CASSANDRA GLEBAVICIUS

An Introduction to Service Dogs

What is a Service Dog?

Any dog that has been individually trained to perform tasks or work for a person to help mitigate a debilitating disability

Does not require dog to be certified or registered through any organization

Legal questions to ask: Is that a service dog? What task does he or she perform for you?

Public access/exceptions

What is a Service Dog?

BreedSize

Mobility disabilities and “brace”Disposition

High energy and “stay”

Types of Assistance Dogs

Service Dog Trained Public Access Housing & Flying

Psychiatric Service Dog “Work”

Therapy Dog Trained to provide comfort to others No rights

Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Not trained Housing & Flying

Why Use an Assistance Dog?

Physical DisabilitiesPsychological Disabilities

PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD Ground, motivate, comfort, security

Comforting the Public

Stigma Regarding Service Dogs

DiscriminationIgnorance/Confusion“Invisible” DisabilitiesPersonal Disclosure of Disability

Initiating Change

Educate & Inform Guest Lectures

Exposure K-12 Presentations/Visits

Service Dog Etiquette Ask to pet Don’t feel offended Do Not Distract Personal Disclosure

Questions?