Blind woman denied Ebus service to the Shuswap due to service dog [Video]

Eager to head home to the Shuswap for the holidays, Jessica Rathwell and her service dog arrived at the Ebus station in Surrey over the weekend, only to face an unexpected setback.

The bus driver denied Rathwell access, citing a lack of space for her service dog on the fully-booked bus.

Rathwell’s mother had booked the ticket, unaware of the company’s policy requiring 48 hours’ notice for service dogs to reserve space, a policy Rathwell deems flawed.

“It doesn’t take into account people with emergency situations who need to travel on short notice,” said Rathwell.

“The law says I’m allowed to travel anywhere with my guide dog, the policy shouldn’t supersede the law.”

About a month ago, Rathwell took her service dog on the Ebus without issue and without prior notice.

“Before, in October, she sat right in front of me at my feet. I told the driver (on Saturday) I didn’t …