As a service dog handler, it is important to understand both your rights and responsibilities when it comes to working with your service animal. Service dogs are specifically trained to perform tasks that assist individuals with disabilities, and it is crucial to know how to navigate the laws and regulations that protect your rights as a handler.

Rights & Responsibilities of a Service Dog Handler

1. Understanding Legal Rights

• Know the service dog laws in your country (ADA in the U.S., AODA in Canada, Equality Act in the U.K., etc.).
• Public access rights: Service dogs can accompany handlers in businesses, restaurants, public transport, and other public areas.
• Housing rights: Service dogs are allowed in no-pet housing under the Fair Housing Act (U.S.).
• Air travel: Understand airline policies (ACAA in the U.S.) and documentation requirements.
• Employment rights: Employers must provide reasonable accommodations for service dogs in the workplace.

2. What Businesses Can & Cannot Ask

• Allowed questions: “Is this a service dog required because of a disability?” and “What task(s) does the dog perform?” (U.S.).
• Businesses cannot require ID, certification, or proof of disability.
• They may ask a handler to leave only if the dog is out of control or not house-trained.
• Service dogs must be allowed in areas where the public is typically permitted (exceptions: sterile hospital environments, religious institutions).

3. Handler Responsibilities in Public Spaces

• Service dogs must be well-behaved and under control at all times.
• Dogs should not bark excessively, seek attention, or disrupt businesses.
• Handlers must ensure their dog is clean, well-groomed, and healthy.
• Equipment like leashes, harnesses, or tethers should be used unless disability prevents it.

4. The Ethics of Having a Service Dog

• Using a service dog comes with responsibility—handlers should not misuse access rights.
• It’s important to correct misbehavior rather than make excuses.
• Be an advocate for legitimate service dogs by discouraging fake or poorly trained ones.

5. Interacting with the Public

• Expect curiosity, questions, and occasional challenges from businesses.
• Educating others (when necessary) can help normalize service dogs.
• Be prepared to politely decline petting or distractions.
• How to handle confrontation: staying calm and knowing when to escalate (e.g., reporting violations).

6. Traveling with a Service Dog

• Research accommodations, transport policies, and legal requirements in different locations.
• Carry necessary documents, especially for international travel.
• Plan ahead for dog relief areas and handling long trips.

7. Access Challenges & How to Handle Them

• Know how to respond if denied access (firm but polite education, filing complaints if necessary).
• Carry printed copies of laws or digital resources.
• Use de-escalation techniques if met with hostility.

8. Housing & Service Dogs

• Landlords must allow service dogs, even in no-pet housing (U.S.).
• No extra pet fees or deposits can be charged.
• Emotional support animals (ESAs) do not have the same rights as service dogs.

9. Workplace Rights & Responsibilities

• Employers must accommodate service dogs unless it causes undue hardship.
• Co-workers should not interfere with the dog’s work or care.
• Handlers must ensure their dog is non-disruptive in the workplace.

10. Fake Service Dogs & the Impact on Legitimate Teams

• The rise of fake service dogs creates public mistrust.
• Misbehaving “service dogs” make it harder for legitimate teams to access spaces.
• Handlers can help by setting an example with well-trained service dogs.