When a Service Dog has a vest on or is in public with its
disabled handler (or trainer), it is working, even if it appears as though it
is not. Distracting a Service Dog by making noises, offering food, water, toys
or petting may be dangerous to the dog’s disabled handler, especially if the
dog is a medical alert dog or brace/mobility support dog. Many handlers have
“invisible disabilities,” such as diabetes, hearing loss or other symptoms not
readily apparent and if a Service Dog is paying attention to someone who’s
distracting her, she’s not doing her job for her handler.
How to Behave Around a Service Dog
Service dogs are all around us and this is truly a
wonderful thing. They can help people to open and close doors, retrieve dropped
items from the floor, walk across the street, and retrieve medication from a
refrigerator, as well as a variety of other tasks. Each dog is tailor trained
to meet the specific needs of their handler. And yet many of us still do not
know how to properly interact with these fascinatingly furry helpers. Here are
six etiquette tips to remember the next time you encounter a service dog.
Speaking to the Service Dog Team
That's right, the service dog and its handler are a team.
And should you want to approach a service dog team, please speak to the person
first. Speaking, touching, or making rude noises to the dog may only confuse
him or her.
Petting the Service Dog
It may be tempting to pet or touch the service dog, but
only do so after receiving permission from the dog's handler. Moreover, don't
be insulted if your request is denied. Releasing the dog in order to greet you
may distract his or her attentiveness to the handler.
Feeding the Service Dog
Do not offer a service dog food or dog treats. Even though
service dogs are trained to ignore food on the ground and not beg for treats,
your offerings may serve as a distraction for the dog. Besides, you can't be
sure that the dog food or treat you are offering will not inadvertently cause
the dog to become sick.
Interactions with Your Dog
If you have a dog with you, do not let him or her approach
the service dog without first consulting with the handler. This can distract
the service dog and, despite his or her training, may lead to an unwanted
altercation between the animals.
Asking Personal Questions
Asking the handler about his or her disability is impolite
and an intrusion of privacy. You should also never assume an animal is not a
service dog if he or she does not wear a vest, patch, or any other item that
would identify the dog as a service dog. This is not required by U.S. federal
law.
