Service Dog Do’s and Don’ts

I came across an article today that I thought was very interesting especially since Veterans Day is this week.  I thought I would expand on this important topic especially since many of us are guilty of doing this.

Many of our disabled American veterans and others with physical disabilities and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) have a Service Dog that can help them  restore their physical and emotional independence.

Our normal reaction when we see a dog is to approach and pet it and sometimes we don’t stop to think even when it’s a service dog.  Even though it comes from a good place we need to be more mindful.  We can easily forget that when we see a service dog in a public place they are actually working.  Although it’s hard to resist it’s important to understand that we just can’t go up to the dog and start petting and hugging it. etc………this can have a negative affect on the handler and may keep the dog from staying focused.

A service dog is trained to do specific tasks for a person who may not be able to because of their disability. These dogs can serve the blind, assist someone who may be having a seizure and in many, many other important ways.

Here are just a few tips to remember when you see a service dog.

All service dogs will have a vest and/or badge. Sometimes it will state on the vest whether or not you can approach the dog. If you are unsure ask the handler, if they say No do not take it personally.

Remember this dog is their lifeline. Like a paraplegic needs a wheel chair, an individual needs this dog to be able to function. These dogs are medically necessary and deserve respect, as well as their handler.

Please do not feed the dog. Do not give them treats as this will again distract them. Many of these dogs may be on a specific diet or have an allergy that you may not know about. They may also be on a specific schedule when it comes to feeding and treats so again do not feed them.

Because these animals are a medical necessity they cannot be denied entrance to an establishment because they are protected by Federal law. Please do not confuse a therapy dog with a service dog, the two are not the same.

Please remember these dogs are not Pets.  Although they are working dogs they are loved and well cared for.  It may be best to admire them from afar and be mindful and respectful of not only them but their handler.

Below is the link to the article, as well as some other links regarding Service Dogs and our Veterans.

Veterans and their service dogs: Keep your paws off, please!