Editing Guide dog (section)

==Benefits of owning a guide dog==
[[Image:Elliot Aronson and guide dog 2011.jpg|thumb|Social psychologist [[Elliot Aronson]] and his guide dog, Desilu, whom he received in January 2011]]
Studies show owning a pet or [[therapy animal]] offers beneficial effects psychologically, socially, and physiologically, and guide dogs are no exception.  Some blind people report experiencing increased levels of confidence, a greater sense of security, and a cherished friendship from owning guide dogs. Some also state that owning a guide dog has encouraged them to exercise more, especially by walking.<ref name="Whitmarsh 2005 27–42">{{cite journal |last=Whitmarsh |first=Lorraine |date=April 2005 |title=The Benefits of Guide Dog Ownership |journal=Visual Impairment Research |volume=7 |issue=1 |pages=27–42 |doi=10.1080/13882350590956439}}</ref> This is attributed to a willingness to venture outdoors facilitated by a sense of independence.<ref name="Joy-Taub Miner 2001">{{cite journal |last=Joy-Taub Miner |first=Rachel |date=Winter 2001 |title=The experience of living with and using a guide dog |journal=RE:view |volume=32 |issue=4 |id={{ProQuest|222961252}}}}</ref> Some blind people claim meeting others and socializing is easier with a guide dog, and people are more likely to offer assistance when there is a service animal present.<ref name="Whitmarsh 2005 27–42"/> The animals may also lead to increased interactions with other people, providing an easy topic of conversation.<ref name="Joy-Taub Miner 2001"/> Guide dogs may be more deliberate than the use of a long cane when leading their handlers in an unfamiliar place. The animal directs the right path, eliminating the trial and error users may experience with a cane. Some report that guide dogs make the experience of the unknown more relaxing.<ref name="Whitmarsh 2005 27–42"/> Many blind people using a guide dog report travel is much faster and safer.<ref name="Joy-Taub Miner 2001"/>

Owners of guide dogs share a special bond with their animal. Many report that the animal is a member of the family and, often, the handler goes to their animal for comfort and support.  The animal is not seen as a working animal, but more as a loyal friend.<ref name="Whitmarsh 2005 27–42"/> However, it is important to remember that guide dogs are working animals and should not be distracted or treated as a pet while they are on duty.

People often have misconceptions about guide dogs, including believing they work all the time. In reality, the dogs usually work only when their handler leaves their residence. The handler tells the dog where they want to go, and the dogs are taught [[intelligent disobedience]]—blocking the handler from proceeding when there is an unsafe situation.