It’s International Assistance Dog Week! A time to honor and celebrate our canine partners who faithfully mitigate disabilities, are in training and/or have saved lives!

I know my Mom is grateful for me everyday and she celebrates me. Mom and I were talking about what people needed to know to make a service dog’s life easier. There are some tips to follow:

1. Do not pet the service dog.

2. Do not let your child(ren) touch the dog.

3. Do not allow your dog to approach the service dog by obeying leash laws and controlling your dog.

4. If you want to do 1,2, or 3, you must Ask First. Be respectful by speaking to the human partner, and accepting the response. It is not always an appropriate time to pat a service dog.

5. Do not distract a service dog by whistling, calling names, or offering treats. A service dog is working and should not be distracted from his/ her job.

Finally, on a personal note! Don’t fake having a service dog just to take your dog to Walmart, to dinner or to reduce an airline fare. Not only is it illegal, but it hurts those who do have disabilities and have the privilege of using a service dog to assist in mitigating disabilities!

So celebrate with us! Share these tips! Support a local shelter or puppy raising program!!! Educate! Many Thanks!!!

Woofs and wags,
Bella