Devonshire children receive special guide dog visit

There were smiles all round at Devonshire Day Nursery in Chiswick as children received a visit from a guide dog to learn all about the lifeline they provide to visually impaired people.

At the Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ Day Nursery on Bennett Street, pre-schoolers were delighted to be introduced to five-year old Labrador, Upton, and volunteer for The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association, Tim, who spoke to the captivated group about the important role of the guide dogs in the lives of blind and partially sighted individuals, such as providing practical help with crossing the road and finding doors, as well as providing companionship.

During the session, Tim spoke to the children about Upton’s care routine and how guide dogs could be trained using treats and positive reinforcements, before demonstrating key commands and explaining that guide dogs shouldn’t be approached whilst working.

Devonshire Day Nursery Manager, Emmy Avery explained;

“We were thrilled to welcome Tim to the nursery with Upton, who was incredibly well-behaved and provided such an incredible insight into the world of guide dogs. Our little ones were in awe and couldn’t wait to tell their families all about their exciting day. This was also a brilliant opportunity to promote compassion, empathy and inclusion amongst the group.”