COMMONLY asked QUESTIONS
About Service dogs
This document is here to help those with common questions that typically aren't answered or it's hard to find a answer without a run around. This document is lengthy but is detailed and provides a lot of information, education and sources for those that may need them.
Please don't hesitate to contact us about if you have questions, need help or wanting more information. This information may not pertain to other states or area's as it's solely meant for Michigan residents.
What is a service dog you might ask?
What rights do they have?
Do they have to be registered or certified? What breeds can they be?
What makes a dog a service dog?
Do they require training through a program to become one?
What's the difference between a dog needed for emotional support or comfort, or a dog used for therapy work vs a service dog?
What should I do if I see a service dog in public?
How can I get a service dog?
Why can't I bring my pet into places like service dogs?
My dog is training in personal protection, can it be a service dog?
Can service dogs do sports and other things?
These are all common questions that are often asked or thought about when it comes to service dogs and dogs in training for service work.
These questions do get asked to handlers, trainers, programs and even on social media seeking answers or help.
However, even with the popular demand for answers, these questions oftentimes get answered incorrectly or are filled with lies, misrepresentation or half truths.
So let's start out with the basics.
Please note the cited links being provided are legal based and creditable under law.
What is a service dog?
Taken from the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). "Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities."
The ADA is the federal regulations for service dogs and their handlers. They set the regulations that are set for the federal laws for protecting the handler and their dogs rights.
With that brief description, you now know that these dogs are trained to assist their handler as an individual with their disability/s by performing task/s.
These tasks can include many things from guide work, hearing assistance, diabetic alert to changing glucose levels, seizure alert and assistance (laying next to them to protect their body from harm), mobility assistance like picking things up, opening and closing doors, psychological assistance in alerting to and helping through anxiety, triggers for PTSD, night terrors, autism assistance, allergen detection and so much more.
However, many get confused or believe that having a disability or illness makes them suitable for a service dog. That is usually not the case. We will get to that part later on.
*provided a link for the ADA laws that where last revised in 2010*
https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
What rights do they have?
Service dogs are allowed to accompany their handler into all public areas, events, transportation systems, approved housing and work places as medical equipment.
Please know that there are some areas that are restricted due to safety of the handler, other people or the dog. For example, surgical sterilized environments such as an operating room, hazmat environment. Other areas of restriction are areas where food is prepped or cooked to service like a kitchen area. Lastly places of religious grounds and federal buildings. Access can be granted or allowed given the situation and state of need.
In general thought service dogs are allowed to accompany their handlers. Restaurants, movie theaters, schools, shopping centers, public areas with events, fairs, events on private properties open to the public, clubs, bars, air planes, ships, amusement parks and so forth. There are other legal rights and regulations that can vary from state to state and do change from country to country.
The United States follows the ADA with each state offering more protection and legal terms for handlers and their service dogs. However, federal laws and regulations always trump and overtake any state law. Knowing both is recommended because sadly most local authorities aren't aware of the federal laws and oftentimes even their own states laws regarding service dogs.
In the state of Michigan there are several hidden laws and regulations but in general sense the last update to the Michigan laws, we follow the ADA regulations. But do know that there are state laws also.
Here is a like to one of them the 750.50;
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(e2ry0z4fgbhg2r1xgmu2n1h2))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectname=mcl-750-50a
It is illegal to interfere, harm or distract a working service dog and it is punishable by law.
Denying access without accommodation and reasonable rights is illegal and punishable by law.
Marking your dog as a service dog or faking it as such when it is not is illegal and punishable by law.
Do they have to be registered or certified?
No.
There is no legal registration or certification for service dogs.
Some states and programs or trainers offer such but they are not required or legalized other than to that program/state. States can not require such.
Online websites that offer things like papers, badges, certification are fake and not legal in any aspect of the law.
Asking for such is also illegal.
As under law to protect the rights of the handler, legally there are only 2 questions that are asked by a business, transportation company and housing.
That's it. Nothing else.
Michigan is one of the states that offer a Voluntary registration, but again it is not required and should not be used as an access way.
Flashing an ID or paper around demanding access is one huge red flag showing that a person isn't aware of the laws and rights or is and could care less about legitimate teams, making businesses believe there is a need for IDs or certifications to enter.
On that note, it is also a federal and state crime to mark your dog as a service dog or claim your dog is to gain access or rights when your dog isn't. If you do this, you are lower than low.
Don't abuse the system to take fofo or feefee places they don't belong.
What breeds can they be?
Under law, service animals are described as any breed of dog and with limitation Miniature horses. No other animal is covered by federal law. Or Michigan law.
This means that any breed of dog. Be it purebred or mixed breed. Any size of dog, any color of dog. Ect ect ect.
This excluded Wolf-dogs or dogs bred with wild canids (wolves, coyotes, dingoes).
So no, your cat can't go shopping with you or your pet duck or goat or cow.
Knowing that any breed can be a service dog offers a large ability for handlers and their needs to be met. But know that not every breed is suited and even common breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Standard Poodles, Standard Collies and German Shepherds, there are actually very few suited dogs that can handle being a service dog. On average around 80% of dogs fail being able to complete training or work out in general. With selective breeding the odds are lower for failure but still pretty high.
Regardless of the breed picked, it takes a special and specific dog to make it. Sound temperament, able to handle pressure, being able to work on cue and off cue, stability all around, health, trainability, suitability for the handlers needs and much more.
Any amount of flaws is a risk not only to the dog itself but its handler, the public and other teams. By flaws I'm referring to aggression, temperament issues, health issues, stability of body (blind, deaf, missing a limb), on medication for health issues and so forth.
What makes a dog a service dog?
In general with the definition of law, a service dog is deemed such once task trained.
However, there is more to it than that.
Countless hours of bonding, training, exposure, experiences, tasks training, Public and non Public areas of training, general service dog skills and much more.
While working a puppy or dog until they are fully trained, they need so much from the handler and the public. Even after being fully trained the team should continue to keep up with training and learn new things.
On average it takes roughly 2 years to complete training. That usually covers the rest of everyday life in and out of public. From going out to eat, traveling and general shopping, different stores and places.
These dogs require the need to be able to work soundly and safely in all areas, environments, places etc.
They need to also be safe for the public. Meaning they can't be aggressive or protective. They can't fear things or be uncontrollable.
They also need to be house broke and be in control of the handler at all times. By voice, leash or training gear.
They do have to follow leash laws unless actively tasking and the leash gets in the way of the dog working.
Service dogs also don't need to be vested or marked. And should be able to work without gear. Also, the handler of the dog need to be aware of regulations, laws and such.
For example, dogs should be on the floor at all times unless tasking for its handler, they should never be in contact with food in public areas such as eating off the table or going to a buffet and counter surfing. They need to be out of the way of the public to the best of their ability in the given situation like tucking under a table or next to the handler while in line. They shouldn't be allowed to wonders around, smell things (unless a detection dog), calm and collected and focused.
Do they require training through a program?
No.
There is no requirement or law requiring a dog to go through a program to become a service dog.
This allows disabled individuals the right to train their dogs by themselves or seek out programs or trainers.
Sadly, with this open absence of regulations, many scam people. Taking their money and sometimes their dogs. A lot of potential new handlers or searching individuals often fall prey to con-artist, or people who represent something they aren't.
Even some programs are this way. So doing research is always best. Ask questions. And seek out many people, programs etc before settling.
Again as mentioned, some programs offer testing and certification or registration. Which is acceptable and fine. Just know that just because a dog came from a program, doesn't make it any better compared to a dog trained solely by its handler. And that dogs trained by their handlers aren't always poor examples or poorly trained.
What's the difference between an ESA, SD and TD?
As mentioned above a service dog is individually trained to assist their disabled handler. Often referred to as a SD or Service Dog in Training (SDiT).
A dog for Emotional support or comfort often referred to as an ESA is not a service dog.
These dogs do not require training and are only granted limited housing rights and limited travel rights. They are not allowed into public spaces that are not pet friendly. They have no access to other areas of private or events.
They are used as a comfort to those in need while at home or traveling. That is it. They have no other rights. Marking one as a Service dog and bringing into a public area for access is illegal.
In order to have legal rights of need for an ESA for housing or travel, the individual must get approval from their mental health professional they are seeking treatment through. Again, there is no registration or certification for these dogs as well. Only that note from the doctor is needed by law for housing and travel rights.
A therapy dog (TD) are dogs trained to provide comfort and support to multiple individuals in an approved environment or faculty such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes or even courtrooms. These dogs have no legal rights or access protection and are just granted access to "safe" areas to work. Many states, counties and cities regulations vary by what's needed for these dogs and their training. Most require them to go through a program or several classes to pass tests suited to see their temperament, training skills and overall safety and ability to work.
They are not allowed in non-working areas, public areas that aren't pet friendly and have no housing, travel or other rights/protection besides what is offered by their program.
What should I do if I encounter a service dog?
In most cases a service team just wants to get a gallon of milk and go home. They don't want to be bothered, asked a million questions, followed, taken pictures of or harassed.
They are just like everyone else in the area with a goal in mind or a job to do.
If you encounter one as a shopper or in general, respect them and their space. Don't hover, stop them or harass them.
It is against the law to disturb, interfere or harm a service dog. In Michigan it is a punishable law, as well as a federal crime. You could face a misdemeanor or even a felony charge (in some states).
Don't try to pet the dog. Don't rush them. Don't stare or take pictures/video (which can also be illegal).
Don't allow your kids to do the same. Be a respectful adult. If you do have questions, some handlers are more than willing to educate but most aren't. They just want to go about their days normally.
Especially don't interfere if you see the handler getting help from the dog. For example, they are laying or sitting on the ground. Unless asked for assistance or the handler is harmed it's best to ignore.
If you are working and a service team comes to your business.
You have the right to ask the 2 questions above.
Unless otherwise asked for help, go about your day working. Don't do the above.
Denying access because you are afraid, allergic or don't want the dog there is illegal. There are accommodation regulations for those who are deathly afraid or allergic. But accommodations must be made.
Remember to have employees also educated as well.
The only other instance a business has is to monitor the situation given if the dog is out of control, clearly not trained, isn't house broke or actively posing a threat (lunges at people, aggressive towards people or other animals etc).
If a dog is displaying things like that, then you can have them removed or deny access. You also have a right to deny ESA or dogs for comfort and Therapy Dogs.
Remember to also keep food and health regulations in mind.
If a dog is not in a manor to those things such as sitting on a booth, in a cart, in a food area then you can ask them to remove or get the dog under control in a regulated manner.
Please note that I'm not listing regulations for housing or travel as those require more in depth things such as they are allowed certain things under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), HUD and Flight/Air control safety regulations.
How do I acquire a service dog?
It is not my right or anyone's right to judge or assume your need or right to one.
However, you must be disabled in the eyes of the law with life alerting disability/s in order to be covered if pushed legally.
Know that just because you might be disabled, does not mean you're suited or need one. And many disabilities can be managed otherwise with other medical attention, therapy, medicine etc.
The service dog's purpose is of a need and not a want. These dogs will need to be trained to help better your life.
Many people with disabilities also find that having a service dog makes it harder for them, some even become unable to do things. Which is where knowing your need and ability to handle a service dog is huge.
For example; people with life alerting anxiety. Having a service dog brings a lot of attention. A lot! Meaning that will affect your mental ability even with the dog's help. Most handlers can't handle that.
In general, if you feel you will benefit from one, do your research. Contact programs, trainers and even try to reach out to handlers, forms and pages. Read. Learn and educate yourself.
I'm talking about everything. From what breed would be best with its own individual abilities, your abilities to manage the dog even as a pet. (Grooming, care, feed, mental and physical health etc).
Then research training things.
If you have no experience then learn some and in my opinion seek help from an experienced trainer.
Yes, it can be done by yourself but a lot is on the line if you aren't sure. If you can't handle training then seek a trainer who will do it all or a program. Just know that programs tend to have a strict acceptance program and waiting times usually running 2-4 years.
Also understand the general and long term costs. It cost a lot! Even as an owner trainer. Trainers cost and programs cost. On average a service dog is deemed worth roughly $20,000-50,000 of value of training. Most programs or trainers cost half that to even more!
Learn about fundraising and ask for help. There are many great people, groups and support systems out there. Just be careful because as mentioned, there are also scammers and a lot of drama. Also, just because a program or trainer is popular does not credit them their dues or ability.
Why can't I bring my pet inside?
One main reason is, it's against the law.
That should be enough.
But it's not.
99% of the time pet dogs can not handle the stress of leaving home let alone going into a highly stimulated and stressful environment. Also leaving the fact out that many pet owners don't give enough general realization to their dogs behavior, training and lack control over their pet.
This poses many issues to legitimate service dog teams.
Mainly their safety. Mind you again that it is punishable under law if you harm a service dog, meaning if your dog attacks, harms them even mentally, you are reliable. Can you afford $20,000 to replace a service dog, if not more?
Your dog might be fine at home but put it in a stressful situation and it can change quickly. This is oftentimes how bites happen. Someone goes to pet your dog and it bites. That's the last thing you want.
Your dog's actions set an example. If it barks it causes an issue which leaves others to believe all dogs do that and it can be a pain. Your dog pulls, jumps at people, pees on something etc etc etc. It's all the same. Leaving a bad imprint for teams who might go to that area in the future. Which can cause people of the public to judge them or the business to also judge or even lead to access issues.
Your propriety as a pet owner is to insure your dogs safety. So leaving it home where it is safe is best. Don't bring it along on a hot or cold day knowing you are going shopping and can't leave it in the car. Don't travel with your pet and fear it will be lonely if left in the camper or car. These are not reliable but often used excuses and sadly often results in issues for legitimate teams.
Service dog teams shouldn't have to fear for their lives or their working partners because of people feeling over privileged, absent minded or like they are above the law.
So the best bet is to leave your dog at home.
Here is a link to a video of an interview I did with my service dog Hiccup and a few friends who are handlers.
https://www.9and10news.com/2019/02/12/faking-it-service-dogs-at-risk/
Don't be that person. Not only will it catch up to you but it will make you look extremely bad when it does.
Your putting not only yourself and your pet at risks but your also putting someone else's life at risk and their working dog.
Can personal protection dogs (PPD) be service dogs?
No.
Under description of the law once a dog is trained to actively protect a handler in a "aggressive" manner (bite, charge, chace off, apprehend, target and attack) they are classified as a weapon.
That alone removes their ability to be able to safely be a service dog and fit under both state and federal laws.
Regardless of how well trained your dog is in control or handling, it can not be a service dog once it is trained to harm or attempt to harm a human with or without a command.
In some states and areas once a dog is trained for such, it's classified as a "hidden or concealed weapon". Many states also have regulations about the owner needing permits, insurances coverage and sometimes more.
Don't be dumb. Don't risk yourself, your dog and the public. A dog bite is a hefty expense often costing the dogs life, plus.
Take note that doing protection sports is different than a dog training in actual protection.
Can Service Dogs do sports and other things?
Yes!
Service dogs might be working dogs but they can also be trained, handled and worked in other things also.
There is no law saying they can't!
Many service dog handlers enjoy doing other things with their dogs. From sports, events, shows, outdoor activities, titling and more! In most cases these things help the teams bond, handling, training and provides proof of ability and safety of the team.
It's encouraging for teams to do more than just work. Its rewarding to have fun as a team and earn things or enjoyment of communication and handling as a team.
As stated before, dogs who do sports like IPO/IGP, FR, WDA and other sports with "protection" in them are allowed to be service dogs with the understanding that only if their dog is trained for the sports aspect and not real world protection. If the dog is trained to protect in a real manner that it goes back to legal aspects of the law.
In summary, education helps greatly. Think before you act. Leave your pet at home. Don't be dumb. Help support in learning and teaching the public, business and future handlers or handlers needing help.
If you have questions, need help or in general want to learn more please feel free to reach out to me privately.
Please know I'm basing this off for Michigan only and not other states or countries around the world.
My focus is to help educate the public and handlers alike. Offer support and when needed and able suitable dogs.
Link provide below of general questions asked
https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html
Written by Shyann Hilla
Owner of Hamilton Pine Kennel's located in Harrison, Michigan.
Please don't hesitate to contact us about if you have questions, need help or wanting more information. This information may not pertain to other states or area's as it's solely meant for Michigan residents.
What is a service dog you might ask?
What rights do they have?
Do they have to be registered or certified? What breeds can they be?
What makes a dog a service dog?
Do they require training through a program to become one?
What's the difference between a dog needed for emotional support or comfort, or a dog used for therapy work vs a service dog?
What should I do if I see a service dog in public?
How can I get a service dog?
Why can't I bring my pet into places like service dogs?
My dog is training in personal protection, can it be a service dog?
Can service dogs do sports and other things?
These are all common questions that are often asked or thought about when it comes to service dogs and dogs in training for service work.
These questions do get asked to handlers, trainers, programs and even on social media seeking answers or help.
However, even with the popular demand for answers, these questions oftentimes get answered incorrectly or are filled with lies, misrepresentation or half truths.
So let's start out with the basics.
Please note the cited links being provided are legal based and creditable under law.
What is a service dog?
Taken from the American with Disabilities Act (ADA). "Service animals are defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities."
The ADA is the federal regulations for service dogs and their handlers. They set the regulations that are set for the federal laws for protecting the handler and their dogs rights.
With that brief description, you now know that these dogs are trained to assist their handler as an individual with their disability/s by performing task/s.
These tasks can include many things from guide work, hearing assistance, diabetic alert to changing glucose levels, seizure alert and assistance (laying next to them to protect their body from harm), mobility assistance like picking things up, opening and closing doors, psychological assistance in alerting to and helping through anxiety, triggers for PTSD, night terrors, autism assistance, allergen detection and so much more.
However, many get confused or believe that having a disability or illness makes them suitable for a service dog. That is usually not the case. We will get to that part later on.
*provided a link for the ADA laws that where last revised in 2010*
https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
What rights do they have?
Service dogs are allowed to accompany their handler into all public areas, events, transportation systems, approved housing and work places as medical equipment.
Please know that there are some areas that are restricted due to safety of the handler, other people or the dog. For example, surgical sterilized environments such as an operating room, hazmat environment. Other areas of restriction are areas where food is prepped or cooked to service like a kitchen area. Lastly places of religious grounds and federal buildings. Access can be granted or allowed given the situation and state of need.
In general thought service dogs are allowed to accompany their handlers. Restaurants, movie theaters, schools, shopping centers, public areas with events, fairs, events on private properties open to the public, clubs, bars, air planes, ships, amusement parks and so forth. There are other legal rights and regulations that can vary from state to state and do change from country to country.
The United States follows the ADA with each state offering more protection and legal terms for handlers and their service dogs. However, federal laws and regulations always trump and overtake any state law. Knowing both is recommended because sadly most local authorities aren't aware of the federal laws and oftentimes even their own states laws regarding service dogs.
In the state of Michigan there are several hidden laws and regulations but in general sense the last update to the Michigan laws, we follow the ADA regulations. But do know that there are state laws also.
Here is a like to one of them the 750.50;
http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(e2ry0z4fgbhg2r1xgmu2n1h2))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectname=mcl-750-50a
It is illegal to interfere, harm or distract a working service dog and it is punishable by law.
Denying access without accommodation and reasonable rights is illegal and punishable by law.
Marking your dog as a service dog or faking it as such when it is not is illegal and punishable by law.
Do they have to be registered or certified?
No.
There is no legal registration or certification for service dogs.
Some states and programs or trainers offer such but they are not required or legalized other than to that program/state. States can not require such.
Online websites that offer things like papers, badges, certification are fake and not legal in any aspect of the law.
Asking for such is also illegal.
As under law to protect the rights of the handler, legally there are only 2 questions that are asked by a business, transportation company and housing.
- 1. Is that a service dog?
- 2. What type of service dog?
That's it. Nothing else.
Michigan is one of the states that offer a Voluntary registration, but again it is not required and should not be used as an access way.
Flashing an ID or paper around demanding access is one huge red flag showing that a person isn't aware of the laws and rights or is and could care less about legitimate teams, making businesses believe there is a need for IDs or certifications to enter.
On that note, it is also a federal and state crime to mark your dog as a service dog or claim your dog is to gain access or rights when your dog isn't. If you do this, you are lower than low.
Don't abuse the system to take fofo or feefee places they don't belong.
What breeds can they be?
Under law, service animals are described as any breed of dog and with limitation Miniature horses. No other animal is covered by federal law. Or Michigan law.
This means that any breed of dog. Be it purebred or mixed breed. Any size of dog, any color of dog. Ect ect ect.
This excluded Wolf-dogs or dogs bred with wild canids (wolves, coyotes, dingoes).
So no, your cat can't go shopping with you or your pet duck or goat or cow.
Knowing that any breed can be a service dog offers a large ability for handlers and their needs to be met. But know that not every breed is suited and even common breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Standard Poodles, Standard Collies and German Shepherds, there are actually very few suited dogs that can handle being a service dog. On average around 80% of dogs fail being able to complete training or work out in general. With selective breeding the odds are lower for failure but still pretty high.
Regardless of the breed picked, it takes a special and specific dog to make it. Sound temperament, able to handle pressure, being able to work on cue and off cue, stability all around, health, trainability, suitability for the handlers needs and much more.
Any amount of flaws is a risk not only to the dog itself but its handler, the public and other teams. By flaws I'm referring to aggression, temperament issues, health issues, stability of body (blind, deaf, missing a limb), on medication for health issues and so forth.
What makes a dog a service dog?
In general with the definition of law, a service dog is deemed such once task trained.
However, there is more to it than that.
Countless hours of bonding, training, exposure, experiences, tasks training, Public and non Public areas of training, general service dog skills and much more.
While working a puppy or dog until they are fully trained, they need so much from the handler and the public. Even after being fully trained the team should continue to keep up with training and learn new things.
On average it takes roughly 2 years to complete training. That usually covers the rest of everyday life in and out of public. From going out to eat, traveling and general shopping, different stores and places.
These dogs require the need to be able to work soundly and safely in all areas, environments, places etc.
They need to also be safe for the public. Meaning they can't be aggressive or protective. They can't fear things or be uncontrollable.
They also need to be house broke and be in control of the handler at all times. By voice, leash or training gear.
They do have to follow leash laws unless actively tasking and the leash gets in the way of the dog working.
Service dogs also don't need to be vested or marked. And should be able to work without gear. Also, the handler of the dog need to be aware of regulations, laws and such.
For example, dogs should be on the floor at all times unless tasking for its handler, they should never be in contact with food in public areas such as eating off the table or going to a buffet and counter surfing. They need to be out of the way of the public to the best of their ability in the given situation like tucking under a table or next to the handler while in line. They shouldn't be allowed to wonders around, smell things (unless a detection dog), calm and collected and focused.
Do they require training through a program?
No.
There is no requirement or law requiring a dog to go through a program to become a service dog.
This allows disabled individuals the right to train their dogs by themselves or seek out programs or trainers.
Sadly, with this open absence of regulations, many scam people. Taking their money and sometimes their dogs. A lot of potential new handlers or searching individuals often fall prey to con-artist, or people who represent something they aren't.
Even some programs are this way. So doing research is always best. Ask questions. And seek out many people, programs etc before settling.
Again as mentioned, some programs offer testing and certification or registration. Which is acceptable and fine. Just know that just because a dog came from a program, doesn't make it any better compared to a dog trained solely by its handler. And that dogs trained by their handlers aren't always poor examples or poorly trained.
What's the difference between an ESA, SD and TD?
As mentioned above a service dog is individually trained to assist their disabled handler. Often referred to as a SD or Service Dog in Training (SDiT).
A dog for Emotional support or comfort often referred to as an ESA is not a service dog.
These dogs do not require training and are only granted limited housing rights and limited travel rights. They are not allowed into public spaces that are not pet friendly. They have no access to other areas of private or events.
They are used as a comfort to those in need while at home or traveling. That is it. They have no other rights. Marking one as a Service dog and bringing into a public area for access is illegal.
In order to have legal rights of need for an ESA for housing or travel, the individual must get approval from their mental health professional they are seeking treatment through. Again, there is no registration or certification for these dogs as well. Only that note from the doctor is needed by law for housing and travel rights.
A therapy dog (TD) are dogs trained to provide comfort and support to multiple individuals in an approved environment or faculty such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes or even courtrooms. These dogs have no legal rights or access protection and are just granted access to "safe" areas to work. Many states, counties and cities regulations vary by what's needed for these dogs and their training. Most require them to go through a program or several classes to pass tests suited to see their temperament, training skills and overall safety and ability to work.
They are not allowed in non-working areas, public areas that aren't pet friendly and have no housing, travel or other rights/protection besides what is offered by their program.
What should I do if I encounter a service dog?
In most cases a service team just wants to get a gallon of milk and go home. They don't want to be bothered, asked a million questions, followed, taken pictures of or harassed.
They are just like everyone else in the area with a goal in mind or a job to do.
If you encounter one as a shopper or in general, respect them and their space. Don't hover, stop them or harass them.
It is against the law to disturb, interfere or harm a service dog. In Michigan it is a punishable law, as well as a federal crime. You could face a misdemeanor or even a felony charge (in some states).
Don't try to pet the dog. Don't rush them. Don't stare or take pictures/video (which can also be illegal).
Don't allow your kids to do the same. Be a respectful adult. If you do have questions, some handlers are more than willing to educate but most aren't. They just want to go about their days normally.
Especially don't interfere if you see the handler getting help from the dog. For example, they are laying or sitting on the ground. Unless asked for assistance or the handler is harmed it's best to ignore.
If you are working and a service team comes to your business.
You have the right to ask the 2 questions above.
Unless otherwise asked for help, go about your day working. Don't do the above.
Denying access because you are afraid, allergic or don't want the dog there is illegal. There are accommodation regulations for those who are deathly afraid or allergic. But accommodations must be made.
Remember to have employees also educated as well.
The only other instance a business has is to monitor the situation given if the dog is out of control, clearly not trained, isn't house broke or actively posing a threat (lunges at people, aggressive towards people or other animals etc).
If a dog is displaying things like that, then you can have them removed or deny access. You also have a right to deny ESA or dogs for comfort and Therapy Dogs.
Remember to also keep food and health regulations in mind.
If a dog is not in a manor to those things such as sitting on a booth, in a cart, in a food area then you can ask them to remove or get the dog under control in a regulated manner.
Please note that I'm not listing regulations for housing or travel as those require more in depth things such as they are allowed certain things under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), HUD and Flight/Air control safety regulations.
How do I acquire a service dog?
It is not my right or anyone's right to judge or assume your need or right to one.
However, you must be disabled in the eyes of the law with life alerting disability/s in order to be covered if pushed legally.
Know that just because you might be disabled, does not mean you're suited or need one. And many disabilities can be managed otherwise with other medical attention, therapy, medicine etc.
The service dog's purpose is of a need and not a want. These dogs will need to be trained to help better your life.
Many people with disabilities also find that having a service dog makes it harder for them, some even become unable to do things. Which is where knowing your need and ability to handle a service dog is huge.
For example; people with life alerting anxiety. Having a service dog brings a lot of attention. A lot! Meaning that will affect your mental ability even with the dog's help. Most handlers can't handle that.
In general, if you feel you will benefit from one, do your research. Contact programs, trainers and even try to reach out to handlers, forms and pages. Read. Learn and educate yourself.
I'm talking about everything. From what breed would be best with its own individual abilities, your abilities to manage the dog even as a pet. (Grooming, care, feed, mental and physical health etc).
Then research training things.
If you have no experience then learn some and in my opinion seek help from an experienced trainer.
Yes, it can be done by yourself but a lot is on the line if you aren't sure. If you can't handle training then seek a trainer who will do it all or a program. Just know that programs tend to have a strict acceptance program and waiting times usually running 2-4 years.
Also understand the general and long term costs. It cost a lot! Even as an owner trainer. Trainers cost and programs cost. On average a service dog is deemed worth roughly $20,000-50,000 of value of training. Most programs or trainers cost half that to even more!
Learn about fundraising and ask for help. There are many great people, groups and support systems out there. Just be careful because as mentioned, there are also scammers and a lot of drama. Also, just because a program or trainer is popular does not credit them their dues or ability.
Why can't I bring my pet inside?
One main reason is, it's against the law.
That should be enough.
But it's not.
99% of the time pet dogs can not handle the stress of leaving home let alone going into a highly stimulated and stressful environment. Also leaving the fact out that many pet owners don't give enough general realization to their dogs behavior, training and lack control over their pet.
This poses many issues to legitimate service dog teams.
Mainly their safety. Mind you again that it is punishable under law if you harm a service dog, meaning if your dog attacks, harms them even mentally, you are reliable. Can you afford $20,000 to replace a service dog, if not more?
Your dog might be fine at home but put it in a stressful situation and it can change quickly. This is oftentimes how bites happen. Someone goes to pet your dog and it bites. That's the last thing you want.
Your dog's actions set an example. If it barks it causes an issue which leaves others to believe all dogs do that and it can be a pain. Your dog pulls, jumps at people, pees on something etc etc etc. It's all the same. Leaving a bad imprint for teams who might go to that area in the future. Which can cause people of the public to judge them or the business to also judge or even lead to access issues.
Your propriety as a pet owner is to insure your dogs safety. So leaving it home where it is safe is best. Don't bring it along on a hot or cold day knowing you are going shopping and can't leave it in the car. Don't travel with your pet and fear it will be lonely if left in the camper or car. These are not reliable but often used excuses and sadly often results in issues for legitimate teams.
Service dog teams shouldn't have to fear for their lives or their working partners because of people feeling over privileged, absent minded or like they are above the law.
So the best bet is to leave your dog at home.
Here is a link to a video of an interview I did with my service dog Hiccup and a few friends who are handlers.
https://www.9and10news.com/2019/02/12/faking-it-service-dogs-at-risk/
Don't be that person. Not only will it catch up to you but it will make you look extremely bad when it does.
Your putting not only yourself and your pet at risks but your also putting someone else's life at risk and their working dog.
Can personal protection dogs (PPD) be service dogs?
No.
Under description of the law once a dog is trained to actively protect a handler in a "aggressive" manner (bite, charge, chace off, apprehend, target and attack) they are classified as a weapon.
That alone removes their ability to be able to safely be a service dog and fit under both state and federal laws.
Regardless of how well trained your dog is in control or handling, it can not be a service dog once it is trained to harm or attempt to harm a human with or without a command.
In some states and areas once a dog is trained for such, it's classified as a "hidden or concealed weapon". Many states also have regulations about the owner needing permits, insurances coverage and sometimes more.
Don't be dumb. Don't risk yourself, your dog and the public. A dog bite is a hefty expense often costing the dogs life, plus.
Take note that doing protection sports is different than a dog training in actual protection.
Can Service Dogs do sports and other things?
Yes!
Service dogs might be working dogs but they can also be trained, handled and worked in other things also.
There is no law saying they can't!
Many service dog handlers enjoy doing other things with their dogs. From sports, events, shows, outdoor activities, titling and more! In most cases these things help the teams bond, handling, training and provides proof of ability and safety of the team.
It's encouraging for teams to do more than just work. Its rewarding to have fun as a team and earn things or enjoyment of communication and handling as a team.
As stated before, dogs who do sports like IPO/IGP, FR, WDA and other sports with "protection" in them are allowed to be service dogs with the understanding that only if their dog is trained for the sports aspect and not real world protection. If the dog is trained to protect in a real manner that it goes back to legal aspects of the law.
In summary, education helps greatly. Think before you act. Leave your pet at home. Don't be dumb. Help support in learning and teaching the public, business and future handlers or handlers needing help.
If you have questions, need help or in general want to learn more please feel free to reach out to me privately.
Please know I'm basing this off for Michigan only and not other states or countries around the world.
My focus is to help educate the public and handlers alike. Offer support and when needed and able suitable dogs.
Link provide below of general questions asked
https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html
Written by Shyann Hilla
Owner of Hamilton Pine Kennel's located in Harrison, Michigan.