Realities of Working a Service Dog: How To Prepare Yourself and Your Dog

[@Whatevadantewante]

Self training my psd has definitely helped teach me in how to cope with dealing with the public. Taking a breath and realizing that you can't control things out in the world or how ppl behave has been such a valuable lesson learned in regards to managing my ptsd symptoms and anxiety.

[@DoggyU]

So true! You can't control other people. But, you can train against their behavior! Thanks for joining Patreon Dante!

[@rayellthedruid2971]

I didnt expect so many weirdo adults. Kids/ other animals have all been silly but cute.

[@Whatevadantewante]

@rayellthedruid2971 there's only so much control you can have over a child. They don't know any better. But yeah, children u don't care about. It nosey adults that make my eye twitch lol

[@haventli]

The only time I talked to anyone with a service dog in public was in my 20s when I was backpacking in a national forest. I knew dogs weren't allowed because I had to leave mine at home, but I saw someone with their dog. Out of curiosity and with pure ignorance I asked "Is that service dog?" because it was the only way I could imagine someone getting away with bringing their dog. The man said yes. "What does it do for you?" I asked. The man said "monitors my blood sugar." "Cool" I said, and that was it, we hiked our separate ways. I'm grateful that my curiosity and ignorance didn't lead me to asking stupider more invasive questions. But I now I think I didn't have the authority to ask even those questions since I was just a visitor in the park. Thank you for educating the public, even though its not your responsibility. 🎉

[@DoggyU]

Lots of people ask questions. I think it's human nature to be curious. But what most people don't consider is that that person has been asked that question 5 times today, 2000 times over their lifetime, and they just want to buy some broccoli and go home LOL!

[@haventli]

@@DoggyU haha. So true.

[@janhankins911]

We have a veteran in our area and we see him and his service dog quite often in the grocery store. His dog has a harness that reads "PTSD Service Animal". I'm sure he did this to stop a whole lot of questions.

[@adventureswithcorrine]

My dog helps with my social anxiety...but, questions about her in public tend to trigger my anxiety. Ugh! It's a double edged sword 😢 I am open to suggestions as avoiding the public forever isn't a good option.

[@romeliaanddixie]

After having a service dog for almost 6 years now, I do have to say my biggest concern Hass to be all of the fake service dogs. It would be fined of the dogs just minding their own business and I didn’t have to worry about them harming my dog but unfortunately, I’m never that lucky. I do have to say if anyone wants to get a service dog, you have to prepare yourself to protect your dog from attacks. Not only has my service dog been attacked by fake service dogs in public but she has also been the victim of animal abuse from people. One of my most popular videos on my channel is a child smacking my service dog in the butt. Now you would think that by me uploading that I could educate some people on why this is harmful and why you should not do this to a working dog but unfortunately all it was was people calling my dog, a fake service, dog and asking if my dog was really emotional support or a real service dog. I also had people breed shaming my dog If I could live without a service dog, I definitely would. The stress of having to worry about my dog being injured. It’s just a lot.

[@TheWorkingRetrievers]

I'm 17, I have been a service dog handler for 3 years. having a service dog has helped me a lot but it has also worsen my anxiety, especially my social anxiety.. Yesterday I went to the mall and I was eating lunch with my family, My service dog was laying down, out of the way, under the table. Although, when I first sat down, all eyes on me. It was stressful, I thought people were talking bad and making fun of me, or just maybe even silently judging me. a few minutes pass and people around kinda just lost interest and moved on. this hasn't happened to me in a while, but there's just something about yesterday that made me feel horrible. I even kept thinking to myself "What if I am not disabled enough to have a service dog?" all those thoughts running through my head was terrible lol. As the day went on and we went shopping and then had to go to a doctors appointment, I met a lot of nice people, even some saying my dog is so well trained, they didn't even notice he was there. Having a service dog has it's pros and cons, sometimes it's not meant for everybody and that's okay ! on the bright side, my service dog has made my life a lot easier and he's even helped me wanna do things that I thought I would never do. like, getting my own off road car (Polaris RZR), going to my first concert back in August, or even going to Knotts Scary Farm, and much more. if somebody asked me 4 years ago if I would've done all that, simple answer would've been "No! Never." I used to have a hard time communicating with people, that's gotten better overtime since I get questions by the public like "Where did you get his shoes?" "where did you get the goggles?" "How long did it take for him to be fully trained?" etc. simple questions and answering them has made me come out of my shell a bit since I am a extremely shy person. Now the rude comments I get? I ignore them, they shouldn't judge someone before getting to know them. ♡ Thank you for this video, it was very educational. I will definitely be recommending your channel to those who wanna learn more about service dogs or are looking into getting one. :) ♡ I subscribed !! ♡

[@DoggyU]

Thank you so much for taking the time to comment and sharing your story. There are definitely pros and cons but it seems like it has been a net positive for you

[@adventureswithcorrine]

❤❤ 100% this! It is the same for me. I love your strength to ignore invasive people. I haven't figured that out yet except to stay home.

[@DoggyU]

@@adventureswithcorrine some of it just comes with practice, and unfortunately, I've had a lot of practice.

[@TR_Ridingz]

Completely agree with you. I don’t mind having eyes on me, but it can definitely get overwhelming. But the “what if I’m not disabled enough” is something I struggle with as well. Keep going girl, ur strong!

[@nicoledelieto1735]

I love having Freja with me in public! I am a very sociable person for somebody on the autistic spectrum. I do get frustrated and triggered sometimes in public. I have total faith and confidence in Freja’s ability as a service dog. Becoming a service dog handler has showed me that I can be more independent without the stress. I had to learn how to be functional since there were not a lot of resources for female aspies to obtain service dogs. I never stop taking my dog out even when public access training sessions do not go well. I try to have a realistic approach to what I need to work on with Freja. I wish I could have done is be better prepared for what I was getting myself into. I love forever more than anything in the world and I am grateful for her.❤

[@mariannewaseem2484]

My service dog helps me manage blood sugar fluctuations. She is a long haired GSD and we are working with crowds. We are able to get people not to try to pet her. Katie is very cognizant of my blood sugar swings and warns me of highs and lows as I have to take insulin. I have trained her myself which has been challenging at times usually because I don’t perceive biochemical changes in myself as rapidly as she does.

[@seigedrakonera5689]

One thing that dosent come up a lot with home training a service dog is sometimes dogs can just flunk. Our first SD attempt a male called Nero, he flunked the service dog training, WAY way too high of prey drive an we re-homed him to our neighbors who had fell in love with him during training. Sometimes some dogs just are not a good fit for service dog work an there is nothing wrong with that. Amber our second try, was perfect. She was a rescue puppy an she was just made for this line of work. Shes been my service dog for nearly 6 years now.

[@GingersRule135]

that's what I'm scared of happening cuz my mom doesn't necessarily know i want to train a psychiatric service dog. (he probably wont be in the public where normal dogs can go cuz I'm scared to ask her if that's okay lol) but if we get this puppy and it flunks, i just have to deal with it for another 3 years at least until i can pay for a dog myself and I'm so nervous because i know a service dog would help my anxiety and sensory overloads in public so much.

[@alejandraarguello]

Omg this video has helped me so much! Sometimes I think my depression, migraines and chronic insomnia are still not “enough” to warrant me my service dog - because they’re not visible necessarily and so when situations like these ones arise, I tend to somewhat panic and gaslight myself; so you speaking so openly about them helps beyond words, it validates us. THANK YOU!

[@DoggyU]

I'm so glad this video connected with you

[@alejandraarguello]

Ok, you’re reply made me tear up. Seriously. Thank you for being such a beautiful human. Can’t wait to explore your community/ content on Patreon, too.

[@strawb3r_]

I relate to this so much. I know I would benefit from a service dog, but I'm constantly gaslighting myself against it with beliefs like "I mean, I'm functioning now without a service dog." and "are my conditions even serious enough? I should just do xyz instead. " it's so nice to hear someone else struggling with the same resistance 🥲

[@AddisonMack-bp3mz]

I feel this a lot, I’m in the process of getting a service dog to self train for severe anxiety as I cannot go into any stores alone currently, I often think well maybe it’s all in my head and I don’t really need one and stuff like that, I love the validation thank you

[@cccoolj1475]

Thank you for making this video. I’m a new guy, dog owner, and I am very annoyed by people touching and not asking and or asking and not excepting no for an answer. 5:08

[@TheWiseOne6775]

I take my boy everywhere he is still in training, but I've been pretty lucky. Don't get me wrong we've had some encounters but for the most part people have been very helpful and have kept their distance. We were in the parking lot at the hospital and walking towards the hospital and I could tell right away my boy was going to have an off day. But even when he was having an off day he still did a darn good job walking to the hospital. He was so well behaved that we were actually told we can enter the hospital even though he isn't fully trained or registered as a service dog. It helped me to realize that even though he was having what I considered an off day didn't mean he was not behaving to a wonderful level to the average person. And nothing can ever take the place of my boy.

[@TR_Ridingz]

Hey, I just want to let you know service dog registrations/certifications aren’t a thing!

[@RogueAPBT]

We have a member in our puppy raising club who became a guide dog puppy raiser to explore the idea of having a guide dog down the road, as her condition is degenerative. So, if a person has a disability that they are managing with other tools, but think they might like having a service dog, volunteering as a raiser or weekend puppy sitter with an organization, is one way to explore what it's like working a service dog in public, what taking care of a dog is like day to day, etc.

[@DoggyU]

This is an excellent tip @RogueAPBT! I also say this for those looking to explore service dog careers!

[@MistaWikked]

This has become my go to video to recommend when people ask about getting a service dog to train.

[@DoggyU]

Oh wow, thank you Mista! I'm so glad you found this video helpful enough to share!

[@gillb9222]

I have minimal spoons but having a service dog (in training) is sooo worth it for me. It allows me to get out of the house and gives me an opportunity to interact with people but also a barrier to people. We can talk about the dog but I can walk away when I need to. I wear a lot of obvious badges (my new collection) stating my hidden disabilities. People tend to be kind or avoid me and either way is fine. I havent had major issues yet but I want to be prepared for when I do. What two questions can you be asked?

[@DoggyU]

(1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform? If you have other questions related to the law, I highly recommend you enroll in my Service Dog 101 course that will give you a full understanding of your rights under the ADA, FHA and ACAA, along with a ton of other useful etiquette and service dog lifestyle information. It's now on presale at a significantly discounted price. You can find it here: courses.doggyu.com/

[@i4nc4]

Most helpful video I’ve come across on a long time. When maintaining a sit, it’s not my dog I have to manage but the public. The entitlement of some people is astounding

[@kathkor]

I am in line to receive a service dog from Canine Companions. These videos are helping me to prepare for this new phase of my life. Thank you for taking the time to help educate me.

[@DoggyU]

I'm so glad you're finding them helpful! I wish you the best of luck with your new service dog partner! Remember to take it slow and that there will definitely be ups and downs! It typically takes 6-12 months to really bond and understand eachother as a team. You got this!

[@NLianes]

"Physically try to take my dog" 😮 !OH!MY!

[@khanhhm5762]

Yes. That actually happened to me several times. The first was when I was living in California in the Bay Area. I was walking through the streets of Berkeley at a rapid pace and mining my own business when this person came up from behind me and actually tried to grab the harness out of my hand, insisting that my dog was stolen from them. I pointed to the harness handle where it clearly said: The Seeing Eye and asked if the person would like me to call the school so they could verify that she, the person, was actually a graduate. That was almost 20 years ago. The last time a similar incident happened to me, I had learned self-defense and managed to punch the person in the stomach, pushing them back away from me. They were completely offended, like how could I, a blind woman, have the right to punch someone? Probably because my space was being invaded and I didn't appreciate somebody trying to grab my dog? I mean, what a concept.

[@leninumberger1336]

Thank you so much! My first Service dog (in training) is only 7 months old so all these things are new to me and this video was very helpful for me! (We are from Germany)🐾🐕‍🦺🤍

[@DoggyU]

Love it! So glad the video was helpful!

[@AmandaDenman-uv7ml]

Thankyou, I'm disabled and trying to train my mobility dog with limited resources. Training in a wheelchair is difficult but I am learning.

[@DoggyU]

Donna Hill has a course on training heeling with a wheelchair if you're looking for a course that might be helpful. I also have a bunch of free resources on the "service dog" playlist on KZbin. Good luck on your training journey!

[@atyourservicedog]

This is an excellent video and you touched on many important topics often overlooked. 😊

[@DoggyU]

So glad you enjoyed it!! Thanks for leaving a nice comment

[@viodore6565]

I'm from Germany and we have to get tested and they are currently in the process of distributing official badges for service dogs. But that's not what I want to share, instead I want to share an embarrassing story about my service dog. My sweet girl Dora had just passed her service dog test and we where going shopping in an Aldi during winter. To protect her paws I put on some shoes and she was not happy. We were in the store and I was picking out something from a shelf and I looked down and Dora had crawled into a shelf was lying down chewing on her shoes and trying to get them of. I was so embarrassed. She didn't want to come out 😅 other people were laughing and as a new handler I was worried I was going to be kicked out, luckily I wasn't.

[@DoggyU]

Ah yes, conditioning dogs to wear boots can definitely be a lengthy process. Hoping to do a video on it once I get my new pup! Congrats on passing your SD test!

[@viodore6565]

@@DoggyU thanks. She is actually almost at retirement age by now and I am on my second service dog in training. Using your videos to get her ready for her qualifying examination, since she struggles with reactivity. They have been helping us a ton. We wouldn't be able to afford regular training sessions with a dog trainer, so you are our life saver and since I found your channel her reactivity has gone from reacting to everything to mostly dogs in a month. If you ever get around to it, we would really appreciate content on training as a wheelchair user or training for people with impaired mobility. We do try to adapt your advice, but sometimes it is difficult to do so safely or effectively. Love your videos and thanks for making it so accessible to everyone ❤️

[@DoggyU]

@@viodore6565 Thank you so much for this note!

[@DoggyU]

@@viodore6565 also congrats on the huge increase on neutral behavior!!

[@viodore6565]

@@DoggyU thank you so much. I will check it out ❤️

[@Sprinkls.]

My therapist and doctor have recently suggested a service dog, I’ve been doing a lot of research and this video was great! Thanks so much

[@DoggyU]

So glad this video was helpful! I highly recommend you check out my Service Dog 101 course before diving into service dog prospect acquisition or training. It will give you everything you need to know BEFORE you get a prospect and start the training process and can help training and working a service dog go much more smoothly: courses.doggyu.com/

[@robinbyrd4430]

Thank you sooo much for this video and info. I’m currently training my own service dog. Your videos have been a blessing of help. 🥰🐾💯👍🏾

[@DoggyU]

Thank you Robin! So glad you are finding them helpful! This comment made my weekend

[@laurenb3928]

Thank you so much for this! I have a trainer for my service dog, who doesn't work on public access with us but leaves it for me to do myself which is really hard with my social anxiety and having POTS and I don't really know what to do. I have a Lab and people think that means they can just run up on us and pet him, despite my very clear Service Dog in Training vest, Which then causes him to bark because he loves attention, then I have a panic attack and freeze up, which he senses and then he barks louder to get people away from us.. which usually works because he sounds more like a wolf than a cuddly Lab so then people either run from us or start yelling at me for not having my service dog under control and that he's not a real service dog and I just want to bring my dog with me to the store... yea, because this is fun...

[@DoggyU]

Hi Lauren, That sounds really frustrating. I would try to find a trainer that can help you with your public access work. Not sure what area you're in, but I would check out Atlas Assistance Dogs and see if there is a trainer in your area.

[@laurenb3928]

@DoggyU thank you! Im in Virginia. I've never heard of that before so I'll look 😀

[@janhankins911]

Adolescence!!! I have an adolescent right now and I'm definitely feeling frustrated--and he isn't going to be a service dog, "just" a pet. We went to a dog supply store today and he was doing great on leash--until he wasn't. His cue is "with me". "With me?" he asked. "What does that mean?". "Sit??? I've never heard that word before in my life, you moron human". ARRGH!! I just have to keep reminding myself that this, too, shall pass.

[@DoggyU]

Absolutely! Just keep at it, stay consistent - it will come back! But also give yourself and your dog a break when needed! I had two weeks when CoolWhip was a teen that I did zero training and just walked with her in the woods daily. One day she woke up and wasn't having such a hard time anymore LOL! I wish you the best of luck :)

[@irritatedslightly]

Ahhhh! I have an adolescent dog as well. She forgot how to listen to us. She came perfectly, sat perfectly when she was a puppy. I SHOULD HAVE STARTED SD TRAINING WHEN SHE WAS A PUPPY.

[@earth2wendy]

Loved this! Kuusisto’s book “Planet of the Blind” about obtaining and living with a service dog was also an eye-opener for me. Today at the park a gal with a lovely adolescent golden lost control of him and he ran up to my dog. We had a delightful chat-she was trying so hard, it is her first dog, she had a prong collar on him… Told her not to worry and to go straight to KZbin channel DoggyU. She asked for the spelling. Hope she follows thru. It’s so nice to be able to confidently recommend your upbeat, engaging DoggyU channel so chock full of valuable content!

[@DoggyU]

Aww Wendy thank you so much spreading the word

[@earth2wendy]

@@DoggyU Ha-just assumed you had. :-) It was passed around my family-all enjoyed it very much. He has a new one, “Have Dog, Will Travel.” Have just begun it. He gets right into the topic of his first guide dog, Corky. He’s a wonderful writer!

[@haventli]

It's bizarre to me that someone would try to take a well behaved dog away from their owner simply because they felt the dog was not welcome. I'm so sorry this kind of thing happens to folks woth service dogs. 😢

[@DoggyU]

Unfortunately, the situation was that the people were either elderly and/or confused/in crisis and thought the dog was their dog/telling them to take my dog and the people got physical. It was an unfortunate situation for everyone.

[@haventli]

@@DoggyU I stand by my bizarre comment then. That is so unfortunate. But thank you for sharing, it gives us more edge cases to train for.

[@GrannyLovesSquares]

Awesome video!

[@Trentonpage]

Good video, I've had some of these situations in public.

[@silverwolf2666]

I have 2 dogs I'm trying to train for myself and my daughter. I cannot afford the cost of formal training,even for basic skills. They both already understnad and follow some commands like sit, roll over,etc. However, the beagle is so easily distracted and always wants to explore, or is so excited that he never stops wagging his tail. My little Yorkie mix is much easier to work with and although she occasionally barks at other dogs during a walk, she usually can be brought back into focus. My problems are as follows: 1) I am in a situation where the HUD apartment I'm in is demanding documentation for our animals (they want specific forms filled out from doctors, which none of our doctors will do). My understanding of the ADA law is that documentation isn't required,nor can it be requested. 2) Are there any scholarships or other programs available to cover the costs of training service animals for low income individuals (receiving SSI disability only)? 3) If I can't get any doctor to sign the documents that the apartment is demanding(which I think is illegal for them to demand), what other options are there? My daughter and I both have mental and physical disabilities.

[@analarson2920]

Speak to your governors office for guidance

[@Ausgar-yc1yl]

Wrong. They CAN demand a drs letter. Thy are not service animals.

[@kris8606]

I subscribed to your patreon yesterday! :D

[@DoggyU]

Thanks Kris! I very much appreciate the support! Patreon folks like you are what allows me to put out new videos every week

[@corybourrier9722]

WOOOO New Doggy-U Content 😎 💪

[@DoggyU]

Thanks Cory

[@The.Rambling.Poet.]

Is it possible to train a ptsd dog that if someone yells at the owner, for the dog to bark at the other person to make the yelling stop and hurd their handler in another direction to break tension while also protecting without negative action?

[@The.Rambling.Poet.]

Asking because when people yell, some become triggered and very vulnerable and need a service animal to help guide the owner out of harsh situations before things get out of hand and fight, flight or freeze kicks in out in the open with PTSD patients. I realized sometimes when the wrong people know anothers triggers, they use it to their advantage to make people with ptsd look like the crazy one and get them in trouble in many ways. Is there anyway to train a service animal to de-escalate these kinds of situations? I understand someone could easily say the owners dog “tried to attack” them, though sometimes people press situations amongst others they know are “weak” to manipulate the situation and make the owner and service dog look crazy to their advantage when most of us already feel this way and need a bit of innocent protection in those delicate areas.

[@RRKPL]

I have really enjoyed the posts on your channel and am thinking of joining your Patreon Channel for help training an 11 week old Golden Retriever puppy to be my service dog. I am an amputee mainly in a wheelchair and learning to use a prosthetic. My question is would the training info on your patreon group transfer to wheelchair use?? I have found a number of the other dog training videos though excellent don’t take into consideration the trainer is in a wheelchair. - Thanks, Richard

[@DoggyU]

Hi RRKPL! Thanks for reaching out! So the techniques I use are applicable to all handlers. I use a TON of shaping which typically means a lot of it can be done seated. I also discuss alternative reinforcement methods (food robots, treats on spoons, use of targets etc.). I also can think of a recent video I posted on the "toes" behavior where you teach your dog to put their feet on your feet or on feet on wheelchair to get them close to you for retriever or dressing and undressing the dog. That being said, my specialties are guide dogs and psychiatric service dogs which means I don't have a ton of wheelchair specific content. If you're specifically interested in learning how to best maneuver with a dog and that style of mobility aid I would check out Cooperative Paws and Donna Hill and see what they have available. Also, with my Patreon you can always stop at any time so if you don't find it useful you can always become a "free" member after a month. Hope that helps! And thank you for considering :) Happy Training!

[@RogueAPBT]

I have a video idea. I would love to see you showing how you deal with a fearful or just reluctant reaction from a puppy in training, for example, to a new surface, odd objects, loud noises.

[@DoggyU]

Hey Rogue! I'm a huge advocate of shaping through these challenges. Are you over on Patreon? I can think specifically about two videos that address that topic. One is working through fear of a blow dryer in a bathroom with a guide dog, and another is how I shape surfaces with a cookie tin with CoolWhip. www.patreon.com/posts/fixing-blow-58587676

[@flanpurin]

this is awesome help thanks

[@DoggyU]

So glad you found it helpful! Happy Training!

[@krisvanallen]

I know I will have problems with: 1. having a Havanese for a service dog 2. being that she is a psych service dog that needs to be able to be held in my hands. so many say 'oh I have anxiety, too. I should get a dog.' Too many claim anxiety for just having worries, not something debilitating.

[@dianebekel9326]

I’m training a Havanese as a psychiatric service dog as well. I’m with you on this.

[@EpsilonAD]

A helpful clip. Thank you.

[@purestll]

I think a service dog could help me , except I don’t think my problems are “bad” enough to get one. I do have a question though, one, can you ask for one or does the therapist/doctor ask you to get one. Second, can you pay over time for a service dog or do you have to pay in one sitting. Third, Is buying or training them easier. And fourth, is 10-12 a age gap where you can have a service dog or do you have to be 14+?? Oh and fifth, do you just get a random dog to train, or do they come like ready to train?/trained a little bit

[@DoggyU]

Hi Miss Meow! A lot of these things really depend on your situation. I recommend you check out resources from assistancedoginternational.org and atlasdog.com to learn more. There are many considerations before getting a service dog, and that is doubly so if you're under 18. Check out my service dog playlist for more info on service dogs: kzbin.info/aero/PLOv3ykszW9t_P03C0kEjhgslbjhTeZVLq

[@critterkid12]

my service dog is a short haired border collie . we get the people question alot

[@sharonkaminski5517]

Hi I’ve been looking for a service dog trainer. In Ct. . Elsie is my almost two year old golden. We have been training her to be a therapy dog with some helping our granddaughter who has cerebral palsy. There are some things that Elsie does that. Makes me think she could be trained for some tasks

[@EnthusiasticDeer-be8nl]

You are soooo right....a lady told me my husky is Akita not a husky,she knows by his fluffy tail.I told her both breeds have fluffy curled tails.She insisted that he has the tail of,and is actually an Akita.I said,ok, we'll talk again soon.

[@nancyjennings9694]

I also have a husky as my serrvice dog. People have told me that huskies are "not trainable becauase they're stubborn and independent" My girl is beauitfully trained and fully compliant with every request I make of her. Oh, yes, and she's not a wolf.

[@Lemongirl6815]

hey! i’m thinking of getting a service dog because i feel it would really help my anxiety, ptsd, panic attacks, etc. i want to get a border collie but i’m wondering if that would be the best dog for the tasks!

[@SleepyMushie]

Question: For someone who is looking to buy a service dog, for anxiety, and aggressive scratching, i've done research, and all that crap. I was wondering would it be 100% work spending 20-30k bucks for it? I mean i'd have someone from making sure i don't leave rashes, and feel safe in areas. It could just be me, but when meeting new people my heart rate ZOOMS in the sky, and goes quick. Idk if its just because i'm bad with people, but idk if i should get one, which is also why i'm asking. Many of my friends said it was a good idea, and would benefit me a lot, as it'll help me with a lot of shit. I just want someone who has a SA's(service animal's) perspective, to help me figure it out

[@DoggyU]

Hi Demon Shamerock, Unfortunately, I'm not able to answer the question because it's highly personalized. However, I recommend you discuss this with both your medical team, as well as book a consult with a local service dog trainer who will be able to better understand your situation as well as your goals. This would be the best way to help figure out if a service dog is right for you. Best, Laura

[@bebeboule]

Do you have any tips for how to meet other service dog handlers in your area (san diego)? I've looked for meetups/fbook groups online, but can't find anyone! I know they have to be out there. Thank you!

[@DoggyU]

It can definitely be a challenge to meet other handlers. I would call local service dog trainers/organizations as they sometimes know the groups that are around. Alternatively, you could make your own meetup! San Diego is pretty populated. I'm sure there's people just like you looking to train and hang out together! The other place you can meet other dog people is at training facilities. Most won't be service dog handlers, but some will, and taking classes in things like Rally can be a great way to meet people who are also interested in training!

[@asecretcourtofcrowsandcloc4084]

This is very well explained, you’re right it definitely is a lifestyle with many complexities and considerations. This is a random question but do you have any service dog vests which you no longer use that you would consider giving away

[@DoggyU]

Hi Secret Court - unfortunately I don't - If I have used gear I don't need I tend to give it to my in-person clients

[@asecretcourtofcrowsandcloc4084]

@@DoggyU that makes sense. I was just curious

[@anthonygillespie1844]

Thank U for UR videos . I have a service animal ,but I need help getting her too retrieve things on the floor . I have a bending problem but she will Not put things in her mouth , I stopped that tearing up Items when she was a pup Now she won't put things in her mouth off the floor or ground I need assistance in Myrtle Bch SC .

[@DoggyU]

Hi Anthony! I actually have a three-part retrieve series over on my Patreon when you join at the Inner Circle or Elite level. You can join at Patreon.com/doggyu. Donna Hill also has a service dog retrieve course that you might find helpful! I'm not near SC so I don't have any trainer recommendations near you. But you can check out Atlas Assistance Dogs to see if there's a trainer from there nearby.

[@mackenziebiegler848]

I have epilepsy and anxiety. I am hoping that getting a service dog will decrease my stress so that i have less seizures. I live in Illinois, but i have no starting point for locations or cost cuz i cant drive. Any helpfull tips for me? I work like 15 min by bike also. I am also a Physical therapist assistant, could i use my service dog as a therapy dog?

[@DoggyU]

I generally don't recommend you use your service dog for therapy work until you've built a strong relationship after a few years, as this can sometimes be challenging for the dog to understand when they are supposed to be social and greet people vs. not. Better to stick to service dog work for a while. As far as finding a service dog, I'd highly recommend looking at ADI programs that might fit your needs: assistancedogsinternational.org/

[@robincarle4945]

I am considering getting a service dog, but I am on SS disability and I don't have the kind of income for a dog from a breeder. I do have some experience with basic training , and I will probably do most of the training myself, but when it comes to finding a dog, I'm wondering if I should include the local humane society in my search?

[@DoggyU]

Finding the right dog is the highest predictor of success for service dogs. I would either save up for a well-bred health-tested dog, or look at adult rescues in breed-specific rescues that are fostered in home. But generally, I always recommend a well-bred dog with service dogs in the lines. Here's a resources on choosing a service dog that might be helpful: www.doggyu.com/post/2022/05/19/how-to-choose-a-service-dog-breeder/

[@ingridkrauskopf4341]

Your channel has helped me a lot! I'm currently looking at a program dog, and although you make a lot of content for owner trainers I was wondering if you have any recommendations for fundraising? Also give Whip and Jake a boop for me :)

[@DoggyU]

Hey Ingrid! I'm so glad you're enjoying the channel! I don't have a ton of tips on this but I would check if ADI has any resources on this and/or work with a school who perhaps has grants that you might be able to apply for. I'm sorry I can't be of more assistance!

[@Dallaswife1]

Hi Laura I had a chihuahua that was a PSD and I had an employee at Walmart here in Indiana that grabbed my PSD dog out of the cart while in the checkout line just to put a box under her I was the one who ended up throwing a fit even more and my panic attack got worse bc of her arguing with me.

[@nancyjennings9694]

service dogs should NEVER be placed in a shopping cart. I know,kids in diapers are put in the kiddie seats but, no dogs in shoppong carts is one of the legal restrictions

[@shannonwhitish8191]

How do I know if my puppy is the right candidate to become a service dog.

[@DoggyU]

This video should be helpful: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f5DSdGaeeLeMerM I also talk extensively about it in my Service Dog 101 course: courses.doggyu.com/p/service-dog-101

[@PepperOnStage]

I have a cattle dog SD (In my pfp for reference) and someone INSISTED that she wasn't a pure cattle dog bc her Bentley Star wasn't prominent enough. another person thought she was a husky puppy

[@DoggyU]

hahaha - not a prominent enough Bentley is a hilarious claim🤣

[@patriciabellah9392]

Amen I have a teenage half Rough Collie/half Great Pryeneese. Lol driving me crazy one day. Sweetheart the next. Lol

[@alacg1294]

even well trained dogs can behave badly ....yeah. they are dogs first. ideally you respond in a manner that helps your dog learn that's not the time or place.

[@reneemckinnon5731]

Australian here 👋🏽 Cool whip does not look like an Australian Cattle Dog (I had my last blue girl for 16 years and they are extremely common where I live), she does look like a koolie though (I’ve had the pleasure of meeting one). I currently have a bullmastiff/American staffy mix (my assistance/service dog) that many people swear is a boxer 🙄 even people who have known him since his first day with me. I don’t know where people get the audacity to just keep going after they’ve been told they’re wrong multiple times 🤷🏻‍♀️ Cool Whip is gorgeous regardless of breed though ❤

[@DoggyU]

Good eye! CoolWhip is a Koolie :) My black tri colored dog (Jake) is a mostly cattledog X

[@rayellthedruid2971]

My experience with the service dog annoyances, Are what i need help with most. Eatting and drinking on time. AuADHD who else procrastes going potty....not the doggo. 😅 Who gets up at the same time ever morning. Not me....the doggo. ❤

[@flashesadventuresdaybyday8346]

Also we need to normalize that any breed can be a service dog my do flash was retired to an at home service dog because of his breed discrimination and because of his eye problem

[@DoggyU]

Yep! While there are breeds that are more likely, generally, to have the temperament to be successful service dogs, there are definitely individuals of every breed that make excellent service dogs

[@flashesadventuresdaybyday8346]

@@DoggyU yes I agree I am getting a poodle in the next 2 years as a service dog prospect and a sport dog because I know they have a less wash rate and they fit my needs

[@Boone22]

Yesterday during my outing with my SD, customers tried every which way to distract my dog. My dog is cross train as Therapy dog. She senses others peoples pstd or disabilities.

[@daniellejohnson3269]

I have a female Chi that has the potential to be a PSD

[@Scarletlight525]

Just yesterday I had aa boomer proclaim that my dog was a German Shepherd mix... So I said no he's a Belgian Tervueren, that's what I paid for... And the guy once again told his companion that my dog is a German Shepherd mix......

[@DoggyU]

I had someone ask me if Whip was a hyenna cross 😂

[@Scarletlight525]

@@DoggyU I'd have said y es! My dad was taking my boy for an off-duty walk once, when a lady asked him, in an almost accusatory tone "that's not a purebred German Shepherd, is it?!" My dadf, who I got my sassy genes from, without missing a beat, replied "no. He's a GSD/Fox hybrid!" Took the lady like ten seconds to catch on that he was joking.

[@RogueAPBT]

@@Scarletlight525 The answer is always, "wow, good guess!" My pet dog is a Black Mouth Cur Dog, and I just got tired of explaining what that is, so if they say, "Rhodesian Ridgeback mix? Great Dane mix? (whatever) mix?" I just say, "yep!" and move on. It makes them feel superior, and I don't waste my life, lol.

[@Holi429]

This is my reason I hate to go to public with my service dog. I have general anxiety and selective mutism. I draw more attention from strangers because my service dog is well trained, behaved and super adorable. Even, we have a sign up saying “do not talk with the handler.” 😅

[@DoggyU]

Cuteness is such an attractant, unfortunately!

[@RogueAPBT]

I hear you about the cute dog! I raise guide dog puppies, and whenever I have a choice, I say, "black lab, ugly as possible!" because if you get a yellow lab or golden or golden cross, good luck getting through a store on a Saturday, without a billion people and their children stopping to coo and want to pet the dog because it's just "so cute!" It's a little less with a plain black dog, lol.

[@adventureswithcorrine]

Greyhound handler here. Everyone wants to meet her. Putting on her vest helps a little, but not always. She is trained well enough to ignore people in public unless I specifically tell her it is OK to greet a person. Unfortunately, that doesn't stop people from constantly asking. And, saying 'no' has been a huge deal for me to learn (people pleasing was my dysfunctional protection mechanism for most of my life).

[@bettebruce2277]

I think the other diners should have asked that the screaming lady be removed from the restaurant.

[@DoggyU]

And miss the show? LOL! I did have one person stand up for me which was really nice.

[@bearbait7405]

It is a nightmare. Especially when other people try to pass off fake service dogs.

[@LJHLU]

YES people sit there and oh he is so cute and try to pet them! Makes me angry! We know he is cute but if he has his vest on please do not touch or talk to him! Thank You!

[@EminayDrackoness]

Not sure if you have a video on this already but if not can you do a video on prepping a dog for public transit like city busses?

[@DoggyU]

Yes! But it looks like you found it last night! Glad you were able to check it out. You can always search in the search bar on my KZbin page to see if I have a particular video you're looking for. If I don't have it, Donna Hill might. She's always had a great catalogue.