Intro: Dogs have been known to serve as helpers to humans for centuries. These furry friends have always been there for us, from guiding the blind to pulling sleds through harsh winter terrain. Today, dogs are still providing vital support for people with disabilities by becoming service animals.
Service dogs are amazing animals that do a lot for their owners physically and emotionally. However, there are a lot of myths and misconceptions about them. This article will dispel eight of the most common myths about service dogs. We hope this information helps you better understand these unique creatures and their vital work.
1. Service dogs are only for people who are blind or deaf:
Service dogs can provide invaluable assistance to people who are blind or deaf. These specially trained animals can help their owners with everyday tasks, such as navigating busy streets or understanding what is being said in a conversation. Some people believe these dogs are simply there for companionship, but this couldn’t be further from the truth.
It is one of the most common myths about service dogs. While it is true that service dogs can be beneficial for people who are blind or deaf, they are not limited to those populations. Service dogs can also be used by people with other disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, and PTSD.
2. Service dogs are expensive:
While it is true that service dogs can be expensive, several organizations provide financial assistance to those who need it but cannot afford it. Additionally, many service dog programs offer payment plans or accept donations. Service dogs provide an invaluable service to those who need them and are generally very affordable. Several organizations provide financial assistance for service dog ownership, so cost should not be a barrier to entry. In addition, many employers are required by law to provide reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities, including covering the cost of a service dog.
3. Service dogs must be professionally trained:
This is another myth about service dogs. While many service dogs are professionally trained, there are several ways to train a service dog. You can send your dog to a professional training school or buy a guide to service dog training to do a project out of it. Several online resources can help you train your service dog. Trick training, obedience training, agility training, behavior modification, and socialization are some of the necessary training steps.
Each of these types of training serves a specific purpose and can help your service dog be your best possible partner. Depending on what type of assistance you need, your service dog may need to be trained in one or more of these areas. For example, a service dog that helps with mobility may need to be trained in obedience and agility. In contrast, a service dog that provides emotional support may need behavior modification and socialization training.
4. Service dogs may not wear identification:
Service dogs are not required to wear identification to be considered working dogs. However, some people use ID tags on their service dogs for safety reasons. It is so that people know that the dog is a working service animal and not just a pet. If you choose to put an ID tag on your service dog, it should say “Service Dog” or “Do Not Disturb.” It will help people to understand that your dog is working and should not be disturbed. The identification should include the owner’s name and contact information in case the dog gets lost.
5. Service Dogs can be of any breed:
This is a common misconception about service dogs. Service dogs can be of any breed, size, or shape. They have to fit the specific needs of their handler. Some service dog breeds are better suited for specific tasks than others. While certain breeds may be more likely to have the temperament and obedience training required to be a service dog, any breed can potentially be a service dog.
It is essential to select a dog that meets the individual needs of the person with a disability rather than choosing a dog based on its breed. For example, Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers make great service dogs because they are intelligent, obedient, and eager to please their owners. German Shepherds are also popular service dogs because they are intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. Other popular service dog breeds include Poodles, Boxers, and Doberman Pinschers.
6. You can’t pet or talk to a service dog:
While service dogs are working, they are focused on their job and cannot be distracted. It means you shouldn’t pet or talk to a service dog while it is working. It is a common misconception, as people often think service dogs are not allowed to be petted or spoken to by anyone other than their handler. However, this is not the case!
Service dogs are working animals; as such, they are typically very friendly and enjoy interacting with people. However, you can always ask the owner if it’s okay to pet the dog when it’s not working. It’s lovely to pet or talk to a service dog, as long as you’re not disruptive or distracting them from their work.
7. Service dogs are allowed in most public places:
In the United States, service dogs are allowed in most public places. It includes places like restaurants, stores, hotels, and parks. Some places may have rules about service dogs, so it’s always a good idea to check with the specific business before you go there. Service dogs are not allowed in some public places because they are not considered trained animals. But service dogs are, in fact, trained animals that help their owners with disabilities. But it means they cannot be left alone in a room or taken out in public without a handler. Additionally, service dogs are not allowed on planes, buses, or trains unless they fit into a specific carrier approved by the airline or transit company.
8. Service dogs are always well-behaved and calm:
This is another myth about service dogs. While most service dogs are well-behaved, there are always exceptions. Service dogs can have good and bad days like any other animal. They may be tired, stressed, or not in the mood to work. If a service dog acts out of character, it’s important to remember that there may be a reason for it. Calmness is an essential quality in a service dog, but it’s not always possible to maintain a perfect level of calmness. Service dogs may become excited or agitated in certain situations, such as when they see their handler in pain or hear a loud noise.
Conclusion
service dogs are not just for the physically disabled. They provide a wide range of assistance and support to those with various disabilities, both physical and emotional. If you are considering getting a service dog, research to ensure you understand the commitment involved. It’s important to remember that service dogs are like any other animal – they can have good and bad days. Don’t forget to give your new best friend plenty of love and attention!