In Parliament, Dr Neil Hudson MP, Shadow DEFRA Minister and Member of Parliament for Epping Forest, showed his support for assistance dogs and the invaluable lifeline they provide for those who need on them, at a cross party Parliamentary event.
The event, hosted by Assistance Dogs UK (ADUK), Assistance Dogs International (ADI), the Assistance Dog Assessment Association (ADAA) and the All-Party Parliamentary Dog Advisory and Welfare Group (APDAWG), saw a coalition of organisations that provide assistance dogs, alongside owners that use them, come together to celebrate the important work of assistance dogs. He heard first hand from users of assistance dogs about the support they provide for those with medical conditions ranging from autism, epilepsy to Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (PoTS), and the transformative impact they can have on their lives.
Dr Neil Hudson, the first veterinary surgeon elected to the House of Commons since 1884, and passionate advocate for animal welfare as a Member of Parliament, has been a longstanding supporter of campaigns supporting assistance dogs and has worked with closely with groups such as Guide Dogs UK to shine a spotlight on the unfair denial of access to establishments that those who use assistance dogs can face. While refusing people entry with assistance dogs is against the law, unfair refusal unfortunately takes place.
This was an issue that was once again brought to the fore during the session, as a finding of the Paws for Access survey, which found that 43% of respondents had been refused access in the last year, 56% were denied a taxi or rideshare, and 40% of users avoided public places altogether due to the difficulties they face.
Following the event, Dr Hudson commented:
“It was a real privilege to hear first hand from those whose lives have been completely transformed by using assistance dogs, and to meet such adorable canine friends too!
"Today’s event was a clear example of the infinite value of assistance dogs to people’s lives, facilitating access to the everyday activities and opportunities we can take for granted."
Unfortunately, I know all too well that those with assistance dogs can be discriminated against, with unfair denial of access to establishments taking place despite the fact this is against the law. This is grossly unjust, and I will continue to do all I can to shine a light on this and press the Government to tackle it."
