The number of service animals out there working hard every day is staggering.
From alerting their handlers to medical conditions to soothing those suffering from mental health disorders, they can do much to help people in their daily lives. No matter what your disability is, there’s a service animal uniquely suited to assist you that you’re sure to fall in love with.
If you want one for yourself, you must learn how to choose a service dog. Keep reading as we break down everything you have to know.
Check If You Need a Service Dog
There are a few things to consider when checking if you need a service dog. One is if you have a disability that limits your ability to do activities of daily living. This could include physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other disabilities.
Another thing to consider is if you have been professionally diagnosed with a disability that would benefit from a service dog. If you have not been professionally diagnosed, you may not be able to get a service dog. You must talk to your doctor or a disability counselor to see if you qualify.
Research Dog Breeds
Do your research to find the right breed for you. Service dogs have many different breeds, each with unique skills and abilities.
You must also consider what your service dog needs to do for you. Then research more breeds known to excel in those areas. For example, if you need a service dog to help you with balance, breeds such as a Labrador Retriever or a Golden Retriever might be a good choice.
Once you have narrowed your choices, talk to breeders, trainers, and other service dog owners to get first-hand information about each breed. With the right research, you can find the perfect service dog.
Find a Reputable Source to Choose a Service Dog
When choosing a service dog, you must check if it’s from a reputable source. There are many scams, so you must be sure you are working with a legitimate organization.
Get referrals from people you know who have service dogs before. You can also look for online reviews.
Once you have found a few potential sources, you can contact them. Ask questions about the dog’s training methods, policies, and fees. Be sure to visit their facilities and meet their dogs to ensure they are a good fit for you.
Train Your Service Dog
Training your service dog is essential in choosing the right animal for the job. A variety of schools offer service dog training, and the type of training will vary depending on the needs of the individual. Once you have found a school, the next step is to work with a trainer to develop a training program for your service dog.
This program should be tailored to your individual needs. It should be designed to help your service dog perform the necessary tasks.
The Best Service Dog for Your Needs
If you’re considering a service dog, congratulations—you’re about to embark on a beautiful journey of companionship and independence! This guide has provided you with everything you need to know about how to choose a service dog.
With this guide, you’ll be equipped to choose a service dog that perfectly fits your lifestyle. You can also get the help of a reputable service dog organization. They can help match potential handlers with the right dog for their needs.
Ready to get started? Let’s jump in!
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