Is this really a service dog?

[The Mom]

The general population can not be expected to eliminate every allergen. They can restrict and work with the allergic person as best as possible, but no one can reasonably think that they won’t ever encounter a dog at some point.

But up until the last decade or so - whenever people decided that they just couldn't bear to travel without a pet -, most people with dog allergies did NOT, nor expect to, encounter them on airlines. People with allergies are OK with having to take medication because another passenger NEEDS to have a dog with him/her because of a disability or medical condition, and also having to inconvenience themselves and others to find a different seat away from the dog. They do have a problem being forced to take medication and juggle seats because another passenger WANTS to have a pet with him/her. That is what people are talking about - legitimate service animals versus pets that people just want with them.

I don't expect the rest of the world to eliminate allergens, and people with allergies have always avoided places where they know they'll be exposed (Petsmart? Dog Parks, homes of friends who have dogs, etc) and they all know that they may encounter allergens and be forced to take extra medication, but I would also hope that others would have the decency to not expose others to an allergen if they can avoid it. Most of us expect to encounter dogs while walking outside, and in the open air it usually isn't a problem.
The numbers of "service dogs" have mushroomed in the past decade, and people are finding them in more and more places where they never ever encountered them before. Again, if they are true service dogs their owner's needs trump those with allergies. But if they are not , their owners have selfishly decided that the needs and health of others do not matter so long as they can have their pet with them.

Yes, there are constant exposures to allergens - but wouldn't it be nice if people did not make the situation worse and stop doing things that they know might make others physically miserable?

 

[The Mom]

They were on a beach.. not in a crowded place, not walking.. Maybe they do the same at home.

A service dog handler should be able to make their own decisions about what their dog can do. Maybe they have a certain command for when it’s time for play to be over.

Live and let live. No reason to crucify people for their own lives and decisions. Especially when they are playing with their dog in a secluded area.

Someone "filmed" it - so it wasn't secluded. It was a public place, not a dog park.

 

[21stamps]

But up until the last decade or so - whenever people decided that they just couldn't bear to travel without a pet -, most people with dog allergies did NOT, nor expect to, encounter them on airlines. People with allergies are OK with having to take medication because another passenger NEEDS to have a dog with him/her because of a disability or medical condition, and also having to inconvenience themselves and others to find a different seat away from the dog. They do have a problem being forced to take medication and juggle seats because another passenger WANTS to have a pet with him/her. That is what people are talking about - legitimate service animals versus pets that people just want with them.

I don't expect the rest of the world to eliminate allergens, and people with allergies have always avoided places where they know they'll be exposed (Petsmart? Dog Parks, homes of friends who have dogs, etc) and they all know that they may encounter allergens and be forced to take extra medication, but I would also hope that others would have the decency to not expose others to an allergen if they can avoid it. Most of us expect to encounter dogs while walking outside, and in the open air it usually isn't a problem.
The numbers of "service dogs" have mushroomed in the past decade, and people are finding them in more and more places where they never ever encountered them before. Again, if they are true service dogs their owner's needs trump those with allergies. But if they are not , their owners have selfishly decided that the needs and health of others do not matter so long as they can have their pet with them.

Yes, there are constant exposures to allergens - but wouldn't it be nice if people did not make the situation worse and stop doing things that they know might make others physically miserable?

I agree that people should not lie about having a service dog or claim “ESA” just so pet can travel.. but are you talking about all dog owners? I don’t remember a time when this has not been a dog friendly country.
For my entire lifetime there have been hotels that allowed dogs, and I know that small dogs have been allowed in the cabin of an airplane for around 20 years now.. I’m not sure of the time before that, I’d be curious to know.

I’ll add to this that I think the presence of all of these “ fake emotional support animals” and “fake service dogs” are causing a problem that wasn’t there before. Airlines have started taking steps to curb the abuse, as they should.

 

[NelleBelle]

Yes, there are constant exposures to allergens - but wouldn't it be nice if people did not make the situation worse and stop doing things that they know might make others physically miserable?

Would love it if people would not wear perfume/cologne on planes or enclosed spaces! I know I'm not the only one with sever allergies to perfume--I have severe migraines that are olfactory-triggered. Besides my sinuses becoming both stuffed and running at the same time. But unfortunately, those of us with allergies tend to be in the minority.

 

[NelleBelle]

Someone "filmed" it - so it wasn't secluded. It was a public place, not a dog park.

So the dog owner wasn't the one who filmed and posted the video?

 

[joejccva71]

Well the issue wasn't the fact of who filmed what. It was the fact that it was at the Beach Club which does not allow dogs, that's for the Yacht Club. Now if this was a true service dog (which I'm still skeptical about) then that's fine, but I really hope I don't see them peeing or pooping on the beach or anywhere else. True service dogs do not go unless their master/trainer/owner says it.

 

[21stamps]

Would love it if people would not wear perfume/cologne on planes or enclosed spaces! I know I'm not the only one with sever allergies to perfume--I have severe migraines that are olfactory-triggered. Besides my sinuses becoming both stuffed and running at the same time. But unfortunately, those of us with allergies tend to be in the minority.

I do want to say that some people do think about this before purchasing a pet. I had debated on getting a dog for years.. I researched so many breeds, and I did a lot of volunteer activities with the humane society where I lived back then.

My two favorite dogs were Pomeranians and Maltese. I specifically decided that I wanted a Maltese over a Pom for several reasons, most importantly of which was the knowledge that they are known to have less of an impact on people with allergies. I knew that my dog would travel with me often, I also knew that friends and fam would most likely allow that dog in their home, and I knew that he would probably not cause issues for anyone (or at least such a small amount of the population that our chances of it happening were slim)...and that he would fit in any weight/breed requirement of any airline or pet friendly hotel. I talked and talked about getting one..and then finally my husband surprised me with one as a gift. Best gift that I’ve ever received.

I think there are a lot of people who choose those breeds for similar reasons.

 

[NelleBelle]

Well the issue wasn't the fact of who filmed what. It was the fact that it was at the Beach Club which does not allow dogs, that's for the Yacht Club. Now if this was a true service dog (which I'm still skeptical about) then that's fine, but I really hope I don't see them peeing or pooping on the beach or anywhere else. True service dogs do not go unless their master/trainer/owner says it.

I was only curious if it was someone unknown to the dog owner who posted it. I didn't know if there are any privacy laws that prohibit that. Regardless, I'd be ticked if I saw a dog doing it's "business" at the beach!

As devil's advocate for the vest thing--maybe the owner left the vest on their dog so that they wouldn't have to explain that the dog was indeed a service dog, however uncouth that may be? I don't think I'd ever do it, as our dog knows that when we say, "ready to work? Where's your vest?", she goes right to where we keep it. It comes off the instant we're home from an outing so she knows she's done.

 

[FettFan]

It could quite possible be a Emotional Support Service Dog.

"Emotional Support" is not a real service dog. It's a fancy way to say "pet".

 

[21stamps]

I really hope I don't see them peeing or pooping on the beach or anywhere else. True service dogs do not go unless their master/trainer/owner say

Regardless, I'd be ticked if I saw a dog doing it's "business" at the beach!

Agree!! I have an issue with that anywhere I go. Including my home!! There’s one woman in my neighborhood who never carries baggies with her. I have found dog poo in my front yard that was way too big to belong to my dog, who doesn’t even go in the front yard anyway. Drives me nuts. If you walk your dog, or if you’re in a public place without baggie stands available- BRING SOME! And for the pee- pay attention to where your dog is and where you will allow them to relive themselves! Not in an area with foot traffic.

 

[NelleBelle]

I do want to say that some people do think about this before purchasing a pet. I had debated on getting a dog for years.. I researched so many breeds, and I did a lot of volunteer activities with the humane society where I lived back then.

My two favorite dogs were Pomeranians and Maltese. I specifically decided that I wanted a Maltese over a Pom for several reasons, most importantly of which was the knowledge that they are known to have less of an impact on people with allergies. I knew that my dog would travel with me often, I also knew that friends and fam would most likely allow that dog in their home, and I knew that he would probably not cause issues for anyone...and that he would fit in any weight/breed requirement of any airline or pet friendly hotel. I talked and talked about getting one..and then finally my husband surprised me with one as a gift. Best gift that I’ve ever received.

I think there are a lot of people who choose those breeds for similar reasons.

We totally chose our dogs based on poodles being a low-allergen breed. My point is, we can't accommodate everyone's allergies, especially when flying. I do think that the ESA have gotten out of hand and abused. As an occupational therapist, I do see how true service dogs do benefit certain psychiatric disorders, but it's just gotten crazy how individuals abused something that now blurs the lines for people who do truly have mental health needs and use a service dog. I applaud people like you, who don't cheat the system, who want to travel with their pet and just pay the fees!

 

[21stamps]

We totally chose our dogs based on poodles being a low-allergen breed. My point is, we can't accommodate everyone's allergies, especially when flying. I do think that the ESA have gotten out of hand and abused. As an occupational therapist, I do see how true service dogs do benefit certain psychiatric disorders, but it's just gotten crazy how individuals abused something that now blurs the lines for people who do truly have mental health needs and use a service dog. I applaud people like you, who don't cheat the system, who want to travel with their pet and just pay the fees!

I think the whole “ESA” thing, when abused, is giving all dog owners a bad name (especially small dog owners). We don’t like those people either! They’re lying so their pet can travel for free and outside of a carrier.. or to gain entry into somewhere where our pets aren’t allowed.

I definitely believe that the majority of Poodles, maltese, shih tzus, etc etc mostly have owners who chose them with the allergy impact at the top of their decision list. I’ve heard from many people like yourself stating the same.

 

[Gitson Shiggles]

Would love it if people would not wear perfume/cologne on planes or enclosed spaces! I know I'm not the only one with sever allergies to perfume--I have severe migraines that are olfactory-triggered. Besides my sinuses becoming both stuffed and running at the same time. But unfortunately, those of us with allergies tend to be in the minority.

What about odors that don’t trigger any medical issues but are downright offensive and can be avoided? I was once behind a couple on an airplane feeding their child curry.

 

[NiarrNDisney]

As a professional dog trainer (who trains real service K9's), I can tell you there is no such thing as an Emotional Support Service dog. They are two COMPLETELY different type of dogs. ESA (Emotional Support Animal) does not require any training and does not have the same legal access that a true Service K9 is allowed. The ADA governs the guidelines for Service Animals and their website has the explicit rules for both.

"Emotional Support" is not a real service dog. It's a fancy way to say "pet".

Thank you both for your reply! I'm now aware of the differences between a ESA's and SA's especially after 13 pages of disagreements and general discussion. To be completely honest I really don't care however I hope the OP received the answers he was looking for.

 

[JohnD]

This is a recent video of a "service dog". Now it is my understanding that service dogs don't act like this. I have never seen a service dog play 'fetch' as the owner says 'go get it...go get it'. Or chasing some sand kicked by the owner...

Someone enlighten on this. Fake service dog? They're at the Beach Club resort on the beach as well which irritates me as well.

WTH? So the dog has some play time. So what?

 

[wdisney9000]

Thank you both for your reply! I'm now aware of the differences between a ESA's and SA's especially after 13 pages of disagreements and general discussion. To be completely honest I really don't care however I hope the OP received the answers he was looking for.

Apologies if my reply came off as condescending. After re-reading it I can see how it could seem that way, but it was not intentional. This post is an ESP, Emotional Support Post

 

[correcaminos]

They were on a beach.. not in a crowded place, not walking.. Maybe they do the same at home.

A service dog handler should be able to make their own decisions about what their dog can do. Maybe they have a certain command for when it’s time for play to be over.

Live and let live. No reason to crucify people for their own lives and decisions. Especially when they are playing with their dog in a secluded area.

Do you have any real first hand knowledge of service animals. I mean legit service animals that are not pets? Because if you did I highly doubt you'd still be arguing this.

It's service dog 101 - you take the harness/vest off when play time. You *never* play in work wear because it mixes singles. Pretty much end of story. Stop defending poor handling please. You are making it worse for legit service animals out there.

Where they are has zero to do with it. They were egging the dog on to play while in work vest. Poor handling all around.

I was only curious if it was someone unknown to the dog owner who posted it. I didn't know if there are any privacy laws that prohibit that. Regardless, I'd be ticked if I saw a dog doing it's "business" at the beach!

As devil's advocate for the vest thing--maybe the owner left the vest on their dog so that they wouldn't have to explain that the dog was indeed a service dog, however uncouth that may be? I don't think I'd ever do it, as our dog knows that when we say, "ready to work? Where's your vest?", she goes right to where we keep it. It comes off the instant we're home from an outing so she knows she's done.

No they shouldn't even for that reason. Simply because it confuses the dog about work vs. play. Trust me this is something that is hammered home. Vest/harness (whatever) is on and dog is working. Don't play, don't touch, don't distract from work. Harness/vest/whatever is off, not working. Dogs are smart but to blur this line can really truly screw up the training. It's something that is a huge deal really.

 

[21stamps]

Do you have any real first hand knowledge of service animals. I mean legit service animals that are not pets? Because if you did I highly doubt you'd still be arguing this.

It's service dog 101 - you take the harness/vest off when play time. You *never* play in work wear because it mixes singles. Pretty much end of story. Stop defending poor handling please. You are making it worse for legit service animals out there.

Where they are has zero to do with it. They were egging the dog on to play while in work vest. Poor handling all around.



No they shouldn't even for that reason. Simply because it confuses the dog about work vs. play. Trust me this is something that is hammered home. Vest/harness (whatever) is on and dog is working. Don't play, don't touch, don't distract from work. Harness/vest/whatever is off, not working. Dogs are smart but to blur this line can really truly screw up the training. It's something that is a huge deal really.

Well, one of my close friends has had one for around 8 years now. He’s a quadriplegic after a horrible accident, the dog has helped him tremendously.
I also had an uncle who needed a service dog for assistance with a specific medical problem. He lived alone, in a condo, and the dog was a companion and a lifeline.

Neither one of those dogs were ever fully off duty. They had play time, but they could have been needed to perform at any moment.

So, I don’t think it’s fair for people to project their experience as the only way. I’ll say it again- all different people, all different dogs, all different needs.

There is no way that someone can claim the video in the OP as an absolute “Fake Service Dog!”

 

[correcaminos]

Well, one of my close friends has had one for around 8 years now. He’s a quadriplegic after a horrible accident, the dog has helped him tremendously.
I also had an uncle who needed a service dog for assistance with a specific medical problem. He lived alone, in a condo, and the dog was a companion and a lifeline.

Neither one of those dogs were ever fully off duty. They had play time, but they could have been needed to perform at any moment.

So, I don’t think it’s fair for people to project their experience as the only way. I’ll say it again- all different people, all different dogs, all different needs.

There is no way that someone can claim the video in the OP as an absolute “Fake Service Dog!”

No I said poor handling at minimum. I stand by it after working with the dogs. Never said what you are claiming. It irks me to see it happen. Hope I made that abundantly clear. At this point I don't care to repeat that again. Have a nice day.

 

[21stamps]

No I said poor handling at minimum. I stand by it after working with the dogs. Never said what you are claiming. It irks me to see it happen. Hope I made that abundantly clear. At this point I don't care to repeat that again. Have a nice day.

We don’t know any more than the video itself. I just think it would be nice if people didn’t feel the need to be so judgmental of others without even knowing the whole story. I’ll admit that I’ve been guilty of that as well.