Prospect’s Merran Thurley is one guide dog handler who’s been on the end of the discriminatory treatment by cab drivers.

Ms Thurley, who has partnered with five guide dogs over nearly 50 years, said the incident left her feeling ‘‘small and insignificant’’.

‘‘I know Ida leaves a few hairs behind but, bless her, she’s a dog after all,’’ she said.

‘‘It’s a partnership, we have to go together.’’

To combat the illegal discrimination the ‘‘Say Yes to Guide Dogs’’ campaign was launched on Wednesday – International Guide Dog Day.

Guide Dogs Tasmania said the taxi industry was supportive of handlers but some drivers were not getting the message.

The organisation is calling on members of the public to speak up if they see a guide dog handler suffering discrimination.

‘‘Even though it is against the law for taxi drivers to refuse a guide dog and its handler, there continues to be too many cases of discrimination,’’ Guide Dogs Tasmania’s Mary Langdon said.

‘‘We understand that some taxi drivers may simply not be aware of the law, while others may be fearful or unsure of letting a dog into their cab.’’

Fines of up to $2600 apply for taxi drivers who refuse to take guide dog handlers aboard.