Service Dogs

[Jodi LeBlanc]

Did you know? Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to support people with visible and non-visible disabilities. Leaving a Service Dog to do their work undisturbed is a simple way we can all help foster inclusion.

[Scott Theus]

Thanks for sharing, @Jodi LeBlanc !

It is astounding how much misinformation exists about service animals, and how often a service animal is seen as a pet (and worse, how may pets are falsely represented as service animals.) 

For instance...while most service dogs are retrievers, did you know that the same breed behaviors that make pit pulls known as fighting dogs also makes them good service dogs? Pitties are extremely loyal animals and have an innate desire to please. Historically, this has been used to abuse them as fighting dogs, but they are actually very gentle in most cases when they are raised and trained well.  In my volunteer work with animal rescues I've known several certified service dog trainers that adopt unwanted pit bull puppies and train them as service animals. 

[Jodi LeBlanc]

Thanks Scott, that warms my heart that you do volunteer work with animal rescues. I completely agree about pit bulls, they are so kind and loving, it is humans that interfered and took advantage of their loyalty - which gave them the bad name they have today. One of my kindest, sweetest dogs was a pitbull mix (she was a rescue) - she was the only dog I trusted 110%, she was such a darling girl. Sadly she died at 5.5 years old from an  immune disorder and we did everything we could to save her. Here's a photo of her, such a beauty. Miss her dearly.

[Olivia Emerson]

A service dog is a dog specifically trained to perform work for a person with a disability. Service dogs are valued working partners and companions to over 80 million Americans. Common service dog breeds include German Shepherd Dogs, Labs, and Golden Retrievers.

[roberthugo]

Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.