Service Dogs at Home
Once Your Dog is Home with You...
Will I need to continue training my dog once I bring it home?
Yes. In order for any trained Assistance Dog to retain their skills, it is necessary to routinely reinforce these skills through regular maintenance training sessions throughout their working life.
What are my responsibilities once I get an Assistance Dog from you?
Your responsibilities as the owner and handler of an Assistance Dog will continue throughout the dog's life. Significant responsibilities are listed below:
- Provide focused attention, love, and routine care on a daily basis.
- Provide regular food, water, attention, and exercise.
- Provide routine, preventive and emergency veterinary care.
- Maintain your dog's skill level through regular maintenance training.
- Be mentally prepared to handle the dog in any situation.
How can I find a veterinarian who understands working dogs?
When interviewing current or prospective veterinarians, be sure to discuss how your animal works with you. It is important to review the needs of your Assistance Dog as well as the issues related to your physical abilities.
What is the community standard for Assistance Dog etiquette?
It will be your responsibility to ensure the safety of your new Assistance Dog in all public settings as well as at home. While in public venues, the handler and the dog must comply with socially acceptable behavior. The dog must remain on leash at all times when in public settings and should be dressed in its distinguishing cape.
Your dog should remain as non-intrusive as possible when in any public place and cannot be allowed to do any of the following behaviors:
- Make contact with other dogs
- Toilet in places where people are sitting or walking
- Sniff people, food, store shelving, restaurant tables, personal belongings
- Initiate contact without your direction
- Make disruptive noises such as barking, growling or whining
- Perform personal grooming
- Eat off the floor
Because some people have unfounded fears and anxieties around any and all dogs, you will play an important ambassadorial role that helps them understand the services your dog provides. In turn, your advocacy will enhance their confidence and learning.
Did you know that you should try not to repeat commands? Learn from Comet Canine's dog training tips and advice in our online dog training articles.
