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Service Dog Vests: Compulsory or Not?

Most people get excited when they see a service dog wearing their vest. It’s fascinating to watch a service dog at work. Have you ever wondered if the owner put the vest on them because the law requires it? Read on and find out more about service dog vests and whether they’re compulsory.

Service Dog or Emotional Support?

With the increase in people who need dogs for assistance or emotional support, sometimes it’s difficult to identify whether a dog is truly a service animal. Many dog owners feel their dogs do aid, especially in the area of emotional support. That doesn’t necessarily mean they can be classified as a service animal. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as a dog trained to do work for a person with a disability. It’s important to know the difference between a service animal and one that provides emotional support. Both provide comfort and support to their owners. Only a service dog is considered a working animal. Service dogs receive a variety of legal protections. They’re allowed in just about any public place. Emotional support dogs, on the other hand, are not allowed the same protections or access.

Service Dog Attire

You’ve likely seen dogs wearing sweaters, dresses, and even vests. Dog owners love dressing their four-legged friends. There’s a distinct difference between a dog sweater and service dog vest. The vest a service dog wears normally has a patch designating the dog as a service animal. Many vests worn by service dogs have a message embroidered on the vest letting people know not to pet the animal. You can easily tell the difference between a cute sweater and working dog’s attire. The vest of a working dog isn’t usually frilly or cute. They look business like and not like they’re dressed in a costume.

To Wear or Not to Wear a Vest

While they may look official, those dogs you see wearing service vests can get away without wearing anything at all. That’s because the ADA doesn’t require service dogs to wear a vest. They’re also not required to have any identification proving they’re a service animal. Even though currently, wearing a vest isn’t compulsory, there are a few advantages of making sure your service animal does wear a vest in public. First, if you plan on entering a hotel or restaurant with your dog and they aren’t wearing a vest, you’ll likely be asked to leave. You’re less likely to be questioned if the dog has one on when you visit these types of places.

The Benefits of Service Vests for Dogs

If you’ve ever seen a service dog vest for sale, you’ve probably wondered if there are any benefits to your dog wearing one. Even though they’re not compulsory, other than the advantages we discussed above, there are two other benefits. When people see a service vest on a dog, they immediately become aware of the dog’s presence. In turn, they also notice you. When people are alerted to a person with a disability, they often make room on the sidewalk or street. This helps keep you safe. When someone sees a dog and its owner approaching and the dog isn’t on a leash or easily identified as a service animal, they often become worried. The vest acts as accreditation for dog and comforts strangers knowing the dog is trained and won’t be aggressive.

While there are no laws yet that make wearing a service vest compulsory, it’s still an excellent idea to have your dog wear one in public. Whether you have a service dog or emotional support dog, let National Service Animal Registry help you find the best harness or vest.

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Feeding Your Service Dog Less May Lead to a Longer Life

Most people love their pets, but for the disabled, a service dog isn’t just a beloved friend. They are an essential part of their lives, and vital to their independence. Service dogs are employed around the world to help guide the blind, alert deaf to important sounds such as doorbells or phones, and to alert to a wide range of medical conditions.

It can cost between $20,000-$60,000 to properly train a service dog and replacing them when they become too old to work or pass away is both heart wrenching and difficult. Both the handler and the dog must learn to work with a new person, and there’s no guarantee that the match will work.

Between the expense and the level of effort it takes to transfer to a new service dog, it makes sense to keep a beloved friend in service for as long as possible. The good news is, keeping your dog in good weight can not only extend his life, but make those years higher quality as well.

Weight gain is a growing problem for dogs

In the United States alone, 54% of dogs are overweight or obese. A 2014 study conducted by Banfield pet hospitals found that overweight dogs live shorter lives than those who are a healthy weight. The difference in lifespan came to about 2 ? years.

Overweight dogs are also prone to a number of chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, and even ACL tears. These problems may shorten your pets lifespan, but critically for service dogs, could bring an end to their career.

If they ever have to undergo surgery, they are also more at risk because overweight dogs have to work harder to breathe and may take longer to wake up after anesthesia.

Feeding less is the best choice

Weight loss happens when a dog takes in fewer calories than it burns. While you can increase exercise in the hopes of helping your pet burn calories, the reality is your service dog probably already gets plenty of exercise every day as he performs the tasks required of him.

The saying goes, “You can’t outrun a bad diet,” and is meant as advice for runners who hope to lose weight through adopting running as an exercise routine. The same is true for dogs. Although exercise can help burn more calories, your service dog’s diet is where we truly need to look in order to help him lose weight. There are several methods you can use to help him lose weight, including:

Stop free feeding

Some people choose to keep unlimited amounts of food available for their dog. The theory being that a full dog won’t beg, and that they won’t overeat if they know there is always more food available. Dogs are opportunistic feeders however, and tend to eat more than they should, especially if it is readily available to snack on at a moment’s notice.

Instead, carefully read the instructions on your dog’s food, and follow the guidelines. These guidelines are different from brand to brand, and even between lines of the same brand.

Follow package instructions carefully

Different brands of dog food have different calorie amounts. A cup of food for one brand could have a vastly different calorie count than a cup from a different brand, even though it is the same volume. Read the package carefully, and double check that you are following instructions properly. Some people read the daily intake suggestion and think 1 cup per meal for example, and it is actually 1 cup per day.

If you want to feed multiple meals per day, split the daily value total into portions, rather than accidentally doubling or tripling the amount of dog food your pet receives with multiple meals of his daily value.

Get a body scale done on your dog

Most vets are happy to perform a body scale assessment on your dog, so that you know how far you need to go. They will give you a number between 1-5, with 1 being completely emaciated and 5 being morbidly obese. A body scale can let you know your dog’s condition and help guide you towards a healthy weight.

Include treats in overall feed amount

Many people forget that the treats and chews they offer their pet throughout the day also have calories. When feeding your service dogs his main meal, it’s important to subtract the amount of treats you have given from the total amount of kibble for the day.

Treats can add up to a surprising number of calories if you give them frequently, so if you love giving your service dog a few extras when it is off duty, this may be the culprit to his expanding waistline.

Feed less

If you have been carefully measuring your dog’s food, either by weighing it or by following the package instructions and your dog has not lost weight, it’s time to cut the amount of dog food. The measurements on the back of your dog food are simply guidelines, and they don’t always accurately reflect your dog’s needs.

Age, level of activity, and chronic diseases such as thyroid problems can slow down your dogs metabolism and make him need less than the recommended amount. If you see no change in his weight after reducing his food, it’s time to cut how much is getting in his bowl.

How much to cut your dog’s food

If you always measure your dog’s food and follow the guidelines on the back of the bag, you may be wondering where to go from there. Your dog food may suggest different measurements depending on energy requirements, but a good rule of thumb is to reduce the food you are giving your dog by 5% and then wait a few weeks to see how effective that is.

The delay between food reductions gives your service dog a chance to get used to the smaller amount of food, as well as time to lose weight. If he hasn’t lost enough weight after a few weeks, you can reduce the amount again. If you find yourself feeding less than 75% of the daily recommended amount, it may be time to switch to a lower calorie food instead.

Feeding your dog the correct amount of dog food can be tricky. The weight ranges on dog food labels can be huge and make it hard for you to guess what the appropriate amount is. Many labels also fail to meet standard calculations.

Your service dog will probably need to be on a diet for somewhere between 6-8 months in order to achieve a healthy body weight. Even just five pounds could take over a month as your dog gradually loses the weight.

Even if your dog has a lot of weight to lose, it’s important not to rush your dog’s weight loss. Rapid weight loss can have problems of its own, such as nutritional deficiencies, or even behavior problems such as digging through your trash.

It’s healthiest for your pet to lose the weight gradually, so that he has time to adjust to the reduced amount of food before making more adjustments. Your vet can be a very helpful guide here, letting you know if weight loss is too much or not enough.

Even if the weight loss is gradual, you will notice a difference in how your service dog is working as the weight comes off and he enjoys more energy and better health. Weight loss is a long term project, and is the same for people as it is for dogs. The best chance for your pet to not only lose the weight but also keep it off is a slow approach.

Why less food is so important

Most service dogs are larger dogs, such as labs and shepherds. On a medium to large sized dogs, a few extra pounds aren’t as noticeable compared to a couple of extra pounds on a tiny yorkie. Yet even just a few extra pounds on your service dog can not only decrease his lifespan, but also his quality of life. According to VCA dog hospitals, just 5 pounds of extra weight can be enough to put your dog at risk for chronic health conditions. The smaller your dog is, the more those extra pounds can stress the body.

Your service dog is a partner that gives you independence. Making sure he is healthy enough to continue to help you for as long as possible is a sensible step and is as easy as pouring a few less kibble into his bowl. He might not love a diet, but he will love the good health he can enjoy well into his twilight years as your partner in life.

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Top Things a Service Dog Can Help You With

When people think about service dogs, they tend only to imagine seeing eye dogs. This, however, is only one type of service dog. These pets can be trained to perform so many different kinds of tasks to help their owners. Dogs can do a lot to help people with chronic conditions, including identifying dangers and providing emotional support. Read on below to learn more about the different types of services that a service dog can offer.

Mobility Assistance

For those who have limited mobility, service dogs can help them with everyday tasks that would otherwise be challenging or impossible to complete. A service dog can be used to help with retrieving objects, balance support, opening and closing doors, and more. The dogs that aid with balance support may wear a special harness for their owner to hold on to. These pups can help in emergency situations too.

Emotional Support

One of the most common types of support dogs is emotional support dogs. As the name suggests, these service animals help to provide emotional support for those who need it the most, people who are suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias, and more. These pets can help to make you feel more relaxed, safe, and comfortable in situations where you otherwise may not. If you have an emotional support dog, you may want to look into getting a service dog certification.

Medical Assistance

Some service dogs can also be trained to provide specific assistance for a medical need. They can detect a change in blood sugar, hormone levels, or some other measurable symptom that could have a dangerous effect. Some of these dogs are even taught to dial 911 in an emergency.

Wheelchair Assistance

In addition to helping those with limited mobility, there are some dogs whose only role involves helping those in wheelchairs. Your service dog may be able to help you pick up dropped items, open doors, fetch things, and complete any other task that you regularly perform in your daily life.

Seizure Alert

If you have epilepsy, you may benefit from the help of a seizure alert dog. Pups can be trained to respond to seizures in a few different ways. They can alert someone close by that you need help, or they push an alarm device that will call for help. These dogs can also lie on the floor next to their owner to prevent injury or break their fall at the beginning of a seizure. There are even some dogs who can alert their owner to an oncoming seizure even before it begins, though this sort of training is very difficult.

Allergy Alert

For those with severe allergies, a service dog can detect the life-threatening allergen by smell. They can alert you when they discover a food that could trigger your anaphylaxis. Dogs have an incredible sense of smell and can detect even the smallest traces of a substance. Some pups can even detect diseases, such as cancer and diabetes, by smell.

Hearing Support

Service dogs can also provide support to those who are hearing impaired. They can alert their owners to important sounds in their environment, such as alarms, sirens, horns, doorbells, and the sound of their own name. Once they hear the noise, a hearing support dog will make physical contact with their owner and guide them to the source of the sound.

To learn even more about service dogs and how you can register your emotional support animal, contact us at National Service Animal Registry.

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Uber’s Ridesharing Service Dog Policy

Going on a trip with your Service Dog?

There are times when we need to travel with our Service Dog for business or pleasure, or even just a short trip to the vet.

Companies such as Uber have changed the way we think about taxis. Whereas they used to be considered an expensive way to travel, they are now much more affordable, commonplace and easy to arrange.

It’s reassuring to know we have the option of using Uber when we need to be somewhere quickly and safely with our Service animal.

This aim of this article is to give you all the information you need to book a ride with Uber for you and your Service Dog. We’ll cover your rights and responsibilities and what to do if something goes wrong.

Do all Uber cars take Service Dogs?

Yes, the right for anyone with a Service animal to ride in a car booked through the Uber App is protected by both state and federal law. In addition, Uber as a company is very supportive of people with Service Dogs. They consider that the company has a role to play helping people with Service Dogs travel easily, and they take this role very seriously.

Uber drivers are not allowed to refuse to drive you and your Service animal even if they are allergic to animals, or have a religious or cultural objection. They are not allowed to refuse your trip even if they have a phobia about dogs.

All drivers working with Uber have been made aware of the Service Dog policy. In other words, they know they are legally obliged to take customers with a Service Dog and they have agreed to do this.

Uber has established systems in place so all new and existing drivers receive an in-app notification that they have to acknowledge in order to demonstrate that they accept their obligations to transport Service animals and their owners. In addition, all drivers receive a quarterly email reminding them of these legal and contractual obligations and general information about transporting Service Dogs.

If a driver refuses to take anyone because they have a Service Dog with them, they would be breaking their agreement with Uber, it would be considered discrimination and their contract with Uber would be terminated.

Will I be charged a fee for riding with my Service animal?

No. An Uber driver cannot charge you a fee for traveling with your Service Dog.

Furthermore, if your trip is canceled or you incur any other fees from Uber because you had a Service Dog with you, you will be refunded.

You cannot be charged a cleaning fee for your Service animal because of shedding. You may be charged a cleaning fee if the dog urinates, defecates or vomits in an Uber car, but only on the third occasion. If you receive a cleaning fee by email for this reason and don’t agree with it, or it’s only the first or second occasion that it’s happened, you can contest it by responding to the email.

What happens if a driver refuses to take a customer with a Service Dog?

If any driver is suspected of refusing to allow someone with a Service animal to ride in their car, or discriminates against them in another way, they would not be allowed to drive for Uber anymore.

If a complaint is made about a driver concerning discrimination but there isn’t enough evidence against them, the complaint will be kept on record. If repeated complaints are made against a driver, they would be permanently prevented from driving for Uber.

Do I need proof that my dog is a Service Animal?

No, you are not required to carry any written documentation that your dog is a trained service animal. The driver is not allowed to ask for any proof. Uber drivers are only allowed by law to ask you two questions about your dog:

  1. Is the dog required because of a disability?
  2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

In addition, your dog is not required to wear an identification tag or anything else to indicate that he is registered as a Service animal. If you say your dog is a Service Dog, the driver should take your word.

Should I inform the driver in advance that I am bringing my Service Dog?

Although you are not legally obligated to inform the driver in advance that you are bringing your Service dog on a trip, you might feel more comfortable doing so as a courtesy and the driver might appreciate it too so he is better prepared.

Many drivers carry a towel or a blanket for dogs to use, but again you might feel more comfortable bringing one your Service animal is familiar with and you know is clean.

What should I do if I have a complaint about Uber concerning my Service Dog?

If a driver refuses to take you because you have a Service animal with you, cancels your ride for this reason, charges you improper cleaning fees or harasses you in any way, you are invited to submit a complaint against him to Uber.

Uber has a specialist support team who are responsible for investigating, documenting and resolving all complaints made about violations of their Service animal Policy.

Following their investigation, the support team will get back to you within a week to let you know the outcome and the action taken. They would, for example, tell you if the driver’s contract has been terminated as a result of your complaint or if there wasn’t enough evidence on this occasion but a record has been kept and could be used to support any future cases of discrimination.

If the support team find that the driver has violated his Uber Technology Support Agreement or Uber’s Service Dog Policy, his contract with Uber will be terminated. If an Uber driver’s contract is terminated as a result of a complaint made by you, you will be informed and receive a $25 account credit from the company.

You can file a complaint either through the Uber App, or the website.

To file a complaint using the Uber App, use the I Want To Report A Service Animal Issue screen that can be assessed from either the Trip Details screen or the Account Menu button.

To file a complaint using the Uber website, click on I Want To Report A Service Animal Issue or go through the Help link.

Further information about Uber’s Service Dog Policy including full details of how to make a complaint is available from this website.

Can I bring a non-Service Dog in an Uber car?

Whereas Drivers are legally obliged to allow Service Dogs to travel in their cars with their owners, they are allowed to use their discretion about non-Service Dogs.

If you plan to take a non-Service Animal on a trip in an Uber car, the company suggest you message the driver through the Uber App once your ride request has been accepted to let him know.

It is good practice to minimize mess by bringing a blanket or a crate for your pet to sit on during the journey. It helps to for your service dog to wear a service vest. It minimizes problems. Get one here.

3 Top tips for traveling in cars with dogs

Your Service Dog will have had training on traveling by car, but it might have been a while ago and you might feel nervous about taking him in a taxi rather than a car he is familiar with.

Here is some general advice about traveling in a car with your Service Dog.

1. Take him for a walk first

Before you travel make sure your Service Dog is properly exercised as he is likely to be confined for a while which can be uncomfortable for him.

Taking him for a good walk before you get into the car will allow him to use some energy and relieve himself.

2. Don’t feed him just before your trip

Don’t give your Service Dog a big meal before you get in the car as the motion might make him sick. Either give him a small meal, take his food with him or wait until he gets home.

If your dog has a history of getting car sick and you need to take him on a long journey ask your vet for advice. He might give him medication or have other suggestions that could help.

3. Be prepared

All dogs have accidents sometimes, so make sure you’re prepared with wipes and a plastic bag.

The driver will appreciate it if you bring a towel or rug for your dog to sit on to avoid mess from shedding or accidents. It’s always a good idea to bring water and a small bowl so your Service Dog can have a drink.

4. Put your dog in the footwell or use a harness

Your Service Dog has probably been trained to sit in the footwell of the car and this is the safest place for him. If you need him to be in your lap or on the seat make sure the window is closed because he might be tempted to stick his head out in the breeze which is very dangerous. If you frequently take your Service Dog in a car it would be worth investing in a special harness that clips to the seat belt.

5. Take short trips frequently

It’s a good idea to take your Service Dog on short trips frequently so he gets used to the procedure and experience of taking a taxi. It would be reassuring for you to know that in an emergency you can order an Uber and both you and your Service Dog are comfortable and familiar with the process.

If you are planning a long trip with your Service Dog build up to it with a few shorter trips.

6. Never leave your animal in a parked car

If you’re taking your dog out in any car, remember never to leave them inside the car when it is parked. Cars get dangerously hot very quickly and your dog could get severely dehydrated.

7. Make sure your dog wears an identity tag

It is very important that your Service Dog can be identified just in case the worst happens and he loses you. Make sure he has an identification tag and is microchipped. This is especially important if you are taking a trip and he will be in an unfamiliar environment.

Final Words

To summarize, you are allowed by law to take your Service Dog with you in an Uber car, and the driver cannot refuse on any grounds, even if he has an allergy, religious or cultural objections or a phobia of dogs.

You will not be charged an additional fee for traveling with your Service Dog, or even a cleaning fee if he sheds. If he makes a mess that involves bodily fluids, you may be charged only on the third occasion it happens.

If you believe you have been discriminated against because you have a Service Dog, either by being refused a ride, charged improper fees or harassed in any way, you are invited to make a complaint either through the Help section of the Uber App, or by clicking on I Want To Report A Service Animal Issue. If you simply want to contest a charge, you can do so by replying to the email you receive.

There are times when we need to travel with our Service Dogs, for work, pleasure, or even to take them to the vet. It’s reassuring to know that we have the option of using Uber and that this right is not only protected by law but also fully supported by the Uber company.

We hope this article has clarified your rights and responsibilities and given you the confidence to know how to use Uber with your Service Dog.

Happy traveling!

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How Service Dogs Help People with PTSD

According to the American Disabilities Act, or ADA, service animals are those that have been trained to perform certain tasks for a disabled person. These tasks may include physical activity or emotional support. Service dogs are commonly used to help those that are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly referred to as PTSD. These service dogs have been specifically trained to assist someone that has experienced some form of significant trauma.

What PTSD Service Dogs are Trained to Do

It’s important to understand first that service dogs are not pets. For this line of work, most dogs are trained from their early years by specialists to become service dogs. These dogs then receive further training to match their companions’ disabilities. These disabilities can be physical like visual or hearing impairment, loss of a limb, etc., or invisible illnesses like diabetes, anxiety, PTSD, depression, etc. PTSD service dogs receive specialized training to sense the symptoms and assist during times of crisis. The following list of tasks defines the job responsibilities of a PTSD service dog best:

  1. Anticipates an anxiety or panic attack and gets their handler away from the trigger
  2. If the attack sets in, the service dog can disrupt the cycle and bring water and medication 
  3. Recognizes hormone changes through sweat and changes in blood pressure and heart rate and initiates physical touch to calm the handler
  4. Assists in the time of depression
  5. Protects handler from getting overcrowded by creating a barrier
  6. Interrupts nightmares by waking the handler and switching on lights
  7. PTSD service dogs are also trained for positional commands. For example, PTSD service dogs for veterans can stand behind the veteran in public to create a sense of safety.

Not all service dogs receive the same training. The training depends on the companion they need to be matched with. PTSD service dog training is quite extensive and the training fortifies the behaviors enough so that the dog can perform the tasks under the maximum amount of distraction. Apart from its tasks, the non-judgmental companionship and support that service dogs provide have emotional and therapeutic value. This is why service dogs work so well as a complementary intervention to mainstream therapies and medication.

How a Service Dog Helps Alleviate PTSD Symptoms

Provide Security

There are a variety of incidents that could cause someone to suffer from PTSD. If a patient has been a victim of an assault, this could cause them to fear leaving their home. A service dog can serve as both a companion and as security for that person. The existence of a dog may make them feel protected, should they fear that someone might enter their home or approach them. As a victim of assault, they may also fear leaving their home by themselves. A service dog can serve as a companion so that they will never be alone, potentially causing them less stress or fear that something might happen.

Self-Sufficiency

Those suffering from PTSD may find it more difficult to live independently and completing certain tasks, such as taking medication or sleeping through the night. Those that use a service dog tend to take their medication more regularly. Additionally, they sleep better through the night with the assistance of a companion so they function better the next day. The assistance of a service animal with these daily tasks will allow those suffering from PTSD to function better independently.

Greater Coping Skills

The assistance of a service dog can help someone suffering from PTSD cope better with their situation and receive help from others. Dogs that have been trained to help with PTSD have certain behavioral traits that will be observed by the person. The presence of the dog will also force the person suffering from the condition to focus on the animal, as they will be playful and loving. This focus on something other than what has caused their condition will help them become less anxious and more self-sufficient.

Modulate Stress Level and Tone of Voice

PTSD can cause increased stress levels and a change in the tone of voice, potentially making communicating with others a difficult process. When working with a service dog in the comfort of their own home, they will need to reduce stress and use a certain tone of voice in order for the dog to react to their commands. This will allow them to practice adjusting these attributes so that they will know how to control them when associating with other people.

A Loving Companion

A major impact of PTSD is that the person suffering from the condition may be unhappy due to the feeling of isolation, stress, and uneasiness around others. In addition to providing a feeling of security and confidence, a service dog is a loving companion. This will allow the person suffering from PTSD to feel less isolated and happier in their daily life.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can be caused by a variety of factors and be very difficult to overcome. The assistance of a service animal with psychiatric service dog registration will allow that person to be more independent and happier in their daily life. Contact the National Service Animal Registry if you’re looking for a service animal to help with PTSD.

Flashbacks

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is becoming increasingly common among adolescents, adults, war veterans, and even children. Loss of a loved one, living alone, family problems, war, and other traumatic events change people’s lives dramatically. Before you know it, you start getting panic attacks, mood swings, flashbacks to the distressing event, and find yourself unable to adjust to social settings. And then it all becomes so overwhelming that it is no longer possible for you to return to life as you knew it.

Sometimes the flashbacks get so intense that you find yourself spiraling down deeper into it with no way of getting out. This is where PTSD service dogs can help. A psychiatric service dog is adept at understanding that you are having a flashback episode through your bodily changes like increased heart rate and blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, changes in your facial expression, etc. They can immediately jump in to break the cycle. If the flashback happens during sleep, your PTSD service dog will wake you up, switch on the lights, open doors, and bring help in extreme situations. This support helps the sufferer to regain control and manage emotions to get out of the episode. 

Flashbacks are common among war veterans and usually involve visual and auditory memories of combat. This is also known as “Dual awareness” where the sufferer is unable to distinguish between the hallucination and reality. PTSD service dogs for veterans can recognize the symptoms and help bring the sufferer back to reality. These dogs act as a comforting presence for war veterans and also as a sleeping aid.

Connecting With Your Friends and Family

PTSD is isolating. You feel uncomfortable in a social setting. You no longer want to participate in family gatherings, go out with your friends, take your spouse out to dinner, make new friends, and so on. As you begin to overcome the problems of PTSD with the help of a service dog, you will feel safe to do all of these activities and reconnect with your friends and family. 
A study has found that pet owners are highly likely to meet new people. A quarter of the participants in the study mentioned that they made at least one new friend rather than acquaintances. In fact, dog owners are five times more likely to meet new people than other pet owners. Dog walking is one of the best ways to make these new acquaintances. So when you have a PTSD service dog with you, you will feel more confident outdoors and build new networks.

Preventing Overcrowding

Sometimes a panic attack can be triggered when people encroach upon your personal space in public. Not everybody understands the concept of personal space. Sometimes you may not even see the person coming up behind you and into your comfort bubble. A PTSD dog will alert you of any such triggers so that you can take the necessary precautions.

At the time of panic attacks, your service dog can create a barrier around you and protect you from getting overcrowded. If someone is coming up close behind you, your service dog can reposition itself and nose your hand to let you know that someone is behind you. This will alert you to potential threats.

Register Your PTSD Service Dog

National Service Animal Registry provides psychiatric service dog registration services. With our services, certifying your PTSD service dog is easy. Our legitimate service dog registration services have been used over 215K times since 1995. Registering your PTSD service dog with us provides benefits like inclusion in the online service dog database, lifetime registration, frameable embossed certificate, ID card, leash clip, service dog vest, leash, collar, etc. 

While it is not necessary for your dog to wear a service vest, it is still helpful since many dogs associate the vest with being on duty. Apart from these, you can also apply for a PTSD letter from a licensed medical health practitioner. This will be the documentation you need when anyone questions you about your accompanying PTSD service dog.
Get your PTSD Service Dog Letter today!

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Service Collars for Your Service Dog

Service dogs play an important role in the lives of their owners. Intended to help individuals who are suffering from a disability, service animals can help their owners perform tasks and make their lives easier on a day-to-day basis. There’s a wide range of people who suffer from varying disabilities that can benefit from having a service dog. Whether it’s a physical, sensory, intellectual, or psychiatric disability, the range of tasks service dogs can perform can provide relief to a wide variety of people with disabilities.

Your service dog is working when it’s with you and needs to be focused in order to do its job well. When strangers come up to pet your dog, it distracts them from their main purpose, which is serving you. This makes it all the more important to equip your furry friend with accessories that establish their service animal status. Your service dog collar should not only let others know that your dog is a service animal, but it also should be comfortable for your dog to wear. You’ll also want to purchase a collar that is easy to put on and take off. If you’re eager to find the best service dog collar for your helpful companion, read on to learn what factors you should be considering.

Identification

This is perhaps the most important element of your service dog collar. People need to know that your service dog isn’t just any pet; it’s actively working. Buy a collar that is brightly colored and features emblems or text that indicate its service animal status. This will ensure that strangers aren’t stopping to pet your service dog and will respect the fact that your dog is on the job.

Type

Whether you prefer a standard flat collar or a head collar, be sure that the type of collar you choose works well for both you and your dog. A head collar is ideal for dogs that always want to be moving, as they give you the ability to leverage their pulling power. If your service dog has a slender neck, you should consider a martingale collar. Perfect for greyhounds and Irish setters, martingale collars will ensure your pup isn’t able to slip out of their harness and scamper off. Just be sure that the type of dog collar you purchase will work well for you and your service animal.

Comfort

If your service dog isn’t comfortable, they’ll have a harder time focusing on your needs as opposed to their own. You also likely care about the well-being of your animal, so buying them a collar that doesn’t cause them discomfort is important. If you notice your service animal is constantly scratching their neck or see that the collar is hugging them too tightly, it may be time to consider a new collar. In order for your dog to adequately handle its responsibilities, you need to outfit them with a comfortable collar.

If you’re ready to purchase an official service dog collar, contact National Service Animal Registry! We sell a wide variety of products for service animals and emotional support animals. Shop our inventory at www.nsarco.com/products/.

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New York, NY: A Great Place to Visit with Your Service Do

If there is any city in the world that people dream of visiting, it’s New York. This iconic city is filled with amazing things to see, from the Statue of Liberty to the Empire State building, as well as the home of dozens of TV shows, and the inspiration of novels.

If you’ve always wanted to see New York, or are planning to move there, you may be wondering if it’s a safe place to bring a dog. New York has many places that are dog friendly, whether you want to get a bite with your emotional support animal, or see the sights with the help of your service dog. Here are a few great places you can bring your dog, whether he is a working one or not.

Great places to eat with your dog

Taking your emotional support animal or pet to a restaurant isn’t always easy. Most restaurants frown on anything but a service dog entering their premises, making it difficult to take your pet with you when you go out to eat. Fortunately, NYC has an abundance of dog friendly locations to eat out at, and here are two of them.

The Wilson

If your service dog has been a very good boy, taking him along to Chelsea restaurant The Wilson will get his tail wagging for sure. Not only is this high end restaurant dog friendly, it also has a fancy menu especially for dogs.

Unlike many restaurants that offer a burger patty or other simple fair, your dog can dine on salmon or even a choice steak at this restaurant. All dogs are welcome, so if you want your emotional support animal to try a little grilled chicken breast or other treat, your dog is welcome. Join them at 132 W 27th St New York, NY 10001

Cookshop

The Cookshop not only features an amazing breakfast menu, it also has a huge patio with plenty of room for you and your service dog to enjoy. Shade is available when its hot, and there’s also a lot of greenery on 10th ave, making it even more appealing for dog owners. You can try out their American style menu at 156 10th Ave New York, NY 10011

Stay at the Park Lane Hotel

This beautiful hotel has an incredible view of New York City’s famous Central Park. They are ADA compliant, and even have their own pet package, including a bed, poop bags, bowls, treats and a list of pet friendly events you can take your pet to.

Your service dog will appreciate the ease of access to potty spots, and you’ll love the accessible nature of the hotel. It’s perfect for everyone. Stop by at 36 Central Park S , New York, New York 10019.

Visit Central Park

Central Park is an enormous green space both you and your dog will love. The park is, of course, open to all animals, from your emotional support animal to your service dog. Dogs are allowed off leash in the early morning and late evening, and must be on-leash the rest of the time. Basic responsible dog ownership rules apply, such as picking up after your dog and maintaining voice control over your pet when he is not on leash.

There are a few areas where dogs are not permitted at any time except for service dogs, such as the sheep meadow and the playgrounds, for safety reasons, and also certain areas where your dog must be leashed even during off leash time. This includes the bridle path and the Conservatory, again for the safety of the grounds, animals, and other people.

Central Park is huge with multiple entrances. You can access the park from 59th to 110th Street Manhattan Borough, and from Central Park West to 5th Avenue, New York City, NY 10022

Give your Service Dog some off duty fun at Sirius Dog run

The Sirius Dog Run is an off-leash area that pays tribute to the service dogs who helped during the devastating 9/11 attacks. If you have a working animal such as a service dog or an emotional support animal, it’s particularly appropriate that you make this off-leash dog park a stop for your furry friend.

The dog park offers a wading area for the dogs, and while it is small it is one of the most popular dog parks in New York City. Check this park out at 385 S End Ave, New York City, NY, US, 72758.

Go Hiking on NYC’s only natural hiking trail

Inwood Hill Park Trail is the only natural hiking trail on Manhattan Island. The 2 mile hike has a few slopes that will provide you and your service dog with exercise, while at the same time being a beautiful trail that provides epic views of the city. Check it out yourself at 22-90 Payson Ave, New York City, NY, US, 10034

Your dog must be on a 6 foot or shorter leash for this trail, but is welcome to go with you for this hour long walk in nature. It’s a great place to bond with your emotional support animal, or to spend time with your dog in general.

Need a vet?

You depend on your service dog to help you in your daily life. If he gets ill, that means you will suffer too. That is why knowing where a quality vet is no matter what city you travel to is vitally important. One of the best vets in NYC is Hudson Animal Hospital at 238 W 61st Street New York, NY 10023. They can provide emergency care for your service dog, as well as a wide range of other procedures, and of course normal preventative care.

If your service dog needs medical attention while you are visiting NYC, this is a great choice for care.

Take your dog to coffee in the bark

On the first Saturday of every month, you can gather at Prospect Park with other dog owners for coffee and treats for both you and your dog. This is a great opportunity to socialize your emotional support animal, and to meet other people who share your love for dogs. The 9th street entrance is the closest address to this event, located at Prospect Park West (at 9th St.) Brooklyn, NY 11215.

New York City has many wonderful places you can take your dog, whether you own a service dog, an emotional support animal, or just a pet. Enjoy NYC and its many wonders, and take your dog with you. They’ll love it as much as you.

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Service Dog and ESA Breed Restrictions Take Lift Off by Airlines

It’s always important to understand your rights when it comes to your service or emotional support animal (ESA). Understanding the rules and guidelines of living or traveling with your animal can make life a lot easier. However, sometimes these rules and guidelines can become confusing when one entity has its own set of rules, and the federal government has another. This gray area has become apparent when it comes to flying with an ESA or service animal. You may have heard recent news headlines referencing emotional support dogs, and how certain airlines are hoping to put restrictions on specific breeds. If you were confused by these announcements, you’re not alone. Here’s a quick summary to help you understand everything you need to know about the new guidelines for flying with a service or emotional support animal.

Airlines Are Prohibited from Banning Certain Breeds

When Delta Airlines attempted to put a ban on “pit bull-like breeds,” it received pushback from the US Transportation Department. The department puts out guidelines that clearly state that airlines are not allowed to place breed restrictions on service dogs or emotional support dogs. This news comes after an airline crew member was bitten by an emotional support animal and required five stitches. However, the airline did not disclose the breed of the dog that was involved in the incident.

Airlines Are Allowed an Individualized Assessment

Even though airlines cannot simply ban certain animal breeds, they are allowed to review emotional support dogs on a case-by-case basis. For instance, if you’re attempting to buy a ticket to fly with your emotional support animal, any airline can require you to purchase the ticket in person and bring your emotional support dog in for a review. They want to make sure that the animal does not pose a risk to other passengers or airline crew members.

Concerns About Fraudulent ESA’s

Much of this debate stems from concerns that some passengers are abusing the emotional support animal system that the US Transportation Department has in place. They’ve stated that many online ESA companies aren’t following proper protocols when it comes to registering an animal. This has led to many people who are not in need of an ESA to register animals that aren’t fit to fly. Over a million passengers have flown with service animals or emotional support animals over the last year. Unfortunately, there’s been a spike in incidents with untrained animals biting or misbehaving on flights. Because of this, most airlines will require animals to be reviewed individually before entering a flight.

How to Properly Register Your Animal

If you’d like to register your dog or animal to be an ESA, it’s important to go with legitimate registry systems, such as the National Service Animal Registry. We can help you understand how to properly register your animal, how to receive a certified ESA vest for your animal, and what your rights are.

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Training Your Service Dog for Anxiety: Steps to Follow

Anxiety disorders are some of the most common mental health disorders in the United States. Millions of people suffer from severe anxiety every year. Thankfully, we’ve recently discovered that trained service dogs can provide a lot of comfort and relief for those who experience regular anxiety or panic attacks. If you believe that you can benefit from having an emotional support dog to help ease your anxiety, you’ve come to the right place! Below is a brief step-by-step guide to help you choose and train your emotional support dog and receive a registered emotional support dog letter.

#1 Choosing the Right Dog for You

You may be a lover of all dog breeds, but there are particular breeds out there that are better fit for comfort and support. It’ll all come down to a dog’s temperament, which is basically a combination of his personality, instinctual behavior, and natural ability to follow instructions. This means that you may want to avoid breeds that are more aggressive or hyper. Experts recommend looking for dogs that are social, alert, focused, and don’t become easily startled. When you meet a new puppy, you’ll most likely know right away if it’s the right service dog for you!

#2 Begin the Bonding Process

It’s important for you and your dog to get to know each other while he’s still a youthful pup! He needs to understand your behavior and personality just as much as you need to understand his. When you start to bond, you can begin to lay the groundwork for his job, which is to detect your rising anxiety levels. The more time you spend together, the more he’ll start to understand this and be able to detect the difference between your relaxed state and your anxious state.

#3 Begin Basic Training

Remember that your service dog will be able to accompany you in public places, so it’s incredibly important for him to be properly trained. He should be able to follow basic commands such as sit, stay, lay down, heel, and come. It’s common for this to be a bit difficult for dog owners, especially if they’ve never trained a dog before. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional dog trainer to help guide you through the basic training process.

#4 Begin Anxiety Response Training

Once you and your dog have had time to bond and perfect basic commands, you can start to target his response to your anxiety. You can do this in a number of different ways, such as cuddling him when anxiety hits or giving him a treat when you feel anxious. He’ll naturally start to pick up on the change in your energy and begin to understand that he should remain close when you’re experiencing anxiety.

#5 Register Your Service Dog

Once you feel your dog is prepared to be an official emotional support dog or service dog, then it’s time to get him registered! Our website has all the information you need to properly register your dog and receive your emotional support dog letter. We also provide therapist referrals, information on housing rights, and even emotional support products for your pup!

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What Dogs Make the Best Service Dogs: An In-Depth Analysis

Service dogs are becoming more common and accepted nowadays. It’s clear that a service dog can offer physical, mental, and emotional support throughout your day. If you’ve been thinking about getting a service dog, it’s important to find the right breed to give you the support that you need. But with all of the different breeds out there, how do you decide what kind of dog would be the right service dog for you? It’s essential to take your time and do your research when it comes to choosing the right service dog. Choosing the wrong kind of dog can be a waste of time and money. It can also be emotionally taxing to attempt to train a dog that’s not the right fit. Here’s an in-depth analysis explaining how to find the right furry pal for you.

Reflect on Your Own Needs

When attempting to find the right service dog for you, it’s important to reflect on what it is that you want out of a service dog. For instance, if you’re facing physical challenges and you don’t feel comfortable leaving the house without some sort of assistance, a bigger breed could be right for you. Larger breeds, like Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds, can offer strength and balance when navigating your neighborhood. If you’re looking for an emotional support dog that can sense anxiety and offer you a sense of calm, be sure to look for breeds that have a gentle temperament. What’s most important at this stage is to know how a service dog can help you personally.

Consider Your Environment and Lifestyle

Once you’re aware of the goals you have with a service dog, then you can start to narrow down your search. Next, it’s important to take your environment and lifestyle into consideration. This can help you to choose the right size dog and one that fits well in your climate. For instance, if you live in a warm climate that’s hot most of the year, it’s important to find a breed that can handle the heat. If your dog is consistently uncomfortable, he or she may not make the best support companion. Also, take your lifestyle into consideration. If you travel often, dogs under 25 pounds are the most convenient to keep by your side when you’re on the go.

Match Your Energy Levels

Remember that different breeds have different energy levels. This is one common mistake that many people make when choosing a support dog. It takes time and energy to train a dog. If a dog is hyper, training stages require more time and energy than you may think. If you want an intelligent dog to help with daily tasks, Border Collies could be an excellent choice. However, it’s important to know that Border Collies also require a lot of attention and exercise. If you suffer from fatigue or other disabilities that keep you stationary, a high-energy dog could end up causing more stress in your life. Before you complete service dog registration, speak to the experts at places like the National Service Animal Registry to explore your options and assure yourself you’ve made the right choice. Contact a representative today!