Site set for guide dogs to go

A DEDICATED space for guide and assistance dogs is set to be on the way as part of a City of Ballarat initiative.

The space is being proposed as an installation at Doveton Street South and is aimed at providing a location for the helpful canine companions to relieve themselves.

The project was spearheaded by the municipality’s Disability Advisory Committee with cash provided through Regional Development Victoria’s Living Local Fund.

Disability Advisory Committee member Heidi Biggin had a large role in developing the project, requiring the use of a guide dog herself.

She said the space will make outings easier with her guide dog Freya, as she normally has to plan how Freya will relieve herself.

“Prior to getting Freya, it didn’t even cross my mind that this would be the biggest stress about having a guide dog,” she said.

“Having this space next to Target in the CBD will save a lot of stress.”

Ms Biggin normally has to bring a square metre piece of turf for Freya to relieve herself on or make sure the pair are within two hours of green space.

The space is set to feature an accessible path, fencing, a shelter with some seating, a drinking fountain and rubbish bin with a future capacity for public art.

Ms Biggin said the site will be a reprieve for guide dogs owners as well as their furry helpers.

“There are a lot of people who would have no idea that safe toileting spaces are a requirement for assistance dogs,” she said

“But being an inclusive community is thinking about what everyone’s needs are.”