Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

There's been a report on Granada News about taxi drivers refusing to take guide dogs, turning up and driving off when they've realised, leaving the vulnerable person standing at the roadside.

A friend of mine runs a large taxi firm that employs a lot of Asian drivers, approx 95% of the 400+ drivers.

He has told me of his frustration at drivers refusing to take dogs, including guide dogs, in their cars.

Should taxi drivers be forced to take guide dogs?

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

Yes. Why not? Most guide dogs have impeccable manners and I can't see them being any problem to transport.
The only thing that may happen is dog hairs in the cab, which some people would likely complain about.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

Not if they are refusing on religious grounds, which some would be.

Perhaps, knowing that this problem exists, the passenger made it known that they have a dog with them during the booking process.

Better to have to keep trying other firms than to be left hanging on a street corner.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

My initial response was surprise that any taxi driver would refuse.

What are the blind or partially sighted supposed to do? Offer to tie their dog to the roof rack or put it in the boot?

Then I realised this one could be a minefield.
What if the driver claims he is allergic to dog fur? Or that another , later, passenger might be.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

If they are refusing on religious grounds then they should be sacked.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

This really is a no brainer.
NO they shouldn't.
Unless of course a dog is acting dangerously, which is very unlikely.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

A lot of Asian drivers refuse point blank, why? I'm not sure but I think it has to do with their hatred of dogs.

I've had Asian doctors refuse to visit my Gran unless her dog is put outside.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

They may be guilty of misunderstanding their teachings but sacked seems a tad harsh imo

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

Of course they should take the guide dog.
Take their licence off them if they fail to do so.
No excuses.

Re: Should Taxi Drivers Be Forced To Take Guide Dogs?

They shouldn't be forced to take Guide Dogs?