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Health & Fitness

Service Dog Etiquette

Ever wonder what is the appropriate way to behavior around a service dog?

Jeanne Hampl, Neighbor
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It is so hard for most of us to resist a beautiful well trained dog but when the dog is a service dog we must behave appropriately. So when you meet a person with a service dog, please remember that the dog is working. Don't do anything to interrupt the service dog while it is performing its tasks.

Rules for Interacting with People with Service Dogs.

  • Do not touch the Service Dog, or the person it assists, without permission.

  • Do not make noises at the Service Dog; it may distract the animal from doing its job.

  • Do not offer food to the service dog.

  • Do not ask personal questions about the handler's disability, or otherwise
    intrude on his or her privacy

  • Do not be offended if the person does not feel like discussing his/her disability or the assistance the Service Animal provides. Not everyone wants to be a walking-talking “show and tell” exhibit.
    • Do not allow your dog to interact with the service dog.

    What if you are afraid of dogs or allergic to them?

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    Place yourself away from the service dog. If you are a business person, discreetly arrange for someone else to wait on the person.

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