Ambulance staff across the UK now have nationally agreed principles for engaging with patients who rely on assistance or guide dogs – supporting safe, dignified and inclusive care in every setting.
Unveiled at ALF2025, the session Pawsitive Partnerships introduced this new guidance, co-developed by the National Ambulance Disability Network (NADN) and AACE. It was delivered by:
- Dawn Poulson Whelan, Chair, NADN / East of England Ambulance Service
- Pauline Hogarth, Project Manager, North East Ambulance Service
- Francesca Balon, Freedom To Speak Up Guardian, North West Ambulance Service
- …and special guest Sean, a trained assistance dog who graces the cover of the publication.
The principles reinforce that assistance dogs are highly trained working animals, not pets, and must be treated accordingly. Key reminders for ambulance staff include:
- 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’s working
- Consider the dog’s welfare during transport and clinical activity
This practical guidance helps ambulance teams uphold the highest standards of respect and safety – especially during high-pressure incidents – while recognising the vital role assistance dogs play in patient independence and wellbeing.
Resources:
Download the full guidance here.
Explore the ALF2025 session and presentation slides here.
For more information, please contact liam.sagi@aace.org.uk
