Service Dog Harassment

Service Dog Harassment

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. People usually tell me not to care or not to take it personally, but I do, and yes, I’ve tried not to. That’s easier said than done.

Common Service Dog Harassment

Some days, service dog handlers look a little more “normal” than other days. This makes people confront us publicly and question our need for a service dog because we don’t look disabled.

Sometimes people question service dog handlers if they are eligible to use the disabled person’s parking spots at retail outlets.

Once, a grown man pulled my service dog’s tail in an elevator. He let go when I turned around and acted as if nothing had happened. That is service dog harassment and can land you in jail for 6 months in California (California Penal Code Section 365.6).

People have barked and growled at us. People followed and filmed us.

Many things people do are hard to ignore or address. The way you react or don’t will affect the rest of your day. It depends on you. It’s a good idea to plan your responses so you are ready to address situations the way you want. Preparing ahead of time makes a big difference.

Examples of How I Respond

Here are some examples of how I handle this kind of service dog harassment. Maybe these can give you some ideas. I recommend you choose what is best for your mental health and your dog.

  • First and foremost, I will advocate for my dog and his safety. That may include blocking a person’s physical access to him or touching my dog to get him refocused after a person distracted him.
  • I sometimes go out with my headphones in. That gives me more peace as I can’t hear people’s comments or questions.
  • If I feel up for it, I will educate people on why their behavior is harmful. Many honestly don’t know they are committing service dog harassment.
  • People often start talking about dogs in some context when we’re sitting in a doctor’s waiting room or when we walk in. Frequently, other patients want to engage with my dog or me. Depending on how I feel, I don’t mind talking about my dog as long as they leave him alone.
  • Some doctor’s offices bring us to the back sooner and out of the public waiting room. I like that, but I know their motives may be more about the perceived disruption of a dog in their waiting room than a concern for my comfort. I don’t care, as it is to my benefit, regardless.
  • At grocery checkouts, we are often a magnet and draw a crowd. People take pictures and want to chat. Stores regularly open a new checkout register to get us out of the store faster. Again, fine with me as it’s to my benefit.

These are some of my experiences with service dog harassment in public over the years. It took some time not to be too intimidated by the people or the environment to respond appropriately.

Preparing for different scenarios and how to react takes practice. If you need to, rehearse at home what you’re going to say and know how you will respond. It will help prepare you for high-anxiety situations in public.

Category: Service Dogs Tags: , , , , ,
 

Services and Area

We are located in Southern California and train service dogs nationwide. Hence, Total K9 Focus currently offers local service dog training in several areas. Riverside County, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Los Angeles County, and San Diego County. In addition, we offer our service dog board and train program and all virtual training services nationwide.

Are you looking to get your own service dog? You came to the right place! We are experienced service dog trainers. Consequently, we can help you with any service dog request. For many of our clients, we train a service dog from puppyhood. However, we also evaluate the service dog potential of existing pets or rescue dogs. Our flagship product is our board and train program. In addition, we offer owner-trained service dog support. Further, provide virtual service dog training worldwide.

Further, we can add tasks to an existing service dog you already have. Or help you solve a tasking, training, or behavioral challenge you may face with your current service dog. We offer several service dog financing options to make it possible for you. We recommend you start by reading our article on what makes a good service dog. Next, review the Service Dog Consultation page to understand the high-level process. Finally, once you're ready to move forward, please use our service dog contact form to schedule your free consultation.