Officially forming the theory that the reason more service dog handlers don't use protective gear like boots, goggles, and ear protection on their dog is because the public becomes 3000% more unbearable when they try.
We're all used to "aaaaawwww look the the doggo" when we go out with our working animals, but getting
1. Accosted for pictures (whether folks ask or just invade your space and distract your dog)
2. Pointed at like an exhibit
3. Shouted at (OMG DOGGLES, "why is it wearing that" etc)
4. Actively followed around by strangers
Is downright fucking awful.
I know it looks cool. I know some of our gear is specialized. I know pet dogs don't usually wear/tolerate what SDs learn the wear. But for the love of whatever you deem holy, BE KIND ABOUT IT. All of the actions listed above are just fucking rude. Leave people alone. Leave service dogs alone.
Disabled people can exist without being spectacles
Being a veteran does not exempt you from service dog laws
Being disabled does not exempt you from service dog laws
If your dog is not trained to perform tasks that mitigate and help manage a disability, and it does not know how to behave calmly in public, it is NOT a service dog.
If your dog is not a service dog, it does not have the right to be in places pets are not allowed.
Following trained service dogs with your untrained pet is not okay.
Being a jackass about it does not change the laws either.
Ngl, I was very nervous getting and training a dog to protect me when I'm out in the field, but it became very clear it was necessary if I wanted to continue with what I do for work. I was not expecting to bond with her the way I have, but I'm so obsessed with this girl it's not even funny 🥰
Mack hurt himself chasing cows a few years back and I’m betting his bones feel like mine so he gets to sleep beside my bed these winters. Still smells like cow shit so he sure as hell isn’t getting in!