Today the 3rd classes enjoyed a visit from Tom (with his dog Gatsby) and Andy (wiht his dog Nico). Both Tom and Andy are blind. Their lovely dogs are guide dogs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom and Andy told us about how they manage everyday tasks like cooking, getting around and telling the time.

Tom showed us a book in Braille and an old Braille watch. He uses a talking watch or an app on his phonenow. He also showed us Braille playing cards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tom and Andy explained how guide dogs are trained from the time that they are just puppies.

Tom explained that it is very important not to disturb a working guide dog – they are working if they have their harness on.

 

 

 

He said it was very important never to block footpaths and said it’s a good idea to offer help to a blind person at pedestrian crossings.

We got the chance to ask them both loads of questions and we learned a lot from them. Tom has been to Goodison park to watch a football match and has travelled a lot. Both Tom and Andy agree that their dogs are very important to them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andy surprised us all with a song when their presentation was over. He sang the Beatles song, Blackbird. He is a finalist in Balbriggan’s Got Talent on Sunday night! We wish him all the very best!