This week, Foundation Degree Animal Management (Science and Welfare) Students at SMB College Group visited the state-of-the-art National Guide Dog Breeding Centre in Leamington Spa.
The trip was arranged in relation to their Breeding and Genetics module, in which they will be assessed on evaluating the genetic principles involved in breeding guide dogs. During the visit, the students had a tour of the facility from expert guides, where they learnt all about breeding life-changing Guide Dogs.
They got to observe some of the puppies, some as young as three days old, and had the opportunity to observe the handlers as they worked, see close up video footage of the dogs, and handle artefacts such as harnesses and canes.
After the tour, students were given a brief insight into living with sight loss by using aids and experiencing the sensory tunnel, made to simulate the experience of walking on the street with vision impairment. The students were blindfolded as they walked through the tunnel, street noises and loud traffic played over speakers and different tactile surfaces allowed the students to feel their way through the tunnel, giving students a unique insight into the challenges faced by the vision impaired and emphasising the importance of the incredible work done by the Guide Dogs charity.
The students found the trip to be extremely beneficial. Regarding the experience, Animal Management student Amber Collyer wrote “I thought the experience was fantastic! I was really chuffed we were able to view the puppies at the centre especially from the viewpoints. I definitely left the place feeling a lot more knowledgeable on guide dogs and the effort everyone goes to in making this place really become successful. The dogs are constantly given love and support and would recommend visiting this place!”.
Beth Prior, Animal Management Lecturer and Veterinary Nurse at SMB College Group, said “The trip provided a fantastic opportunity for the students to gain valuable insight into breeding these life changing guide dogs, providing additional context to the principles covered during their Breeding and Genetics module.”
The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association supplies a variety of different services for the vision impaired. They provide guide or companion dogs, support for family and carrying out research to provide people with sight loss with the knowledge and choice of services they require to enable them to live actively, independently, and well.
SMB College Group continues to arrange trips and experiences to give its students a better understanding of the world of work, in relation to their future industries.
Register now for our Brooksby Campus Taster and Open Evening to find out more about studying Animal Care at SMB College Group https://www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk/news-events/events/event/46-college-taster-open-evening-february-brooksby-campus