In recent weeks, there has been significant news in Pittsburgh regarding service dog etiquette. On December 17th, an employee at Jimmy John's was attacked by two men when he refused to allow them to pet his service dog. In light of this incident, it's important to review the proper etiquette concerning individuals and their service dogs. Service dogs are assistance animals specifically trained and bred to aid people with disabilities. Service dogs undergo up to two years of training, and only the most obedient and mild-mannered dogs pass.
Here are some key points to keep in mind:
• **Do Not Distract the Dog**: Please refrain from touching, talking to, feeding, or otherwise distracting the dog while it is wearing its harness or vest. It's essential for the dog to remain focused on its work for the safety of its handler.
• **Respect the Working Dog**: Do not treat the service dog as a pet; recognize that it is a working animal deserving of respect.
• **Communicate with the Handler**: Speak to the handler, not the dog. While some handlers may permit petting, always ask for permission first. If allowed, avoid patting the dog on the head; instead, stroke the dog on the shoulder.
• **Understand "No"**: If the handler declines your request to pet the dog, do not take offense. They may be having a challenging day or might be in a hurry. Remember, a service dog is as crucial to a person with a disability as a wheelchair or cane would be, and you wouldn't ask to pet those items.
• **Avoid Giving Commands**: Do not give the dog commands; allow the handler to do so.
• **Right of Way**: Guide and service dog teams have the right of way in public settings.
• **Assistance Upon Request**: Do not try to take control in situations that might be unfamiliar to the dog or handler. Instead, offer assistance if the handler requests it.
• **Walking Etiquette**: When walking alongside a guide or service dog team, do not position yourself on the dog's left side, as this may confuse or distract the dog. Ask the handler where you should walk; they may prefer you to walk ahead of them on their right side or behind them at their right shoulder.
• **Avoid Grabbing**: Never attempt to grab or steer the person while the dog is guiding. If the handler needs help, ask if you can help and, if so, offer your left arm.
• **When the Dog First Arrives Home**: Be patient and encouraging when the handler first introduces their new dog. Avoid being overprotective. Understand that building a harmonious relationship takes time.
• **Avoid Table Scraps**: Do not feed the dog table scraps. It's important to respect the handler's desire to maintain the dog's balanced diet and healthy habits.
• **Prevent Abuse and Teasing**: Ensure that no one teases or mistreats the service dog and allow it to rest undisturbed.
• **Supervision with Other Pets**: Don't let your pets challenge or intimidate a service dog. Introduce them on neutral territory while supervising closely.
• **Set Boundaries**: A service dog should not jump on furniture or enter areas of the home that haven't been agreed upon by the family or handler. You can ask the handler to correct any inappropriate behavior.
• **Supervise the Dog Outdoors**: Never let the dog outside unsupervised and ensure that all doors and gates are securely closed to prevent it from leaving your property.
By following these guidelines, we can better support individuals with service dogs and ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone.
Sources:
www.guidedog.org
www.guidedogsofamerica.org
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