A DEDICATED space for guide and assistance dogs is set to be on the way as part of a City of Ballarat initiative.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
The project was spearheaded by the municipality\u2019s Disability Advisory Committee with cash provided through Regional Development Victoria\u2019s Living Local Fund.<\/p>\n
Disability Advisory Committee member Heidi Biggin had a large role in developing the project, requiring the use of a guide dog herself.<\/p>\n
She said the space will make outings easier with her guide dog Freya, as she normally has to plan how Freya will relieve herself.<\/p>\n
\u201cPrior to getting Freya, it didn\u2019t even cross my mind that this would be the biggest stress about having a guide dog,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cHaving this space next to Target in the CBD will save a lot of stress.\u201d<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Ms Biggin said the site will be a reprieve for guide dogs owners as well as their furry helpers.<\/p>\n
\u201cThere are a lot of people who would have no idea that safe toileting spaces are a requirement for assistance dogs,\u201d she said<\/p>\n
\u201cBut being an inclusive community is thinking about what everyone\u2019s needs are.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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 […]<\/p>\n