No question, both are demeaning to service dogs, but I vote for the second one.
Petting a service dog is a continuing problem, seems to respond to education, might actually be becoming less of a problem, doesn’t result in more bogus service dogs, and is normally done by people who don’t know any better (even though they should).
Calling a pet a service dog is a continuing problem, doesn’t seem to respond to education, might actually be becoming more of a problem, results in more bogus service dogs, and, maybe worst of all, is normally done by people who do know better, but do it anyway.
We know how to handle the first one, but based on what I keep reading several times a day, we’re not getting anywhere on the second one – well, at least I’m not.
If you have any ideas, especially about how to fix it, please let me know.
I'm very active with Canine Companions for Independence as a volunteer, to include being a past member of the Veterans Task Force and puppy raiser. Retired US Air Force Chief Master Sergeant with my last assignments at the Air Force Academy as the Fourth Group Sergeant Major and Dean of Faculty Superintendent.
May 05, 2009 @ 11:30:02
Hands down: Calling a pet a service dog. The other day I was giving my son’s assistance dog a restroom break in front of the library. A man got out of his car, holding a small dog in his arms. “Oh,” he exclaimed, “I need to get one of those vests for her!” I ignored this comment and began to answer his questions about our dog (all of his training, all of the things he can do for our son, etc.) I thought this might send the message, but toward the end of the conversation he said, “I really want to get her one of those vests. That way, we can take her into restaurants!” How insensitive can you possibly be??! Even if you think that way, why would you TELL a service dog owner that?! Zero comprehension. I answered, “Well, that really ruins it for the rest of us who desperately need these dogs.” “Oh, I guess so,” he replied lightly. I have no doubt that dog will be in a vest soon.
Unfortunately, I think the ONLY answer is to change the law so that people are required to show that their service animals are legitimate. I know this will make it very difficult for some, but it would filter out a large number of the population who buy a vest online and throw it over their pet for fun.
Just my two cents!
~Michelle
Mom to Cole and CCI assistance dog, Ilia III
May 10, 2009 @ 15:41:59
I am an 100% disable veteran that needs my dog to help me become a whole person
She helps me walk because I have no balence,
picks up things and opens doors ECT.
I also am deaf and she keeps me out of trouble with cars, and lets me know when someone is at the door.
I recived my dog through canine asst. in Ga and she is cirtified as a service dog we have a badge that we have on her brace and one on her vest with her pitcher with me. I also have the Fed and State reg’s . I have no problums so far and what I had has been small.
she is a black Lab & Golden retriver mix.
I think all service dogs should be cirtifide with pitchers of dog and person.
thats my twocents worth. Ray