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The 'ONCE Foundation Gude Dogs Exhibition' in Benidorm

The exhibition showed how these animals work to become a fundamental element in the autonomy and safety of blind people.

Under the slogan 'Much more than a dog', the nearly 1,000 attendees , from different educational centers in Benidorm and the general public, witnessed various obedience and concentration exercises performed by these animals together with the mobility instructors Eloy Aranda and Rafael Almansa , who were accompanied by Tibor (black Labrador) and Dior (sable-colored German Shepherd).

Both showed on a circuit how the training process works so that the dogs can overcome obstacles, go up or down stairs, cross zebra crossings, look for doors or stay in a cafe or in any means of transport at the feet of a blind person like María Luz Menéndez or Moisés Moreno , guide dog users from Alicante, who explained what their daily life is like with ORI and ODRI, respectively.

At HOSBEC, we wanted to be present at this exhibition to raise awareness and knowledge of the important work these animals perform, and the importance for the tourism sector of providing knowledge and awareness about the treatment of these assistance dogs in hotels.

The Animal Welfare Act, as established in Article 29, regulates the access of companion animals to establishments open to the public. However, it is always important to remember that assistance dogs must be allowed access to people with disabilities. These dogs must be trained in specialized centers that accompany people with visual or hearing impairments, or any other disability, or they must be included in assisted therapy projects.

How to behave around a guide dog

It's important to highlight some tips shared at this exhibition on how to behave with a guide dog and how to address the user.

The first of these is that dogs should not be offered any type of food , as they may have a food intolerance and this could cause digestive problems that could harm their health and well-being, in addition to disrupting the daily support they provide to the blind person they are accompanying.

They also reminded everyone of the importance of not distracting the dog's attention while walking alongside a blind person , an action they gladly perform, but which requires their concentration to ensure their safety.

Another piece of advice for the public is that those who have companion dogs should not let them loose if there is a guide dog nearby , and should always keep them under control at their side.

Guide dogs also enjoy plenty of rest and recreation time, but it's important to respect their work while they're guiding, and leave play and greetings for when they're not wearing a harness.

Also, if you want to give instructions to the blind person, remember never to pull on the dog's leash or harness . Simply approach them, preferably from their right side, away from the dog

Costa Blanca! Here’s what’s happening across the region this week

BENIDORM: Major Music Festival Returns for 2026

The city of Benidorm is preparing for another busy summer season with the return of the Indiverso Festival, scheduled for 18 July 2026 at the SkyFest venue. Organisers say the event will feature leading indie artists and DJs and is expected to attract thousands of visitors to the resort.

Local officials say the festival forms part of a broader cultural programme aimed at strengthening Benidorm’s reputation as one of Spain’s leading entertainment destinations.

Meanwhile, the city continues to promote its Poniente district redevelopment, with luxury residential towers and smart-city infrastructure positioning the area as a premium investment location on the Costa Blanca.

LA NUCÍA: International Rally Event Returns

Motorsport fans will soon be heading to La Nucía as the Rallye La Nucía Mediterráneo prepares to return to the region. The rally is considered one of the most exciting sporting events on the Costa Blanca calendar and attracts drivers and spectators from across Europe.

Local authorities expect the event to provide a significant boost to tourism and hospitality businesses across the Marina Baixa region.

ALTEA: Cultural Events Continue to Draw Visitors

The coastal town of Altea continues to maintain its reputation as one of the Costa Blanca’s cultural hubs, hosting exhibitions and concerts throughout the year. Recent cultural programmes include art exhibitions and music performances at local cultural centres designed to promote local artists and international talent.

The town’s historic old quarter and arts scene remain key attractions for both tourists and residents.

ALFAZ DEL PI: Infrastructure Updates and Community Notices

Residents in L'Alfàs del Pi have been notified of scheduled maintenance works affecting electricity supplies in some neighbourhoods this week as part of routine infrastructure upgrades.

Local authorities say the work is necessary to improve reliability across the area’s expanding residential zones.

FINESTRAT: Continued Growth in Property Demand

The municipality of Finestrat continues to see strong interest from international property buyers, particularly those seeking homes close to Benidorm’s beaches while living in a quieter setting.

Analysts say the wider Costa Blanca property market remains attractive to foreign buyers, though the market has become more selective and data-driven as investors look for long-term value.

Local planners say residential development in the area continues to expand alongside tourism and commercial infrastructure.

REGIONAL: Festivals and Spring Celebrations Begin

Across the wider Costa Blanca North, towns are preparing for traditional spring celebrations including Fallas festivals, which bring fireworks, music, and cultural parades to communities throughout the region.

These events mark the start of the region’s busy tourism season, with visitors expected to arrive in large numbers over the coming months.

That’s your Costa Blanca update — all the news you need to stay informed this week. Stay tuned for regular updates!

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The 'ONCE Foundation Gude Dogs Exhibition' in Benidorm

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