Please Make Hearing Dogs Welcome

Hearing Dogs have special privileges

Many people who are deaf or hearing impaired use a hearing dog to alert them to the everyday sounds we hearing people take for granted.  Hearing Dogs go everywhere with their recipient as part of this important partnership.

Sometimes shopkeepers, restuarant staff and other businesses have refused access to a hearing dog.  Hearing Dogs have special privileges (see legislation below).

Because of the unique and important job performed by Hearing Dogs they are legally allowed into any public place with their handler.  This includes food outlets, restaurants, shops, theatres, on public transport - virtually everywhere their handler goes! 

Hearing Dogs are highly disciplined

Hearing Dogs are specially trained to behave appropriately in a range of situations, including eating and toilet training on command.

The next time someone comes into your shop or business with a Hearing Dog please make them welcome.

How to spot a Hearing Dog

Hearing Dogs come in all shapes and sizes.  There are no one specific breed or type of dog. Look out for the yellow jacket with out logo on it.

Legislation

Hearing Dogs have rights of public access under the Dog Control Act 1996 and are protected from discrimination through other important legislation such as the Human Rights Act 1993.

This legislation collectively entitles Hearing Dogs to go into any public place and on any public vehicle including: restaurants, doctos, dentists, shops, beaches, cinemas, hotel, buses, ferries, domestic and international flights, ships, taxis, trains, etc.

Denying access to a person with a Hearing Dog is considered a serious offence.