversal.

Question 5

Why is a relaxed handle grip important?

Answer 5

• Accurate following of GD movements.
• Minimises tension in clients arm.
• Indicates to dog that client is relaxed and confident.

Question 6

Describe the procedure for short handle tension work?

Answer 6

• Simulate appropriate tension.
• Create excessive tension.
• Cue client to identify an unacceptable level of tension.
• Teach speed control.
• If tension is because of client anxiety, teach client to relax, shake out arm etc.