Guide dog becomes frequent flyer

24 May 2012, 2:29 pm   -   Source: AAP

A blind man and his guide dog have notched up 250 flights together.

Putu is believed to be Australia's most well-travelled dog after taking his 250th trip on a plane.

The black Labrador guide dog has been James Bennett's companion and eyes for the past five years as the disability auditor travels around the country for his job.

Their 250th flight from Sydney to Brisbane on Thursday was celebrated by Virgin staff at Sydney Airport with Putu being given his own boarding pass.

Mr Bennett said Putu had never let him down.

"I needed to find a way to continue working and to maintain my lifestyle, and Putu has been the answer," Mr Bennett told reporters.

"Putu is a highly trained animal and without his assistance I just couldn't have the independence.

"In a year this dog and I travel to just about every state and territory.

"He's never taken me to the wrong room."

The 65-year-old had lost sight in one eye after an industrial accident in 1986 but went totally blind overnight after a cardiovascular event.

Putu travels with Mr Bennett on the two-hour train ride from his home in Newcastle to Central Railway Station and on to the domestic airport and airline counter.

He helps his owner cross roads, find taxis and avoid hazards.

Putu will retire as a guide dog at the end of the year but will remain with the Bennett family as a pet.

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