A Service Dog Is
More Than A Vest™
Canine Companions Grassroots Advocacy Initiative
In Canine Companions’ grassroots advocacy initiative, our community comes together to advocate for broader rights for people who rely on task-trained service dogs for independence, including our clients. You can help amplify the voice of Canine Companions in a variety of ways as a volunteer grassroots advocate. Sign up to become an advocate today.
- Sign our petitions
- Support federal, state and local legislation
- Meet with legislators and local governance
- Educate your community
Stand Against Service Dog Fraud
When untrained pets posing as service dogs behave badly, people who truly need task-trained service dogs can face added discrimination and lose access to public places–both violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
What is a service dog?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service dog as a working animal trained in specific tasks that directly mitigate the effects of a handler’s disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide comfort do not qualify as service animals and are not permitted in public.
Service dog teams are permitted in any location the public is allowed if they meet the definition above and are in control and behaving in a safe manner.
What businesses can expect from a service dog team.
Service dogs must be clean, in control and behave in a safe manner. Aggression or continued misconduct, including barking, interfering with customers or toileting accidents can legally result in the dog’s removal from a business under the ADA.
Get Involved
Learn More
Find tips and best practices for grassroots advocacy.
Materials
Looking for materials? You can find Canine Companions’ service dog infographic, perfect for quick reference here.
