Category: Service Dogs

Posted on by

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!

Posted on by

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/.

Posted on by

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.

Posted on by

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.

Posted on by

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!

Posted on by

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!

Posted on by

Service Dog Training: Everything You Need to Know

For those who benefit from physical, emotional, or medical assistance throughout daily life, a properly trained service dog can be an incredible asset. Not every animal is qualified to become a service dog, as service dogs must offer a combination of the proper temperament to serve, the acute skills to perform tasks for their owners, and the ability to complete the rigors of service dog training. Service dog training is intense, but it’s critical for dogs to confidently perform the desired tasks and aid their owners with potentially life-saving skills.

But what is involved in the proper training of a service dog? Service dog registration doesn’t necessarily qualify a dog to perform the role of a service animal, as both dog and owner must be confident in the animal’s ability to perform. There are many questions that the average person may have regarding service animal training, such as how much it costs and what role the owner must play in the training regimen. Keep reading to learn more about the training of service dogs.

How Long Does It Take?

While the average dog obedience class may be completed in a matter of weeks, service dog training requires a greater depth of knowledge and a far more rigorous training schedule. After all, for many who depend on service animals, a dog’s ability to consistently perform can mean the difference between life and death. While there’s no set time for service dog training, the training window can typically last between one and two years, depending on the aptitude of the animal and the types of tasks it’s being trained to perform.

What’s Involved in Service Dog Training?

There are two primary components within the service dog training regimen. Those two components are public access behaviors and work and tasks. Public access behaviors are important because they allow your dog to be steady and perform its designated tasks, no matter the situation or environment. For example, your dog must be able to perform in a quiet library or a noisy crowd with equal aplomb. Also, your dog must be able to behave itself well in public to avoid being removed from venues. The second half of the training equation is work and tasks. Those terms refer to the specific tasks your service dog will be trained to perform on your behalf. In other words, work and tasks are the disability-mitigating functions that the dog performs for you. Work and tasks also are important because they distinguish service dogs from emotional support animals and non-service animals. That is the component that qualifies a service dog owner for protections against discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

How Much Does Service Dog Training Cost?

Because of the depth of training that a service dog must undergo, the costs of acquiring a service dog can be quite high, whether you purchase an appropriate dog, and have it trained or buy a pre-trained dog from a service dog program. When comparing the two options, it’s important to note the cost of preliminary veterinary care, the cost of the dog, and the cost to feed and outfit your animal. However, the training costs themselves can range from $1000 to $2000 depending on the length of training and the range of tasks the dog is being trained to perform.

What Is the Owner’s Role in Training?

While a service dog is usually trained by a professional or service dog program, there is a role that must be played by the service dog owner. For many tasks, it’s important that the service dog is in tune with your medical and mental state, which means it must spend time with you to learn your baseline emotional or physiological state. During training, your dog will be attentive and more likely to absorb those cues, which is why it’s important that the owner is accessible to the dog during the training process.

Whether you plan to train or buy a service dog, it’s important that you understand the role played by the owner in training, the associated costs, the length of training, and what is involved with the program. To learn more about service dog training, contact the National Service Animal Registry at (866) 737-3930.

Posted on by

Summer is Coming! Protect your Service Dog & ESA

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

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

People with Service Dogs and ESA’s need to take extra special care as our canine partners often work long hours, are constantly alert, and do complex activities all day long. We know how cranky we can get when it’s hot – and we’re not wearing a fur coat!

While summer is a great opportunity to get outside, exercise and enjoy the world, we also need to be aware of the risks. How can we take care of our Service Dogs when the temperatures soar?

How Dogs Keep Cool Naturally

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

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

What are the dangers of too much sun for our Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals?

Skin Problems

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

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

Dehydration and Breathing

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

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

Paw Care

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

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

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

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

Tiredness

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

Heat Stroke

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

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

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

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

What to do if you think your Service Dog or Emotional Support Animal has heat stroke:

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

How to Help your Service Dog or ESA Keep Cool

So when the temperatures really ramp up, what can we do to keep our Service Dogs and ESA’s cool and prevent heat stroke?

Provide Shade

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

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

Air Conditioning

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

Cool Gadgets

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

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

Water

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

Protect Against Parasites

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

What to Do in Severe Heat with Your Service Dog or ESA

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

Posted on by

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

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

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

Great places to eat

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

Waterboy

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

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

Capitol Garage

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

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

Stay at a dog friendly hotel

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

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

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

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

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

Take your dog to the Midtown Farmer’s Market

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

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

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

Need supplies? Take your dog to Wagger’s

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

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

Check out dog friendly Old Sacramento

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

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

Go hiking with your service dog

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

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

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

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

Posted on by

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.