New guidance launched to support patients with assistance dogs

Ambulance staff across the UK now have a set of nationally agreed principles to follow when caring for patients who rely on assistance or guide dogs, helping ensure safe, dignified and inclusive care in every setting.

The guidance, unveiled at ALF2025 during a session titled Pawsitive Partnerships, was co-developed by the National Ambulance Disability Network (NADN) and the Association of Ambulance Chief Executives (AACE). The session was delivered by Dawn Poulson Whelan, Chair of NADN and East of England Ambulance Service; Pauline Hogarth, Project Manager at North East Ambulance Service; Francesca Balon, Freedom to Speak Up Guardian at North West Ambulance Service; and special guest Sean – a trained assistance dog who features on the cover of the publication.

The principles emphasise that assistance dogs are highly trained working animals, not pets, and must be treated accordingly. They advise ambulance staff to:

• Speak to the patient, not the dog
• Allow the dog to remain close and undisturbed during care
• Avoid touching, feeding or distracting the dog while it is working
• Consider the dog’s welfare during transport and clinical activity

By following these guidelines, ambulance teams can uphold the highest standards of respect and safety – particularly in high-pressure situations – while recognising the vital role assistance dogs play in their owner’s independence, safety and wellbeing.

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