SERVICE DOGS

SERVICE DOGS

The most popular breeds for mobility service dogs are Golden Retrievers and Labradors, followed by German Shepherds, Standard Poodles and American Staffordshire Terriers. These breeds love to learn and delight in finishing their tasks. They possess natural behavior of sympathy for their owners and are highly intelligent. While some breeds are typically much better at being trained, how well they learn to perform also depends on the dog's personality.

Multiple organizations provide service dogs to those in need but the number of applicants for those organizations far outnumber the dogs that are ready for placement. Be prepared for a wait. A good agency will work to match you with the right dog. Some of these organizations will train your own dog.


Research the training facility and visit if you can. Some organizations are nationwide and others can be found in your own community. Search your state for dog training organizations near you. Organizations like Canine Companions for Independence (canine.org) offer grants for professional training across the US.

When adjusting to life after spinal cord injury, many people with SCI find both companionship and physical assistance, with service dogs. A mobility assistance dog can help with many duties, increasing your autonomy and independence. Most training facilities that offer service dogs or offer to train your dog, have long waiting lists, so apply as soon as you can.

A service dog can learn to open and shut doors and elevators, call emergency services, assist with shopping, help guide a fallen arm or leg back onto the armrest or foot rest, bring items to your hands or mouth, and alert someone in your household you need help. 

CHECK OUT THIS SERVICE DOG IN ACTION!

KNOW YOUR DOG'S RIGHTS

Although your dog may receive a training certificate you do not need to register, certify, or legalize your dog as a service dog in the U.S. State and local government agencies, businesses, and non-profits that provide goods or services to the public are required to make "reasonable modifications" in their policies to accommodate your service dog. Even places with a "no pets" policy must allow service animals into their facilities.

Business owners can ask you two questions only: "Is your service dog required because of a disability?" And "What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?" They can not require you to produce a training certificate, registration or ask anything specific about your disability. Landlords can't ask for "official proof" either. You will just need to state in writing that you are disabled, the dog is needed because of the disability, and the dog assists you.
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