Service Dog Facts

Labrador retrievers are often used as service animals.

Service dogs are animals that have been rigorously trained to serve as companions and helpers for individuals with disabilities. These canine companions can accompany their owners anywhere and the dogs' training can be customized for their owners' specific needs.

Benefits

These well-trained canine companions can improve the quality of life for their owners. Service dogs can be trained to be their owners' "eyes" or "ears;" they can perform manual tasks such as opening a door or cabinet or retrieving pill bottles or a telephone.

Training

Dogs generally begin their service animal training at a young age to ensure they can be placed with a human companion as soon as possible. According to Pawsitive Teams, a service dog training organization, the training of a service dog can take up to two years because the team works one-on-one to teach the animal skills that are specifically customized to the disabled person it is matched with.

Considerations

Service dogs are not average "pets;" when you see them out and about with their human companions, they are working. Refrain from petting or distracting the service dog so it can better serve its companion.

References

• Pawsitive Teams: Training of Dogs