(I'm having a little bit of trouble using the search feature from my phone. I apologize if posts similar to this one have already been made.)
Do any of you use a service animal to help you manage the problems associated with your seizures? I have a 7-year-old Rottweiler who's already saved my life on more than one occasion, and I'd like to have her along with me in public to help me when I'm having episodes. She's very good at basic obedience, and I've started training her for service work. We're definitely going to need to work on a few things before she's ready. For example, she's still very nosy and pushy around cats, but I'm confident we'll work through everything.
I know the ADA defines a service animal as any animal who is trained to assist a disabled person with at least one task. (Do I have that right?) And I know there are several associations who define standards for service animals. We intend to exceed those expectations. I guess what I'm wondering, though, is when it's OK to say that my dog is a service dog. What kinds of things do I need to be aware of before I take my dog along with me into public places?
I'm not getting any information from the people I've asked about this. I've even been laughed at for asking questions. (How infuriating!) But I think this might be the way to go for me, especially considering I haven't found my magic pill, yet. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!
Do any of you use a service animal to help you manage the problems associated with your seizures? I have a 7-year-old Rottweiler who's already saved my life on more than one occasion, and I'd like to have her along with me in public to help me when I'm having episodes. She's very good at basic obedience, and I've started training her for service work. We're definitely going to need to work on a few things before she's ready. For example, she's still very nosy and pushy around cats, but I'm confident we'll work through everything.
I know the ADA defines a service animal as any animal who is trained to assist a disabled person with at least one task. (Do I have that right?) And I know there are several associations who define standards for service animals. We intend to exceed those expectations. I guess what I'm wondering, though, is when it's OK to say that my dog is a service dog. What kinds of things do I need to be aware of before I take my dog along with me into public places?
I'm not getting any information from the people I've asked about this. I've even been laughed at for asking questions. (How infuriating!) But I think this might be the way to go for me, especially considering I haven't found my magic pill, yet. Any information you could share would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you!