Service Dogs - The Essentials and The Extraordinary
Come learn about the new breed of Service Dog, how they are trained and the range of services they can be trained to provide. And especially learn how these incredible dogs are our heros.
Service Dog Laws In the United States
A service dog is a type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental illnesses (such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)), seizure disorder, mobility impairment, and diabetes.
According to law (2011 American’s With Disabilities Act from the Department of Justice).
Owner Training a Service Dog - The Advantages and the Problems
During the last decade, the use of service dogs has rapidly expanded. However, more problems have arisen, and these may be caused by a lack of understanding of service dog training, working functions, and access to public facilities
The ADA does not require service dogs to be professionally trained. Individuals with disabilities have the right to train a service dog themselves and are not required to use a professional service dog trainer or training program.
Don't Touch Me - What To Do When People Just Have to Pet Your Service Dog
Do you find it hard to resist petting dogs or offering them treats, even if they’re not yours? That’s sweet! However, service dogs are not regular pets. And that means that you can’t pet service dogs.
Despite their irresistible cuteness, petting them is distracting at best and dangerous at worst. And knowing proper service dog etiquette can save you, the handler, and the dog a lot of trouble.
He's Not a Robot - Yes, Service Dogs Can Make Mistakes
Service dogs are not robots, they are not perfect.
In reality, they have bad days, off days, sick days and can make mistakes. A highly-trained service dog will perform well 98% of the time, but the other 2% can cause severe stress if you expect perfection, that is too much pressure for both you and your dog.
Willingness Is The Only Currency - Your Service Dog Should Love His Job
While some may believe that working dogs do so without any free will, this is actually not the case. A dog that does not want to be a service dog, will not be a service dog (assuming their trainer/handler has the insight to respect their dog’s choice). In fact, understanding and listening to what our dogs are showing and telling us is how we can ensure those who do make it as working dogs are happy with their job.
