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The Critical Role of a PTSD Service Dog

admin — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 18:32:09 +0000

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has perhaps existed for as long as humanity has experienced trauma, but it was not until 1980 that it became a mental health diagnosis. Research from the VA has shown that approximately 6% of the population experiences PTSD in their lifetime. This particularly impacts veterans, who are more likely to suffer from PTSD than civilians. Frightening or high-stress events bring on the condition, and the symptoms are grouped into four main categories: intrusion or re-experiencing, avoidance, alteration in mood and cognition, and hyperarousal. A PTSD service dog is a unique tool in helping those suffering from PTSD to go about common tasks.

People with PTSD often become isolated as their symptoms make it difficult for them to carry on a normal daily routine and freely interact with others. However, the simple act of having a non-judgmental and committed companion such as a dog can be a huge boost. Trained PTSD service dogs have proven to reduce the severity of PTSD symptoms by providing a sense of safety and security, physical exercises, and other tasks that help lessen the devastating impact of PTSD.

Watch a trained PTSD service dog, Coop, support his handler Mike in the every day task of shopping at Target:

@coop_n_mike Quick Target trip with my best bud on 4 legs, & PTSD Service Dog, “Coop-Ditty” 😊… If you’re a Veteran with PTSD, & you experience issues in public or social/situational anxiety of any kind, I promise you, a Service Dog 🐕‍🦺 could change all of it for you & enable you the ability to get back to a more normal everyday life; helping you to further have experiences you thought your issues before having him/her, would always prevent you from having… #veterans #servicedog #foryou #dogsoftiktok #dogs #dog #miltok #vettok #servicedoglife #ptsd #ptsdservicedog #combatvet #oif #oef #vietnam #desertshield #desertstorm #keepmovingforward #servicedogsoftiktok #veterantok #servicedogtok #veteranservicedog #englishlabrador #blacklab #🐕‍🦺 #servicedogssavelives #experiencelife #newnormal #backtothelandoftheliving #coopnmike ♬ Epic Motivational – StereojamMusic

While medications and psychotherapy are effective treatments for PTSD, complementary and alternative therapies like the use of service dogs are also gaining popularity. Florence Nightingale first documented the therapeutic potential of animals in the late 1800s. While working in a psychiatric facility, she observed how patients responded to interaction with small pets and established that they displayed reduced anxiety and stress. It was, however, in the 1960s that the labeled concept of Animal-assisted therapy was introduced.

How Do Service Dogs Assist Handlers With PTSD?

As mentioned earlier, each service dog undergoes specific training to assist with their handlers’ needs. PTSD service dog tasks mostly include providing emotional support and companionship, which can lower the level of the stress hormone cortisol and consequently reduce the symptoms of PTSD.

Examples of tasks service dogs might be trained to perform include:

Mitigate anxiety and disrupt anxiety behaviors: PTSD service dogs are trained to recognize symptoms of anxiety and perform tasks to disrupt anxiety behaviors. The dog can nudge, paw, or lick their handler until they redirect their focus on the dog instead of on the anxiety. Service dogs also help reduce anxiety in social settings by providing a cushion between the handler and other people.
Interrupt night terrors: Night terrors are a manifestation of the intrusion symptom. A service dog can recognize the cues that their hander is experiencing night terrors and help by waking them up by nudging, licking, lying on their chest, or even turning on the lights to provide a feeling of safety.
Assist in performing safety checks and room searches: Hypervigilance is a prevalent PTSD symptom and is often characterized by extreme sensitivity to one’s surroundings and a looming presumption of danger. To control this symptom, your service dog can perform room searches and safety checks and alert the handler that the house or room is safe.
Help with dissociation: PTSD patients who experience flashbacks, disconnection of the self, and detachment from reality can have a service animal guide them to a safe place, an exit, back home, or even to find a specific person. Service dogs help to ground their handlers and ensure they keep in check with reality.
Service dogs can also help retrieve medication in times of crisis.

How Are Service Dogs Trained to Work with Individuals With PTSD?

PTSD service dog training starts as early as when a puppy is eight weeks old and can take anywhere from 18 months to 2 years. Once the dog completes basic service training, they meet their handler and start to train to meet their specific requirements. During training, the dogs are evaluated for obedience, temperament, and tolerance to noise and distractions to ensure suitability to different situations and environments.

PTSD service dog Shiloh completes her training:

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A post shared by Cori Latousek (@corilatousek)

Not all dogs that start training successfully become service dogs. However, when dogs fail to meet the requirements of becoming service animals, the effort is still well-spent. The dogs are usually placed in other roles where they can still be helpful to people, for example, as emotional support animals. Unlike service dogs, emotional support dogs are not required to perform specific tasks to their handler’s condition. Service dogs are also legally protected and have unrestricted access, while emotional support dogs may be restricted in some settings.

Therapeutic Benefits of Service Dogs to PTSD Patients

Service dogs play a crucial role in supporting their owners living with PTSD by providing invaluable companionship, support, and practical assistance. They empower PTSD patients and ground their lives with routine and responsibility, which helps create a sense of purpose and confidence.

These are just a few ways that a service dog can help PTSD patients. However, there are more tasks and benefits that a service dog can provide to each handler and their unique situation. If you’d like to support more education and advocacy around service dogs for veterans and others with PTSD, please reach out or consider donating to Justice Speaks!

The post The Critical Role of a PTSD Service Dog appeared first on Justice Speaks.

The Journey of Service Dog Training

admin — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:30:26 +0000

A service dog is a working animal which can be trained to help people with visual impairments, hearing impairments, autism, PTSD, diabetes, seizures, allergies and mobility issues. A service dog can be very useful to its owner/guardian, but it’s not always affordable for people to get a dog which has already been trained. A trained service dog can cost you $15,000—$50,000.

As a result, many people opt to go the DIY route; they get a dog which is still a puppy and train it to be a service dog. As long as the dog has the right temperament, it can get service dog training.

How to Choose the Right Dog

When you’re choosing a dog to be your service dog, there are certain characteristics you might want to look for.

Temperament: It’s important for the dog to be calm with you, with other people and with other dogs. If the dog is too aggressive, that’s going to interfere with its service dog duties.
Concentration: The dog should not get easily distracted. A service dog is going to have to perform tasks for you, so it should be able to focus on them. A dog that is spayed/neutered would be best; this will keep it from getting distracted by other dogs.
Age: You can start teaching the dog the basics when it is 8 weeks old and then start with the more specialized tasks once the dog is six months old. Very old dogs may not be able to learn how to be service dogs, especially if they have diabetes or arthritis.

Keep in mind that certain dogs might be better for certain tasks. For example, if your mobility is impaired, then a large dog might be able to help you get around better than a small dog.

How to Train a Service Dog in the Basics

Every dog needs to learn the basics, but this is especially true of service dogs. Eventually, your dog should be able to do all the things listed on the Canine Good Citizen test.

Socializing Your Dog

A service dog needs to be comfortable around people and other dogs. You can start socializing puppies when they are 3 weeks old or older. Introduce the puppy to many people so that it gets used to being around them. At the same time, it should also be taught to be alone so that it doesn’t suffer from separation anxiety.

Potty Training Your Dog

It’s important to train your dog to “go” in an approved spot which is, ideally, outside the house. You can use dog crates, puppy pads and paper training to help train the dog. Taking the dog for frequent walks outside and praising it when it goes outside can also help in potty-training your dog.

Leash Training Your Dog

Your puppy will need to get used to being on a leash. Don’t be surprised if it resists doing this at first. The idea is to get the puppy used to the leash slowly. Try putting just the collar around its neck first. Then you can try putting on the leash and walking it indoors. Finally, you can start taking the puppy outdoors. If it gets distracted and starts pulling on the leash, don’t yank it. Just stand very still until the puppy stops pulling.

Giving Your Dog Specialized Training

After training service dogs in the basics, you’ll need to give them specialized training in the type of services you’d like them to provide. You can train your dog by using treats or giving it praise. You can also use a clicker; this involves clicking when the dog performs the action you want it to and following this up with a treat. Eventually, the dog will start responding to the clicker itself as a form of positive reinforcement.

The type of specialized training you give your service dog is going to vary, depending on your needs. Here are some of the specialized things that you can train your service dog to do:

Hearing Service Dogs: These dogs can be trained to alert their owners when the phone rings, the doorbell rings or the fire alarm goes off.
Guide Dogs: These dogs are generally used to help people who are blind or visually impaired. They can help their owners get around indoors as well as outdoors. They can help them cross roads, walk on pavements, find doors etc.
Mobility Assistance Dogs: These dogs help people who have mobility issues. They can pull wheelchairs, bring over objects, open doors, turn on the lights etc.
Diabetic Alert Dogs: These dogs can smell it when a person’s blood sugar level is going up or down and alert their owners when this happens.
Seizure Response Dogs: For people who have epilepsy or are prone to seizures, service dogs can help by getting them away from situations that will lead into seizures. They can also bring the person’s medication or activate emergency alarms if the person has a seizure.
PTSD Service Dogs: These dogs can help people with PTSD by calming them down in stressful situations. They can also bring their owners their medications or phones.

Take a look at this series of videos from Buzzfeed that follows a group of puppies as they train to become service dogs.

How Are Service Dogs Trained?

As mentioned above, you can get a dog that’s already trained, but this is likely to be expensive. The other option is to get a dog and train it yourself. This is something that has to start early and can take up to two years. However, it’s a great option if you want to save money and train the dog in doing very specific things. Praising and rewarding the dog goes a long way towards training it in doing the things you need it to do. Using a clicker also helps.

If necessary, you can also get a specialist to help you train your service dog. The best thing to do is check out their facility and make sure that it is run well. Getting a trainer who has a professional certification might also be a good idea. You can also look up the trainer on the better business bureau website to see if there are any complaints against them.

If you choose to train your own dog, it’s important to make sure that there’s a bond between you and the dog. This can be created by spending quality time with the dog—playing games and doing activities you both enjoy. You can also try tethering in which the dog is tethered to you with a 3-6 foot leash at all times. This leads into more interactions between you and the dog.

Keep in mind that building a relationship with a dog is like building a relationship with a human being. You have to interact frequently in a way that builds trust between you and the dog. You have to show the dog that you are there for it just as it’s going to be there for you.

We May Not Be Trainers…But We Know How to Find a Great One

At Justice Speaks, our mission is to advocate for service dog handlers, and we don’t train service dogs. We want you to know the best way to find and train your service dog because that’s the best way to have your needs met and get the best outcome possible. Reach out if you’d like information or advice on finding a great trainer near you!

The post The Journey of Service Dog Training appeared first on Justice Speaks.

Qualifying for a Service Animal: Part 3

admin — Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:20:21 +0000

Protecting, Training, and Advocating for Your Service Dog

Service dogs provide invaluable assistance to individuals with disabilities, but their well-being and effectiveness depend on various factors. In this third segment of our series on qualifying for a service dog, we delve into the crucial aspects of protecting your dog, the responsibility and challenge of training, and addressing skepticism about these incredible canine companions.

Protecting Your Service Dog

Protecting your service dog is paramount, and it starts with ensuring their safety from physical harm. While service dogs are trained to behave, it’s essential to be cautious around other dogs and people. All dogs, except those retrieving items for their handlers, should be on leashes when outside their homes to prevent potential conflicts. Stray or abandoned dogs can pose dangers, and carrying self-defense tools like tasers might be necessary.

It’s also critical to consider protection from extreme weather conditions. In hot weather, protect their paws with dog shoes and consider providing ear protection in noisy environments, such as concerts. Consider getting your dog boots (make sure they fit very well!) and even a coat in the winter to protect them from freezing temperatures and ice. Be mindful of their well-being in all circumstances—just as you depend on them, they depend on you for help in these scenarios.

Service Dog Training Challenges & Considerations

Training your own service dog can be a rewarding but challenging journey. Not all dogs have what it takes to become service dogs, and approximately two out of every three dogs wash out during the training process. The key is to stay persistent and dedicated.

Start early. Good breeding and early training set the foundation for a successful service dog. If you’re unable to train your own dog, ensure your dog receives appropriate training from professional trainers or specialized breeders like Stargazer Kennels, who helped me find and train my service dog Sully. They opened my eyes to an informed way of training that starts when the dogs are puppies.
Certification for training is timely but worthwhile. Obtaining service dog certification can take time, often up to two years of rigorous training. This includes passing public access training tests. The journey is challenging but rewarding, and if you like it, may open up doors in the future for training other service animals.
Regardless of training, take time to build a bond with your service dog. Bonding with a service dog you didn’t train from puppyhood is a different challenge but equally worthwhile. The key is to build trust through working together, playing, rewarding positive behavior and meeting each other’s needs. It’s a unique one-on-one relationship that develops over time. Check out this article from K9s for Warriors on this subject.

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A post shared by Lucifer the Service Dog (@demon.dog.duo)

Addressing Skepticism Surrounding Service Dogs

When it comes to service animals, skepticism is inevitable, but you are not powerless in affecting change. There are many ways to address doubters and spread awareness about the vital role these animals play in our lives.

Educate. Not everyone understands the purpose of service animals, and some people may even openly express doubt in their legitimacy. Instead of worrying about the opinions of others, focus on educating them. The saying goes, “If you can’t bite ’em, educate ’em!” Ignorance can be dispelled through knowledge.
Spread awareness. Take every opportunity to spread awareness about service dogs and their importance. By sharing your experiences and knowledge, you contribute to a more informed and accepting society.

Inspire future trainers. Your advocacy and leadership may inspire others to consider careers in service dog training. More service dogs mean a world with more peace and equality, where individuals with disabilities can lead fulfilling lives with the support they need.

Encourage Self-Training: Encourage those who can to train their own service dogs. It’s an empowering journey that fosters independence and strengthens the service dog community.

In conclusion, protecting, training, and advocating for service dogs is vital to protect these essential members of our society. These remarkable animals empower individuals with disabilities to live with greater independence, and by spreading awareness and knowledge, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.

The post Qualifying for a Service Animal: Part 3 appeared first on Justice Speaks.

Service Dog Vests & Harnesses

admin — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 00:19:15 +0000

Service dogs are everyday heroes trained to help individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks or jobs to ensure the individual is as safe as possible. Service dogs play an instrumental role in the safety, protection, and well-being of the individuals they assist. Oftentimes, the general public may not be aware of the importance of service dogs and the role they play. In addition, people on the street may not have an appreciation, or understanding, that the service dog is working when he or she is with their person.

This is where service dog vests and harnesses can be of assistance. A vest or harness can enable your service dog to be easily denoted as a working dog and as something different than the average dog out for a walk with its owner. Service vests and harnesses can also make it easier for the handler to work with their dog and for their dog to work for them if the situation should arise.

Service Dog Vests

Service dog vests fit over a dog’s back, chest, and shoulders and usually are secured so they are comfortable for your service dog but not easily removed or slipped out of by your companion. Vests usually have a place on which you attach a leash instead of a more sturdy handle.

Service vests may also allow for room for patches that can denote your dog as an official service dog, as well as communicate his or her task or duty, such as emotional support dog or balance assistance. A wide variety of patches, sayings, and information may be found and included on your dog’s vest. Some dogs may find vests more comfortable and allow both the dog and the handler the ability to move around the dog freely without a hard handle encumbering movement.

Service Dog Harnesses

Service Dog Harnesses also fit over a dog’s shoulders and back. However, they usually are not as full coverage and may or may not have room for patches. In addition, harnesses often have a more sturdy handle for the handler to use. Harnesses can provide not only identification for your service dog but also provide security and stability for the handler as they move through their day.

Service Dog Vests vs. Service Dog Harnesses

There are pros and cons of service dog vests, as well as service dog harnesses. Each has attributes that are positive and attributes that are not so positive. Take a look at our list of pros & cons to garner an idea of what may work well for you.

Pros and Cons of Service Dog Vests

Pros:

Service dog vests allow your service dog to wear something that is more ergonomic for them, more robust, and oftentimes more comfortable. Finding a vest that fits your dog’s size and mobility requirements is imperative in choosing, and utilizing, a service dog vest. Vests come with D rings in various locations on the harness to allow you a choice as to wear best to attach your leash.

Vests may also be used with handles if you so desire. Moreover, vests come in various shapes, sizes, and colors and oftentimes have room for patches and other customizing features. Vests can easily be individualized to fit you and your dog’s purpose and style.

Cons:

On the flip side of service dog vests, their customizable ability is often what makes them not work for you or your dog. Having bright colors or patches with sayings, expressions, and even communications regarding your dog’s job, can mean people stop to read, look, and ask questions you may not feel comfortable with answering. Sometimes, having a unique vest can cause more attention, trouble, and distraction than is good for you or your dog.

Pros and Cons of Service Dog Harnesses

Pros:

Service dog harnesses are typically a bit more structured for your dog and your needs. There are different types of harnesses that allow for extra support for both you and your dog. For example, pulling harnesses are strong enough that your dog can pull a wheelchair or other equipment if necessary. In addition, harnesses also tend to allow for sturdier handles which can help balance an individual and provide extra support.

Cons:

That being said, service dog harnesses do not allow for the same amount of mobility and flexibility that vests may allow. Correct fitting of harnesses is even more imperative than with vests as they do not have the same amount of flexibility as a vest. Service dog harnesses also share a common negative aspect with vests. They tend to garner attention that may be unwelcome and uncomfortable for you and distracting for your dog.

Remember: It Comes Down to What Works Well for You and Your Service Dog

At the end of the day, the decision to use a service dog vest or harness is a personal one. Once you have made that decision, then comes the decision as to which type, vest, or harness, would best suit your dog and your needs. A thorough evaluation of your health, as well as the tasks and job your dog will perform, will guide your decision to determine which works best for your specific needs and those of your service dog as well.

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4 Things to Know Before You Get a Service Dog

admin — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 18:56:08 +0000

Getting a service dog is one of the biggest blessings in life for those of us who have disabilities. The benefits of having a partner, like my dog Justice, can be life changing. However, that does not mean that service dogs do not come without their own set of challenges. Here are 4 things you should know before you get a service dog:

Getting a Service Dog is a Big Commitment – What Should You Know?

Service Dogs Require a Lot of Training!

That is worth repeating: Service dogs require a lot of training! It does not matter when you get the dog, they must be trained to meet your needs. A handler can expect a minimum of six weeks, all the way up to 6 months of additional training. Training is a never ending process of identifying how you will both work together.

Here’s a few things you will need to train your dog:

Commands
Your schedule
Communicating when the dog isn’t feeling well
Specific Tasks around your disability
New situations, as they arise

Daily, Routine Care is Not Optional

Your service dog will require daily care, just like you do. This goes beyond the routine of eating, walking, pooping, and peeing. Service dogs require just much care as all other dogs do.

There are many ways you have to care for your dog that you wouldn’t expect:

Grooming
Vet Care
Travelling to Different Climates (Dogs must wear shoes in hot climates!)
New beds, leashes, and dog dishes for home and travel

There is a lot that goes into keeping a service dog happy and healthy, which leads me to my next point.

Things Take More Time With a Service Dog

Activities take more time once you have a service dog. You have to be sure the dog has what it needs, whether the activity is routine or not. For the most part, with a little bit of planning, routine activities are slowed only slightly.

But, like anything in life, you should be prepared to exit your routine. Here are some things I do to be prepared:

Carry a water dish
Always bring water along
Bring dog shoes (Cold in the winter and heat in the summer is bad for a dog’s feet)
If their is going to be loud sounds, bring headphones for your dog.
And more…

I always have my “Doggy Daycare Bag” on or near me, just incase the dog needs something.

**Keeping Your Dog Healthy Is Good For You and Your Dog**

My former dog, Shanti, lived to be 19 years old. My vet told me the reason that my dogs do so well is because I take rigorous care of my pets. Keeping your dog healthy not only benefits your dog, it also benefits you. Keep in mind, the success of you and your dog are deeply intertwined.

Here are things that you can do to keep your dog in good shape:

Health Checkups
Heartworm and other regular exams
Yearly Teeth Cleaning
Healthy Diet
Not over-doing Treats
Regular Exercise

Remember: Your Voice Matters!

Education about the rights, responsibilities and benefits of owning a service animal can be life changing for the people who need it most. Sharing this article helps get the word out – So tell a friend, a family member, and anyone you know!

The post 4 Things to Know Before You Get a Service Dog appeared first on Justice Speaks.

Pawsitively Inspiring: 5 Service Dog Social Media Accounts to Follow Today

admin — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 21:55:51 +0000

In a world of scrolling, double-tapping, and sharing, social media has become a wellspring of entertainment and information. One niche that has risen in prominence over the years revolves around service dogs and their handlers.

More than just cute and heartwarming, these accounts offer invaluable lessons on ADA service dog laws and service dog education. Following these accounts not only provides a glimpse into the daily life of service dog handlers but also spreads awareness and understanding of the important role service dogs play. It’s a great place to learn about service dog advocacy.

Read on for five stand out social media accounts that are leading the way.

A Closer Look at Service Dogs and Their Handlers:

Service dogs are more than just pets; they’re dedicated helpers, tirelessly working to assist people who have disabilities. Whether it’s guiding people who are blind, alerting individuals who are deaf, pulling a wheelchair, retrieving dropped items, or even detecting an impending seizure, these dogs are unsung heroes.

But behind each service dog is an equally remarkable handler. These individuals navigate life’s challenges with their four-legged companions by their side, showcasing resilience, patience, and a unique kind of friendship that goes beyond the human-canine bond. Following their journey is a journey in itself, an experience filled with triumphs, trials, and tons of learning.

The accounts we’ve gathered provide a sneak peek into this incredible world of service dogs and their handlers. They educate, inspire, and advocate, all while sharing heartwarming content that celebrates the extraordinary abilities of these dogs and the people who depend on them. Let’s take a look:

‘Magnusthetherapydog‘ on Instagram

With a follower count exceeding 850k as of mid-2023, Magnus the Therapy Dog shares the journey of Magnus, a lab, and his handler, Brian. The account offers a raw look into the ups and downs of life with a service dog, with posts featuring training exercises, fun tricks, and Magnus’ off-duty antics. It’s a great account to follow for insights into the day-to-day responsibilities and joys of living with a service dog.

‘coop_n_mike’ on TikTok

This channel is a must-follow for anyone interested in the field as it offers a masterclass on ADA service dog laws and showcases the wide range of tasks service dogs can perform. Coop, the service dog, and his handler, Mike, have amassed a following of over 300k on TikTok. Through their videos, they provide insightful demonstrations of the various tasks Coop has been trained to perform, assisting Mike in navigating his daily life as he copes with PTSD.

‘DrewLynch‘ on YouTube

Comedian Drew Lynch and his service dog, Stella, provide both laughter and education to their 13.8 million subscribers on YouTube. After a sports injury left Lynch with a stutter, Stella came into his life as a service dog. Their videos not only showcase Stella’s skills but also cover important topics like public access rights for service dogs and how to respond when a service dog approaches without its handler.

‘@Sampson_dog‘ on Twitter

Sampson, the pioneering ambassador for service dogs in science, has revolutionized protocols for SD PPE and lab safety. Together with his handler, they have paved the way for safe handler access to scientific pursuits. Sampson’s influential work enhances the participation of service dog handlers in scientific endeavors, setting a remarkable example for others.

‘servicedogs_ddg‘ on Instagram

If you’re looking for an organization making a difference across the United States, you’ll want to follow ‘Doggie Does Good Service Dogs.’ This organization is committed to helping individuals with disabilities gain independence and companionship through the help of a service dog. Their posts often feature the dogs they’ve trained, the lives they’ve changed, and useful resources related to ADA service dog laws. A follow here means supporting a broader mission of inclusivity and accessibility for all.

Exploring the World of Service Dogs: A Blend of Education, Inspiration, and Adorable Canine Content

Following these service dog social media accounts provides a blend of education, inspiration, and plenty of adorable dog content. They offer a window into the lives of those who rely on their four-legged partners, showcasing the breadth of tasks these incredible animals can perform. More importantly, they help normalize service dogs in public spaces and promote understanding of ADA service dog laws, encouraging a more inclusive society. So, give these accounts a follow, and let’s learn, grow, and appreciate the power of service dogs together!

The post Pawsitively Inspiring: 5 Service Dog Social Media Accounts to Follow Today appeared first on Justice Speaks.

What does it take to have a service dog?

admin — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 15:48:47 +0000

Service dogs are a blessing – but how do you get a service dog? Who qualifies for a service dog? What all do you have to do? These are questions that I get all the time, being a service dog handler myself. So, I have put together a comprehensive guide: “What does it take to have a service dog?”

1. You Must Have a Disability That Qualifies You for a Service Animal

There are many different disabilities that qualify you to have a service dog. In many cases, these disabilities may be invisible. Some examples of disabilities that would qualify for service animals are:

Multiple sclerosis (MS)
ALS
Cancer
Cerebral palsy
Parkinson’s Disease
Muscular dystrophy
Sensory Disabilities (Blind, Deaf, Etc.)
Stroke
Diabetes
And more…

2. Your Dog Will Be With You at All Times

Having a service dog is one of the biggest blessings I have had in my life. I have children, run a business, and have a non-profit. My dog rarely leaves my side, throughout the craziness of life. Having my dog with me everyday has allowed me to feel more secure in my surroundings, and confidence in my ability to navigate my daily life as a whole.

I have been diagnosed with PTSD, I am hearing impaired, and I have a replacement ankle that creates mobility issues. My dog has been beneficial in helping me with each of these things throughout my life.

PTSD: Having a dog who understands my triggers and how to pull me out of them has been life changing.
Hearing Impairment: Having a dog who can hear and react to sounds which I may not be able to hear has been a literal life saver. From dangerous situations to everyday audio cues, my dog has been the help I need.
Mobility: When I got my dog, I did not expect it to be so helpful with my mobility. Bernese Mountain Dogs like to pull; it is instinctual. With a little training, this can be great. When I am having trouble with stairs, my dog helps pull me up. For the first time, I am able to go up stairs.

That being said, if you prefer to not have these the constant responsibility of having a dog with you at all times, a service dog may not be for you. It is, after all, still a dog. Dogs require training, check ups, food, and overall care.

3. Anticipate the Expenses of Owning a Service Animal

Service dogs are are not cheap. The food, the vest and leash, vet bills, travel expenses, and all the grooming and care that goes into having a dog is expensive – let alone the costs associated with training and/or purchasing of a service dog. It is important to establish a budget before you get your first service dog.

4. Know the ADA Law

Service dogs come with certain civil rights. For example, you cannot be forced to pay a pet deposit if you are renting a house. There are a whole plethora of civil rights that come with owning a service animal.

Unfortunately, many people do not know your rights and may unintentionally infringe on them. That is why it is important to have a grasp of what you are entitled to and what you are not.

I trained my own service dog. To me, I felt it was important to learn the ADA law not only for the protection of my rights, but also so I could pass the testing for Public Access. If you hire a trainer for your service dog, they should be well versed in ADA laws.

5. Understand That Service Dogs Are Not a Cure-All

Service dogs cannot ever cure your disability. My hearing was not magically repaired after getting a dog, and neither was my PTSD. A service dog is a tool, one who can alert you if they hear a sound, but not one who can help you hear it for yourself. Justice (my dog) helps me deal with repercussions, but does not solve all of my problems. And in most cases, they can’t solve all of anyone’s problems.

Service Dogs are a blessing, but it is important to educate yourself on what it takes to be a handler. It is just as much your job to take care of the dog as it is the dog’s job to take care of you.

What’s Next?

So you want to move forward and get a service dog, what is the next step? The first thing that every prospective service dog owner should do is make sure that their disability qualifies them for a service animal. You can find everything you need to know about what qualifies you here.

The post What does it take to have a service dog? appeared first on Justice Speaks.

The Impact of Social Media on Service Dog Advocacy

admin — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 19:47:46 +0000

Social media rules our lives. It’s no shocker that it’s an advocacy and education tool also. Dedicated service dog accounts on social media highlight these animals and their handlers. They bring attention to their roles and rights.

How Social Media Effects Service Dog Advocacy

Awareness and Education: Social media platforms give service dog advocates a voice. They spread awareness and educate the public on their purpose. With a few clicks, they can reach thousands, sparking conversations and dispelling falsehoods.
Community Building: Service dog-related hashtags and groups bring together like-minded individuals. People share experiences, advice, and resources, forging connections once limited by geography. This sense of belonging empowers advocates and strengthens their cause.
Amplified Reach: Unlike traditional methods, social media has a global reach. Supporters can connect with diverse audiences worldwide. They can share success stories, challenges, and legislative updates. This information inspires others and fosters a universal sense of solidarity.
Storytelling Power: The visual nature of social media makes it ideal for storytelling. Advocates leverage this by sharing photos and videos showcasing service dogs’ incredible tasks. Personal stories and heartfelt narratives elicit empathy, causing a ripple effect of support.
Driving Change: Social media empowers advocates to rally behind causes. They can mobilize support for policy changes and fundraising for training programs. The collective voice boosts their impact and paves the way for an inclusive society.

The Rise of Service Dog Accounts on Social Media

Service dog social accounts capture hearts and minds. These accounts, focused on canines assisting individuals with disabilities, have surged in popularity.

Some of Our Favorite Service Dog Accounts on Social Media:

K9s for Warriors Twitter account shares stories of service dogs changing veterans’ lives. They illuminate the bond between these animals and their human partners. They have amassed a devoted following (22.1k).

Another account is NEADS Dogs on Facebook. They provide training and service dogs to individuals with disabilities. Their page is a trove of touching anecdotes, enlightening resources, and captivating photos. It has a sizable community (19k) of supporters and dog enthusiasts.

Sampson Dog is a charismatic service dog with a growing Twitter presence. Sampson and his human showcase the daily triumphs and challenges they face together. Their authentic, relatable content resonates with audiences, fostering a loyal fan base (61.2k).

@rockykanaka, an animal advocate, uses Instagram to raise awareness about service dogs. He shares stories, educates his followers (244k), and promotes adoption for service dog organizations.

These accounts exemplify social media’s power in raising awareness and fostering community. They honor service dogs’ roles, inspiring people in similar positions. These accounts remind us of four-legged heroes’ exceptional abilities and staunch loyalty.

The Content: What Service Dog Accounts Share

Service dog accounts show us the real deal—videos of training and the challenges they face in public.

Social media accounts featuring service dogs & their handlers share different types of content:

Informative Posts These posts teach about service dogs, their training, and perform tasks. Informative posts cover topics like “How to approach a service dog team.” Or “The importance of not distracting a working service dog.“
Educational: They provide insights into the laws and rights associated with service dogs. These posts could explain the legal protections and freedoms of service dog handlers.
Demonstration: These videos show the skills and commands that service dogs learn to assist handlers. These videos feature tasks like retrieving items, opening doors, or alerting to medical conditions.
Public Access: Service dog profiles document the obstacles faced by dogs and handlers in public spaces. This content sheds light on the importance of accessibility and acceptance.

By providing a window into the lives of these animals, these social media accounts deepen our appreciation for their roles.

The Importance: Raising Awareness and Understanding

Understanding service dog laws is essential. These laws ensure equal access for disabled individuals. Yet, many need to be made aware of the rights they provide to service dogs and handlers.

Social media helps. Service dog accounts on platforms like Instagram, and Twitter spread awareness and educate. Real-life experiences reveal service dog teams’ rights, responsibilities, and challenges.

Moreover, social media lets handlers share stories and advocate for their rights. This online presence creates a supportive community.

Social media’s power lies in reaching a broad audience quickly. Shared posts break barriers and debunk misconceptions.

Common Misconceptions with Service Dogs: Addressing and Correcting Mistakes

There are many misunderstandings about service dogs that people believe.

A service animal must wear a vest or form of identification. Service animals don’t need vests or IDs. While some people choose to use them, it’s not required. The only requirement for service animals under the ADA is to be “trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.”
Emotional support animals are the same as service dogs. Emotional support animals differ from service dogs. They lack the same legal protections and training for disability help.
Service dogs are certified after completing training. No certification or registration is required for service dogs under ADA.
Service dogs can be one or two breeds of dogs. Service animals can be any breed. Training is what matters for their ability to assist individuals with disabilities.
Service dogs are only for individuals with visible disabilities. Service dogs aid people with invisible disabilities, too, like diabetes, epilepsy, and PTSD.
Service dogs are never aggressive. Service dogs can be defensive if threatened or their handler is in danger. Their training consists of non-aggressive tactics.

The Power of Social Media for Advocacy

Service dog supporters use social media to educate, inspire, and connect with others. They show the benefits and challenges of living with a service dog and how they overcome them. If you want to support service dog advocacy, follow the accounts we mentioned or search your favorite platform. You can like, comment, and share their posts to help them spread their message. If you’d like to support us, consider donating directly to Justice-Speaks and helping us spread service dog education around the country.

The post The Impact of Social Media on Service Dog Advocacy appeared first on Justice Speaks.

Qualifying and Deciding to Get a Service Dog

admin — Tue, 23 May 2023 22:00:41 +0000

Am I Eligible for a Service Dog?

The first thing used to determine if someone qualifies for a service dog is their need. Your disability determines who is eligible for a service dog. A lot of people born with disabilities qualify differently than those that developed a disability later on. If you have a mobility disability (such as needing a wheelchair), you would qualify for a different type of service dog than you would if you had diabetes. In many cases a doctor may need to sign off on a person’s qualifications in order to be determined eligible for a service dog. For example, I had a psychiatrist and a therapist for my PTSD and they signed off for me to get my service dog. In addition, I got a letter from my hearing impairment doctors.

The second thing to consider once you’ve determined that you may be eligible for a service dog is: do you want to have a service dog? It will be with you 24/7. You really have to make sure you have the budget for it. There are different levels of government assistance through social security that can support someone in attaining and caring for a service dog, and some types of aid that seniors may qualify for.

Service Dog Costs

I did not qualify for government assistance, so I had to determine my budget for getting a service dog. What could I afford?

From there I had to decide if I was going to get a service dog that was already trained – which would be more expensive. For example, my untrained puppy cost $5,000. The cost of a trained service dog, at around 2 years old, can be about $40,000! Even though I saved money by getting my service dog as a puppy, over the last two years, I’ve spent over $20,000 on all the training, food, medical, insurance, and more that I needed to train and care for my dog. And there will be more costs to come: he’s currently trained to support me with my PTSD, but still needs training to help me with my hearing impairment.

Service Dog Documentation and “Proof”

Sometimes people think a service dog handler needs to prove their dog is a service animal by showing off documentation or having the dog perform a task. That’s not how this works. Once you have gone to your doctor and let them know you want to get a service dog, they will write you a letter stating that you qualify to have a service dog. That’s all you need.

Anyone that asks for any more documentation for your service dog doesn’t know the law. When getting proper documentation, most doctors and therapists do have the service animal guidelines to go over with you. So please note to yourself: it is not appropriate, and it is not law, for someone to ask you to perform a task with your service animal.

Advice for Those Considering a Service Dog

First and foremost, depending on your disability, know that there’s a responsibility that comes with this tool. You really have to understand how the dog is going to respond to your triggers so you know how to respond to the dog. The reason that Justice Speaks educates is there’s a side to having a service dog that not everyone considers; It gives you a lot of extra attention that you don’t necessarily want. People need to understand that interacting with a service dog distracts it from doing its job. A lot of people will distract you and your dog.

Your relationship with your service dog is a give and take. Learning how to take care of the animal that also takes care of you is a task, and that dog goes everywhere with you, so everywhere you go, you have to be prepared.

For me, the benefits outweigh the cons. Like so many other people, my service dog serves a vital role in my life. I go through my day with more ease because I know if I don’t hear something that I should, my dog will hear it for me and alert me.

What questions do you have about qualifying for and paying for a service dog?

The post Qualifying and Deciding to Get a Service Dog appeared first on Justice Speaks.

Who Qualifies for a Service Dog?

admin — Tue, 09 May 2023 16:51:49 +0000

One of the most common questions people ask about service dogs is “how to qualify for a service dog?” Sometimes, when a person has an invisible disability, other people or business owners question their need for one or their right to take their service dog into businesses, airplanes, etc. The ADA has specific guidelines for who qualifies for a service dog, and understanding these qualifications is key to supporting service dogs and their handlers.

Qualifying for a Service Dog

The ADA defines a person with a disability as individuals with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The person must have a record and be regarded as having the impairment, which can include having difficulty hearing, seeing, walking, and learning, as well as a loss of physical or mental functions.

In the past, the ADA defined the disabilities that qualify for a service dog as more visible disabilities like blindness, or ailments like PTSD for veterans. In 2010, the ADA redefined service animals and what they can do, which allows more people access to the support service dogs provide. For example, service dogs are now trained to smell high or low blood sugar levels for diabetic people, and to smell oncoming seizures for those with epilepsy. Service dogs for children with autism and some other mental disabilities help the handler manage the stress of social interactions and increase their interest in different activities.

ADA laws limit the questions a business can ask of a service dog handler to two things:

Is this dog a service dog?

What work or job has the dog been trained to perform?

Because those questions are open-ended to so many critical support tasks, more people are able to benefit from the support service dogs provide. For me, I am hearing impaired and have PTSD. When I’m asked those questions, I can answer “yes, it’s a service dog, and its job is to alert me”. I don’t need to explain my personal and medical history to anyone.

Visible vs Invisible Disabilities with Service Dogs

People often associate service dogs with visible disabilities, and are unfazed when they see a service dog with a blind person or a wounded veteran. Service dog handlers with invisible disabilities may receive more questions, but the tasks their dogs perform are incredibly important.

For example, with diabetes, a service dog can actually smell when a person’s blood sugar is running low before they might think to check their glucose monitor.. For epilepsy, the person actually gives off an odor that the dog can smell, and it will alert the person that they may be in seizure territory. That person can then get to a safe space to protect themselves from injury during their seizure.

I met one service dog that supported a child with a severe peanut allergy. The dog would alert if anyone brought any peanuts into the child’s classroom. They would alert the child, even if it was something as small as peanut oil in someone’s lunch. This dog was an additional support to having an Epipen, and could warn the child before they even realized they were experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

Physical vs Mental Disabilities

There’s a reason why people can only ask two questions of a service dog handler: is that a service dog, and what task is it trained to perform? People use service dogs to support both physical and mental disabilities, and most people do not want to describe a very personal health issue to strangers. There is no real difference in law between the protections for invisible or visible disabilities and between physical and mental ones. The important part is understanding that all kinds of people have all kinds of disabilities and some use this “tool” that can save their life. Our goal at Justice Speaks is to educate the public’s etiquette so people can respond to service dogs and their handlers appropriately.

Did any of these examples surprise you? What other unique tasks have you seen a service dog perform?

The post Who Qualifies for a Service Dog? appeared first on Justice Speaks.