Common Questions About Service Dogs

When working with clients, I often receive thoughtful and important questions about psychiatric service dogs. Here, I’ve compiled answers to five of the most frequently asked questions. These insights will help you better understand the rules, responsibilities, and benefits of having a service dog.

1. Can I Have TWO Service Dogs? & Why?

Yes, you can have two service dogs! While uncommon, there are legitimate reasons someone might need or want two service dogs:

• Transitioning Between Dogs: One service dog may be nearing retirement while another is just beginning or completing training. Since it can take 2-3 years to fully train a service dog, it’s common to begin training a new dog when your current service dog is around 7-8 years old.
• Different Task Specializations: Some individuals require support for multiple needs that may be too demanding for a single dog. For instance, one dog might provide mobility assistance, while the other offers tactile support for psychiatric needs.
  

Working Two Dogs:

Most handlers work with one dog at a time, as managing two service dogs simultaneously can be challenging. Separate task assignments ensure clarity and effective support.

Flying With Two Dogs:

If traveling with two service dogs, both must fit within your allocated foot space and lap. If they cannot, you may need to purchase an additional seat to accommodate them.

2. Do I Have to Travel with My Dog Every Time I Fly Now That I Have Him/Or in the System?

No, you do not need to travel with your service dog every time you fly. Once your service dog’s information is registered with the airline, you have the flexibility to decide whether to bring your service dog on a particular trip. Simply update the airline with your plans when booking your flight.

3. Can Service Dogs Ride in Uber/Lyft?

Yes, you can ride in Uber and Lyft with your service dog. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures that service animals are permitted in all public accommodations, including ride-shares. However, challenges persist despite these legal protections.

Key Facts:

• In 2021, Uber was ordered to pay $1.1 million to a blind California woman after drivers repeatedly denied her rides due to her guide dog.
• While Uber and Lyft classify their drivers as independent contractors, they are still required to comply with the ADA.
  

Steps Taken by Ride-Share Companies:

• Uber introduced a driver education module and a feature allowing riders to indicate they’ll be traveling with a service animal.
• Lyft launched a “Service Animal Opt-In” feature and pledged to deactivate drivers who knowingly discriminate against riders with service animals.
  

When traveling to and from airports or other destinations with your service dog, ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber are often the most convenient options. However, navigating these services with a service dog can sometimes be tricky. Follow these tips to ensure your journey goes smoothly:

Order the Ride

Start by ordering your Lyft or Uber ride as usual. Once your ride is accepted, send a message to the lyft driver to inform them that you’ll be traveling with your service dog. This puts your request in writing, which can help avoid misunderstandings when you arrive.

4. What Is the Biggest Difference Between Having a Service Dog and an Emotional Support Dog?

The main difference lies in the training and legal protections:

• Service Dogs: These dogs are individually trained to perform specific work or tasks directly related to their handler’s disability, such as guiding someone who is blind, providing tactile support during a panic attack, or alerting to medical conditions. Service dogs are protected under the ADA and have public access rights.
• Emotional Support Dogs (ESDs): These dogs provide comfort through their presence but are not trained to perform specific tasks. ESDs are not covered under the ADA and do not have public access rights, though they qualify for housing accommodations under the Fair Housing Act.
  

5. When Should I Start Training, and What Are Some Service Dog Training Tips?

Training a service dog is a long-term commitment that typically begins in puppyhood. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Start Training Yourself Before You Get Your Dog: Read and educate yourself before you bring a dog into your life. A solid foundation of knowledge will prepare you for the journey ahead. Consider these highly recommended books:

• Don't Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor: Buy Here
• Reaching the Animal Mind by Karen Pryor: Buy Here
• The Other End of the Leash by Patricia B. McConnell: Buy Here
• How to Behave So Your Dog Behaves by Dr. Sophia Yin DVM MS: Buy Here
• Canine Body Language by Brenda Aloff: Buy Here
• Puppy Primer by Patricia McConnell: Buy Here
  

If you find that reading these books and learning on your own isn’t enjoyable, consider finding a professional dog trainer from the start. The best money you can spend is having a trainer assist in selecting the right dog for service work.

Start Training on Day 1: start with the basics. Potty training is one of the first and most essential steps in raising a puppy.

Potty training:

• • Timing: Puppies can hold their bladder for one hour per month of age. For example, an 8-week-old puppy can likely hold it for no more than 2 hours. Take them out frequently, especially after eating, drinking, sleeping, or playing.
  • Consistency: Use the same potty spot to help them associate the area with eliminating.
  • Positive Reinforcement: Praise and reward your puppy immediately after they go outside to reinforce good habits.
  • Interrupting Mistakes: If you catch your puppy in the act of eliminating inside, quickly interrupt the behavior by scooping him/her up and rushing him/her outside. Do not yell at your puppy during this process. If you do, your puppy may learn not to eliminate in front of you but will start hiding and eliminating in secret places out of fear.

Keep training fun and make it a game to avoid burning your dog out by asking too much too soon.

Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, toys, or praise.

Short, Frequent Sessions: Keep training sessions short but consistent to maintain focus and build skills over time.

Socialization Program: Combine training and socialization in the first few months. Introduce your puppy to various environments and situations in a positive and controlled way. Early socialization builds confidence and adaptability.

Consult a Professional: Partnering with a certified dog trainer or enrolling in a structured service dog training program can ensure your dog develops the necessary skills. Look for trainers with experience in task-specific training for service animals.

Final Thoughts

These common questions reflect the important considerations and responsibilities involved in having a service dog. Achieving desired behaviors takes time, but with consistent training and proper guidance, your dog can learn to work or perform tasks that enhance your life. Whether you are exploring animals for emotional support or seeking assistance as an individual with a disability, my goal is to provide the information and tools you need for success.

If you have additional questions or need help getting started, don’t hesitate to contact me. I’m here to guide you on your service dog journey!