Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my own dog?
Yes, you can use your personal dog. They are required to be up to date on their vaccinations, spayed or neutered, and under the age of four. Also, our trainers will conduct a test of your dog's temperament for suitability to be a Service Dog.
What is a Service Dog?
A Service Dog helps a person with a disability lead a more independent life. According to the ADA, a Service Dogs is “a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability”. A Service Dog is trained to take a specific action that helps mitigate an individual’s disability. The task the dog performs is directly related to their person’s disability.
Are there certain breeds that make good Service Dogs?
There isn’t a specific breed over another that makes a good Service Dog. Regardless of the breed or mix, the best Service Dogs are handler-focused, desensitized to distractions, and highly trained to reliably perform specific tasks. They are not easily diverted from their tasks at home or in public and remain attentive and responsive to their owners while working.
Are all dogs in Service Dog Vests considered Service Dogs?
The ADA does not require Service Dogs to wear vests or display identification, but some may wear vests, special harnesses, collars or tags. Many dogs that do wear ID vests or tags are not actual Service Dogs.
Are Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) considered Service Dogs?
ESAs are animals that provide comfort just by being with a person, but these dogs are not trained to perform a specific job or task for a person with a disability, they do not qualify as Service Dogs under the ADA.
Does the ADA require that service animals be certified as service animals?
No. Covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry.
There are individuals and organizations that sell service animal certification or registration documents online. These documents do not convey any rights under the ADA and the Department of Justice does not recognize them as proof that the dog is a service animal.
If I have a smaller dog, are they allowed to be placed in a shopping cart or on a seat next to me in a restaurant?
No, generally the dog must stay on the floor. Seating is provided for customer use only.
Does my Service Dog have to be registered?
No, officially there is no registry for Service Dogs