Chasers condemned for degrading Guide Dog skit - July 2009

Guide Dogs Queensland condemns the ABC’s Chasers War on Everything team for the degrading and potentially harmful use of a working Guide Dog in last night’s episode (Wed, July 22).

Guide Dogs Queensland has received several calls from concerned and offended clients, supporters and staff who wish to voice their complaints over the episode and the alarming misuse of a Guide Dog in harness.

GDQ CEO Chris Laine said of particular concern was the episode’s title and theme ‘Guide Dogs for the Blind and Munted’ and the incorrect and debasing suggestion that Guide Dogs can be used to accommodate irresponsible and drunken behaviour.

“Most alarming for us all was watching the wanton and dangerous smashing of a bottle near the Guide Dog – which is clearly seen to frighten the dog in harness,” Ms Laine said.

“If, as believed, this is an actual working dog guide than it is grossly inappropriate.

“In doing this skit, the Chasers have not only offended and degraded the work and dedication of Guide Dog schools around the world, but also the courage and commitment shown everyday by the many clients who use a Guide Dog.

“They may find it funny to use the ‘throw away line that ‘one in four get blind drunk’ – but it’s no laughing matter for the actual one-in-four people who will become blind from age-related macular degeneration and who will need our help and support.”

Ms Laine said GDQ would write to The ABC’s Chasers Program and relevant ABC departments on behalf of their clients.

“Anyone who knows the dedication and commitment it takes from our trainers, supporters and clients to produce each Guide Dog would rightly condemn last night’s episode,” Ms Laine said.