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Service dogs are protected by law

Hi-Desert Star - 8/5/2017

Service dogs will always attract attention. Many animals lovers and children want to interact with your dog. A "service dog," under California law, is a dog trained to help an American with disabilities. Although seeing-eye dogs and some service animals shouldn't be approached, is it OK for the public to interact with your service dog? It depends on the owner's disability and the owner. Ask first. There's no way to officially "certify" a service dog, although they should be registered with state or national organizations like the U.S. Animal Registry. Service dogs must be permitted by law. For access problems contact the U.S. Department of Justice or state attorney general. Civil action is an option if access is denied in violation of the ADA. Access may be denied if your dog isn't well-behaved, cannot keep a low profile in public or creates a public safety situation. To gain access to public and private facilities, only two questions may be asked: Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability and what service has the dog been trained to perform? Questions about your disability, documentation for your service dog or requests for your medical records are not allowed to be asked under the ADA. The Veterans Administration freely recommends service dogs for PTSD patients. Service animals are trained to prevent a veteran from having a meltdown. Service dogs don't have to be professionally trained. The use of service dogs has risen considerably. Most people love to see service animals. There are no national standards for how service dogs are trained or who can sell them, but organizations like Assistance Dogs International and Medical Mutts are good places to start your search. Service dogs put smiles on people's faces. © 2017 Hi-Desert Star. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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