Author: Codys

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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.

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Major Benefits of Service Dog Registration

Service dogs provide life-saving benefits, companionship, safety, and security for many people with emotional and physical disabilities. While it’s technically not required to register your service dog if you own one, it does come with several benefits worth mentioning. Continue reading to learn why using a service dog registry is beneficial to you and your dog.

Offers Supporting Documentation

Have you ever had your service dog with you at a restaurant, hotel, or another public place and been harassed or felt you had to explain why you needed your dog by your side? If so, you know how frustrating, humiliating, and infuriating this can be. When you have documentation ready to show people who are questioning your right to have your dog with you, it eases tension and creates a more welcoming atmosphere.

Avoid Housing Discrimination

Many landlords aren’t aware that ADA protection for service dogs and their human companions also applies to housing. If you’re interested in a rental property but are being told that pets aren’t allowed, having documentation that your dog is more than a pet helps you argue your case. It’s definitive proof that you need your service dog and if the landlord doesn’t allow the dog then they are in violation of the HUD Fair Housing Act and ADA protection.

Keep Your Pet Focused

When you register a service dog, it makes his or her job noticeable to strangers. Why is this important for your dog? Well, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of animal-loving strangers who want to pet and give your dog a little love. While this is fine, if it’s something you allow, it’s also something that can be very distracting for your service dog. By registering your dog, you’ll get a vest that identifies your dog as a service animal. Most people recognize the meaning behind these vests and know that proper etiquette is to not approach the dog unless given permission. As well trained as service dogs are, they still love attention and having them registered keeps them focused on their responsibility to you.

Keep Your Pet Safe

If you’re ever in an emergency situation that requires evacuation, it’s possible that you and your dog could become separated. Should this happen, it’s important that rescue personnel know who a dog belongs to so you can be reunited quickly. Having your pet registered is one way to make the reuniting process faster.

How to Register Your Dog

Whether you’re flying, staying in a hotel, or wanting to eat at the newest restaurant, these are things you may need to do with your service dog or emotional support animal by your side. To register your animal, it’s recommended you find a good service dog registry. These services have amazing customer service and give you the respect, courtesy, and patience you deserve. The process to register your dog can feel overwhelming to some people. That’s why great customer service is so important. You also want to work with a registry agency that has a long history of doing this work and a reputation for organization and professionalism.

Are you ready to register your ESA or service dog? If so, contact the National Service Animal Registry today!

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How to Make Your Dog an Emotional Support Animal

Animals provide a number of therapeutic benefits for people, from improving their moods to alleviating anxiety. You don’t, however, necessarily need to purchase a specially trained emotional support animal (ESA); you can train your dog to be an ESA and receive all of the same benefits. Making your dog an emotional support animal may actually be easier than most people think it is. Keep reading to learn what you need to do to make your dog an ESA.

Learn What an Emotional Support Animal Is

Emotional support animals are animals that provide comfort and support to people with emotional or mental needs and disabilities. An ESA can be any species of animal, but dogs are among the most common. According to federal law, these animals do not need to have any kind of specialized training. However, they must be well-behaved while in public and around other people. ESAs must be under the handler’s control at all times, too.

Qualify for and Obtain an ESA Letter

Because there is no unique training for emotional support dogs, any pet with the right temperament can qualify as an emotional support animal. To get your current dog recognized as an emotional support animal, you will need to obtain an ESA letter. This is a letter from a mental health professional that states that your dog provides you with the support you need to lead a normal life. ESA letters must also be written on the mental health professional’s letterhead, have their signature, and be dated no later than a year from the ESA approval. National Service Animal Registry is the original and most trusted and referred online provider of ESA prescription letters in the United States, equipped with an extensive network of experienced licensed therapists across the nation who specialize in ESA assessments.Get an ESA Letter

Train Your Dog

Though there is no special training for support dogs, you will need to make sure your dog behaves at all times. Your pups must be friendly and social toward people and other animals anytime you are in public. If your dog does not currently have these skills, it is a good idea to seek help from a professional dog trainer. They can help your dog to stop their inappropriate behavior like excessive barking, jumping on people, and being generally badly behaved. Take some time to find the best dog trainer in your area. Try to find one who has trained emotional support animals in the past and has a proven track record for success. For recommendations, talk to your vet, mental health professional, and other dog owners that you are friendly with.

Register Your Dog

Though it is not a legal requirement, registering your dog as an emotional support animal can provide a few benefits. It adds legitimacy to your ESA, makes them look official, and helps to eliminate any confrontation that you may get when in public with your pet. Register an ESA dog to make life a little bit easier.

To learn more about emotional support animals and to register your dog, contact us at the National Service Animal Registry.

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How to Welcome Your New Dog to the Family

There’s usually much anticipation and excitement when you’re about to introduce a new furry friend home and into the family: Cuddles to look forward to, playful silliness to indulge in, and perhaps, a good excuse to take more walks to the park. Just watching canine behavior, which is so different from our own, yet still so relatable, can provide hours of entertainment. For many, the absolute best part about bringing a service dog (in training) or emotional support dog into the home, however, is the easy companionship they provide. It’s like getting a new friend, or maybe something even more far-reaching: when you welcome a dog into the home, it can be nothing short of welcoming a new family member.

When you consider the significance of such a pivotal moment, it’s also normal to feel a little bit apprehensive about the new addition. How will life change? If it’s a puppy, especially, you may be concerned about the training process, anticipating chewed up shoes and cleaning up urine drenched rugs. Will the pup adjust alright? Will you?

It’s in everyone’s best interest (people and pooches included) to ease the transition with as much care as possible. Dogs are sensitive creatures and feel changes in their environment acutely. You want your new furry family member to move into their new home with as little stress and as much comfort as you can provide.

Preparing the way with smart planning and executing the inauguratory welcome, will not only make your service dog or emotional support dog’s life easier, it will make your life easier, setting the stage for a grand, companionable relationship.

This article will guide you through the process of bringing a new dog into the family with an aim towards minimizing stress for all parties involved, so you can focus on the fun stuff and build a happy, healthful relationship with your new dog.

1. Gather the Tools

First things first: Gather the tools. Naturally, you want to have all the accessories and necessities at the house before your new dog arrives, to prevent hectic scrambling to find a leash when you need to take the dog out to pee, etc. This scenario can create the kind of frenetic energy that is stress-inducing to human and dog alike.

Luckily, it can be fun to shop for your new doggie-friend! You get to pick out colors, styles, and functionality of an amazing array of accessories and toys available online and at the local pet store!

Here’s a short list of the main tools you’ll should have before Woof-Woof gets to town:

A Crate

For many dogs, a crate provides them with a sense of security. Having a place to go to that is both contained and just their own is a great source of comfort to dogs. Additionally, a crate helps with obedience training for the wee-ones.

Dog Bed

Dogs, like people, adore a cozy bed to curl up in. Like the crate, a dog bed can provide them with a comfortable slice of home that is their own alone.

Collar and Tags

Particularly in a new place, you’ll want to safeguard against your dog getting loose, lost, and without tags (heaven forbid)! If yours is a service dog or emotional support dog, collars and ID tags from National Service Animal Registry legitimize the look of your dog, while identifying him/her.

Leash

A leash is sort of self-explanatory, but especially in the beginning, keeping dogs on a leash will make them (and you) feel safe. The first time you introduce them to their new home, you’ll want to bring them in with a leash (more on that below). NSAR offers high quality service dog and emotional support dog leashes at very reasonable prices.

Dog Food!!

Shop around, do some research (maybe ask your vet), or check back on this blog for the best dog food that fits your budget and provides proper nutrition (there are a lot of junk-food dog brands on the market).

Supplements

An important part of your service dog’s health and nutrition, you’ll need to know a little about vitamins and other supplements to help keep your dog in peak physical condition. Do a little research, have a chat with your veterinarian, or check this blog (we’ve done the homework for you) will help you select the most important items. Remember: different ages and different breeds will require different nutrient additions.

Dog Treats and Chew Bones

These can be invaluable for dog training, teeth maintenance, and are an easy way to make your dog feel special!

Food and Water Dishes

It’s important to maintain a water bowl in a designated area of the home which is kept full and fresh, so your dog can monitor his own hydration.

Toys

For puppies, toys will provide hours of play (a helpful adjustment tool since they wont be with their siblings for possibly the first time in their young lives), and additionally gives them something to chew on as they teethe. But even an old dog likes a happy toy or two to chew on 😉

Old Towels and Lots of Rags

You’ll likely need these for mopping up messes, accidents, and cleaning the dog’s feet after a play in a muddy yard, etc.====2. Primp and Preen the Den:====

Now that you have collected the tools and accessories, it’s time to primp and preen the den for maximum comfort for the four-legged. Designate a corner for the crate and/or dog bed. Dogs like having a safe haven, a space just for them.

Decide where the feeding area will be: In the kitchen? Garage? Back Porch? Decide on an indoor and outdoor water station so the dog can be sure to have access to water at all times.

If you have a yard with a fence, maybe you’ll want to install a dog door. Have fun! Arranging a space for a new family member can be a sweet and intentional way to connect before they even arrive.

3. Prepare the Pack

As you collect your handy tools and spruce up the den in preparation for this exciting new adventure with your emotional support dog, you’ll naturally begin to prepare mentally for the family dynamic shift as well. It’s a good idea to gather the pack to establish that everyone is on the same page and has similar expectations.

Discuss with your family or household members how you’d like to incorporate this new wagging member of the pack. What are the rules? Is the dog allowed on the furniture? Are there parts of the house that are off limits? Get the basic law of the land down pat, and you can always adjust, as necessary.

Decide on the commands you will use (do you prefer the command Off or Down for jumping?) so you can maintain consistency among all household members and avoid confusing poor Fido. It’s really a good idea to read up on some basic training techniques to better understand the psychology of your dog and to help enact an effective strategy for training.

Also, divvy up roles, so everybody has a good sense of what is expected of them; who is in charge of feeding? Who is going to get up in the night (if it’s a puppy) so she can relieve that tiny puppy bladder?

Review the appropriate, conservative behavior upon initially bringing your new pooch into the home in order to establish what is expected from the get-go, saving you headaches down the road (more on this below!).

And last, but certainly not least, if you already have a resident dog or cat in your unique pack, you’ll want to consider their comfort as well. Educate yourself on the best way to make an introduction. Animals are territorial, and even if they are a particularly social animal at the park or with the other neighborhood cats, a newcomer to the home-den can be stressful and even frightening. Impervious to any of your new dog’s adorable attributes, they will likely feel as though their safe haven, their very own home, has been invaded by a stranger. And indeed, it has.

Luckily, there are ways to minimize the stress in this situation and hopefully, within a few weeks, if you’re pets aren’t best buddies, at least they’ll accept each other and live in relative harmony. Next week’s blog will focus on introducing your new service dog or emotional support dog to the resident cat. Be sure to check back!

4. Find a Veterinarian

Although we’ll be adding an interesting and informative article on finding the right veterinarian for your service dog or emotional support dog in the next few weeks, in the interim, it’s a good idea to ask friends and family for a good recommendation in your locale. Familiarize yourself with where you’ll be taking your dog for routine health check-ups and shots. It’s best to set up an initial visit sometime in the first couple weeks after bringing your pooch home.

A good vet is an invaluable resource for excellent information on both dog care and dog behavior. They are also an important support system to have in place, should there be an emergency.

5. Introduce Your Dog to the New Territory

The day has finally arrived! You’ve prepared everything so thoughtfully, minding every detail, and now it’s time to bring your furry, slobbering sweetness home! Congratulations you’re about to embark on a wonderful new relationship!

However, as territorial beasts, you’ll want to intro your dog to her new home terrain slowly. In fact, if possible, it’s ideal to familiarize her with the neighborhood a few times before actual move-in day. This way the home-zone is not so foreign.

If it isn’t possible to get a head start on territory-familiarization, (it may be impractical under many circumstances, especially with puppies), that’s okay too. You can facilitate a thorough Project Familiarization on Day-Move-In too.

A good rule of thumb for introducing your new dog to the home-place is to start wide, and circle in. That just means, don’t just jump into the deep end without testing the water (or in this case, the center of activity in the house). Instead, before even going into the home-den, begin with a walk around the neighborhood. Let your hound get a sense of the territory at large: the smells, sights, and sounds.

There are several important benefits of this initial walk:

  • It serves to tire your dog out even just a little. Arriving at a new home can be VERY exciting for your new friend, and it can easily become a wild and crazy affair! As silly and (sometimes) entertaining as this may be, it’s a good idea to minimize this initial craze (I’ll explain why below). Expending a little energy on a walk will help him or her come home for the first time in a slight calmer, more manageable state, better prepared to relax into a new space.
  • The walk enables the dog to relieve him or herself, minimizing the chances that it will happen on your living room carpet.

5. Coming in for a Landing, We Arrive: The Home-Den

As you circle the neighborhood, you finally narrow your focus into the home-den. When you enter the house, do so in a calm and calculated manner to prevent hyper-excitement. The reason is that this very entrance impacts the tone of the relationship and living space, as your dog understands it.

So, if you immediately take the leash off and let the dog run wild through the house, frolicking in frenzied excitement encouraged by nearly, equally excited family members who shriek, coo, and besiege the mutt with hugs and pets, ruffling his fur in passionate adoration for his adorableness – well, the stage will have been set.

It’s natural for us to welcome a new member with a party and celebration, but for a dog, this first intro to the home sets the tone for the rest of your years of cohabitation. It’s crucial to set up boundaries. If you open the door and let the dog run wild through the house, you are effectively signaling that there are no boundaries. Going back and retraining isn’t always the easiest or most pleasant of tasks. Without boundaries, your dog is led to believe that the entire home is theirs to do with as they please, which means they can beg, jump, and chew on everything, should they feel the inclination.

It’s much more difficult to correct these behavioral problems later than it is to just establish the norm immediately. Structure will actually provide stability and comfort to your dog, who has it in their instincts to function within a hierarchical, organized group, and will appreciate having a good sense of their own place within the group. Better to save the party for later and show the dog a tranquil experience that firmly communicates expectations.

You can do this by following these simple suggestions:

  1. Keep your cool. Dogs are pack animals, and together, you are now a pack. It’s important for you and the other resident humans to be the Alphas in this pack. Establish this rule from the beginning. Present your dog with an air of calm authority and assertiveness. Keep the stimulation to a minimum; this means controlled talking to and touching the dog. In addition to establishing your controlled leadership, this is compassionate to his or her sensitive-doggie-nervous system. Your dog may now be in a loving doggie-resort, and is already plenty stimulated by the new environment.
  2. Keep the dog on the leash, at least initially. This has the dual benefit of providing poochy-pooh with security and establishing dominance. It lets them know this is not their space to run a free-for-all in. This is your space. Show them their special space, but first, make it understood where it is not.
  3. Continue the home exploration, by moving from one room to another, pausing only a few moments in each to acquaint the dog with the quarters.
  4. As you navigate through the various rooms and spaces, always enter ahead of the dog. This is important to establish your dominance. Try not to let the dog enter each room until you’ve given permission. Have them wait, even sit until you give the signal (this is obviously easier with an older, trained dog, but there’s no time like now to begin the training process!).
  5. After finishing the home exploration, acquaint your new pet with the feeding area. Offer a doggie-treat and an opportunity to lap up some water.
  6. Present him or her with her own slice of heaven. Take her to her crate or dog mat and let her know it’s all hers. Remove the leash (finally!). Watch and see what she does. Maybe she’ll lay right down to rest and absorb the moment, confident that she’s found her place. Maybe she’ll want to sniff around some more or come spend time with you. Don’t be afraid to use a small treat to facilitate this.

It’s no problem, either way, but let you emotional support dog decide: if it wants to rest, let it. And maintain the same cool calm as you have been. It’s okay to be friendly and affectionate if he/she wants to spend time with you, but try not to build the energy up in an exaggerated way. You are still setting an example of dominance and expectations particularly during the first few hours.

Conclusion

If you follow these steps, welcoming your new, sweet pooch into your home will be close to seamless. Just remember, it always takes a little while to acclimate completely. Be patient and you’ll have years full of belly rubs and love to look forward to from a devoted and loyal friend. Congratulations!