Service dogs are specially trained companions that assist people with disabilities in their daily lives. They provide a vital service so their handlers can be more independent, and teams deserve to be treated with respect. Here’s a guide on how to interact with service dogs and their handlers:

Do:
Ignore the dog: Service dogs are working animals and distractions can hinder their ability to perform their tasks. Distracting a service dog is illegal in most places, and can cost a handler their safety or their life.

Address the handler: If you want to acknowledge the team, speak directly to the handler. First, consider how important it is that you disrupt a disabled person’s life to talk to them.

Offer space: Give the service dog and handler ample space to navigate public areas. Don’t crowd them or block their path.

Be patient: Service dogs may need to perform tasks that take time, like helping their handler find a seat or pick up dropped items. Be patient and understanding.

Don’t:
Pet or feed the dog: Unless explicitly invited by the handler, refrain from petting, feeding, or offering treats to the service dog.

Make noises or gestures: Avoid loud noises, kisses, baby talk, or waving your hands at the dog, which can be distracting. You wanting the dogs attention is not more important than the handlers safety.

Ask intrusive questions: Don’t pry into the handler’s disability or the dog’s training. Would you like strangers stopping you from buying groceries to inquire as to any STDs you may have? No? Don’t pry into strangers medical information.

Discriminate against the team: Businesses and public spaces are legally obligated to accommodate service dogs. If the public can be there, so can the dog.

By following these simple guidelines, you can help ensure that service dogs and their handlers can go about their day safely and effectively.