Service Dogs

Service Dogs are incredible additions to the life of people with disabilities. Of course I have always loved animals. About a year ago I met Abbigail. She was a gift from my youngest daughter Megan. About that same time I was advising a group of Veterinarians on setting up a service dog training business. That's how I met Marvin Mason, one of the world's best dog trainers. Marvin and I began working together training Abbigail to work as a service dog.

Now Abbigail is a Jack Russell Terrier. In case you've never met a JRT let me tell they are supercharged little bundles of energy in constant motion.

There's a myth (made up by able bodied people-- I think) that a service dog has to a large black lab or Golden Retriever. Well as an active person with a disability I know that little dogs can do 99% of what large dogs can do and they're much easier to care for. So I have become a great advocate of training. smaller dogs as service animals.

I (like most service dog owners) have had trouble gaining access for my dog almost from the beginning. I have found a creative solution that I would like to share with you. I made Abbigail a Tag or Certificate much like the one on the left. It quotes the law and lists her trainer and other important information but most of all it looks official. People stop me. I tell them she's a certified service dog then I show them her Tag that I have attached to her working harness. WORKS EVERY TIME. Even in Chinese restaurants which can be real difficult. Never fails. I'd be happy to make one for you.

Tell me about your service animal. I'll publish the best stories so others can enjoy your experiences.