Guide dogs (and seeing eye dogs) are legally able to go to any event, business or premises in Victoria (except operating theatres).

This includes travelling on:

• planes
• any form of public transport (taxis, buses, trams and trains).

It includes entering:

• theatres
• restaurants
• supermarkets
• hotels
• retail stores.

These access rights apply to:

• guide dogs
• guide dogs in training
• guide dog puppies.

The rights of guide dog users are covered under the Domestic Animals Act 1994 and the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 — both of which override the Health Act, which prohibits dogs from entering food premises.

Guide dog puppies

Puppies as young as 7 weeks old can be guide dogs in training.

To prepare puppies for future guide dog training, carers must take them:

• on public transport
• to shops
• to cafes
• to restaurants.

Guide dog puppies have been specifically bred for their important role as guide dogs. When training in public they will be wearing blue or yellow identification jackets.

At all times guide dogs are:

• quiet
• well-behaved
• not aggressive
• completely clean.