Service dogs are some of the most helpful animals to human beings. They handle different tasks, such as assisting people with visual impairments, diabetes, seizures, and other disabilities. They are not only there for companionship but also for physical and emotional support. However, it’s essential to know what to expect before getting a service dog.
Here are six crucial things you need to know:
1) There Are Different Types of Service Dogs
Every service dog is trained to handle unique tasks. Depending on your disability or impairment, there is a service animal out there suited for you. Although all dogs are eligible to be trained as service dogs, some are not ideal for certain tasks. You must first identify your needs before choosing a service animal that meets your requirements sufficiently.
2) Caring for Them
You have a responsibility as the service dog owner to take care of your four-legged friend. It’s vital to ensure they eat healthy, are regularly checked by a veterinarian, and have a comfortable living environment.
Besides nutritional and health needs, you need to make their lives more enjoyable. You can do this by providing treats, relief brakes, and taking them for daily walks. Although you might not be in the right physical state to offer all this care to your dog, it’s vital to come up with a plan on how to make this possible before getting a service animal.
3) Registration Is Crucial but Not Mandatory
Since service animals are meant to work and not act as accessories, they have special privileges. One of them is that they can be allowed in planes and other places where normal pets might be restricted.
However, it’s not always easy for most businesses or organizations to allow your service animal entry into their premises. As a service dog owner, it’s important to have your animal certified and registered. Identifying them with a vest and ID card can make the situation more manageable.
Although it’s not necessary to provide proof as per ADA rules, getting your dog registered can help in various situations. Some cities require these animals to be registered for certain public purposes.
4) The Cost of Acquiring a Service Dog
Although service animals are quite expensive to acquire, their level of training and the assistance they offer is well worth it. You will always get value for your money whenever you buy a fully trained dog.
Do enough market research before buying any service animal. Don’t forget to check whether the specific function the animal is trained to handle matches your needs. Always ensure the seller has a valid training and selling license before buying from them.
5) They Require On-Going Training
It’s vital to uphold your dog’s skill sets and training routine. You must maintain a professional relationship with your service animal by avoiding certain behavior common with the rest of the pets. For instance, if you are used to giving your pet snacks off your plate, don’t do the same with your service dog. This might cause them to forget their duties and adopt more into being a pet.
6) Introducing Service Dogs to Untrained Pets
Although service animals are distinctly different from pets, they can still coexist with other untrained animals. However, there are specific measures to be considered before integrating your service animal to the family. You need a specialist trainer who will instill the necessary skills to prevent the service animal from picking on habits from other pets. Failure to do so might make them get used to bad habits such as barking, chewing, and begging.
Bottom Line
A service dog is a great companion and helper in many situations. Understand all the requirements and what it means to leave with a service animal before getting one.
