James Simpson was denied a Guide Dog Benefit (eighty-four dollars monthly benefit) in July 2021 by the Director of Ontario’s Disability Support Program. He then appealed the decision before the Social Benefits Tribunal. Simpson argued that his companion dog helps him navigate the would and ease symptoms of his complex mental health issues. The Director argued that the dog did not meet the training requirements of a guide dog. The Tribunal dismissed Simpson’s appeal and affirmed the Director’s denial of the Guide Dog Benefit, as the dog had not completed any specific training certifications. Read the decision here.
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