Service DogsZoe Wood, Up All Night Dog Training
What is a Service Dog?● Americans with Disabilities Act
● RCW 70.84.021
● In simple terms
● A service dog is not...
What makes a Service Dog● Must be task trained for the handler’s specific disability
● Handler must legally be considered disabled
● Must be with their disabled handler to have access rights
● Can be owner trained or from a program
● High risk of “wash out”
● Certification, vests, IDs, and other forms of identification are not required
The Rights of Disabled Individuals ● State and federal laws prohibit discrimination based upon disability
➢ Must be given access to public spaces
➢ Can not be charged more than other patrons for the same product or service
➢ Can not be segregated from other patrons
i. Allergies
ii. Fear
➢ Must be given the same employment opportunities
➢ Must be given equal opportunity to engage in real estate transactions
Service Dog Etiquette Dos
● Speak to the owner/handler rather than
the dog.
● Keep your own dog a distance away from
a working dog
● Treat the owner/handler with sensitivity
and respect
Don’ts
● Touch the dog without asking permission
first.
● Talk to or make noises at a service dog
● Offer food to a service dog
● Assume a napping service dog is off duty
The Rights of Businesses ● “The right to refuse service to anyone”
● The two legal questions
● Grounds for removal or denial of a potential service dog
➢ Not task trained
➢ Inadequately trained
➢ Poses a threat to the safety or wellbeing of others
● Damages caused by a customers with disabilities
● Health codes and no pets policies
The rise of “fake” service dogs● Service dog registries
➢ Not recognised by the DOJ or state legislation
➢ Require no proof of training or disability
● Emotional support animals
● Liability
● The laws around “fake” service dogs
➢ RCW 70.84.060
➢ RCW 49.60.214
How to Handle Conflict● Avoid issues before they arise
➢ Post clear signage
➢ Keep staff up to date on training
➢ Ask every animal that comes in the legal questions
● Be kind and courteous
● ADA Information Line
➢ (800) 514-0301 (Voice)
➢ (800) 514-0383 (TTY)
Questions?
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