Comments for Certify Your Service Dog

Comment on SIT and STAY? No way? No worries! by Lynn

Lynn — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 05:24:38 +0000

This is a relief, as my service dog is a 4 lb. Chihuahua, lol. He gets carried in my arms or in a shoulder bag; according to my qi gong doctor, this closeness is what allows him to pick up on the energy imbalances that preceed my migraines. I’ve never had a service dog before, and since we rescued him from a local animal shelter, we were really surprised to find that he will cry softly to alert me about 20-30 minutes before one actually hits. This gives me plenty of time, usually, to get off the road if I’m driving, and to take medication to reduce the effects. Your site has given me lots of great information…not to mention the fact that the cost of your kit is at least $100 less than the other kits I have seen online! I am looking forward to ordering one of your kits soon, so I can feel better about taking him places.

Comment on Do I Need a Doctor’s Letter? by Wesley

Wesley — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:09:49 +0000

Airlines operate according to the ACAA (Air Carrier Access Act) which outlines that they may request a letter for “Emotional Support Animals”. Other Service Dogs in general should not require a doctor’s letter. However, there are many “uneducated” airline personnel. Best to carry documentation from the Dept of Transportation with you! OR…. obtain a doctor’s letter to avoid confrontation in it’s entirety.

While we’re on the subject, “no pet housing” facilities operate according to the FHA (Fair Housing Act). They, too, MAY require a letter from a health professional.

The Comfort Inn, on the other hand, was out of line requesting a Doctor’s letter. Hotels must operate under the ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act) which prohibits public businesses from requesting “proof” or even certification, for that matter. They may ask if the animal is a “service animal” or a “pet” (pets are NOT service animals), and whether the guest has a disability. However, they may not inquire as to the nature of the disability or the service provided by the animal.

Once again… certifying your service dog and carrying such documentation with you is not required, however, it allows for a much more pleasant experience.

Comment on Pet Allergies? Try Panty Hose on the Nose! by Melly

Melly — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 18:30:50 +0000

Thankfully, we know what you mean! Your horse wears pantyhose over his muzzle – not on his legs! Humorous mental picture.

Comment on Do I Need a Doctor’s Letter? by nancy

nancy — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 13:42:37 +0000

Hi Laura,
How did you get the letter. I’m a bit confused because some sites say that according to the ADA nobody has the right to ask for a letter because it might be the person has a psych disorder

Comment on Do I Need a Doctor’s Letter? by Laura

Laura — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 20:08:48 +0000

I was asked for a Dr’s letter by Delta Airlines at check-in and also last year by a Comfort Inn. Thankfully I had the letter and there were no issues.

Comment on Service Dogs Retire, Too by ronald

ronald — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:56:19 +0000

Thanks.

Nice Pictures.

Comment on Service Dogs Retire, Too by Ronald

Ronald — Fri, 21 Oct 2011 14:55:31 +0000

Nice Website , thanks i will share with my friend.s

Comment on Pet Allergies? Try Panty Hose on the Nose! by Unknown

Unknown — Tue, 02 Aug 2011 16:17:08 +0000

I have been putting pantyhose on my horse when I ride him during allergy season for years now. If he wasn't wearing his pantyhose he would be totally unmanageable. It makes a huge difference. My vet told me about it. In fact our picture has been on the front page of our local newspaper.
Thanks, Wesley, for the great suggestion.

Comment on Welcome! by Wesley

Wesley — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:26:13 +0000

Heard of a Psychiatric Service Dog?

Panic attacks can happen without any warning. Sandra first started having panic attacks in 2002. She feared going into public and interacting with people. Sandra lived an isolated and tormented life. Then, in 2003 Sandra acquired a trained service dog (Poodle) that was taught to recognize changes in her breathing, perspiration or scent that indicated an imminent panic attack. When “Shag” senses this change, she nudges Sandra and licks her hand, reassuring her and calming her until she is stabilized. Being accompanied by a service dog allows people like Sandra to live a more normal life.

FACT: Psychiatric Service Dogs are a new generation of animals trained to help people whose suffering is not physical, but emotional.