A cardiac service dog supports people with heart conditions impacting their life. Cardiac service dogs can help people with a wide range of cardiac conditions. Some common conditions include: Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Cardiomyopathy, …
Service dog handlers must prepare for encountering other service dogs during outings. We can’t assume that other dogs are well-behaved. It could be a fake service dog. But it could also be a legitimate service dog in training; it could be that dog’s first public access trip, or the dog could have an “off” day.
One of the most important aspects to understand about service dog vests is this: they are optional. According to the ADA, it is not a requirement for an assistance dog to wear a vest of any kind. Many service dog handlers choose to have their service dog in a vest or harness, but it is not a requirement.
People use wheelchairs for many different reasons. I need a wheelchair due to spinal cord damage; sometimes, my legs don’t listen to what my brain tells them. I also suffer from chronic pain. Not all of my disabilities are visible, but I limp due to my injuries. My limping severity varies based on my pain level.
One often overlooked challenge is that service dog handlers must prepare themselves for the public and their actions. Service dog harassment is still far too common. The public’s reactions can easily make or break a handler’s day. I experience this regularly.
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