What is a Service Animal?

“Service animal means any guide dog, signal dog or other animal individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability including, but not limited to guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals with impaired hearing to intruders or sounds, minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair or fetching dropped items.

Reference:  28 CFR 36.104;  (CFR = Code of Federal Regulations);

Website:  http://www.gpoaccess.gov/cfr/index.html

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What is the difference between a service-dog-in-training (SDIT) versus a full-fledged service dog (SD)?

All service dogs start out as a service-dog-in-training (SDIT).   It is up to the handler (and in some cases the trainer), as to when a dog graduates from the in-training designation to full-fledged SD.  Most service dog training organizations evaluate the success of each dog’s training relative to a pre-established training standard.  Similarly, you need to identify clear training goals, so that you will know when your dog has met them and can in good conscience, graduate your dog from SDIT to SD. 

Try to resist the temptation of prematurely labeling your SDIT a real service dog, when he/she is not yet fully trained.  All SDIT make mistakes at one time or another.  Full-fledged Service Dogs rarely do.  Thus, if you are in a public setting and your dog does something wrong, such as bark inappropriately, it is better to have your dog labeled as a SDIT rather than an SD.  Most people will understand and be tolerant of a young dog in-training, so long as you correct the offending behavior immediately.  There is less tolerance by the public when such a dog is identified as a fully-trained service dog.  What may at first seem to be an officious restriction, can in fact be a saving grace when your SDIT makes his/her first mistake in public.

Note that many federal laws grant access to a disabled person with their service dog but these laws do not apply to SDIT.  Some states have implemented laws to bridge this gap in coverage, so that trainers working a SDIT can enjoy full access to places of public accommodation for the purposes of training.  Unfortunately, few of these laws are consistent with the language of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.  This means that the law in your state may be written in such a way that it pertains only to certain types of service dogs and not others (i.e., guide dogs but not seizure alert dogs, for example).  Or, the state law may specify that coverage only extends to service dogs from state sanctioned service dog training facilities or trainers who are credentialized by a state sanctioned training authority.  This collection of poorly written and exclusionary laws needs to be changed, so that all people with disabilities may lawfully train their SDIT in public.  This is a meritorious state-level advocacy project for those who wish to take it on. 

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 Who is disabled?

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) an individual with a disability is a person who:

Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities;
Has a record of such an impairment; or
Is regarded as having such an impairment.

Reference: http://www.eeoc.gov/policy/adaaa.html

Additional Information: http://www.bazelon.org/newsroom/2008/9-18-08ADAA.htm

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 Am I disabled?

Only a judge has the authority to decide whether or not you are disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). A judge generally makes such a determination when a civil, criminal or administrative legal case is filed with the court and it has been determined that the ADA is the appropriate law for the case. What this means for you in practical terms, is that in the absence of credible disability documentation, your planned use of a service dog rests entirely upon your own assumption of disability. If this makes you feel vulnerable, then your instincts are right on. Short of a judge’s ruling, there is something you can do to protect yourself. Read the question after next titled, "Why do I need a doctor’s letter in order to begin training my PSD?"

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What if I have a psychiatric disability, but am not sure that I need, or want, a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)?

You may want to consider keeping an ‘Emotional Support Animal (ESA)’. This is a pet that is owned by a disabled person. ESA are not "individually trained to do work or perform tasks" that assist you with your disability. They are pets, not Service Animals. This subject matter is addressed in the article "Right to Emotional Support Animals in 'No Pets' Housing" on the web site for the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law at:
http://www.bazelon.org/issues/housing/infosheets/fhinfosheet6.html. Additionally, you may want to read a useful publication created by the Doris Day Animal League titled, "Friends for Life." You can download a free copy in .pdf format at this URL:
http://www.ddal.org/pubs/bestfriends/. In it, you will find instructions for how to keep a pet in ‘no pets’ or ‘restricted pets’ housing.

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 Why do I need a doctor’s letter in order to begin training my PSD?

Using a PSD without appropriate supportive documentation is legally risky. A safer way to proceed is to discuss your interest in PSD with your psychiatrist or therapist. S/he may ask you to provide educational materials on PSD to better understand what you are trying to do. Psychiatric Service Dog Society (PSDS) created its provider brochure specifically for this purpose. Print the brochure out and take it to your doctor, so that s/he will understand what PSD are all about.

Ask your doctor to support your decision to begin using a PSD, by writing you a generic letter of disability and support for using a PSD. This generic letter should be kept on file, in case you have legal problems in the future. Understand that a generic letter is not necessarily the appropriate letter for every situation.

Note: One should not use this letter, in order to gain access to places of public accommodation. To do so, is to teach gatekeepers that all Service Dog teams must show such a letter in order to access public spaces, and that simply is not the case. A doctor’s letter of disability and support for your use of a PSD is critical legal protection and should be retained in your personal files. Do not skip this step!

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What should my doctor’s generic letter of support say?

On physician’s letterhead:

"[Name] is my patient. I am treating him/her for a chronic medical disability. [Name] uses a Service Dog to assist him/her in managing this disability, and I support him/her in doing so. It is my professional opinion that [Name]'s Service Dog is medically necessary. Please accommodate him/her and his/her Service Dog, as requested.

Sincerely, [doctor's name]"

Note: Due to HIPAA regulations, your doctor’s letter should not say that the reader of the letter is "welcome to contact me if you have questions." The law does not allow your doctor to speak with lay persons about your medical condition or treatment, unless you sign a specific waiver for ‘consent for release of patient information’.

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What kind of doctor’s letter do I need to keep a Service Dog in my housing situation?

If you are requesting reasonable accommodation from a housing provider, in order to keep a Service Dog in ‘no pets’ or ‘pet restricted’ housing then, you are invoking your legal rights as a disabled person under the Fair Housing Act. This Act has specific documentation requirements that your doctor’s letter must address. In order to learn what a doctor’s housing letter must contain, please read this excellent free (.pdf) booklet, "Friends for Life: Humane Housing for Animals and People" http://www.ddal.org/pubs/bestfriends/ from the Doris Day Animal League (www.ddal.org). This is one of the best disability housing resources we are aware of. Be sure to read the entire booklet so that you understand the legal terrain you are venturing into. Ask your doctor to structure his letter as recommended in the booklet. Your doctor will likely appreciate if you draft such a letter for him/her, so that s/he has something to respond to quickly, rather than having to draft the entire letter by himself. Most doctors are not familiar with disability housing law as it pertains to Service Dogs in ‘no pets’ or ‘restricted pets’ housing. Bring the Doris Day booklet to your doctor’s appointment with you, so that he may view the template you are basing your draft letter upon.

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What kind of doctor’s letter do I need to bring my Service Dog to my job?

If you are trying to obtain Service Dog access in an employment setting, and the business has more than fifteen employees, then, you are invoking your rights as ‘a person with a disability’ under the Americans with Disabilities Act. A doctor’s letter in this context should contain the following elements:

1.)    A statement that you are a "person with a disability".

2.)    A list of your "functional impairments" or, "major life activities" in which you are "substantially limited".

Note: A helpful resource that describes substantial limitations to major life activities among people with mental illnesses may be found on the Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law website. Use this list to guide your thinking: http://www.bazelon.org/issues/disabilityrights/resources/lmtslist.htm

Note: When asking your doctor for this type of letter, you should do some advance footwork such as making a list of what you believe your functional impairments are. Then, discuss this list with your doctor in order that s/he may decide what to put into your the letter s/he writes for you.

3.)    A description of how each of your functional impairments is directly related to specific elements of your job description.

Note: This means that you will need to obtain from Human Resources your specific job description so that your doctor can make the connection in his letter.

Notes: Here again is where you need to do a little advance footwork for your doctor. Using the same list of ‘substantial limitations in major life activities’ (i.e., functional impairments), that you created above, make a second list that shows each element of your job description. Draw arrows between each functional limitation and each element of your job description showing how they relate to one another. Busy doctors appreciate logical and coherent arguments drafted on paper that they can respond to, rather than having to generate new text entirely on their own.

4.)    A description of how your Service Dog has been individually trained to help you overcome the functional impairments that are associated with the specific duties of your position.

Note: If you are someone who is so heavily medicated that even an alarm clock cannot get you out of bed, then, having a Service Dog that is trained to wake you up and force you to get out of bed will assist you in arriving to work on time each day. If you are someone who frequently forgets to take an afternoon dose of medication that impacts your immediate ability to function cognitively, and who cannot reliably do so, even with a watch alarm, then, having a Service Dog that is trained to help you remember to take afternoon medication will assist you in retaining your mental faculties so that you may carryout essential elements of your job. These are just two examples. The important piece to remember is that your doctor’s letter must draw a connection between the essential elements of your job description and how your Service Dog has been trained to help you overcome the specific functional impairments that would otherwise prevent you from performing your job satisfactorily.

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My doctor does not believe in PSD.  What can I do?

You have three choices: 

 1)      Try to understand why your doctor does not believe in PSD.  When you have a better understanding of his/her concerns, then you will be in a better position to refute them, intelligently.  Download any materials from the PSDS website that you believe will be helpful to this end.  Finally, PSDS consults regularly with physicians around the country free of charge.  If your doctor would like to speak with the PSDS clinical psychiatrist, then we can set this up.  If your doctor is willing to speak with a PSD advocate, who is not an M.D. then Joan Esnayra, Ph.D., President of PSDS is available by phone, also.  To set up such a call, simply email your request to Joan at joan.esnayra@mac.com.  PSDS will not make unsolicited phone calls to your doctor.  We speak only with doctors, who wish to speak with us. 

 2)      Physicians are employed by you.  If you don’t like the way a particular doctor is handling your care, then you are free to choose another.  You also have the right to speak with a physician over the telephone before making an initial appointment.  Some physicians believe themselves to be too busy to speak with a prospective patient over the phone.  Take this into account when assessing each physician’s approach to patient care.  Perhaps you will elect to hire only physicians, who are willing to be interviewed for a few minutes over the phone.   When you finally get a physician on the phone, keep the call brief (2-4 minutes).  Have your questions written out in advance.  Jot down some notes as the questions are answered.  Ask the physician, “What is your view on Psychiatric Service Dogs?”  Most psychiatrists will tell you that they’ve never heard of a PSD.  A good proxy question is, “How do you feel about the therapeutic value of animals to persons living with mental illness?”  This is a question that most doctors can respond to.  Look for a physician who is animal-friendly and generally supportive of the concept that dogs can help people suffering from mental illness.  You can work out the details of what this means in your case, during one of your sessions.  Feel free to refer your new doctor to our website.

 3)      Give up.  Some individuals simply are not ready for the PSD commitment and all that it entails.  The hassles associated with getting started may be less compelling to such an individual, than is the ongoing care with a physician they already know and trust (but who is unwilling to support the PSD concept).  This is your choice, and there is no rights or wrongs in making this decision.  Remember, ‘not now’ is a decision that is distinct from ‘not ever’. 

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My doctor wants to see published peer-reviewed clinical research on PSD before s/he will write me a letter of support.  What should I do?

Published peer-reviewed clinical research is certainly the gold standard in clinical care, but PSD are so new that there is no peer-reviewed research, yet.  PSDS is in the process of creating a research base for PSD, but this will take time and plenty of financial resources.  It will likely be another four years before we can publish the results from our first clinical trial.  In the meantime, the information PSDS offers on its website is just about all there is to offer on this subject, at least for now. 

Know that doctors do not base all of their clinical decisions on published peer-reviewed clinical research.  Prescription medications in our country for example, are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for very specific uses.  Sometimes doctors stumble upon other successful uses for a drug and report their observation anecdotally, or as a case study in a clinical journal.  These informal reports are not viewed as scientifically sound, so much as are the double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials relied upon by the FDA.  Nonetheless, many physicians prescribe medication in new ways based upon such anecdotal reports.  This practice is called off-label prescribing, and chances are good that your psychiatrist engages in it.

When the drug Zyprexa was first introduced to the healthcare market for example, it was FDA approved for use in Schizophrenics as an antipsychotic.  Soon thereafter, clinicians reported that Zyprexa also demonstrates mood stabilization properties in patients with Bipolar Disorder.  As more and more psychiatrists prescribed Zyprexa to their bipolar patients, it became clear that the anti-manic effect these doctors were witnessing was real.  Consequently, the manufacturer of the drug decided it would be strategic to invest in the appropriate (and expensive) clinical trials, so that FDA approval could be sought for Zyprexa’s use in bipolar patients.  The company succeeded in their efforts and now Zyprexa is FDA approved for use in Schizophrenic and Bipolar individuals.  The point of this story is to say, that even conservative, risk-aversive physicians make everyday leaps of faith when prescribing drugs off-label.  Thus, asking for your doctor to support you in your efforts to train a PSD, despite the absence of published peer-reviewed clinical data is not unreasonable.  Furthermore, you will use your PSD as an adjunct to ongoing medication and psychotherapy, not in lieu of.

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Why should I insist on establishing a business contract with my trainer?

If you become involved in litigation around your use of a service dog, it is important that you have on file, evidence of your service dog’s training. A simple business contract between you and your trainer that spells out the commands and/or behaviors your dog will be trained to perform will be very helpful. Then, at the conclusion of training, ask your trainer to write a letter that describes the commands and/or behaviors your service dog was trained to perform. In this way, you will have documented that the specific goals of the training contract were indeed met.

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Where can I get a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)?

Some service dogs are trained by professional organizations that specialize in service dog training.  Since PSD are relatively new, there has not been much time for organizations to specialize in PSD training.  This turns out to be OK, because training one’s own PSD is in and of itself, a therapeutic and beneficial activity.  Don’t be daunted by the thought of training your own service dog; it isn’t as hard as you think.  (Be sure to read this FAQ in its entirety). 

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What kind of dog is best suited for PSD work?

There is no specific breed or dog size requirement for PSD. Service Dog handlers nationwide employ a range of dog breeds and sizes--from Chihuahuas to Great Danes. There are peculiar advantages and disadvantages to each breed and you should educate yourself about the characteristic traits of each breed under consideration. A great place to learn about the many different breeds is the American Kennel Club website: http://www.akc.org/index.cfm

What size of dog you want to partner with 24/7? Large dogs appeal to some handlers because of their sturdy physiques (i.e., for bracing work) and awesome visual presentation (i.e., visual deterrent). If a dog is too large this could impact your ability to fly cheaply in coach class with your dog in the cabin. Aircraft configuration becomes especially relevant for dogs weighing 80 pounds or greater. Unfortunately there are no free upgrades in these situations. Your only options will be to purchase a full fare business class ticket, if one is available, or put your dog in cargo.

Tiny dogs appeal to some because they are unobtrusive when carried discreetly in a purse or shoulder bag. If a dog is invisible to others then, access challenges don’t happen. Persons with anxiety disorders may choose pocket dogs, in part, to avoid the possibility of confrontation with gatekeepers of public access (i.e., security officers, retail sales staff, restaurateurs, etc). In the event that you get stopped, and the dog is especially tiny, you may have a difficult time convincing gatekeepers of public access that the dog is a legitimate working dog. This is why it is important to think carefully about the size of dog you will be joined at the hip with. We recommend that you query your online PSD community to see what factors other handlers are taking into account when selecting their dog’s size and breed.

Avoid brachicephalic breeds for Service Dog work—the ones with pushed-in noses such as Boxers, Pekinese, Pug, Bulldogs and Shih-Tzu. Their breathing problems are caused by a restriction in their airways, and a dog that is working in the public eye should not sounds like an idling engine.

Be sure to consider carefully a dog’s energy level relative to yours. Most people living with severe mental illness need a dog with low to medium energy. High-energy breeds do not adapt well to a slow paced life. (Examples of high energy breeds to avoid include: Dalmation, Vizla, Border Collie, Jack Russell Terrier, Weimaraner, Springer Spaniel, including many others…). To learn more about the concept of energy in dogs and people please visit Cesar Millan’s informative website: http://www.cesarmillaninc.com/index.php

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Should I get a purebred or a mixed breed dog?

There are pros and cons to each choice. Mixed breeds dogs can sometimes have a longer life span compared to purebred dogs on account of their genetic diversity also known as ‘hybrid vigor’. Purebred dogs are genetically susceptible to breed-specific diseases, such as hip dysplasia, cancer, eye diseases & blood disorders. Mixed breed dogs, on the other hand, are often the result of accidental matings that, by definition, involve no forethought as to the health and/or temperament of the parents. In such cases, it is difficult if not impossible to know how a given pup will mature. If one has mobility-related needs then, knowing what the adult size of the dog will be is critical information. In contrast, purebred dogs from reputable breeders are carefully planned matings that take into account the health status and temperaments of the parents, grandparents, great-grandparents, etc. Purebred dogs cost considerably more than mixed breed dogs, and this may represent a barrier for some.

Mixed breed dogs are no doubt in vast over supply relative to purebred dogs. Our shelters and rescue organizations are overflowing with loveable homeless canines, thousands of whom are facing immanent death by euthanasia. For some, choosing a 2nd hand mixed breed dog is a matter of personal politic. Such persons believe it is unethical to purchase a purebred dog when a mixed breed dog from a shelter can be rescued from immanent death. If your heart is devoted exclusively to rescue then we highly recommend Cesar Millan’s Mastering Leadership DVD Series No. 3 titled, “Your New Dog: First Day and Beyond”. In this DVD, Cesar transits various animal shelters pointing out those characteristics that are favorable or unfavorable in a pet prospect from a shelter. His is a fascinating screening method and we only wish that Cesar could help us to more accurately identify those shelter dogs that will make excellent Psychiatric Service Dog candidates. This would be a win-win for all.

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Why should I even consider obtaining a purebred dog?

In order to avoid genetic diseases in purebred dogs, specific health-checks on the prospective parents are necessary before any decision is made regarding a possible mating. These health checks are often breed specific and expensive. A good show breeder will be happy to provide proof that these check-ups (also known as certifications) were done in advance of the mating. Two of the most common certifications are ‘OFA’ (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, www.offa.org ) which certifies dogs free of hip & elbow dysphasia, as well as cardiac defects, and ‘CERF’, (the Canine Eye Registry Foundation www.vmdb.org/cerf.html ). A breeder who cannot produce hardcopy evidence of these types of health clearances should be viewed with suspicion. Please don’t buy a dog from such a person. It should be noted that purchasing a puppy from parents who are certified free of all genetic diseases is not a guarantee that the puppy will be forever free of all possible defects. A reputable breeder, though, will warranty her puppies in case defects do ultimately manifest.

The term “backyard breeder” is often used to describe the group of people who breed purebred dogs for profit, with no care for the health of the puppies, no health clearances on the parents, and no concern as to what type of home the pup goes to, as long as the person can pay for the dog. The “backyard breeder” is almost always someone who does not participate in any type of dog events, such as dog shows, obedience trials, agility, etc, which are important activities, because they demonstrate that breeding animals are sound, intelligent and healthy.

The best show breeders do not advertise in the newspaper or on bulletin boards. You can locate a show breeder in your area by going to the American Kennel Club website www.akc.org and clicking on the term ‘breed clubs’. From there you can locate the club for your chosen breed. On your breed club’s website, there is usually a breeders’ directory organized by state or region. Find a show breeder this way, in order to get a healthier purebred puppy. Such dogs are more expensive than so-called ‘purebred’ dogs you may see listed in the newspaper, but remember when buying a puppy from a reputable breeder you are also buying a pedigree, a genetic history, as well as lifetime of support from your breeder. Better to pay more for a puppy with excellent genetics and proper socialization than to get one from a pet store or backyard breeder only to have that puppy suffer as an adult from a painful debilitating genetic disease. It is truly heartbreaking after spending so much time and energy on training a dog to be your Service Dog only to have to retire the dog at a young age due to a genetic disease that could have been avoided if only you had been more careful when purchasing your puppy at the outset.

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What is a show breeder?

A show breeder is someone who is devoted to a particular breed and who subjects her dogs to breed-specific competitions on a regular basis. There are different types of dog-related competitions, but the one you need to be most familiar with is called ‘Conformation’. (see www.akc.org for more information). This is a form of competition in which dogs are judged on the extent to which their physical structure conforms to the established ‘breed standard’. A good show breeder will usually only breed those dogs that have earned a championship title, or that have earned titles in other show venues such as obedience, or agility. Show breeders do not generally breed to make a profit. In fact, many just barely break even after taking into account the cost of purchasing a sound, show quality puppy, raising, showing and training the animal, obtaining the various certifications (health-checks), paying any stud fees and the costs associated with whelping a litter responsibly. By the time a dog or bitch is ready to be bred, the breeder has already invested thousands of dollars into this one animal.

Show breeders are also known for being rather choosey about whom they sell their puppies to. They want to know that you have some knowledge about the breed already. Thus, it is a good idea to obtain several books on your chosen breed and become familiar with its physical characteristics, temperament, behaviors, and history before contacting a breeder. A good breeder will question you about any previous dogs you may have had. She will want to know what happened to those dogs? If you are someone who has relinquished dogs in the past, then, a good show breeder may be reluctant to sell you one of her puppies.

A good breeder will also inquire about the type of living arrangement you have, for example, do you live in an apartment or a house? Do you have children or other pets? Is someone home all day long, or will you rely upon a professional dog walker to take your pup outside to relieve itself? Please do not take offense at these inquiries. Getting a new puppy is a huge responsibility and commitment. Responsible breeders want to make sure that their puppies go to the very best homes. You should approach the adoption of your puppy as one that is permanent and for life. Dogs are no less valuable than are humans. Dogs are not objects that may be gotten rid of when they are no longer convenient.

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What about dogs from breed rescue?

A Google search of your chosen breed along with the search term “rescue” should bring many results. The benefit of breed rescue dogs is that they are often housetrained and/or crate trained, spayed/neutered, vaccinated and ready for a loving home. Sometimes, they will have already reached maturity, so you will know how big or small the dog will be and if it will be suitable for your needs. As mentioned previously, you should consider having your dog or puppy-of-interest professionally temperament tested prior to bringing the dog home. Most rescue groups do their own temperament testing, but this is not usually done with an eye for Service Dog potential.

Bear in mind that when obtaining a rescue dog, it is important to know as much history as you can about the animal. For example, did the dog remain with its litter until 8 weeks of age? A pup that is removed from its litter too early may not have learned bite inhibition from its littermates, an important lesson indeed. Another important inquiry pertains to the socialization period between 8 week and 12 weeks. Was the pup properly socialized with different types of dogs and people? Lack of appropriate socialization can lead to intractable problem behaviors down the road. Similarly, how did the pup fare through its two developmental fear periods between 9 weeks and 11 weeks and, then again, as an adolescent? Was the pup traumatized by any person or event? Such traumas, when they occur during a developmental fear period, can be life long and have the capacity to render your pup unable to work in public.

As you can see, getting a dog or puppy isn’t as easy as it may seem. There is much information to learn and know. When visiting rescue groups and animal shelters, be careful that you don’t indulge the impulse to adopt a dog simply because you feel sorry for it, or because you think you can fix it. We are not discussing pets or appliances here, but a living, breathing creature who will become your working partner for many years into the future. This is as important a decision as whom you decide to marry. Take it slowly; be rational.

Yet another option for obtaining a Service Dog candidate is to adopt a ‘washed-out’ dog from a Service Dog training facility or a professional trainer (see article titled, "Selecting a Service Dog Trainer….). It is important to note that just because a given dog does not excel at one type of work such as Guiding, Hearing, or Mobility does not necessarily mean that the dog is not suited for Psychiatric Service Dog work. Talk with the facility or trainer in order to get a better understanding of why a given dog ‘washed-out’ of a program. You may be surprised to find an excellent dog awaiting you!

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What about temperament?

What is temperament in a dog? It is a ‘gestalt’ of dispositions, proclivities, and attitudes that make each dog a unique individual. You should pay a LOT of attention to the temperament of any dog or puppy you are thinking about adopting for service work. For very young puppies, please review the Volhard Temperament Test for further information (http://www.volhard.com/puppy/pat.htm). An ideal Service Dog candidate puppy (tested at Day 49) will be a Volhard 3.

If you are not an expert at temperament testing dogs and puppies, then it is highly recommended that you hire a professional dog trainer who can assist you in choosing an appropriately-tempered dog or puppy. Since choosing the right puppy is one of the most important decisions you will make, please take the time to do it right. Hire a trainer to help you. In the meantime, we recommend that you watch Cesar Millan’s DVD titled, “Your New Dog: First Day and Beyond”.

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 How much on average does it cost to maintain a service dog annually?

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What should I feed my dog?

Please consider carefully the overall investment you are making in your PSD in terms of time, energy, resources, and emotions. Can you get by with feeding your PSD cheap dog food? Sure you can, but this decision is more than simply an economic issue. Good nutrition keeps dogs and people healthy over the long-term. Vet care is expensive, and there is no guarantee of a cure when illness does arise. Prevention behaviors are generally cheaper to implement than are treatments and cures.

Foods that contain inferior meats, meat by-products, preservatives, large amounts of corn and wheat are not good for dogs. The liver metabolizes toxic compounds in food, but the liver can become overloaded and a backup of chemicals (toxicity) can cause disease in your beloved. Some dog breeds are genetically susceptible to cancer. It would be unthinkable to provide such a dog with food that is laden with chemical preservatives. Please think the food issue through very carefully. The $20 per month that you save with a cheap brand of dog food could be the very reason that you lose your canine partner to early death or disability. The Whole Dog Journal publishes a list of approved dog foods each Winter. The subscription to the online journal is cheap, the integrity of the information is very high, and you will have access to online back issues with any paid subscription. Start here.

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How much will it cost to feed my dog each month?

The cost of feeding a dog depends on the dog's size, developmental stage, and the quality of food you are using.  Obviously, large dogs eat more than small dogs.  Growing puppies need more food per pound than do adult or senior dogs.   Premium dog foods costs more per pound than do inferior dog foods.   Premium dog foods generally produce smaller stool volume than do cheap dog foods.  These and similar comparisons among dog foods may be found by surfing the internet. 

When budgeting monthly food costs, be sure to include an additional amount each month for teeth-and-gum-health toys, such as chewies, raw hides, kongs, nyla-bones, knuckle bones, etc..  Gum and teeth maintenance are very important for dogs, and providing yours with safe chew toys is one way to keep your dog healthy and happy over the long-term.  Chewing is also an excellent stress and anxiety reliever for dogs.   When you and your dog have been training intensely, or after one of those inevitably stressful access confrontations, give your dog an opportunity to decompress by providing him/her with a chew toy and a quiet space.   

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What are the basic veterinary needs of any dog?

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How do I choose a veterinarian?

Look for a doctor who:

• Belongs to local, state and national Veterinary Medical Associations
• Gives a thorough and complete exam checking eyes, ears, etc.
• Listens to you and answers your questions in terms you can understand
• Attends ‘Continuing Veterinary Medicine Education’ programs annually

Look for a veterinary practice that:

• Is located in a clean and odor free building
• Has a clean and cheerful staff, who are friendly to animals (including humans)
• Has laboratory equipment or access to a commercial laboratory for blood and urine tests
• Has appropriate equipment to perform routine surgeries and radiographs
• Provides an emergency on-call veterinarian 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

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Will I become dependent on my PSD?

You will be become no more dependent upon your PSD than you already are upon psychotropic medication and/or psychotherapy to treat symptoms of your illness.  Furthermore, a PSD should be used in combination with an existing treatment plan that is supervised by a licensed medical professional.  Working a PSD is not indicative of someone, who does not wish to be well.  When combined with medication and talk therapy, a PSD handler may be viewed as someone, who is clearly taking charge of their mental health.   

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Is it wise for an individual with severe mental illness to get so emotionally close to a dog only to have the dog die later on?  Won’t this just make the depression worse?

This argument does not make sense.  Every living thing in our world dies at one time or another.  This is a natural part of life.  Would you choose not to partner with your lover or spouse only because s/he will die one day?  Of course not!  Indeed, dog’s lives are generally shorter than ours.  All the more reason to love your PSD fully each and every day.  Be mindful that his/her time on earth is brief, but do not obsess over it.  When the time comes, you will need all the supports available to you (medically and otherwise), just as you would for any bereavement. 

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What are the goals of PSD training?

First, a PSD should be trained in basic obedience (e.g., sit, stay, come, down, go, leave it, etc.).
Second, teach the dog a few disability-related tasks (see task list for examples).
Third, train for public access skills (i.e., behavior in public places such as restaurants, theaters, library, buses, subway, etc.)

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 Is task training required for an animal to be considered a service animal?

The answer to this question depends upon whom you ask.  Some organizations promote service dog task training as the ‘litmus test of legitimacy’ (www.iaadp.org).  A Coalition of Assistance Dog Organizations (CADO) claims that only the performance of physical tasks defines legitimate service animal work (http://www.gdui.org/cado.html).  Another organization predicts how the U.S. Department of Justice would view the matter (http://www.deltasociety.org/nsdc/sdfaq.htm#psychiatric).  Each of these organizations cites a concern about the prevalence of fake service animals, as both the motivation and justification for its arguments. Some organizations deliberately misrepresent the law by omitting critical portions of the official ‘Service Animal’ definition, in order to give the reader the impression that physical task training is required by law. Such behavior is intellectually dishonest and shameful. 

The Psychiatric Service Dog Society does not presume to know how the federal judiciary will ultimately rule on the issue of task training for Psychiatric Service Dogs, in particular.  Nor does it seek to propagate a definition of ‘Service Animal’ that is not already described in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).  PSDS is concerned about fake service animals, but we do not believe changing the definition of ‘Service Animal’ will obviate the problem.  The current CFR definition of Service Animal states that a Service Animal is, “…individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability….” The Psychiatric Service Dog Society proffers that doing work is providing a therapeutic function to a person living with a mental health disability. 

The Psychiatric Service Dog Society is committed to the ongoing and empirical articulation of PSD work.   Whether psychiatric symptoms are mitigated through the execution of trained physical tasks, or by subtle non-verbal interactions between dog and handler, does not matter to us.  PSDS is focused quite singularly on the therapeutic effect of psychiatric service dog partnership, as well as how to leverage and sustain those effects over time.  

Finally, there is a notable difference between so-called physical and mental disabilities. A robot, for example, could in theory do the work of a mobility-assist service dog.  The robot could be programmed to fetch a beverage from the refrigerator, pick up dropped items, open and close doors, answer the phone, etc.  With regard to psychiatric disabilities, a robot cannot induce the in vivo neurochemical response those of us with psychiatric disabilities experience, when we interact consciously and deliberately with our psychiatric service dog.  A robot cannot be programmed for this ‘task’ because science has not yet characterized all the relevant neurochemical phenomena affecting the brain, at the moment we realize the therapeutic intervention. 

Similarly, the descriptor ‘physical’ implies identifiable component parts or identifiable mechanisms.  The descriptor ‘mental’ has no such cognate.  We do not yet understand the component parts of cognition, emotion, and behavior.  We do, though, know when these capacities are awry in affected individuals.  (Psychiatric phenotypes are often stereotypic).  The clinical standard of care for mental illness includes psychotropic medication and talk therapy, even though no clinician or scientist fully comprehends their mechanisms of action.  In the context of modern day medicine, the fuzzy logic of psychiatry is accepted in clinics and courts.  Thus, we believe it is premature to conclude that only physical tasks may count as legitimate forms of service dog assistance to persons living with psychiatric disability.  On what scientific evidence would such a conclusion be based?

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How can I create my own task list?:

2.  Generate a list of tasks that may be trained to mitigate your constellation of symptoms.  You can do this by consulting the PSDS task list or by asking your online service dog friends for ideas.   Don’t worry about how to train your dog to perform these tasks, yet.  You will work this out with the trainer you ultimately select. 

3. When deeply depressed, it is easy to forget the repertoire of tasks one has trained his/her PSD to perform.  For this reason, consider taping a copy of your ‘symptoms & tasks’ list to your refrigerator.  This will provide a helpful reminder when you need it most.

4.  Share the task list with your professional dog trainer.  S/he will teach you how to train your dog to reliably execute each task on command.  As you become more comfortable with dog training in general, you will likely think of additional tasks your service dog may be trained to perform.  Herein lays the beauty of training one’s own PSD.  Even after the handler-trainer relationship has ended, a handler is empowered to continue refining his/her dog’s ability to assist. 

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Why is training one’s own PSD so important?

Training one’s own PSD teaches a new handler how to think and act like a behaviorist (see http://www.animalbehavior.org/).  This is important on a number of levels.  First, regardless of how a service dog is trained, the handler must at some point, learn how to effectively ‘operate the dog’.   This ability is fortified when the handler learns basic principles of dog training through use of their own dog from the outset.

Second, the degree to which a handler gets involved in the early stages of training will positively impact the bond s/he experiences with the dog.   So many of the benefits a PSD provides depend upon the establishment of a strong bond.  Why give this precious opportunity to someone else?

Training one’s own PSD builds trust between dog and handler.  Trust is critical to the therapeutic partnership, because so many symptoms of psychiatric disease affect one’s ability to perceive things accurately.  When one relies upon their PSD to inform them about the onset or expression of symptoms, this productive exchange is predicated on a foundation of trust.  Such high-level trust is cultivated through the process of training one’s own PSD. 

Learning to think and act like a behaviorist has another benefit.   By critically observing your service dog’s behaviors, a handler also learns to critically observe his/her own behaviors and the environmental contexts that often accompany them.  Many symptoms of psychiatric illness are contextual.  Environmental stress for example, often precedes the expression of anxiety-related symptoms.  A handler with Panic Disorder, who is stressed but not necessarily aware of it, may use her dog’s natural response (such as whining or leaning into her), as a cue to pay attention to the changes taking place in his/her own body (i.e., increased heart rate, hyperventilation, trembling, sweating, etc.).  This biofeedback will over time, train the handler to recognize symptoms at their earliest onset and help to mitigate or subvert them, through conscious and deliberate interaction with the dog. 

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I’ve never trained a dog before.  Where do I begin?

The Psychiatric Service Dog Society recommends that you train your PSD under the guidance of a professional dog trainer.  The trainer does not need to be an experienced service dog trainer, though it would be helpful.  Training sessions should be given on a one-to-one basis, rather than in a group class setting.

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Why should I pay money for a private trainer, when I can train my dog in a group setting for much less?

Group dog training classes are great for teaching and socializing pets.  After all, the family pet does not need to be trained to the exceptionally high standard to which service dogs must be trained.  In group training classes, the attention of the instructor is divided by as many students there are in the class.  Subtle errors on your part may be missed by the trainer as s/he pays attention to other teams.  For pet training, one can usually do ‘OK’ with mediocre training skills.  For service dog training one cannot.  Training your dog to a service dog standard requires that you become an excellent dog trainer.  In order to achieve this level of skill, you need a professional who can show you what to do, watch your every move and utterance as you do it, and correct you when it is called for.  You require this professional level of individualized instruction so that your PSD will behave impeccably when out and about in the community. 

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How do I find a professional dog trainer in my area?

The internet hosts a variety of websites belonging to professional dog trainer associations.  Below is a short list and each site offers a geographic search engine that you may use to identify prospective trainers in your area. 

The International Association of Canine Professionals: http://www.dogpro.org
Association of Pet Dog Trainers: http://www.apdt.com
National K-9 Professional Dog Trainer Association: http://www.nk9dta.com
National Association of Dog Obedience Instructors: http://www.nadoi.org
Animal Behavior College: http://www.animalbehaviorcollege.com/gooddawg/abu/default.htm
Association of Companion Animal Behavior Counselors: http://animalbehaviorcounselors.org
Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers http://www.ccpdt.org/

There is no single over-arching authority for the certification of professional dog trainers.  Therefore one must be careful not to assume that just because a trainer is listed on any of these sites, they must therefore be top-notch or even ethical in their practice.  PSDS does not endorse any of the organizations listed above.  The list above is provided merely as a convenience for your own vetting.  Use the sites to generate a list of local trainers’ email addresses so that you may contact them with questions about their training practices. 

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What questions should I ask a prospective trainer? 

Here are a few examples:
1.  How many dogs have you trained? 
2.   What certifications for dog training do you hold? 
3.   Do you belong to any professional societies for dog trainers?   If so, which ones?
4.   What training methods do you use? (Look for positive reinforcement methods)
5.   Have you ever worked with, or trained a service dog?
6.   Are you willing to work with a disabled individual who seeks to train her own service dog?
7.   What are your fees?
8.   What guarantees do you offer in association with your training services?
9.   Please provide contact information from three clients you have worked with in the past year.
10. May we speak over the phone? If so, what is your telephone number and when can I call you?

Most trainers will not respond to your email.  For whatever reason, this is just how it goes.  Use the responses that you do receive to select the trainers with whom you will speak over the telephone.  Use the phone call to probe further the answers the trainer provided you over email.  This is a good time to discuss your specific disability-related needs.  Be upfront with the trainer that you are disabled by symptoms of mental illness.  If the trainer is going to reject you based upon their ignorance of mental illness or the stigma associated with it, then it is better to know this right away.  You are indeed looking for a special kind of trainer.  Expect that most trainers you speak with will not fit the bill. 

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How can I hire a professional dog trainer when I do not have the money?

At this time, PSDS cannot solve this problem for you.  It is our long-term goal to offer $1000 training scholarships to low income PSD handlers, who commit to a program of training with a private professional dog trainer.  We will institute this scholarship program when donations are made to PSDS specifically for this purpose.   Such a donation may be particularly attractive to some donors, because it will directly impact the lives of new PSD handlers and ensure a higher standard of training for owner-trained PSD.  Please consider supporting this important program.

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How much should I share with the trainer about my psychiatric diagnosis?

You are looking for a well-regarded professional trainer who is tolerant, accepting and willing to try something new.  Don’t expect a trainer to be educated about mental illness.  Don’t go on at length about your personal history, past traumas, psychotic episodes, hospitalizations, self-mutilation practices, relationship issues, and the like.  Intimate details such as these, are the domain of close personal friendships.  The relationship you cultivate with a trainer will be professional, not personal.  You should be able to communicate to the trainer your five most debilitating symptoms and the tasks you wish to train your dog to perform, in order to mitigate these symptoms. 

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How are dogs trained to alert to symptoms of psychiatric disorder in the handler?

The answer to this question is that dogs are both trained and not-trained to alert.  We do not yet know how to screen dogs for alerting ability.  Indeed we are dependent upon a dog to naturally demonstrate alerting behavior with his/her handler, before we can shape the behavior through training.  Alerting behavior does not look the same in every dog.  Some dogs alert by pawing their handler’s leg.  Others alert by ‘misbehaving’.  Still others alert by barking or nibbling on toes or fingers.   Alerting behaviors are unique to each dog.   

Determining whether or not your dog alerts to your condition may take some time.  Be patient and attentive to your dog’s every move.  Perform a ‘check-in’ with yourself whenever you think your dog might be alerting you.  How do you feel right now?  What is happening in your environment?  Jot these notes down, and over time, a pattern may emerge.  Within a few months of bringing your dog home, you should be able to ascertain whether yours is an alerting dog, or not.  If your dog is alerting, make sure you don’t get angry with him/her for doing so, even if you feel irritable that day.  Alerting behaviors are precious, and you don’t want your dog to associate alerting with punishment. 

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What should I do if my dog develops a behavioral problem after the initial training period is over?

Behavioral problems in dogs can develop in response to traumatic experiences, changes in hormone levels, and major changes to your dog’s daily routine or immediate living environment.   Traumatic experiences may include being attacked by another dog, aggressive access challenges, being accosted by small children, car accidents, getting hit by the wheels of a wheelchair, sudden separation from the handler, etc..  Hormone changes at puberty and post-operative periods are especially vulnerable times for dogs, as are physical moves (from one home to another with or without the handler), the addition of new family members to the home, the arrival of a new pet, fractious behavior among household members, etc.. Sometimes new behavioral problems seem to appear out of nowhere.  The internet is a great resource for educating yourself about behavioral problems that occur in dogs.   

Hopefully, you will have concluded your training relationship with your private dog trainer on good terms.  If that is the case, telephone him or her.  Explain the problem behavior and ask for guidance.  A good trainer will let you know if the behavior problem you’ve described is beyond his or her skill level.  If it is, then ask your trainer for a referral, or better yet, contact a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (http://www.animalbehavior.org/Applied/CAAB_directory.html).    

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Where should my SD sit while in a car?

Harnessed into a seat belt restraint, or in a crate.  It is not safe to leave a SD loose in the car, and a dog should never ride in the front seat.

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What kind of identification do I need for my SD?

Federal law does not require you to have identification for your SD.  Though, you should be prepared to answer the following questions should you be asked by a gatekeeper of public access: Is that a Service Animal?  Are you disabled?  What disability-related tasks have your SD been trained to perform?  If you decide to carry and use identification for your SD, then make sure that you inform gatekeepers that such identification, while provided in this instance, may not be required of other teams, as a condition of entry into a public space.

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Does my SD have to wear a vest or a harness?

Federal law does not require that your SD wear a vest or harness, though, experience demonstrates that such items greatly reduce the likelihood of an access challenge.  Many SD handlers “dress” their dogs with a cape or vest as a courtesy to the public.

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What supplies do I need to carry with me when my SD accompanies me in public?

Each handler is free to develop her own specialized kit based upon her needs and those of her SD.  Here are some examples: Water bottle, Water bowl, poop bags, treats, floor mat or towel, paw wipes, hands-free leash & belt, treat pouch, clicker, disability-related supplies, law information cards, DOJ Business brief on Service Animals, cell phone.

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Must I groom my SD?

Maintaining a well-groomed dog isn't only for making a good impression while you are out in public.  A well-groomed dog sheds less and track less dirt into places of public accommodation.  Regular grooming also minimizes dander which has the potential to trigger allergic reactions from vulnerable others while you are in public.

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My SD left a "tiny" pile of solid waste in the graveled area among some bushes outside a store.  The bushes make it hard for me to go in after it.  Is it really necessary for me to pick up after my SD, when the pile is in such an out-of-the-way place where no one will notice it anyway?

This rule is unwavering: Always Scoop Your Poop.  If you are physically unable to do so, ask for help

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Is it ok to carry a mat for my SD to rest on when we are in public?

Yes, it is ok to do this.  Some handlers use a mat to keep their SD from leaving a pile of hair on the floor when the team leaves.  Others use a mat when floors are dirty and in order to keep their SD clean.  Some dogs with short hair need a mat on cold or hard surfaces.  A mat used regularly retains the scent of familiar surroundings.  This may be comforting to a dog on travel, or one that is going to a new place for the first time.  A mat provides a natural ‘target’ for a dog that is put in a down-stay.

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When is it ok for my SD to ‘Sit-Stay’ instead of ‘Down-Stay’?

Anytime you believe the situation calls for it.  ‘Sit’ versus ‘Down’ isn't as important as "Stay". Your dog's duties, his safety, his comfort (for long periods of time), and the comfort of those around you, should be the guiding criteria.

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Is it okay for my service dog to decide to Sit or Down on his/her own accord?

A SD should be trained to make intelligent decisions.  If the dog is waiting for you, while you are otherwise engaged, then it makes sense for him to rest until you need him again.  Of course, the dog shouldn't sprawl-out blocking a passageway, and he should stand immediately as soon as he sees that you are ready to move on.

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Is it ok for my SD to heel on my right side instead of my left side?

Yes, in fact SDs should probably learn both.  Some handlers with mobility issues need a right-side dog.

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Must a SD always sit when we come to a full stop on the sidewalk?

No, doing so is entirely at the discretion of the handler.

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Is it ok for my SD to sniff around and enjoy herself while we're walking somewhere?

It depends. When a SD is off-duty allowing one’s SD to engage in pleasurable activities is good for the dog’s mental health.  Though, when a SD is on-duty the rules are surely different.

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Should I do anything special if I encounter a vision-impaired handler with a guide dog?

Not only the general public, but any sighted team should yield to a guide dog and its handler.

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Is it ok for SD's to greet each other when two handlers stop to chat with one another?

The first rule of thumb is, never allow your SD to approach another working dog without the handler’s consent.  If both handlers agree to allow their dogs a quick ‘hello’ then it is ok, so long as both dogs understand that ‘hello’ does not mean ‘let’s play’.  It is the handler’s responsibility to ensure that one’s SD, while on duty, remains focused on the handler, not on other dogs in the vicinity.  SD’s should be trained to ignore extraneous stimuli and other distractions, including other dogs, whether or not they are Service Dogs.

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Is it ok to take a SD to a dog park?

Doing so is entirely at the discretion of the handler.  Dogs need exercise, and they need socialization time with ‘their kind’.  On the other hand, dog parks attract a variety of dogs whose training and history may not be known to you.  How will you protect your SD if a fight breaks out?  If you decide take your SD to a dog park, then do so, only when the dog is off-duty and not wearing its service vest/cape.

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Is it okay for me to feed/water my service dog inside a restaurant?

No, it would be inappropriate to do so.  Please feed/water your SD before or after going to the restaurant.

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I saw a SD handler in a restaurant.  He put his plate on the floor and let his SD eat from it. What should I do?

Feeding one's service dog in a restaurant is bad manners.  If you feel comfortable doing so, approach the handler in a friendly way, and express your concern about how the other patrons might view this activity.  But, be prepared for the possibility that you may be rebuffed.  If you are not comfortable approaching the handler, then speak with the restaurant manager discreetly and express your discomfort with the other handler’s behavior.  Explain that feeding a SD in a restaurant is ‘not ok’ in the service dog world.  The restaurant manager will likely welcome such input and may choose to act on your behalf.

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Is it ok for my SD to be in a chair next to me instead of on the floor?

Generally, no.  Unless a SD is performing a duty that may not otherwise be performed from the floor, a dog's four feet should always be on the ground.

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Is it ok for my SD to lick himself while on duty?

Generally, no.  SD's should be ‘seen but not heard’ while on duty.  Thus, slurping, sloshing, licking, and scratching noises are not acceptable.  That being said, almost every SD will lick or scratch himself on occasion.  As long as it's relatively brief and doesn't happen often, it's probably ok.  If you find that your SD is scratching or licking frequently, or for long periods, then you may want to check with your vet or groomer about potential skin problems.

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What is the appropriate placement of a SD in a movie theater?

Consider leaving a space between you and the rest of your party and have your SD rest on the floor between you. Provide a soft mat for your SD to rest upon, as movie theater floors can be dirty, and sometimes pesticides are applied to the floors, in order to prevent bacterial and mold growth. In crowded theater conditions, there may be no choice but to put your SD directly at your feet. Small SDs may need to remain in your lap so that they aren't stepped-on. Finally, it is never appropriate to occupy designated wheelchair seating (even when empty), if you are not a wheelchair user, yourself, or directly assisting someone who is a wheelchair user.

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If I need to stay overnight in a hotel with my SD, where should I feed/water my SD?  Where should she sleep?

Food and water may be provided on the floor of your room or bathroom.  If the room is carpeted, protect the carpet by using a towel underneath your dog’s bowl.  Sleeping arrangements are at each handler’s discretion.  Some dogs prefer sleeping in their own crate; others prefer sleeping in bed with you.  Be sure that you do not leave wads of dog hair in the room after you check-out.

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Is it ok to leave one's SD in the car when running an errand?

Generally speaking, it is unwise to leave any dog unattended in a car, whether or not the engine is running.  Dogs have died within minutes of being left in a car, and many states have passed laws prohibiting this in summer months.  When temperatures are cooler, leaving your SD in the car can be a viable alternative to leaving the dog at home if you are going somewhere a SD cannot go (e.g., some churches), or when one of your errands is very brief, and saving time is important.

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I saw someone physically abuse their SD in public.  What should I do?

In this circumstance, you have a couple of options.  If the abuse is ‘severe’ or of a mortal nature, then you should call the police or animal control and standby until they arrive.  If, in the meantime, the abuser drives away, take down their license plate number and give it to the authorities, along with a good physical description of the handler, when they arrive.  If the abuse is merely ‘inappropriate’ given the circumstances, then you may wish to engage the handler in a ‘friendly conversation’ about training, in general.  Then, using your best diplomatic tact, raise the issue of the handler’s specific correction and offer a healthier alternative behavior that they may employ.  You may wish to use your own dog as a model when demonstrating a humane correction.  Whatever you do, be aware that your overture may be viewed as intrusive by the handler in question.  Thus, don’t take it personally if you are rebuffed or scolded to ‘mind your own business’.

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Is it ok to board my SD at a kennel if I am going out of town?

A SD is most effective when s/he is with you 24/7.  This includes going out of town with you.  It's also important to keep in mind that if a dog is used to being with you 24/7, and you suddenly leave her in the kennel, it will cause her a great deal of distress.  That said there may be times when your SD cannot possibly be with you, such as for an upcoming surgery.  For these exceptional times, make arrangements with a family member, a friend, another SD handler, or a kennel that you are both familiar and comfortable with.  You may even consider having the individual who will look after your SD stay in your home while you are away.  This would likely reduce the disruption to your SD’s usual routine and mitigate the inevitable anxiety that s/he will feel in your absence.

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