Most people think that dogs need constant attention and affection, but that is not the case for service dogs.

Service dogs are not pets. They are constantly on duty and have a job to do, and there are certain expectations that should be prioritized in order to keep them and their handlers safe.

Many people will see a service dog and assume they do not get the attention they need and are neglected, which is false. At home, these dogs are taken care of and loved but while they are in public they are working and do not need to be distracted or bothered. These service dogs are extensions of the handler and intervening could be extremely dangerous and could result in lawsuits along with heavy fines.

Service dogs can be used for many things some of which include a visual/ speech impairment, a physical disability, and mental disabilities. These dogs are not the same as emotional support dogs.

Emotional support dogs provide support by just being present by the owner and giving affection. Service dogs are there to do a task, which could range from helping their owner get somewhere safely. These dogs are crucial for their agility to get places and in some cases even the ability to walk.

Here are some things you want to make sure you reframe from doing when you are around a service dog.

• Do not talk to, whistle, or bark at a service dog
• Do not on any occasion pet or touch a service dog that is extremely distracting and unacceptable
• Tapping your feet or clapping is distracting to the dogs and takes their attention away from the owner
• Feeding or giving a dog treats not only distracts them but also certain service dogs are on specific diets
• Never ask for the owner to explain or demonstrate how the dog is helping the owner that is disrespectful
• Do not grab the dog’s harness or collar to “help” the dog it is trained and will just confuse the dog and put the owner more at risk.
• Do not ask for the service dogs name- they are dogs and could get distracted if its name is called and could result in an injury.

These dogs are trained intensely and know how to help their handlers.

If you notice that they might need help ask the handler before taking control as intervening could be extremely dangerous and result in serious injury.

Service dogs undergo rigorous training to ensure the safety of their owner. They’re not traditional pets and don’t behave as such, so if you have a fear of dogs, you have nothing to worry about.

A service dog cannot be prohibited in any public space.