Guide Dog Pretzel Steps Out for Sydney Mardi Gras Debut with Scott Dixon-Smith

Scott Dixon-Smith, who is blind, is participating in the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade alongside his guide dog, Pretzel. This event marks Pretzel's inaugural involvement, having partnered with Mr. Dixon-Smith for over a year. Their participation aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of navigating with a guide dog and encourage broader community engagement for individuals with vision impairment.

Mardi Gras Debut and Preparations

Mr. Dixon-Smith and Pretzel are marching with Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. Pretzel will wear a distinct harness for visibility during the parade. Preparations for Pretzel include bringing preferred treats and extra water, and Mr. Dixon-Smith plans to monitor the dog for any signs of stress.

Pretzel will attend the march but will not be present at any after-parties to prevent potential overstimulation from overwhelming sensory input. Mr. Dixon-Smith stated that this participation feels like a natural step and an opportunity to foster interactions with other attendees.

Life-Changing Diagnosis and Career Path

Mr. Dixon-Smith was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative vision condition, in 1979 at the age of 20 while studying in the United States. This diagnosis led to a shift from a potential professional tennis career to a marketing role at IBM. By age 40, Mr. Dixon-Smith had experienced complete vision loss. During the 1980s, his workplace made accommodations for his vision impairment, such as increasing font sizes and dimming page colors.

Personal Journey and Embracing Identity

Mr. Dixon-Smith previously concealed his sexuality for years, not anticipating that he would one day march in a pride parade. He stated that the prevailing corporate environment and observations of derogatory comments by colleagues during the 1980s contributed to his decision to keep his sexuality private, resulting in separate personal and professional lives.

He later founded his own company, which allowed him to openly disclose his identity.

"Any discomfort others had with his sexuality was their issue."

Mr. Dixon-Smith expressed a decision to embrace his identity.

A Newfound Independence with Pretzel

Mr. Dixon-Smith had considered acquiring a guide dog earlier but found the required training commitment challenging due to work demands. After his work responsibilities lessened, he pursued mobility training, during which a mobility instructor suggested a guide dog. He met Pretzel over a year ago, describing an immediate positive connection.

Since then, he has ceased using his cane after more than 30 years, relying instead on Pretzel's assistance. Mr. Dixon-Smith reported an increased ability to independently navigate his neighborhood and public spaces, including wharves, escalators, and stairs.

"He had not walked alone outside before acquiring Pretzel."

A Message of Empowerment and Community Engagement

Mr. Dixon-Smith expressed a desire for his and Pretzel's participation to foster conversations and encourage others with vision impairment to engage more actively in community events. He emphasized that disability should not define an individual and that personal barriers should be overcome.

He stated that he has consistently prevented his disability from defining him.

"Mr. Dixon-Smith expressed pride in his journey of self-expression."