BWG Proclaims International Guide Dog Day

International Guide Dog Day - April 29, 2026

WHEREAS: Guide dogs provide essential support to individuals who are blind, visually impaired, or have other disabilities, enabling greater independence, safety, and confidence in navigating daily life; and

WHEREAS: Guide dogs are highly trained working animals whose skills, dedication, and companionship significantly enhance the quality of life for their handlers; and

WHEREAS: the training of guide dogs requires a significant investment of time, expertise, and resources, supported by organizations, trainers, and volunteers committed to accessibility and inclusion; and

WHEREAS: International Guide Dog Day provides an opportunity to recognize the important role of guide dogs, raise awareness about the rights of guide dog users, and promote understanding of accessibility needs within our community; and

WHEREAS: the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury, in collaboration with its Accessibility Advisory Committee, is committed to identifying, preventing, and removing barriers and to fostering an inclusive community in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA); and

WHEREAS: the Town recognizes the right of individuals to be accompanied by their service animals in facilities open to the public, except where otherwise prohibited by law, and promotes respectful public awareness of the role of guide dogs as working animals;

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED: That His Worship Mayor James Leduc and Members of Council proclaim April 29, 2026, as “National Guide Dog Day” in the Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury.

I encourage all residents to recognize and celebrate the contributions of guide dogs, to respect their role as working animals, and to promote awareness of accessibility, inclusion, and the rights of individuals who rely on these remarkable companions.