Service DogsZoe Wood, Up All Night Dog Training

What is a Service Dog?● Americans with Disabilities Act

● RCW 70.84.021

● In simple terms

● A service dog is not...

What makes a Service Dog● Must be task trained for the handler’s specific disability

● Handler must legally be considered disabled

● Must be with their disabled handler to have access rights

● Can be owner trained or from a program

● High risk of “wash out”

● Certification, vests, IDs, and other forms of identification are not required

The Rights of Disabled Individuals ● State and federal laws prohibit discrimination based upon disability

➢ Must be given access to public spaces

➢ Can not be charged more than other patrons for the same product or service

➢ Can not be segregated from other patrons

i. Allergies

ii. Fear

➢ Must be given the same employment opportunities

➢ Must be given equal opportunity to engage in real estate transactions

Service Dog Etiquette Dos

● Speak to the owner/handler rather than

the dog.

● Keep your own dog a distance away from

a working dog

● Treat the owner/handler with sensitivity

and respect

Don’ts

● Touch the dog without asking permission

first.

● Talk to or make noises at a service dog

● Offer food to a service dog

● Assume a napping service dog is off duty

The Rights of Businesses ● “The right to refuse service to anyone”

● The two legal questions

● Grounds for removal or denial of a potential service dog

➢ Not task trained

➢ Inadequately trained

➢ Poses a threat to the safety or wellbeing of others

● Damages caused by a customers with disabilities

● Health codes and no pets policies

The rise of “fake” service dogs● Service dog registries

➢ Not recognised by the DOJ or state legislation

➢ Require no proof of training or disability

● Emotional support animals

● Liability

● The laws around “fake” service dogs

➢ RCW 70.84.060

➢ RCW 49.60.214

How to Handle Conflict● Avoid issues before they arise

➢ Post clear signage

➢ Keep staff up to date on training

➢ Ask every animal that comes in the legal questions

● Be kind and courteous

● ADA Information Line

➢ (800) 514-0301 (Voice)

➢ (800) 514-0383 (TTY)

Questions?