I don't know about you, but anytime I see a service dog, my reaction is "Ahh, so cute!". Maybe it's seeing an animal outside of where we wouldn't normally see them, maybe it's that they are always so clean and well-behaved, or maybe it's just because dogs are awesome!
Well, those good behaviors and immaculate grooming are a result of laws requiring them to be maintained that way. The specifics vary from state to state, but rigorous and continuous training is needed for any service animal.
For our epilepsy patients, there are two classifications of service dogs. A ‘Seizure Response Dog’ is a type of dog trained to perform specific behaviors during a seizure, such as activating a call system, lying next to the person to comfort or protect them, or alerting another person. A second type of service animal is ‘Seizure Predicting Dogs’ which may demonstrate specific behaviors before a seizure occurs as a warning.
Most service dogs come from specialized facilities that provide training for up to two years, then match the dog with a person. During training, the animal will need to pass the Public Access Test (PAT).
Once matched, the new owners will be checked on routinely, making sure the dog is up to date on all veterinary appointments, checking its weight, vaccines, and temperament. They also make sure the dog has continued training. If the dog is overweight or misbehaving, it can actually be taken back to the facility!
My sister is a veterinarian and has a client who gives their service dog a “vacation” once a year, so he comes and stays with us to be a regular dog for a while. When we take him out, we are his legal handlers, so he will still "work" for us, which helps with his continued training. Service dogs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. There are groups that can help raise money and financially assist those in need of a service dog, but it's still a big financial decision and a huge long-term commitment. When a service animal is ready to retire (typically around 8 years old), the handlers have the option to adopt them first. If they are unable, then the provider will find them a good home! Who wouldn’t want a former service dog as a pet!
In addition to the service they are providing, these dogs help people feel more independent and safe, and can react to auras, low/high heart rates, blood sugar rates, and even provide balance support. Even though you may be tempted to pet them, it's important to remember when we see a service dog working not to distract the animal. They can be life-saving and help with depression and independence. Any type of dog can be a service animal; some states do have regulations on pit bull breeds, but groups are protesting against that stereotype.
So next time you see a cute service dog remember it's doing a job and is a really
important member of that family, so be mindful, respectful and send your friends pictures
(especially me)!
(pictured Langston, 6 year service dog)
Service Dogs in Epilepsy
Betsy Rust, REEGT, CMEG
Source: Dr. Lydia Rust, DVM
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