Author: Codys

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Taking Care of Your Service Dog in Summer

At last, summer is on its way! Dog lovers everywhere will be enjoying the outdoors making the most of long sunny days. You’ll be walking in the park, cranking down the car windows to feel the wind rush in, enjoying a lazy drink on the deck with your service dog curled up at your feet.

Taking care of your service dog in the summer, however, can sometimes be a challenge. As temperatures start to rise, our canine friends can find the heat, sun, and humidity hard to cope with. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from dehydration, skin problems, and even heat stroke.

People with Service Dogs need to take extra special care as our canine partners often work long hours, are constantly alert, and do complex activities all day long. We know how cranky we can get when it’s hot – and we’re not wearing a fur coat! While summer is a great opportunity to get outside, exercise and enjoy the world, we also need to be aware of the risks. How can we take care of our service dogs when the temperatures soar?

How Dogs Keep Cool Naturally

First, it’s important to understand how dogs normally keep cool. Humans produce sweat to regulate their body temperature. Did you know dogs produce sweat only from their paws? The main ways dogs keep cool are by panting, direct contact with a cool surface, and drinking water.

Dogs are naturally pretty good at taking care of themselves. Their fur coat keeps them warm in the winter but it’s also a very good natural sunscreen, stops their skin from drying out and helps keep their body temperature down. When the temperatures begin to rise, you might need to lend a helping hand to keep our canine friends cool.

What are the dangers of too much sun for our Service Dogs?

Protecting Against Skin Problems

  • Fur Management: Avoid shaving your dog’s fur too short. Their coat provides natural sun protection.
  • Sunscreen: Use vet-approved pet sunscreen on exposed areas like the nose and ear tips, especially for dogs with light-colored fur.

No one likes the idea of walking around in the hot sun with a fur coat on. Our instinct might be to cut or even shave our dog’s coat to help them keep cool. Remember though, your dog’s fur protects them from the sun and stops their skin from drying out, so keep them clipped but don’t go too close to the skin. Just like humans, dogs can get skin cancer, so keep an eye on exposed areas such as their noses and the tips of their ears – and use a good vet-approved pet sunscreen for extra protection. Dogs with short, light-colored fur are especially prone to sunburn.

If your Service Dog has shaggy fur on their paws, keep this a little longer than the rest of their coat as it will protect their paws from the sun. Keep their coat clean and well brushed.

Preventing Dehydration and Overheating

  • Hydration: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times.
  • Shade: Provide plenty of shade at home and on outings. Never leave your dog in a parked car.

Make your dog a service dog, and NEVER leave them in the car again.

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You may notice when a dog is really hot their tongue swells, increasing its surface area and helping them to cool down faster, as it pants. If the panting starts to sound labored or they start to gag, it’s time to get your dog into the shade and give them water and a rest so they can recover. If you have any doubts, seek the advice of a vet as soon as possible.

By the way, although it sounds like an old wives’ tale, it really is true that dog’s noses should be wet. A dry nose could be a sign of dehydration.

Paw Care

  • Surface Check: Test the ground temperature with your hand or bare feet. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
  • Protective Gear: Use paw wax or boots to protect your dog’s pads from hot surfaces.

Although nature has equipped your Service Dogs with pads on their paws that act as natural shoes, when temperatures really start to rise, be aware how hot the surface is and remember some surfaces are hotter than others.

Be careful of any black surfaces, but particularly asphalt as it radiates heat and can actually burn your dog’s paws if it’s been exposed to hot sunlight for any length of time. A hot surface will also lead to a rise in your dog’s body temperature and might make them overheat.

It might seem a bit wacky, but the easiest way to test if the ground is too hot for your dog to walk on is to feel it with your hands or, better still, your bare feet. If it’s too hot for you, it’s probably too hot for them. On particularly hot days, allow your dog to walk on the grass as much as possible.

Check your dog’s paws regularly for signs of blistering and splitting. Walking on hot surfaces can cause dryness so if you notice this is a problem it’s a good idea to invest in some veterinary-approved wax that will protect the paw pads in both winter and summer. Boots are also available and can help protect your dog’s paws from strong heat but remember your dog sweats from their paws so make sure they are ventilated, or they may get a bacterial infection. In addition, if air can’t circulate, this will make your dog hotter. Remember, if your dog has shaggy fur on their paws, this is nature’s way of providing insulation, so don’t cut it too short.

Tiredness

We all get a little cranky in the heat, especially if we have to work, and it’s no different for your service dog. On hot days allow them a little grace. It might take them longer to do the things your dog normally does, and they might need more rest.

Recognizing Heat Stroke

  • Symptoms: Watch for excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
  • Action: Move your dog to a cool area, keep them moving, apply wet towels, and provide room-temperature water. Seek veterinary help if symptoms persist.

In severe cases, dogs can suffer from heat stroke, just like humans, and this can be extremely dangerous. Heat stroke occurs when the body has a rapid and uncontrollable rise in temperature, which can be caused by dehydration and heat exhaustion from over-exertion, and not taking in enough water before and during exercise. A dog’s normal body temperature is 100-103. This can rise to 107 with heat stroke which can be life-threatening.

Some breeds are more prone to heat stroke than others, such as dogs with short nasal passages like bulldogs and pugs; particularly those that suffer from Brachycephalic Syndrome. Dogs with heart, lung and respiratory conditions such as Laryngeal Paralysis, and dogs that are overweight will also suffer more. Older dogs and smaller dogs are also more prone to sunstroke as they are less resilient.

How to Spot Signs of Distress in Our Service Dogs and ESA’s

The most common symptoms of heat stroke to be aware of are excessive panting and drooling as dogs produce extra saliva when they need to cool down quickly. They may also vomit and /or have diarrhea. Your dog might lie down frequently and unexpectedly if they need a break. It might be unusually clumsy, stumble or even have a seizure. They might have a racing heartbeat. Watch out for these symptoms and take them into the shade for a rest and a drink. If they collapse, seek help from a vet immediately.

What to do if you think your Service Dog has heat stroke:

  • Act quickly
  • Move them to a cool area
  • Try to stop them from lying down. Keeping them moving will allow the cooler blood that is at the surface of their body to circulate which will help their body temperature drop
  • Soak towels in water or use whatever material you might have to hand and lay this on their coat, as direct skin exposure to water will also help them transfer the heat from their body
  • Give your dog small drinks of water at room-temperature. However, tempting it is, don’t give them iced water as a sudden intake of cold water can cause distress to their heart
  • Allow them time to rest and recover
  • If in doubt, see a veterinarian as soon as possible

How to Help your Service Dog Keep Cool

So when the temperatures really ramp up, what can we do to keep our service dogs cool and prevent heat stroke?

Provide Shade

Dogs are very good at seeking out shade, so while we’re used to our service dog walking down the middle of a path, be aware that they might be more comfortable seeking out the shadows. Make sure there is shade for them both when you are at home and when you’re out and about.

Never leave your dog in a parked car on a hot day. Temperatures can soar very quickly to dangerous levels. If you leave them at home, think about drawing the curtains so they can escape from the sun streaming through the windows.

Air Conditioning

While you might be tempted to escape the heat and hunker down in the aircon, don’t rely on this too much too soon. As soon as the days start getting warmer, begin to acclimate your Service Dog by taking it outside each day. This provides the opportunity to get used to the increase in temperature. When you’re going out by car, try to lower the windows rather than using air-conditioning, so your dog has time to get used to the temperature during the journey.

Cooling Gadgets

Vests and Collars: Invest in cooling vests, bandanas, and cool beds.

  • Cooling collars

    Water Supplies: Always carry water and a portable bowl. Consider a kiddie pool for home use.

There are many useful products available to help keep your service dog cool. Make sure their vest is made from a material that transfers heat, such as mesh or nylon. National Service Animal Registry offers very lightweight service dog vests. Some vests come with cooling pockets or pockets where you can fit gel-packs. Otherwise, get a vest that you can soak in water as this will allow them to keep cool down for longer. There are also a variety of bandanas, cool beds and cool collars available.

Never leave the house without a supply of water and invest in a foldable bowl or a water bottle that doubles as a bowl. When it gets hot, think about treating your service dog to a kid’s pool so they can enjoy cooling off in the tub. If you live near the beach, lake or river, be aware that although dogs instinctively know how to swim, they are not necessarily strong swimmers. Be careful of currents and keep your eye on them when they are in the water.

Water

Dogs drink more water for their weight than humans, and this is a key method they use to cool down. Make sure the water you give them is room temperature rather than iced as very cold water can cause stress for your dog’s heart. It’s okay to give them an ice-cube as a treat, though, as this will melt and warm up before they ingest it. You might also want to fill a Kong with wet food and freeze it to make the perfect doggie-popsicle.

Protect Against Parasites

  • Preventatives: Ensure your dog is protected against common summer parasites like ticks and heartworms.

In hot weather, parasites multiply faster, and if your service dog is spending more time outdoors, especially in grass or undergrowth, they might be more likely to pick up something nasty. Make sure they are protected against common parasites such as Heartworm, Lyme Disease, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. Ask your vet if you’re not sure.

Adapting to Severe Heat

  • Indoor Time: Keep your dog indoors during extreme heat and provide ample shade and water.
  • Exercise Timing: Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

When it gets very hot outside, over 90 degrees, or when the National Weather Service has issued a warning, keep your dog inside, and make sure there is plenty of shade in the house for him or her to enjoy. Manage your schedule so you avoid going out in the hottest part of the day and make time to exercise when the sun is low. Make sure there is always plenty of water for them to drink.

Final Thoughts

We depend so much on our Service Dogs. They keep us safe, provide us with companionship, and do many tasks that we find difficult. As your partner, you know your dog best. What are their needs? Do they have a thick dark coat that traps the heat, so they need a pool to splash in or regular sprinkler-time? Are they getting a little older, or do they have any medical conditions that mean he’s more prone to heat stroke? Do you need to invest in a new cool-vest, or some pet-sunscreen to protect any exposed skin?

The summer is a perfect opportunity to get out and about with your service dog and really enjoy the outdoors together. Bear these safety tips in mind and get prepared so you can make the most of the long sunny days with your canine partner.

Want to register your service dog? Register with National Service Animal Registry today! It’s FREE

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Are Emotional Support Vests Necessary for Cats?

While most people have emotional support dogs, emotional support animals can actually be members of any species. Cats are the second most common type of ESA, and many people with emotional or mental health issues rely on their feline friends for comfort and to minimize the symptoms of their disorder. If you have a cat for an ESA, you might be wondering if you should invest in an ESA vest, as well as wondering where such a vest might be required. Keep reading to learn more.

Not Required by Law

First and foremost, as an ESA owner, it’s important that you’re aware of your rights. It isn’t required by law for your ESA-be it a dog, cat, or any other animal-to wear a vest indicating that they are an emotional support animal. Whether your ESA is in your home or on a plane with you, vests aren’t required for you to claim the benefits of owning an ESA. So, if someone has given you the impression that you’re legally required to get an ESA vest for your cat, please be aware that this isn’t true.

Practical Benefits

With that being said, having an ESA vest for your cat has many practical benefits. The largest benefit is that it very quickly and clearly indicates that your cat serves a specific purpose and that they’re much more than a pet to you. As mentioned earlier, dogs are the most common type of ESA, as well as almost exclusively fulfilling the role of service animal for those who require such assistance; this means that people are much more likely to accept a dog as an ESA without a visual indicator.

However, cats are less common, and they almost never serve as service animals. Because of this, most people view cats only as pets and don’t realize that cats can even be ESAs. When you put that ESA vest on your cat, you’re making it very clear to everyone around you that your cat isn’t just a pet. This can make things much easier when you’re traveling and may decrease the amount of pushback you experience when claiming your benefits as an ESA owner.

Using an ESA Cat Vest

It’s no secret that most cats don’t much appreciate being dressed up or restrained in any way. So if you’re planning on purchasing an ESA vest for your cat, it’s important that you give them time to adjust to wearing it before you attempt to take them anywhere with it on.

First, a proper fit will make the vest more comfortable for your cat and make it less likely that they’ll manage to slip out of it. This means you need to properly measure your kitty before purchasing a vest for them. You’ll need to measure around the thickest part of your cat’s torso using a measuring tape and measure the circumference of their neck. This should give you enough information to purchase an appropriately sized vest.

You’ll also want to purchase a vest made of a comfortable fabric. A cotton or polyester fabric is usually lightweight and breathable enough that it won’t bother your cat even in hot weather. And, as long as it’s appropriately sized and put on correctly, it won’t rub or irritate them either. Allow your cat to wear their new vest several times and ensure they’re comfortable in it before trying to travel with them wearing it.

If you’re looking for ESA vests for your cat, be sure to check out the different styles the National Service Animal Registry has available online.

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Sacramento, CA: A Great Place to Visit with Your Service Dog

Sacramento is the capital of California state, and is the fastest growing major city in California. Sacramento is still growing and developing, becoming a technological powerhouse and a source of visionaries, this city is a unique place to live, work and play.

If you are thinking about visiting this place with your service dog, or if you have an emotional support animal you like to keep with you, you may be wondering about visiting with a dog. Sacramento is a dog friendly location to visit, and there are lots of places you can visit with your four-legged friend, whether he has a job or not. Here are just a few of them.

Great places to eat

Sacramento is well known for its culinary circle, and if you love food, visiting some of the better restaurants is probably on your list. Many of these restaurants are open to service dogs only, but there are actually a few fabulous places to eat that are friendly to all dogs, including your emotional support animal. Here are two of them.

Waterboy

This amazing restaurant offers a taste of regional ingredients, and a carefully selected wine menu. Each dish is created to make the ingredients stand out by chefs that are regarded as some of the finest in Sacramento.

Dogs are also welcome here and are generally treated like kings. Expect at the very least a bowl of water for your service dog, and a corner on the patio just for them.

Capitol Garage

This eclectic hotspot for good eating has two patios, which increases the odds you’ll get a coveted dog friendly spot for your emotional support animal. Customers who have visited the restaurant with their dog report not only getting water for their dog, but often a treat too!

Your service dog will love chilling on the cool patio with a slice of bacon, while you enjoy one of a delicious selection available on the menu. Whether you’re looking for brunch, burgers, or beer, this place has what you and your dog needs.

Stay at a dog friendly hotel

If you want a great place to stay with your emotional support animal or a hard-working service dog, look no farther than The Citizen Hotel, a Joie de Vivre Boutique Hotel. This incredible hotel has gorgeous rooms, wonderful staff, and beautiful architecture—as well as plenty for your dog as well.

Directly across the street is an entire park for pet relief, walking, and general fun. Your dogs will be welcomed with treats at the front desk, and there is no additional pet fee for the dogs. It’s a wonderful place to stay, see so for yourself at 926 J St, Sacramento, CA 95814.

Let your service dog run at an off-leash dog park

If your emotional support animal or service dog needs some off-duty fun, you might want to visit the Tanzanite Community Dog Park at 2220 Tanzanite Way, Sacramento, CA, US, 95834. The beautiful, 2-acre off leash dog park has plenty of room for your dog to run. The dog park has plenty of other amenities, including water spigots, shade, benches, and lots of grass.

This is a popular dog park, but the atmosphere is usually relatively calm, so stop on by and let your dog run free before he goes back to hard work as your partner.

Take your dog to the Midtown Farmer’s Market

This year-round farmer’s market allows well behaved, leashed dogs. The market is open every Saturday all year round, except for when there is an 80% or greater chance of rain, or if wind at greater than 15mph is projected. According to their website, this happens about 3 times a year or less.

The farmer’s market has both vendors with handmade goods and farm fresh products, and generally has music, live demonstrations, and a kids play area to help liven things up.

This is a great place to stroll with your service dog as you check out the farm fresh eggs or homemade cheeses, but your well-behaved emotional support animal is welcome too. Visit at 1050 20th St, Sacramento, CA 95811.

Need supplies? Take your dog to Wagger’s

As you can imagine, Wagger’s is a dog boutique that has everything your emotional support animal needs to keep that tail wagging. They have full service grooming, as well as toys, treats, and other essentials. Voted one of the best dog boutiques in the area for over 9 years straight, this is a well liked business that will do right by your service dog.

You can visit at 2051 Arena Blvd 130 Sacramento, CA 95834. The friendly staff will be happy to help you with anything you might need for your dog.

Check out dog friendly Old Sacramento

Old Sacramento along the peer features an abundance of historical buildings, iconic hotels, and beautiful views along the waterfront. It’s a wonderful location along the Potomac river just to walk and admire the scenery, but there are dog friendly buildings you can take emotional support animals to, including restaurants with outdoor seating.

Most of the museums and other buildings admit service dogs only, but even if you just wander outside, you’ll enjoy this wonderful location. Stop by at 153 I St, Sacramento, CA, US, 95814.

Go hiking with your service dog

Just 30 minutes from Sacramento is the Quarry Road Trail. This beautiful trail is over 5 miles long, letting you and your service dog walk as much or as little as your fitness level allows. The trail is very wide, making it comfortable to pass other hikers, and it’s well worth the drive.

While there is closer hiking to Sacramento, and even some trails in Sacramento itself, these trails tend to be heavily trafficked by bikers, and many owners report being unable to enjoy the walk due to the speed and number of bikers passing them.

The Quarry Road Trail offers a welcome break from the concrete jungle, and you can visit with your loyal service dog at 501 El Dorado St. Auburn, CA 95603.

Sacramento is an exciting place to visit with your dog, and there are a large number of dog friendly locations you and your dog are welcome at. Don’t be afraid to book a visit today and see Sacramento for yourself.

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Tips for Selecting the Right Service Dog Vest

Choosing the right vest for your service dog is essential to ensure their success. Having a vest not only allows others to recognize a pet as a working dog, but also allows those with disabilities to go about their daily business without being questioned about their dog or disability. Though there are no official regulations about which gear a service animal must wear, many owners prefer vests and patches to signify their dog as a service animal. To find the right vest for your dog, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Keep reading to learn about the most important considerations for your dog’s vest.

Size of the Dog

First and foremost, you must ensure that the vest fits your dog correctly. If it is too small, it can dig into your dog’s skin and be uncomfortable. If it’s too big, your pup will be able to slip right out of it. To find the right size vest for your dog, you will need to measure them first. Typically, vest sellers post a size chart with the product description of the vest. They may also base the size of the vest on the dog’s weight, so be sure to have an accurate measurement of that too. If the sizing is based on measurements, you will need to measure your dog’s chest, neck, and the length of your dog.

To measure the chest, wrap the measuring tape around their body directly behind their front legs. Measure the neck around where their collar would be, adding an extra inch or two for more comfort. The length or top line of your dog is measured from the nape of their neck to the base of their tail. Keep in mind that the straps on the vests are usually adjustable, so you will be able to get a better fit for your dog if they don’t fit squarely into one category.

Practical Features

Next, consider the special features that the service dog vest offers. First, you should choose a vest that is easy for you to put on and take off, since you will be doing this often. You should also find a vest that is easy for you to attach a leash to. You may need a certain type of handle if the dog will be supporting you while you walk or pulling your wheelchair. You may also need a D-ring to make it easier for you to attach the leash. No matter what, make sure your needs are met so you can securely attach your dog to their leash when you are out.

Design Features

There are also specific features to look for that will make the vest more comfortable for your dog to wear for long hours. Try to find special features like breathable mesh lining, padded straps, and more. Some vests have even more advanced design features. These include Velcro straps, pockets to hold supplies, reflective elements, handles to help with mobility, and special patches.

Contact us (866) 737-3930 at the National Service Animal Registry to find the best vest for your service dog.

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Portland, OR: A Great Place to Visit with Your Service Dog

Portland, Oregon is a pet friendly location that loves seeing your companion animal. Whether your dog is a pet, an emotional support dog, or a service dog, you’ll find plenty of places you can go with your animal. Your service dog will love a little off duty time as part of your trip, and even if your dog is just a pet, he’ll still find lots of reasons to keep that tail wagging at these great places.

Hotel Monaco

If your just visiting, finding pet-friendly lodging can be a challenge in many different cities. A hotel cannot refuse your service dog, but if it is an emotional support dog the same rules don’t apply. Hotel Monaco is the perfect solution, as they accept any breed of dog regardless of size. Located on Southwest Washington Street, it’s just a 12 minute walk from the Portland Art Museum, and a couple of miles from the Japanese Garden.

Mt Tabor Dog Park

If your service dog is craving some off duty time, the Mt Tabor Dog Park has a little bit of everything. While you enjoy the exquisite views of a dormant volcano and old growth forest, your dog can meet with others in an off-leash park, as well as accompany you on on-leash adventures elsewhere in the park.

The rules are strict on where a dog may or may not be off leash, so pay close attention before releasing your dog. The dog park is located at 6336 SE Lincoln St and is open 5AM-Midnight.

Dog Friendly Eateries

While your service dog won’t have any problems getting into the restaurant of your choice, if you have an emotional support dog or just a pet, you’ll need to stick to dog friendly dining. Luckily, Portland has an abundance of dog friendly places you can eat.

A favorite among tourists and regulars alike is the Lucky Labrador Brewing Company. They have an outdoor patio that all dogs are welcome on, and regularly hold dog friendly events such as “Dogtoberfest” and “Barks and Brews.” If you’re interested in giving it a try, it is located on 7675 SW Capitol Hwy.

If you’re in the mood to spoil your service dog, the “Tin Shed Garden Cafe” not only has a dog patio, but a doggie menu! Located at 1438 NE Alberta St, Portland, your pet will delight in the treats they have in store.

Hip Hound

Regardless of whether you have a service dog, an emotional support dog, or a favorite friend, you’ll need to resupply your dog’s basic needs at some point. The Hip Hound is a trendy place you can get everything from natural dog food and grooming supplies to toys and treats. It is well liked due to how friendly the staff is, so if you have any questions you won’t have a problem getting help. Located at 610 NW 23rd Ave, Portland, they are our top recommended store.

Top rated medical care

Keeping your dog healthy is always important, but when you own a service dog or an emotional support dog, top tier health care becomes even more important.

Mt. Tabor Veterinary Care has it all when it comes down to good quality veterinary care for your dog. Each exam room is comfortably decorated to look like a living room, so your dog can feel more comfortable during his stay. On top of this, they offer top tier veterinary service, and a fear free clinic. Located at 4246 SE Belmont St., Suite 1, Portland, 97215 they are happy to give your service dog the loving care it needs.

Explore Washington Park

Washington Park is a huge 420 acre park that encompasses several different gardens, an arboretum, a children’s museum, and a zoo. It also has a number of hiking trails criss-crossing it, and much of the park is dog friendly.

If you love hiking and touring beautiful gardens, this is the perfect spot for you and your canine. Your emotional support dog or pet is welcome in the gardens and the arboretum on leash, but service dogs only for the zoo and museum.

If you are planning a visit to Oregon Zoo with your service dog, ask for a copy of their service dog map. Due to the strong reaction the animals may have, certain areas of the zoo are restricted even to service dogs, and other areas require you and your service dog to move through as quickly as possible for the safety of everyone. No kennels are available for service dogs should you want to visit these areas, so you may need to plan ahead.

A service dog vest may also be helpful here, in order for the zoo staff to help get you the map you need and other important information regarding the zoo right away.

You can visit all these wonderful things and more at 4033 SW Canyon Rd, Portland, OR 97221.

Portland Saturday Market

There are few ways to make shopping more fun than visiting an open air market. The Portland Saturday Market features an abundance of vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to homemade candles.

This market is special because it is nationally recognized as the largest continuous open air market in the United States. It’s also pet friendly, so feel free to take your emotional support dog along for the trip. You’ll also find lots of pet related booths, so if you were hoping to get something special for your service dog or emotional support dog, you may find it at one of the many booths available.

Despite the name, they are open both Saturday and Sunday, all year round. Visit at 108 West Burnside any weekend.

Portland, Oregon is a wonderful place for dog lovers to visit and live. If you’re planning a visit or a move to Portland, Oregon you’ll love these wonderful opportunities for you and your beloved animal to enjoy.

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The Best Service Dog Breeds

When you hear or read the words “service dog,” what picture pops into your mind? Is it a Labrador retriever, golden retriever, or German shepherd? There’s a reason most of us picture these breeds when think of disability service dogs. These breeds appear most on a service animal registry because they possess certain qualities that are essential to a good service dog. Keep reading to learn more about these breeds, the traits these breeds possess, and a few other breeds that make great service animals.

Labrador Retrievers

Labs are some of the friendliest and most good-natured members of the canine world, develop strong bonds to their families, and love having a job to do. Another factor that makes them great service dogs is that they have “soft mouths.” This means that they are gentle when retrieving items, so they’re great for helping mobility-impaired individuals that need help reaching items or performing tasks such as opening doors.

Golden retrievers

Goldens are quite similar to labs in their temperament. They’re intelligent and easy to train, and they have a naturally calming presence. This makes them excellent PTSD and emotional support dogs too.

German Shepherds

Though more commonly seen as police dogs, this breed is also an excellent service dog. They’re large enough to help mobility-impaired individuals move around and are incredibly attuned to their handlers’ moods; a German shepherd will be quick to notice when you’re feeling anxious.

Essential Traits for Service Dogs

Though behavioral traits and mannerisms can vary from one dog to another, some dog breeds tend to possess specific traits more frequently than other breeds. This is why you will see so many service animals from the three breeds mentioned above; those breeds simply have the necessary traits that make a great service animal. What are those traits? Here’s a quick list:

  1. Intelligence – Service dogs are required to perform complex tasks and must be able to learn new tasks fairly quickly. For this reason, the most common breeds for service dogs are incredibly smart.
  2. Friendliness – Your service dog needs to go everywhere with you, so they need to be comfortable around people and animals and never display aggression towards others.
  3. Calm presence – A service dog can’t create a disturbance when they go to public places with you. They must be able to lay calmly at your feet at a restaurant or walk quietly beside you in a store. Additionally, they can’t be easily startled, as they’ll be in constantly changing environments when they’re with you.
  4. Drive to work – Certain breeds are much happier when they have a job to do. We call this a strong work drive. This is an important trait in a service animal, as they are much more driven to learn new tasks and are actually happier when they’re able to help you.
  5. Loyalty – Finally, service dogs should bond strongly to their owners. Most service dog breeds are once that are incredibly loyal and develop strong attachments to their handlers.

Other Great Breeds

Of course, these three aren’t the only options when choosing a service dog. A few others that often possess the five essential traits are poodles, boxers, Great Danes, border collies, Pomeranians, Bernese mountain dogs, and pit bulls.

Of course, there’s no hard-and-fast rule of what breeds can be service dogs. It all depends on your needs and the tasks you need your service dog to perform. If you have a dog you want to register as a service animal, contact National Animal Service Registry to learn more about service dog certification.

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How a Service Dog Should Behave in Public Situations

Service dogs serve a variety of purposes for individuals with disabilities. If you or your loved one has a disability, contact the best service dog registry to see how a service dog can help. A picture of Sully, President George H.W. Bush’s service dog, sitting beside the former president’s casket in the U.S. Capitol, illustrates the loyalty and obedience of these special dogs. If you have a service dog, you need to know how your dog should behave in public places.

Discipline

A service dog is allowed to go to places where dogs aren’t normally allowed. The dog must be disciplined at all times. Being certified as a service dog requires that a dog be partnered with someone with a disability and be trained to perform specific tasks. The dog must ignore distractions, whether it’s other dogs, people, sounds, or smells.

The dog should not sniff other people, animals, or objects unless it’s part of his or her duties-for example, when the dog is trained to detect allergens. The dog should never sniff just to explore the territory. An object or food on the ground shouldn’t even pique the dog’s interest. The dog should display an even temperament and never appear anxious or aggressive.

Focus

A service dog is trained to perform a task that will benefit an individual with a specific disability, such as muscular dystrophy, paraplegia, or diabetes. The service dog must remain focused on his or her trainer and the trainer’s needs.

Obedience

The service dog must be obedient. The dog should respond to the commands and cues of the handler quickly and appropriately. The dog must be alert for any emergency. In a restaurant or other public place, the dog will sit under a table or by the trainer’s side. The dog may change positions but otherwise is still.

Noise

The service dog should not make any noise. The dog should not bark, growl, or whine unless it’s necessary to get the attention of the trainer or perform a task for the trainer.

Leash

The service dog must walk well on a leash. The dog doesn’t pull or circle the handler unless it’s necessary to perform a task or is a form of communication with the handler. If the handler is performing a task, the dog will sit or lie still until the handler is ready to move.

Appearance

The service dog should be clean and well-groomed. You want the dog to make a good impression on others. Business owners must allow you and your dog to enter their businesses. Your dog’s appearance will go a long way in getting warmer welcomes from business owners.

Manners

The dog must be housebroken. The dog should not urinate or defecate in undesignated areas. The dog should never display aggressive tendencies. A business owner can exclude a service dog in 2 circumstances-if the dog is out of control and the handler isn’t able to correct the dog’s conduct, or if the dog isn’t housebroken and urinates or defecates in an inappropriate manner. Only the service dog can be excluded. The trainer can’t be forced to leave and must be allowed to make a purchase or obtain a service.

Contact the National Service Animal Registry at (866) 737-3930 about making your pet a service dog to assist you with a disability. We’ll explain how service dog registration works. Learn how a service dog can help you perform tasks to make your life easier.

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Denver, CO: A Great Place to Visit with Your Service Dog

Known as the mile-high city due to its extreme elevation, Denver is a popular city for those who enjoy the great outdoors. This beautiful city is very dog-friendly and is a safe place to bring your service dog or ESA as you take in the sights and sounds of the city. If you’re hoping to spoil your service dog, or just want to see all the great places you can take your four-footed friend, here are our favorite picks.

Visiting Denver? This is the best hotel to stay at

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco located in Denver is part of a boutique collection of hotels that specifically cater to keeping your furry friend. If you have an emotional support animal (ESA) that you want to keep with you, it’s not always as easy to find an understanding place to stay. The Kimtpon Hotel Monaco is that place. They accept multiple dogs of any size in their pet friendly rooms, and even have canine amenities to go with the hotel room. They are located on 1717 Champa Street At 17th Street. If you want your service dog or ESA to feel just as welcome as yourself, this hotel is a great option.

Grab some eats with your pup

Service dogs are always welcome in restaurants, but your emotional support animal (ESA) often has to wait at home for you to return. If you’d prefer to bring your pup with you, Denver has a large number of dog-friendly places to eat. Here are our two favorites.

Forest Room 5

This restaurant has brought a little of the great outdoors inside. The beautiful outdoorsy d&eactute;cor will make your dog feel right at home, and your dog whether it is an emotional support animal (ESA) or just a furry friend will be welcome right at home on the patio. There are lots of different beverages available from craft beer to mixers, so this is a great spot for your happy hour as well as a meal. Their address is 2532 15th St Denver, Colorado 80211 if you want to check them out.

Bonnie Brae Ice Cream

Has your service dog been good and is ready for a little off duty treat? Take him to Bonnie Brae Icecream where dogs are always welcome. You can get your dog his own personal ice cream sandwich, made out of two dog biscuits and a little ice cream between them. Service dogs can come inside, but your ESA or furry friend is on the patio only. Find them at 799 S University Blvd, Denver 80209.

Go to a dog park

Denver has 10 dog parks to its name, and all of them are fun places to take your service dog for a little off duty romp. If you’re looking for someplace fun to take your beloved service dog or ESA, try the Railyard Dog Park. It has separate areas for different sized dogs, and is extremely large for a downtown dog park.

Your service dog will love a game of fetch or a walk along the wheelchair friendly paths. There is very little shade in the park however, so if it is a hot day you may wish to come in the early morning or late evening to stay cool while your pup plays. The park is located at 2005 19th St Denver, CO 80202.

Emergency? Take your service dog here

When your well-being depends on a service dog or ESA to help you get through the day, knowing the location of a quality vet is essential. We recommend Bear Valley Vet if you need medical care for your service dog or ESA while in Denver, Colorado.

Bear Valley Vet features a state of the art medical facility, and also handles emergency visits as well as the usual wellness exams and preventative care. If your service dog runs into a problem large or small, they are prepared to handle it.

Hit the trails with your dog on the Bear Canyon Loop

One of the best parts of Colorado is the many outdoor activities available. There are dozens of dog-friendly trails you can take your pet on, and they are among the most beautiful hiking trails in the nation. A good one is just 30 minutes outside of Denver for a pleasant, two-hour long hike.

If you are hoping for an easy hike that includes wide open spaces, wildflowers in season, and native wildlife, this trail is a good choice. Use caution when hiking alone or with just your service dog, as mountain lions and black bears do frequent the area. You can find the trailhead at NCAR Trail Head, 1850 Table Mesa Dr, Boulder, CO 80305.

Enjoy the Cherry Creek Fresh Market

Sometimes called the “Cadillac of farmers’ markets,” this Saturday market is open May through November, and features both fresh produce and gourmet foods from local vendors. Held at Cherry Creek Shopping Center located on 1st Ave. & University Blvd, parking is free during the market.

Dogs on leash are welcome, so you can bring your furry friend even if he is not a service dog to this busy and beautiful outdoor market.

Grab essential supplies at Dog Savvy

Dog Savvy has your dog’s grooming, food, and pet supply needs handled. This cute and trendy shop is beautifully set up, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. If you want the best possible shopping experience for yourself and your service dog, Dog Savvy is an amazing shopping experience in Denver. See for yourself at 1402 Larimer St Denver, Colorado.

Denver is full of exciting places to see and things to do. If you’re hoping to move here or visit with your dog, you’ll have no end to dog-friendly opportunities in Denver.

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Train a Hearing Alert Dog

Training your own Alert Service Dog might seem like a difficult task at first, but this article will show you that it is easier than you think.

Dogs love spending time with their people and enjoy learning new things. Once you begin an intelligent and planned training program and are armed with a few tricks to help, you’ll discover training your Service Dog is not only easier than you originally thought, it’s a great way for the two of you to bond have fun!

One key task for all hearing alert service dogs is to bark at specific events, like when someone knocks on the front door. Believe it or not, not all dogs are inclined to bark when you knock on the door. As such, some dogs may need to be taught, if they are going to be an effective alert mechanism for you.

Why do you need to train your Service Dog to bark?

Part of the job of a Hearing Alert Service Dog is to alert you to the presence of strangers. Most, but not all dogs will bark if a stranger comes to their home. It is often an innate, protective instinct.

In addition, training your Service Dog to bark on command is one way to teach him to think critically and communicate effectively. This can enhance his/her quality of life, as well as making yours safer and better.

Teaching a dog to “speak” is straightforward. It will give you confidence and experience to embark on additional training paths with your Hearing Alert Service Dog; a benefit to you both.

Make your Service Dog feel at home

Before you begin the training, think about what you want your service dog to do.

If your dog doesn’t instinctively bark when someone comes to the door, ask yourself why? Maybe your dog is naturally a mellow and quiet animal. That’s ok; it isn’t a problem. With encouragement and training you’ll be able to teach him to bark when you need him to.

Sometimes, though dogs don’t bark instinctively because they aren’t confident enough yet in their home to feel the need to protect it and/or they may have a level of anxiety.

If your dog is new to you, training him as a hearing alert service dog is a great way to start bonding with him or her. Just remember to be patient while he settles into his new home and gets to know you.

If he suffers from anxiety, make sure he has the opportunity to socialize with other dogs and people outside the home. Socialization is the key to lessening anxiety and will make him feel protective both of you and your home. And once he feels protective, he is more likely to bark in the presence of strangers.

How to train your Hearing Alert Service Dog to bark

Step 1: Decide on your reward system

If you’ve already trained your dog for some behaviors, you may already have a reward system in place. If so, use this reward system when teaching your Service Dog to bark and they will no doubt respond to “speak” training very quickly.

If you haven’t yet established a reward system, read on to find out about using a clicker, treats, and other positive reinforcement to make training easier.

Use a clicker. Using a clicker to train your Service Dog is an effective method to teach the dog to identify what it is you want him to do. Every time he demonstrates good behavior CLICK – REWARD – PRAISE. He will learn to love hearing the sound of the click as he will associate it with a treat and your praise, and will be quick to do what you want him to.

Choose great treats. Dogs (and humans!) respond best to rewards they like, so make sure you use tasty rewards when training your Service Dog. Tiny pieces of cheese, bits of sausage or broken up dog treats are great rewards. You can also find a great variety of training treats in your local pet store. It’s good to vary the treats to keep your dog interested. The key is to make sure the treat is something your Service Dog really enjoys. Start your training session with a taste of the treat to get him excited!

Positive affirmation. Rewarding good behavior works with dogs, just like it does with children and adults! When your Service Dog does what you want it to during training, reward it with a click, treat, and praise. Making a fuss for learned good behaviors will show the dog that this is what you want him to do and enable him to associate the behavior with a positive outcome. This will make learning quicker, more effective, and fun for both of you.

Step 2: Reward your Service Dog when they bark naturally

In order to teach your Service Dog to bark on command, start out by waiting for him to bark and rewarding the bark with a treat.

First, give him a tiny taste of the treat (or a sniff of the toy) to get him excited. Then hold the treat in your hand and move it around playfully to encourage his interest. When he makes even the tiniest of sounds, reward him with a click, treat, and praise.

You might have to wait a while at first until he makes the first bark and it might be such a small sound you miss it. Keeping your closed hand (containing the treat) near his mouth, to help you feel his breath when he makes the tiniest of barks. Be playful to keep him interested. Reward these early sounds and they will get more distinct as he gets more confident.

If you’ve already trained your Service Dog to do other things (sit, down etc) he might start working his way through his repertoire to see exactly what it is you want him to do. This is good because he shows he is thinking critically. Ignore all the other behaviors until he makes a sound. See him have an “Aha!” moment when you reward him and he realizes what it is you want him to do!

Once he has made a sound and been rewarded a few times, keep the momentum going but only reward the barks as they sound more distinct. The first time he makes a proper bark give him a few pieces of the treat in quick succession (or a big old tug of war on the toy if that is his reward of choice) to show you are really pleased with his behavior.

Remember to make a fuss of your dog when he does well and to be playful during training. This is a sure-fire way to make sure he loves your training sessions and will respond well to what you are trying to teach him.

Step 3: Teach him a command

Once your Service Dog has started to associate barking with a click and treat, choose a command to associate with the behavior such as “speak” or “talk”.

Now, every time he barks, say the command at the same time immediately followed by click – reward – praise.

It doesn’t matter which command you choose, if you are consistent. Your Service Dog doesn’t know what the words “speak” or “talk” mean. Whichever command you choose will mean “bark” to him.

Step 4: Teach him a hand signal

Once he has responded to the command a few times by barking, add a hand signal (should as a pointed finger) to the command.

Now every time he barks on command combined with the hand signal, click – reward – praise. At first, even a small sound should be rewarded but as he gets more confident only reward the distinct barks as before.

If you do this consistently, he will soon learn that the command and hand signal are associated with barking and that he will be rewarded. Eventually, you may choose to drop the command and have him respond only to the hand signal.

Step 5: Teach him to bark when you want him to

Once you have him barking on command you can train him to bark in certain situations, such as when someone comes to the door or the phone rings.

Rather than training him only when someone really comes to the door or calls you, ask a neighbor or friend to help you practice.

Ask someone to knock on the door, give your Service Dog the command. If he barks, reward him.

Your Service dog will be more interested if you show interest, so make sure to make a bit of a fuss when checking out who it is at the door.

Similarly, ask someone to phone you. Give your Service Dog the command, and reward him if he barks.

Step 6: Teach your Hearing Alert Service Dog to be quiet

Just as soon as you’ve taught your Service Dog to bark, you’ll probably need to teach him to be quiet as you want him to alert you, but not become a nuisance for your or your neighbors.

Now he knows what the command means, only reward barking when you give the command. You don’t want him to think barking will always get a reward.

The best way to train your Service Dog to be quiet is to catch the point where he stops barking, use a command (for example, “ssh” or “quiet”), and reward him. If you do this consistently, he will learn to associate the command with quiet and do it on command.

Practice “speak” and “quiet” together to reinforce the training.

Top tips for training your Service Dog

Little and often is the best way to train a Service Dog. So, practice every day for short bursts. That way your dog will enjoy your attention and learn without getting bored. If your Service Dog loses interest, stop the training for a while and pick it up later. Let him see you put the treats away. When they come out again, he might be more enthusiastic!

Motivation is key. It’s hard to train a dog to “speak” unless he wants to, so motivation is the key to success. Make sure you are playful and enthusiastic during training sessions, use rewards consistently and praise him when he does what you want him to do. This is the way to ensure he loves learning new things, which will make him easier and quicker to train.

Keep treats on hand. Positive reinforcement (rewarding the behavior you want him to demonstrate) is the best way to train a dog. Make sure you always have treats on hand, in your pocket or in strategic places around the house, so you can reward good behavior immediately.

Training isn’t limited to training sessions. Consistency is key when training a Service Dog so don’t limit it to training sessions. When he demonstrates good behavior in real life, take the opportunity to reward him.

All dogs are different. Some dogs are easier to train than others depending on their breed, age, and background. With regard to certain behaviors, such as barking, some dogs and breeds are naturals, whereas others are not so much. Be patient and consistent and your Service Dog will get there in the end.

How to Train Your Hearing Alert Service Dog to Bark

Training your Service Dog doesn’t have to be difficult. Once you get started you’ll realize how well dogs respond to learning new things and how much they enjoy it.

Teaching your Service Dog to bark not only enables him to perform an essential job for you, it also gives him the opportunity to please you and get rewarded, exercise his brain and to bond with you.

As well as helping him to become an effective watchdog you’re also making him happy. Now, there’s something to bark about!

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Las Vegas, NV: A Great Place to Visit with Your Service Dog

Las Vegas, the city of shining light and big casinos, isn’t just a fun place for people. It’s also a surprisingly dog-friendly city that welcomes service dogs, emotional support dogs, and even dogs whose only job is being cute. If you’re planning to visit or move to Las Vegas with your service dog, here are a few key places you need to know about.

Just visiting? Try this hotel.

The Westin Las Vegas Hotel & Spa is a pet-friendly hotel just a few steps away from all the action of the Las Vegas strip. It’s accessible, with elevators, staff available to read literature for the visually impaired, and meeting rooms with assisted listening. It’s pet-friendly for your emotional support dog, and of course, service dogs are always welcome.

Moving permanently? This apartment loves dogs.

The Elysian Flamingo apartments aren’t just pet-friendly, they even have their own dog area specifically for your furry friends. While your service dog is welcome anywhere, it’s always nice to have amenities catering to owning a dog, so that you don’t have to make hunting for a green space part of your daily activities.

These apartments also don’t have weight limits, so even if you have a large ESA, they will still accept your pet. While size is not a problem, there may be breed restrictions, so call ahead about your pet.

Take your pet to Barkin’ Basin Park

This fun little park has everything your off duty service dog or emotional support dog needs for a tail wagging good time. It features separate enclosures for different sized dogs, shaded seating for owners, and water fountains for both dogs and people.

The park is always kept clean and there is plenty of room to throw a ball, so if you’re looking for a spacious place to let your pet run free or to stretch your service dog’s legs, this is a great place to do it. Located at 7351 W. Alexander Road, 89129.

Treat your dog to a baseball game

Your service dog works hard for you on many occasions, including helping you when you go to the baseball park to watch a game. On Wednesdays in Las Vegas, you can reward your service dog, emotional support dog, or favorite friend with his own personal day to enjoy the big game at Wag Your Tail Wednesdays.

Dogs are allowed to watch every Wednesday home game from May until September at the Las Vegas ballpark. If you feel like your service dog deserves a little off duty fun, or you can’t normally enjoy these games without the help of your emotional support dog, this is the event for you.

Join the Las Vegas Aviators with your very own dog as your copilot at 1650 S Pavilion Center Drive.

Places to eat with your pet

All restaurants are required to allow your service dog to join you for dinner, but if you have an emotional support dog, it’s not as easy to sit down with your dog for a bite. Luckily Las Vegas has a number of pet friendly venues you can bring your ESA to. Here are two of them.

Big Dog Brewery

As you might expect, Big Dog Brewery is a dog-friendly place to catch the latest sports game or just hang out with your friends for some ice cold beer. They have over 35 local brews on tap, as well as midwestern style foods such as cheese curds, steak and eggs, and pulled pork sandwiches. Your emotional support dog or other pet is welcome on the patio, your service dog is as always welcome anywhere. Visit at 4543 N. Rancho Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89130

Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar

This restaurant not only allows your emotional support dog or other pet on the patio, they even have their own menu for your dog! The doggie menu includes things like a hamburger patties or grilled chicken and brown rice. Whether you’re giving your service dog a little off duty treat or taking the opportunity to bring your ESA with you, this restaurant provides a great treat for you both.

Go hiking in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

While the Las Vegas strip gets most of the attention, it’s not the only part of the city. Just half an hour from the strip itself is some of the most beautiful terrain in Nevada. The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area features dazzling red rocks and a fun canyon to explore. Dogs must be leashed in all buildings and at the overlook.

It’s a great place to take your dog whether you own a service dog or an ESA, and makes for great photos as well as a great hiking experience. Drive to 1000 Scenic Dr, Las Vegas, NV, US, 89124 in order to enjoy this hike with your pet.

Outdoor (Saturday) market

The middle of a desert probably doesn’t seem like a likely place for an Outdoor Market, but there are actually many of them in and around Las Vegas. The Las Vegas Farmer’s Market is particularly fun because they embrace a festival like setting, with music as well as food and of course local produce. Pets are welcomed, so don’t be afraid to bring along your ESA. There is no parking fee as long as you let the attendant know you are visiting the farmer’s market.

Bring your service dog, your ESA, or just your pet and get a bounty of fresh produce at this wonderful outdoor market located at 9100 Tule Springs Rd . Las Vegas NV 89131.

Las Vegas has many wonderful opportunities for your dog, whether you own a hard-working service dog or a pet whose only work is snuggling. If you’re planning a visit or a move to Las Vegas, you can rest assured there are plenty of places to take your furry friend.