Coping With Questions: Mobility Assistance Dogs In Florida

Can I pet your dog?

One of the most frequently asked questions of people accompanied by their mobility assistance dogs in Florida is “Can I pet your dog?” While the impulse for most handlers is to be polite and generously give permission for the person to approach and pet their mobility dog that is typically not in the best interest of the handler or dog.

A mobility service dog has been specifically trained to provide stability, balance and peace of mind to its human. Distraction from these duties may result in a fall or injury to one or both of you. Most harnesses and vests are clearly marked “Do Not Pet” and people should be respectful of that indicator. Depending on the location and activity of the team folks should not be offended if the you chose to deny their request.

Does your dog ever get to play?

The answer should be – absolutely!  Feel free to share that while mobility assistance dogs are expected to always respond to commands from their human, playtime is an integral part of keeping a dog healthy and happy. Whether it’s a good run around the dog park, a swim at the beach, a game of fetch or a good tug of war service dogs are given regular play and exercise to keep them at the top of their game.

Was your dog expensive?

While this is kind of a bold question to ask a total stranger, the impetus for asking the question is sometimes rooted in the desire to pass information on to someone who might be considering applying for a service dog.  Others ask the question just to be nosy.  Regardless, it’s up to you to decide how to answer this question.  The clients of Genesis Assistance Dogs, Inc. are very happy to explain that they are matched with their assistance dogs at absolutely no charge. It’s important to note that many organizations require potential clients to raise funds or make contributions to receive a service dog.

Why do you need a mobility assistance dog?

While “Can I pet your dog?” is the most frequently asked question of those who have mobility assistance dogs in Florida, the hands-down most annoying question is this one. Mobility issues are not always clearly observable.  They may be the result of intermittent tremors, muscle fatigue, muscle wasting, or diseases such as MS, MD, CMT, Parkinson’s, Meniere’s, traumatic brain injury, stroke – the list is almost endless. Quite frankly, the reason for having the assistance provided by a service dog is nobody’s business.  As a disabled individual you are entitled to the same privacy as the non-disabled and should never be asked why you need a service dog. Unfortunately you will be asked.  People are usually satisfied with the answer “He helps me walk” yet others may push for a more complete answer. Any further response would be up to you as the handler.

If you are contemplating applying for a mobility assistance dog in Florida take a moment to think about how you will respond to these questions.  The answers you choose to give will become a part of your life from the minute you step out with your service dog and last through the duration of your working relationship.

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