Blogwire | United States Service Dog Registry

Have PTSD? There's an app for that.

2011-07-12T09:40:00.000-05:00

PTSD is a very complex issue. Sometimes, those who have it aren't even aware at first. Others are aware, but aren't sure what to do about it, or are reluctant to seek help for fear of appearing weak. Perhaps they feel like they should feel lucky, that there's others out there that have it worse, and that they should try to ignore how they feel. Sometimes, the moments alone are the worst. But now, if you have a smartphone, you've now got a new tool in your pocket.

The Defense Centers of Excellence's National Center for Telehealth and Technology (T2) and the Veteran Administration's National Center for PTSD have developed a smartphone app to assist veterans, active duty personnel and civilians who are experiencing symptoms of PTSD.

The app is intended to be used as an adjunct to psychological treatment but can also serve as a stand-alone education tool.

Key features of the app include:

Self-Assessment: Self-assessment of PTSD symptoms with individualized feedback, and ability to track changes in symptoms over time. The assessment does not formally diagnose PTSD.

Manage Symptoms: Coping skills and assistance for common kinds of post-traumatic stress symptoms and problems, including systematic relaxation and self-help techniques.

Find Support: Assistance in finding immediate support. The app enables individuals to identify personal sources of emotional support, populate the phone with those phone numbers, and link to treatment programs. And in an emergency, users can quickly link to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.

Learn about PTSD: Education about key topics related to trauma, PTSD, and treatment.

Available on the Android Market and Apple iTunes

Today is PTSD Awareness Day

2011-06-27T15:28:00.000-05:00

Today is PTSD Awareness Day. Established in 2010 by the United States Senate, to hopefully raise public awareness about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

This “What is PTSD?” infographic, designed by the University of Southern California School of Social Work outlines the symptoms, causes and treatments for the various types of traumatic events.

Please click to enlarge.

Would you like a free photoshoot of you and your Service Dog?

2011-05-31T11:12:00.000-05:00

Your Service Dog is ready for it's closeup, Mr. DeMille!

Lacey Rabalais, a professional photographer in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, contacted us with a wonderful offer to donate her time to take photos of disabled individuals and their Service Dogs. The dogs will be featured on her website and blog.

Lacey amazing photographer. Her relaxed, journalistic-style images are inspiring and the way she captures light is beautiful.

Because she is graciously volunteering her time we ask that you be able to travel to Louisiana. If your Service Dog is fully trained (no Service Dogs in Training, please) you may contact her or us for more information.

All images below are owned by Lacey Rabalais.

How does someone become a Service Dog trainer?

2011-05-12T10:42:00.000-05:00

First of all, please forgive us for not updating our blog sooner. We have a new blog in the works and haven't wanted to update this one. Our budgets are very limited and programming is very expensive.

A certified dog trainer just emailed us and asked how she could become a certified Service Dog trainer. We sent her a short response and thought it would make an interesting blog post.

Service Dog Trainer Schools
There are a few dozen schools around the country that train Service Dog trainers. Most are small and began with experienced dog trainers (some began with training Military Working Dogs, Police Dogs or other working dogs) who moved into training Service Dogs for disabled individuals and then decided to help train trainers too. One of the best places to learn how to become a Service Dog trainer in the country (and possibly the world) is Bergin University. If you're really looking for the finest Service Dog training education possible, Bergin is the hands-down go-to school.

There is no "federally recognized" certification for Service Dog trainers. Private schools or individual trainers who train other trainers "certify" their graduates as having passed their individual courses. Those trainers then go on to train Service Dogs and may "certify" that they have passed their training course once they graduate too.

Are there standards for training Service Dogs?
The Service Dog community has come up with minimum training standards for Service Dogs that we and most other trainers follow. Assistance Dogs International is an internationally-recognized private organization and the small handful of organizations who have earned their prestigious accreditation are the gold standard of Service Dog training. Unfortunately, those programs aren't capable of supplying Service Dogs for every disabled individual. Without other private organizations and trainers many disabled individuals would be denied Service Dogs.

About Service Dogs and the ADA
The ADA is written to allow disabled individuals to use their Service Dogs in public with as few barriers as possible. If access were not as open, every building, restaurant and dry cleaner in the country could stop disabled individuals with their Service Dogs and demand proof of training. The ADA specifically states that if someone says their dog is a Service Dog they are to be taken at their word, regardless if it has been certified by a state or other authority. See below:

The ADA states in section § 35.136 Service animals part (f) "A public entity shall not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal."

You can view the full ADA law here: http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/titleII_2010/titleII_2010_withbold.htm

The ADA is also designed so that disabled individuals may train their own Service Dogs. Program-trained Service Dogs can be very expensive and out of many disabled individual's budget. Some Service Dogs may cost upwards of $10,000. The U.S. Department of Justice recently held open voting to revise the ADA and the updated version was just released last year. It eliminated animals other than dogs and miniature horses and officially included Psychiatric Service Dogs which can help with severe depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

About the Registry
Registering with us voluntary and is not required by law, nor do we provide any legal protection. Please note that we do not certify or authorize anyone to use a Service Animal. The privilege to use a Service or Assistance Animal is granted, under the law, by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and local governments.

Our focus is to help encourage education, training and exemplary behavior. Since the ADA was written in 1990, some disabled and non-disabled individuals have chosen to either knowingly or unknowingly claim their insufficiently-trained pet is a Service Animal, either by just saying it is, since no documentation is required, and/or by purchasing patches, vests, ID tags or other equipment at local pet stores or online.

Because the federal law states that there is no paperwork required, we were designed with input from the Service Dog community as an attempt to help reduce the number of people abusing the ADA by requiring our Registrants to understand that misrepresenting an animal as Service or Assistance Animal for any reason is not only unethical, it is also illegal. All of our Registrants are required to read and accept the following:

- What is involved with training and using a Service or Assistance Animal
- How important their behavior, and that of their Service or Assistance Dog, is to the general public and other Service and Assistance Animal teams
- The definition of a Service or Assistance Animal
- The Minimum Training Standards for a Service or Assistance Animal
- What is involved with a Public Access Test
- Our Terms and Conditions

Help for military spouses dealing with PTSD

2010-08-26T16:43:00.000-05:00

Author Shawn Gourley

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Shawn Gourley has written a new book titled “Being A Military Spouse: Stand By Your Soldier” to spread awareness of spouses dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It will give an understanding of what it is like living with a veteran who has PTSD through her personal experience.

The book is expected to be released on September 10, 2010 on her Facebook fan page Military with PTSD. Fans will get a free copy as a digital download.

In this book you will find Shawn’s fight to save her husband and family from PTSD. Through her story, you will feel her struggles and pain when dealing with a loved one who suffers from PTSD. Gourley shows the symptoms of PTSD that her husband was experiencing, and the struggle to get help for it. This book will provide hope and understanding to many families.

Many books have been written where an individual veteran tells his story, but Gourley tells her own story in this book. She goes into great detail about the hell her family was living in. By hearing this story, spouses and families learn they are not alone, and they learn how she dealt with the trauma they are experiencing. Her story also will help loved ones understand what her husband has experienced and why those experiences have resulted in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Honesty is a great strength of “Being A Military Spouse: Stand By Your Soldier.” Gourley is completely honest and tells all in her story. She allows her husband’s military experience to be told as she highlights points showing her husband’s changing attitude as events were happening. Then she tells her story as the wife of a veteran, focusing particularly on her husband’s Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and how she and her children coped with it for almost 5 years before they realized what caused her husband’s anger and irrational behavior. Many books have been written about PTSD and many veterans have recounted their stories, but Gourley is the first author I know to tell the story from the spouses point of view; consequently, her book will help many families recognize that their loved one suffers from PTSD, and family members will find they are not alone in how the disorder has affected their families.

Beyond telling her own story, Gourley goes a step further; she includes the frighting story of her daughter who developed secondary PTSD. Many family members develop secondary PTSD as a result of walking on eggshells around their loved one, never knowing what might set the veteran off. As Gourley shows how everything is a crisis with PTSD. Somehow it is all connected with the war and survival. Something as simple as startling a veteran can make him go into survival mode and become violent, or he may be irritable over something as small as the noise from something accidentally falling. Family members begin to live in fear of setting off the veteran’s anger, which makes them develop secondary PTSD.

“Being A Military Spouse: Stand By Your Soldier” stands out among books about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder because it is written for both veterans and their families. Anyone who served in a war or who has a loved one who served will find it helpful and eye opening. Gourley has succeeded in opening up communication in families and restoring hope and understanding where before there was confusion and despair. “Being A Military Spouse: Stand By Your Soldier” may help many spouses and families deal with PTSD instead of leaving.

A Presidential Proclamation on the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

2010-07-29T09:59:00.000-05:00

Obama speaking in the East Room

A proclamation by Barack Obama, the President of the United States of America on the anniversary of the American's with Disabilities Act When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law in 1990, a founding truth of our Nation was realized for persons living with disabilities -- that all our citizens are entitled to the same privileges, pursuits, and civil rights. As we mark the 20th anniversary of this historic legislation, we renew our commitment to ensuring that everyone with disabilities can live free from the weight of discrimination and pursue the American dream.

Across our country, Americans with disabilities have enriched and strengthened our Nation. Each day, individuals living with disabilities contribute immeasurably to every aspect of our country's national life and economy, from art to law, science to business, education to technology. Through steadfast determination, they have worked to make our communities more accessible, while empowering others to exercise independence and self-determination in all aspects of their lives. They have also brightened futures for countless young people. Today, children and youth with disabilities have a place in our classrooms alongside their peers, and are graduating with the knowledge and skills needed for postsecondary education and beyond.

Yet, despite the progress made in removing barriers and eliminating discrimination based on disability, on this 20th anniversary of the ADA, we must renew our commitment to achieving equal opportunity for, and the full inclusion of, all people with disabilities. My Administration has taken important steps towards achieving this goal. We have expanded funding for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act so that all of America's children have access to the tools to succeed. Under the health care reforms enacted in the Affordable Care Act, unfair practices like discrimination based on health status or pre-existing conditions will be eliminated. This landmark legislation also creates the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Program to assist Americans with disabilities to live independently. Additionally, the Affordable Care Act provides States with more tools and financial incentives, such as the Community First Choice Option, which will support individuals with disabilities living in the communities of their choosing. These and other initiatives build on the "Year of Community Living," which I launched in 2009 to support independent living.

The Federal Government is committed to leading by example in hiring people with disabilities, with focused efforts to recruit, retain, and support these public servants. In partnership with the many Federal agencies and departments with ADA responsibilities, my Administration will uphold strong and meaningful enforcement of the ADA to eliminate discrimination in employment, housing, public services, and community accommodations. I urge all Americans to visit Disability.gov for comprehensive disability-related information and resources.

I am also proud that the United States has in the past year joined the international community in signing the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. In so doing, we affirm that these rights are not simply principles to safeguard at home, but also universal rights to be respected and advanced around the world.

In honor of and in solidarity with all Americans with disabilities and their loved ones, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of the ADA, and recommit to build a more just world, free of unnecessary barriers and full of deeper understanding.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States do hereby proclaim Monday, July 26, 2010, the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. I encourage Americans across our Nation to celebrate the 20th anniversary of this civil rights law and the many contributions of individuals with disabilities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of July, in the year of our Lord two thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fifth.

Barack Obama

AMVETS applauds VA's new PTSD rules

2010-07-15T20:12:00.000-05:00

Press Release from AMVETS For Immediate Release

VA Eases Evidence Requirements for PTSD Service-Connection
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2010—This week VA published new criteria for veterans seeking service-connected benefits and care for post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. AMVETS applauded the rule change, which drops the “additional evidence” requirements for veterans suffering from the invisible wound. VA has published a Q&A on the new guidelines, which is available on the VA Web site by Clicking Here.

“VA’s new rules will ease the path for veterans to receive the care and compensation they deserve as a result of PTSD,” said AMVETS National Commander Duane J. Miskulin. “AMVETS has been asking VA to waive this requirement for quite some time and we’re happy to see that Secretary [Eric K.] Shinseki is listening.”

AMVETS leaders believe that the new guidelines will eliminate a significant evidentiary hurdle for veterans of all generation who have suffered from PTSD. Before the new guidelines were published in the Federal Register, veterans seeking service-connected benefits for PTSD had to compile evidence of a combat stressor that triggered the condition. Now, veterans must only provide sufficient evidence of serving in a combat zone—such as a DD-214, with the presumption that they were exposed to a traumatic event.

Veterans must also have a diagnosis of PTSD from a VA doctor—a caveat that AMVETS hopes VA will reconsider.

AMVETS leaders would prefer to see VA also accept outside diagnoses of PTSD, similar to how VA accepts other outside medical evidence.
VA clarified that outside medical opinions would be considered in the overall claim, but that a VA doctor must still have the final say. AMVETS leaders said they will continue to work with VA in an effort to ensure that no veteran suffering from PTSD slips through the cracks, regardless of diagnosis.
Cmdr. Miskulin has made military mental health a personal priority for his year as AMVETS National Commander, helping to commission AMVETS Warrior Transition Workshops alongside Freedom & Honor. AMVETS’ workshops offer recently-returned veterans experiential peer-to-peer support outside of VA and Department of Defense channels, allowing veterans to contextualize their experiences, fostering a smooth transition from warrior to citizen.

If you are a veteran in crisis, AMVETS encourages you to call the national suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and press “1” to speak with a live counselor experienced in working with veterans. AMVETS also reminds veterans of the current conflicts that you are entitled to five years of free health care through VA regardless of service-connection.

About AMVETS:
A leader since 1944 in preserving the freedoms secured by America’s armed forces, AMVETS provides support for veterans and the active military in procuring their earned entitlements, as well as community service and legislative reform that enhances the quality of life for this nation’s citizens and veterans alike. AMVETS is one of the largest congressionally-chartered veterans’ service organizations in the United States, and includes members from each branch of the military, including the National Guard and Reserves. To learn more visit www.amvets.org.

21 Dogtopia locations offer free dog washes to Service and Assistance Dogs

2010-07-01T09:52:00.000-05:00

Dogtopia, a national dog day care business is giving back this summer to dogs who work year-round. Through charity dog washes taking place simultaneously July 17 and July 18, Dogtopia has set out to raise $20,000 for working canines.

From California to Virginia, every single Dogtopia franchise location – 21 stores in 10 states – will participate in the company's sixth annual charity dog wash that will raise money for all types of working animals, including Service and Assistance Dogs, police dogs and military dogs serving overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"Budgets in local and national government agencies are strapped right now, which is why it's more important than ever to ensure working police and military dogs get the supplies necessary to do their jobs in as much comfort as possible," said Amy Nichols, CEO and Founder of Dogtopia. "Each year, this charity wash has grown and I am thrilled to see so much participation this summer."

Many Dogtopia franchises have chosen local organizations to partner with for the charity event. In California, for example, the San Marcos location will help raise money for Canine Companions for Independence, a non-profit organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities through trained assistance dogs.

Several Dogtopia locations will also give back to their local police departments' dogs, which play an important role in detecting narcotics and explosives, search and rescue operations, evidence recovery and criminal apprehension in their communities. In addition, the dog is responsible for protecting their police handlers. Proceeds from the Dogtopia dog washes will defer costs for equipment such as ballistic vests, safety harnesses and the outfitting of cars. For dogs serving in the U.S. military, donations go toward money for toys, treats and other comforts such as cooling pads and goggles to deflect the desert sand.

Nichols began her campaign to raise awareness for military dogs, as well as working dogs of all kinds in July 2005. To accommodate the success of the campaign, she established a permanent charitable wing of her company called K-9 Support. To date, K-9 Support has raised more than $45,000 for working dogs, as well as sending more than 7,000 lbs of supplies overseas.

This year, locations in San Marcos, CA; Temecula, CA; Pleasanton, CA; Highlands Ranch, CO; Houston, TX; Waco, TX; Austin, TX; Wilmington, DE; Omaha, NE; Munster, IN; Nashville, TN; Cary, NC; N. Raleigh, NC; Charlotte, NC; Tysons Corner, VA; Alexandria, VA; Dulles, VA; Manassas, VA; Woodbridge, VA; North Bethesda, MD and Clarksville, MD will participate in the dog wash with a goal of washing at least 100 dogs per location.

Owners can bring their dogs in for a bath, where both can enjoy food and games. Several local businesses have committed to the fifth annual dog wash through donations and representation, including major players in the local canine industry. A $10 per dog wash donation is requested. Proceeds will go to the local Dogtopia franchisee's organization of choice.

About Dogtopia®
Founded in 2002, Dogtopia® prides itself on being a place where pets are valued as family and where dogs enjoy endless playtime and spa treatments in a positive environment. Dog owners have the assurance of leaving their beloved pets in the hands of trained professionals. Dogtopia® staff willingly nurtures each pet with attention and love. Each location offers a variety of fun activities, sociable training and comfortable boarding for dogs of all ages, shapes, sizes, abilities and temperaments.

Service Dogs can help someone injured in a car accident. But what if that injury never occurred?

2010-05-06T15:27:00.000-05:00

If you're reading this blog we're preaching to the choir when we talk about how valuable Service and Assistance Dogs can be to those who have been seriously injured in a motor vehicle accident. From mobility impairments to brain and neurological injuries, Service and Assistance Dogs can be trained to complete indispensable tasks for their disabled owners.

Of course we would love to see more Service and Assistance Dogs trained and placed with disabled people. But what we would love to see even more would be fewer preventable injuries.

Car accidents are the leading cause of acquired disability in the United States. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration hasn't finished estimates for 2009, but their 2008 statistics cite 16 million vehicle crashes resulting in 2,346,000 people injured. Many of these accidents could have been prevented by simply using a seat belt.

There have been two large scale public service announcements in the United States within the past 30 years. The crash-test dummies and currently the click it or ticket campaign. Those campaigns have been successful, but personally, I don't feel their messages have been as beautifully compelling as the brand new PSA from Sussex for Safer Roads Partnership in the United Kingdom (shown below).

So please. Fasten your seat belt. And please make sure your Service or Assistance Dog is secured too.
Visit Bark Buckle Up for more information.

Are you a veteran with a Service Dog who was denied benefits?

2010-04-26T16:08:00.000-05:00

We've heard from several veterans who have had problems with the VA and their Service or Assistance Dogs. Today, the VA clarified a scarcely known benefit in Title 38 Section 1714, offering benefits to veterans using certain types of assistance dogs.

Who can you thank? AMVETS, Luis Montalvan, an OEF/OIF veteran, and Kevin Stone, a Paralympic bronze medalist. Both veterans accompanied AMVETS and partner non-profit assistance dog agency Paws With A Cause on recent meetings with legislators and policy-makers in Washington. Montalvan and Stone have already received approval of benefits for their assistance dogs Tuesday and Mambo.

If you're a veteran with a Service or Assistance Dog and were previously denied — or are awaiting approval — you'll want to reapply immediately. Ask your VA caseworker to file VA Form 10-2641 (internal use only) and proper accompanying paperwork. For more info, view the AMVETS Press Release.

A dog leads an Alaska State Trooper to a burning building

2010-04-23T15:57:00.000-05:00

Service and Assistance Dogs are heroes every single day. But even pets can sometimes be heroes. Today, Friday April 23, a dog will be honored with an engraved silver plated dog bowl for incredibly and bravely leading an Alaska State Trooper to his master's burning workshop. "Buddy", a German Shepherd Dog, will be given the award at the Alaska State Troopers Headquarters building at 5700 E. Tudor Road in Anchorage.

(CASWELL LAKES, Alaska) – Alaska State Trooper Terrence Shanigan's police cruiser dashcam shows a German Shepherd Dog leading the way through winding back roads to a roaring house fire on his owners' property on April 4th.

Click to watch video on YouTube

The Alaska State Troopers said Buddy and his owner, 23-year-old Ben Heinrichs, were in the family workshop when a heater ignited chemicals. Heinrichs told Buddy: "We need to get help." The dog eventually found a trooper responding to a call about the fire.

Buddy's master Heinrichs suffered minor flash burns on his face. The workshop was destroyed and the house suffered minor damage.

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"Through a Dog's Eyes" PBS special on Service Dogs airs tonight!

2010-04-21T15:25:00.003-05:00

We're so excited — Through a Dog’s Eyes, narrated by Neil Patrick Harris, airs tonight on your local PBS station. The documentary follows a handful of people as they journey through the heartwarming and often challenging process of receiving their service dogs.

Jennifer Arnold, founder of Canine Assistants, discusses her teaching methods and the life-changing impact these dogs have on the recipients and their families. She gives us a glimpse of puppy-rearing and training, and takes us inside the intense and sometimes nerve-wracking experience of matching people with their dogs. Ádám Miklósi, Ph.D., one of the world’s foremost experts in dog cognition, also discusses the science behind Jennifer’s training philosophy.

Your formally-trained Service or Assistance Dog may qualify for a free eye exam

2010-04-13T12:31:00.000-05:00

If your Service or Assistance Dog is currently in training, or has been formally trained by a national, regional or local organization you may qualify to get a free eye exam, sponsored by the the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO)! This is their third year for this program and it's open to all formally trained working dogs including service and assistance dogs, police K-9s, search and rescue dogs and more.

The ACVO is developing a database that can be used in the future to identify potential eye problems associated with the tasks that certain groups of working dogs perform. Your working dog may be eligible to participate in this study. To find out if you qualify, please register on their website.

The United States Service Dog Registry is proud to announce that we're an official supporter of the ACVO/Merial National Service Dog Eye Exam! The Registry is a form of self-identification, not proof of training, so you will need to provide a formal training certificate in addition to your registration if you wish to participate.

Internet-enabled dog collars and pill boxes help you keep on track

2010-03-25T14:07:00.001-05:00

Have you ever lost your Service Dog? Do you need reminders to take your pills? AT&T looks to be trying to expand their market by offering products that help use the Internet and wireless technology to assist with everyday problems.

From AT&T's Press Release
Apisphere, Inc., a leading provider of location-smart technologies for mobile applications and devices, and AT&T* today announced an agreement to wirelessly connect a location-smart animal collar to help pet owners keep track of their pooches.

The dog collar, with an embedded wireless SIM, will leverage Apisphere’s geo-mobility platform to transmit location-aware data across AT&T’s nationwide wireless network directly to a pet owner’s wireless handset or personal computer.

Owners may establish a geo-fence around the home where the pet can roam freely. Through the technology, owners can continuously track Fido’s movements with the virtual geo-fence, or locate him on demand if he strays outside of his established parameters.

Apisphere software will transmit street level data for easy pet location. Owners will have the option to program text, email, video or audio alerts, to be distributed as often as they like.
”We constantly strive to develop best-in-class products and deliver a seamless user experience. Working with AT&T and the strength and reach of its network enables us to do this,” said Craig Harper, president and founder of Apisphere. “The on boarding process has been effortless, thanks to the AT&T team and the AT&T Control Center software.”

“There are few things as important to my daughter as knowing the whereabouts of our dog,” said Glenn Lurie, president, AT&T Emerging Devices, Resale and Partnerships. “The peace of mind that a wirelessly connected collar will bring my family and pet owners across the country is long overdue. We’re extremely excited about this product and its possibilities.”

The pet friendly collar features a unique integrated design that allows for optimized GPS and wireless performance while virtually eliminating any restrictions on an animal’s weight or neck size.
Pricing, distribution, and design details of the collar will be made available at launch, expected later this year.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

About Apisphere
Apisphere is a location-smart technologies and mobile services platform company leading the charge into the next generation of Mobile application services and M2M. Apisphere’s award winning platform combines Location Smart Messaging solutions, Mobile Marketing, Device Connectivity and other services in a truly individualized, dynamic and location-relevant experience. By applying the core technology from its Location-Smart Messaging (LSM) platform, Apisphere promises to cost-effectively deliver the best Mobile Services Platform that leverages location-based information delivery for the mobile industry today.

See What I'm Saying, Deaf Entertainers Documentary will be in mainstream theaters starting April 9th

2010-03-24T12:29:00.003-05:00

This inspirational and heartfelt documentary follows four well-known entertainers in the deaf community: a comic, a drummer, an actor and a singer as they attempt to cross over to mainstream audiences. These uniquely talented deaf entertainers overcome great challenges on their way to personal triumphs and professional success

Starring:

Bob Hiltermann, a drummer in the world’s only deaf rock band, Beethoven’s Nightmare, produces the largest show in the band’s 30 year history.

CJ Jones, a hugely famous and internationally renowned comic in the Deaf world, but virtually unknown to hearing audiences, fights to, cross over to the mainstream by producing the first international sign language theater festival in Los Angeles.

Robert DeMayo, a brilliant actor who teaches at Juilliard, struggles to survive when he becomes homeless while living with HIV.

TL Forsberg, a hard of hearing, singer finds herself caught between the hearing and deaf communities when she attracts her first major producer to record her first CD “Not Deaf Enough.” Chronicled with rare intimacy and candor, See What I'm Saying: The Deaf Entertainer's Documentary is the first open captioned* commercial film in American history. At the same time it opens the door to deaf culture, allowing the sign language in the film to be accessible to all audiences.

With humor and emotion, director Hilari Scarl captures the many obstacles these performers face daily.

*Definition: Open Captions The term “Open Captions” is used when text is burned-in on the picture, similar to, subtitles for foreign films. Open captions also includes audio descriptors and non-speech, information that assist deaf audiences, such as [phone rings] or a musical note symbol to, indicate song lyrics or background music. Open captions are part of the film and can’t be, turned off, unlike closed captions which can be turned on and off with a decoder. Captions for SEE WHAT I’M SAYING were generously funded by Microsoft.

Mainstream Theater Booking Dates

April 9 - April 15              Mesa, AZ - Harkins Superstition Springs 25

April 9 - April 15              Peoria, AZ - Harkins Arrowhead Fountains 18

April 9 - April 11              Phoenix, AZ - Harkins Christown 14

April 9 - April 11              Denver, CO - Harkins Northfield 18

April 9 - April 11              Chino Hills, CA - Harkins Chino Hills 18

April 16 - April 18            Las Vegas, NV - Century 16 Suncoast

April 16 - April 18            Dallas, TX - Cinemark 17 & Imax Theatre

April 16 - April 18            Abilene, TX - Century Abilene 12

April 16 - April 18            Austin, TX - Tinseltown 17

April 16 - April 18            Elgin, IL - Marcus Elgin Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Gurnee, IL - Marcus Gurnee Cinema

April 16 - April 19            Addison, IL - Marcus Addison Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Oakdale, MN - Marcus Oakdale Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Columbus, OH - Marcus Crosswoods Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Pickering, OH - Marcus Pickerington Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Ashwaubenon, WI - Marcus Bay Park Cinema - Green Bay

April 16 - April 18            Appleton, WI - Marcus Hollywood Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Brookfield, WI - Marcus Majestic Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Menonomee Falls, WI - Marcus Menomonee Falls Cinema

April 16 - April 18            Sturtevant, WI - Renaissance Cinema - Sturtevant

April 16 - April 18            New Berlin, WI - Marcus Ridge Cinema - New Berlin

April 16 - April 18            Saukville, WI - Marcus Saukville Cinema

April 16 - April 19            Madison, WI - Marcus Eastgate Cinema

October 13, 2010 Chico, CA - Focus Film Festival - OPENING NIGHT FILM Director and special guests will be in attendance

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Have you sent in your 2010 US Census form yet? It will help Service and Assistance Dog teams

2010-03-18T17:19:00.000-05:00

Did you know that the information the United States Census collects helps to determine how more than $400 billion dollars (more than $4 trillion over a 10-year period) of federal funding each year is spent on infrastructure, government, community and social service programs — vital programs that help disabled people and Service and Assistance Dog teams.

It's all about statistics
One of the major concerns about participation in the Census is privacy. Title 13 of the U.S. Code protects the confidentiality of all your information. Violating this law is a crime with severe penalties. In addition, other federal laws, including the Confidential Statistical Efficiency Act and the Privacy Act reinforce those protections. Furthermore, all Census Bureau employees take the oath of nondisclosure and are sworn for life to protect the confidentiality of your data.

Besides, participation in the Census isn't optional. It's mandatory by law. So send your form in today. You only have a few days left!

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Need help filling out your form? Call for help!

English: 1-866-872-6868
Chinese: 1-866-935-2010
Korean: 1-866-955-2010
Russian: 1-866-965-2010
Spanish: 1-866-928-2010
Vietnamese: 1-866-945-2010
TDD (Telephone Display Device for the hearing impaired): 1-866-783-2010
Puerto Rico (in English): 1-866-939-2010
Puerto Rico (in Spanish): 1-866-929-2010

Godspeed Charles Israel

2010-02-26T10:13:00.002-06:00

Fifteen-year Oklahoma state Senate employee Charles Israel, who used a Service Dog, suffered a stroke on Tuesday at the capitol. He later died at an Oklahoma City hospital. He was 48.

Charles Israel began work at the Oklahoma State Senate 15 years ago. He was currently employeed as a research analyst and administrator for the Senate's Web site. Israel had muscular dystrophy, used a wheelchair and was assisted by his Service Dog, Hobbes — who was purchased for him through an auction held by his friends and co-workers about a decade ago. Hobbes assisted him at work and home.

The Oklahoma state Senate honored Israel with a moment of silence at the start of Wednesday's session. “Charles epitomized perseverance, courage and dedication in the face of adversity,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee. “We all mourn his passing, and send our heartfelt condolences to his mother, Norma, and his sisters, Jennifer and Sara.”

Friends and co-workers brought flowers and other items to create a memorial outside his office on the third floor of the capitol.

Instead of donations or flowers, please make donations to Paws with a Cause.

Is the cost of training a Service Dog tax deductible?

2010-02-08T14:55:00.000-06:00

Many medical expenses are tax deductible. Any expense that involves prevention, diagnosis, or medical treatment of a physical or mental illness is deductible. Any expense that involves treatment for anything cosmetic is not. We've been asked several times if training for a Service Dog is tax deductible. The answer is: yes! The IRS does allow you to include the costs of buying, training, and maintaining a Service Dog as a medical expense. Please view this on the IRS.gov website.

You are allowed to claim a medical tax deduction for all medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI) for the 2009 tax year. For example, if your AGI is over $40,000, then you would have to pay more than $3000 in medical expenses during the year to qualify. Also, you can only deduct the amount that is in excess of the 7.5%. So, using the previous example, if you had $4000 in medical expenses, you would be able to deduct $1000 from your taxes.

Please note: Of course, we do suggest that you consult with a tax professional and do not rely on us as your sole source of tax advice. If you are ever audited, you may be asked to provide proof that your animal is a Service Dog that qualifies under the ADA. If you train your own animal, the best way to do this is by keeping a record of your training either in some kind of a paper log or online web blog — or a video tape of your Service Dog's completion of the Minimum Training Standards for Service and Assistance Dogs and a Public Access Test like the one available at Assistance Dogs International.

Are you concerned you or someone you know has PTSD? Here's the first step to finding help.

2010-01-29T12:50:00.006-06:00

If you have served in a military conflict recently, you may be wondering if you have symptoms of PTSD or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD can have a profound affect on your every day life — but there is help.

The United States Department of Veteran's Affairs offers a free tool to help screen for PTSD. On the Department's microsite, MyHealthVet, there is a free, anonymous and confidential PTSD Screening Tool. It only takes a few minutes to complete but the results can help you decide whether or not you think you should seek treatment. Once the test is completed you may print them out to share with your physician or other health professional — but the results will not be stored online or sent anywhere.

If you need to speak to a professional emergency crisis counselor, please contact VA’s Crisis Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK. Counselors are available 24/7 at this number.

We're on Facebook!

2010-01-25T10:22:00.007-06:00

We're now on Facebook! Join our Friends of the United States Service Dog Registry page, get Service and Assistance dog news from around the country and connect with others. Just search our name on Facebook and become a fan today!

Looking for a gift for your Valentine? How about a donation to 4 Paws For Ability

2010-01-22T16:55:00.005-06:00

Looking for a great gift for your sweetie this Valentine's day? How about a donation in his or her name to 4 Paws for Ability? The group is suggesting a $25 donation, which they say is cuter than a teddy bear, longer lasting than roses, less costly than jewelry and completely calorie-free.

4 Paws for Ability will use these heartfelt donations to help a child receive a service dog. The enduring, tender bond between a child and a service dog is so meaningful and important to a child. 4 Paws places Autism Assistance Dogs, Signal Dogs, Mobility Assistance Dogs, Seizure Alert and Response Dogs, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Dogs and Diabetic Alert Dogs.

This is the gift your Valentine will remember, it can be displayed throughout the year, is easy to purchase, and tax-deductible. Email works4dogs@yahoo.com with your name and email address, mail your check or money order to 4 Paws for Ability, 253 Dayton Avenue, Xenia, OH 45385, Attention: Valentine, and an email donation certificate will be sent to your email address for printing and delivering to the recipient. This 5 x 7 certificate is perfect for framing.

Your gift to help a child receive a service dog is a gift of never-ending love, and is an enormously affectionate way for you to convey your love for not only your Valentine but someone in need who will fall in love with his or her service dog at first sight. This is a one-of-a-kind gift that will be treasured by all.

Perfect for sweethearts, friends, parents, siblings, children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, classmates, teachers, co-workers, bosses, etc. Make your donation here.

The United States Service Dog Registry has joined the Internet for Peace campaign

2009-11-22T13:40:00.005-06:00

Only a few times in a lifetime does an invention or idea come along that transforms the world. The printing press, penicillin, waste management, the telescope, the calendar and clock, the industrial revolution — the list could go on and on. One of the greatest inventions of our time is unarguably the Internet. It has the power to change lives and disseminate information instantaneously to the entire world. It affects how we live and learn on the most basic of levels.

It also has the ability to connect people together as a powerful force for peace. That's why we're joining Shirin Ebadi, the 2003 Nobel Peace Prize winner, Umberto Veronesi, Georgio Armani, Ricardo Luna, David Luna, Wired Magazine, Citroen, Current TV, Google, Oglivy, Sony Ericson, UnendoEnergia, Vodafone, Fastweb, Fineco, Meet the Media Guru, Telecom Itallia, Tiscali and thousands of independent people just like you to recommend the nomination of the Internet for the Nobel Peace Prize.

“The internet can be considered the first weapon of mass construction, which we can deploy to destroy hate and conflict and to propagate peace and democracy,” said Riccardo Luna, editor-in-chief of the Italian edition of Wired magazine. “What happened in Iran after the latest election, and the role the web played in spreading information that would otherwise have been censored, are only the newest examples of how the internet can become a weapon of global hope.”

We invite you to join the Internet for Peace campaign today by signing their online petition. It costs absolutely nothing and will only take a moment of your time.

Study: number of people living with paralysis equal the populations of Los Angeles, Philadelphia and Washington D.C. combined

2009-11-19T09:44:00.013-06:00

This article was originally published at the the Christopher & Dana Reeve Newsroom

According to a study initiated by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, there are nearly 1 in 50 people living with paralysis — approximately 6 million people. That's the same number of people as the combined populations of Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. And that number is nearly 33% higher than previous estimates showed.

What does this mean?
It means that we all know someone — a brother, sister, friend, neighbor, or colleague — living with paralysis. These aren't strangers. They are only one degree of separation from all of us. But their lives are different. They live with a condition that affects their family life, their ability to work, and their capacity to enjoy even the most routine everyday activities that others take for granted. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation wants to change that.

Identifying the need
In 2004, the Reeve Foundation convened more than 60 of the nation's preeminent scientists, scholars, health advocates, and experts from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the nation's top universities, policy centers, and nonprofit health care organizations to identify what was needed to improve the quality of life for people living with paralysis. This Paralysis Task Force quickly discovered that there was insufficient reliable information about the prevalence of paralysis. Without that information, it would be impossible to devise new or evaluate existing policies, programs, and services for people living with paralysis. As a result, the Task Force's first recommendation for advancing paralysis as a public issue was to build a more robust and comprehensive national knowledge base about it.

Gathering the data
Five years later, that knowledge base has been established, supported by data from a project led by researchers at the University of New Mexico's Center for Development and Disability (CDD) from 2006 to 2008. Researchers designed and conducted an exhaustive survey of more than 33,000 households across the country. More than 30 experts in paralysis and statistics, including those from the CDC and 14 leading universities and medical centers helped to develop and set the parameters for the study. Today, this study represents one of the largest population based samples of any disability ever conducted.

Download the complete 28 page report from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

What are the Minimum Training Standards for Service and Assistance Dogs?

2009-11-05T13:28:00.013-06:00

While not required by law, having proof of completion of these or other similar Minimum Training Standards and a Public Access Test (explained below) for Service and Assistance Dogs in the form of a professional training certificate or video recording may be helpful if challenged on the validity of your Service or Assistance Dog.

Please remember that owning and using a Service or Assistance Dog is a privilege, covered under the law, for disabled individuals who use a dog to help them complete specific physical tasks they would otherwise have difficulty performing on their own. It also comes with great responsibility. Service and Assistance Dogs teams have been granted their rights based on their excellent behavior, politeness, public conduct and the necessary, beneficial and functional tasks the dogs perform for their disabled owners.

Certain types of Service Dogs, such as Psychiatric Service Dogs, will require a doctor’s prescription for airline travel and access to other public areas. Simply registering with us does not qualify an animal or an individual as a Service or Assistance Dog Team or provide any special rights, legal or otherwise. Registration is for personal identification purposes only, similar to an online resume or providing a vest for your dog. Under the ADA, Service and Assistance Dog teams are not required to provide identification materials of any type in most circumstances, including badges, ID cards, dog vests or capes. Registration or membership with any organization is also not required.

Please note that misrepresenting an animal as a Service or Assistance Dog for any reason is not only unethical, but illegal and may be punishable as a misdemeanor. It is also in direct violation of our Terms and Conditions. 

Training 
Training may be completed by yourself, a friend, family member or professional trainer or training organization. It takes about six months to a year (120+ hours) to properly train a Service or Assistance Dog. A full-time professional trainer may be able to train a dog more quickly. Be prepared to spend at least 30 hours of training in a controlled public setting so that the dog will learn to behave obediently and unobtrusively in public. Please remember that you are 100% responsible at all times for the behavior and control of your Service or Assistance Dog, even during training.

Our mantra is document, document, document. We highly suggest keeping a notebook or a blog as a log or record of your training dates and accomplishments. It will not only serve to help you during the training process but will also serve as a useful paper trail for your Service or Assistance Dog.

Note that all states do not grant the privileges of the ADA to Service or Assistance Dogs who are in training. Owners who have Service or Assistance Animals in training may register with us, but are personally responsible for obeying all applicable laws.

 Basic Obedience 
Your dog must obey basic verbal and/or hand signal obedience commands such as Sit, Stay, Come, Down and Heel. When off leash, your dog must come when called.
 Your Dog's Behavior Your dog must also display good behavior and social skills including:

No aggressive behavior toward people or other animals; no biting, no snapping, no growling, no mounting, no lunging and/or barking;
No begging for food or petting from other people;
No sniffing merchandise or people who pass by;
No urinating or defecating in public unless given a command/signal to eliminate in an appropriate place.

Physical Tasks Related to a Disability 
Many disabled people have pets. A Service or Assistance Dog is distinguished from a pet by the specific physical tasks they have been trained to complete. A Service or Assistance Dog is individually trained to complete specific identifiable physical tasks that it's disabled owner has trouble completing for him or herself. In other words, simply having a disability is not enough to qualify a pet as a Service or Assistance Dog. While it is illegal for someone to ask about your disability, they may ask what physical tasks your dog has been trained to complete.

What does it mean to be individually trained?
 Individual training is the process by which a dog is specifically taught a behavior or task through rewards, praise or corrections. Methods may include using treats, clicker training or praise. Natural dog behavior such as protectiveness, barking, licking or comforting an owner are not considered appropriate tasks under the ADA, even if those actions help the disabled owner.

What is a Physical Task? 
A physical task is a chore or behavior that a Service or Assistance Animal performs, on command or cue, to help a disabled person with something that they can not easily do for themselves.

A physical task must also be quantifiable in some way, such as fetching a medicine bottle for someone who is having a seizure, opening doors or drawers for someone who has physical mobility issues or alerting on glucose levels for a diabetic.

Examples of some things that would not be an appropriate physical task would be simply providing companionship, emotional support, guarding, protecting or even tasks performed merely for convenience such as fetching the morning paper.

If you need more clarification, please seek a local Service Dog trainer for help.

Appearance 
Your dog should appear clean and well groomed at all times. Some Service and Assistance Dog handlers feel that a vest or I.D. is very helpful, even though it is not required by law. It is extremely important to look professional at all times.

Your Behavior 
Please remember to be confident, polite, courteous and respectful at all times, even if you encounter someone who is unfamiliar with the ADA. Be prepared to explain what tasks your dog is trained to complete to help manage your disability. You do not need to explain your disability. Keep in mind that the impression you leave with someone may be their only experience with a Service or Assistance Dog team.

Passing a Public Access Test 
The best tool for evaluating a team's readiness to graduate or finish formal training is a Public Access Test like the one available at ADI. It may be administered by a friend or family member, but again, keeping a video recording of your animal passing the test may prove valuable in the future.

How to travel with your Assistance or Service Dog, a step-by-step guide

2009-11-03T15:18:00.017-06:00

It's that time of year again that many of us begin to think about traveling to be with family and friends for the holidays. While traveling with your trained Assistance Animal is your privilege, there are some steps you need to take to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Know what to expect
The Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration has universal guidelines for traveling with your assistance animal. But each airline interprets them slightly differently. The key to success? Always call first!

International traveling
Are you flying out of the country or to an island like Hawaii? Service Animals may need to be quarantined depending on your destination. Check with the airline to find out what the current regulations are for your destination country. Confirm with your airline and ask if there are any quarantines happening that you need to be aware of.

Some people are uncomfortable flying, and so are some animals
Even the best trained Assistance Animal may have difficulty flying and you need to judge your own animals temperament before you consider flying. If you are at all concerned about how your assistance animal will react to flying consider driving, Amtrak or Greyhound. Please note that Psychiatric Service Animals may also require special documentation from your doctor in the form of a letter.

Contact your airline before you travel
The crew may need to make preparations for your boarding, so you must call to make them aware of what type of animal you use. The agent may also be able to help you select the most comfortable seat for you and your animal. Find a direct flight if possible because it will make for an easier experience for you and your animal.

We've provided some links to the major carriers to make your life easier. Carrying certificates of training or identification cards, such as the ones we provide will help speed things along.

Before you arrive, limit water and exercise your assistance animal
Most likely, it will be a long time before you'll find a good place for your Service Animal to relieve themselves again. Note: If you need to leave the secure boarding area to relieve your animal, you must undergo the full screening process again. Inform the Security Officer upon your return to the security checkpoint and she/him will move you to the front of the screening line to expedite the screening process.

You and your Service Dog must remain courteous and professional at all times
The experience others may have with you and your Service Dog may be the first and only they will ever have. It is up to you to leave them with an excellent impression. While it is your privilege under the law to be accompanied by your Service or Assistance Dog, you still need to be respectful of others who may be uncomfortable around animals. Keep your Service Dog under control at all times to avoid becoming the center of attention. Do not play with or show off your Service Dog in the airport or during your flight. Remember, how you and your Service Dog act directly affects other Service and Assistance Dog teams.

Arrive at the airport early and let security know that your Service Dog is not a pet
Inform the Security Officer that the animal accompanying you is a Service Animal and not a pet. This will provide you with an opportunity to move to the front of the screening line since the Security Officer may need to spend more time with you. Again, carrying appropriate identification such as cards or documentation, presence of a harness or markings on the harness, or other credible assurance of the passenger using the animal for their disability is required. At no time during the screening process should you be required to be separated from your Service Animal.

What tasks does your animal perform to help you with your disability?
What makes a Service Dog different from a pet are the specific physical tasks the animal can perform to help someone manage their disability. While it is inappropriate for someone to ask you about your disability, they may ask what tasks your dog is trained to perform. If you have a Psychiatric Service Dog it helps to have letter from a physician in addition to any other identification materials you may have. Remember, misrepresenting an animal as a Service or Assistance Dog isn't only unethical, it's against the law.

Be polite and accommodating of the Security Officers
Being polite and friendly with the Security Officers will go a long way to making your admission quicker. Remember, they have a stressful job and treating them with respect will make things easier. Security Officers have been trained how to treat Assistance Animals and their handlers. They know not to communicate, distract, interact, play, feed, or pet Service Animals. They are also trained to handle

You must assist with the inspection process by controlling the Service Animal while the Security Officer conducts the inspection. You must maintain control of your animal in a manner that ensures the animal cannot harm the Security Officer.

Proceeding through Security
Advise the Security Officer how you and your dog can best achieve screening when going through the metal detector as a team (i.e., whether walking together or with the Service Dog walking in front of or behind you). If the walk through metal detector alarms in the situation where you and your Service Dog have walked together, both you and the dog must undergo additional screening.

If the walk through metal detector alarms on either you or your Service Dog individually (because you walked through separately), additional screening must be conducted on whoever alarmed the walk through metal detector. If your Service Dog alarms the walk through metal detector, the Security Officer will ask your permission and assistance before they touch you Service Dog and its belongings. The Security Officer will then perform a physical inspection of your dog and its belongings (collar, harness, leash, backpack, vest, etc.) The belongings will not be removed from your dog at any time.

Check in at the gate
After you've gone through security, check in at the counter at the gate. Let the flight attendants know that you have an Assistance Animal. If this is your first time flying with your Assistance Animal on this airline, ask them what you need to do. Most likely you will be allowed to board the aircraft first.

Boarding the airplane
Once you've passed through the skybridge to the aircraft, the flight attendants on board will guide you to your seat. Most airlines require your Assistance Animal to use the space at your feet. Small dry treats for your animal will help them feel more comfortable. Avoid bringing water onto the plane for your dog.

Consider using Pet Airways
Depending on your disability, you may not need your animal with you in the airport and airplane, though you will when you land at your destination. Some disabled individuals choose to book their Service Animals on a special flights with airlines like Pet Airways.

Happy Thanksgiving and safe traveling!
We want to wish all of you a warm and happy Thanksgiving holiday! You can always refer others to confirm your registration here with your 10 digit code. Safe traveling!

We're working on our massive update — and making a difference in people's lives

2009-10-14T09:29:00.008-05:00

It's been a while since our last blog entry. We've been very busy — hard at work on the major update to our website, adding features and making things clearer based on the input we've received from our members. There's a lot of planning, meetings, programming, writing, artwork (and more meetings) involved with what we're doing! As we move further along we'll post screen captures and more information on Twitter so be sure to follow @servicedog!

From time to time we get short notes of thanks in the form of letters and photos in the regular mail, in e-mail and as direct messages on Twitter. It's always nice to hear from those who need our services and who have benefited from them. We have been putting some of them in the sidebar in this blog but we thought it would be nice to do something more. We're starting a new feature where we will publish some of the wonderful correspondence we get, with permission from the author, in the main part of our blog.

Below is a warm and eloquent letter we received over the weekend...

What an amazing difference this Registry has made in my life. When I became disabled nearly five years ago, I went through all of the grieving processes needed to come to terms with my new way of life. The last thing I care to do, at this juncture in my life, is to have to explain my need for my Service Dog to those questioning her by my side. It seems that if you do not have a "known" disability such as hearing or sight loss, then the general public is less than welcoming of a Service Animal.

Now, I only have to show her Registration number and give the web address of your site and I'm left to do as I may and as I choose and as I need with my Dog ... without the added humiliation of an argument as to whether or not my dog (which, of course means me as well) is allowed to enter places. A truly kind gesture on your part, to offer us this free service, and very much appreciated! Thank you doesn't seem to convey how grateful I am.

— A.M.J.B. Florida

Mercy Medical Center hosts program about Service Dogs for children with diabetes

2009-09-02T10:58:00.006-05:00

Want to learn more about how Service and Assistance Dogs can be trained to help kids with diabetes? Mercy Medical Center in Canton, OH will host a special program titled "Understanding Diabetes and the Role of an Alert Service Dog" from 6-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 17, at the hospital's Ambulatory Care Center Auditorium.

Diabetes alert service dogs are trained to identify the onset of hypoglycemia in people with insulin-dependent diabetes.

Sandy Finlayson, her six-year-old son Curtis, and their yellow laborador Taulb will be the special guests.

Diabetes, a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, affects approximately 21 million children and adults in the United States, according to the American Diabetes Association. Mercy's Outpatient Diabetes Education Program offers free adult and pediatric support groups, individual instruction from a nurse and dietitian, group class education and community events including an annual diabetes awareness health fair. Diabetes support groups offer men, women and children living with diabetes and their family members a supportive environment to learn more about how to manage the disease and cope with everyday issues.

Mercy's Diabetes Support Groups are free, but reservations are required. For more information or reservations, please call Mercy's Healthcare Connection at 330-489-1333 or 1-800-223-8662.

For more information about Mercy Outpatient Diabetes Education, call Debra Shaw, RN, BSN, CDE, diabetes education coordinator, at 330-489-1484.

Mercy Medical Center, a nonprofit corporation of the Sisters of Charity Health System and University Hospitals Health System, operates a 476-bed hospital serving Stark, Carroll, Wayne, Holmes and Tuscarawas Counties and parts of Southeastern Ohio. It has 550 physicians on its Medical Staff and employs 2,500 people. Mercy operates outpatient health centers in Carrollton, Jackson Township, Lake Township, Louisville, North Canton, Plain Township and Tuscarawas County. A Catholic hospital, Mercy Medical Center upholds the mission and philosophy of the Sisters of Charity of St. Augustine and continues to be responsive to the needs of the community, including the provision of care to all, regardless of their ability to pay.

You can also follow Mercy Medical Center on Twitter @SOCHealthSystem

Sen. Franken's "Service Dogs for Veterans Act" passes Senate

2009-07-27T10:16:00.014-05:00

Excellent news! The United States Senate has officially passed Sen. Al Franken's bill "The Service Dogs for Veterans Act," during a late night session last week. The bill is aimed at providing more Service and Assistance Dogs to disabled veterans. The program will partner with existing non-profit groups which train Service and Assistance Dogs. The three-year pilot program aims to train dogs to assist up to 200 disabled veterans who have mental or physical disabilities. During the course of the program The National Academy of Sciences will conduct a study to measure its effectiveness.

The bill has been incorporated into the Defense Authorization bill (S.1390) for the 2010 fiscal year. Franken commented, "There is evidence to suggest that increasing the number of service dogs would reduce the alarming suicide rate among veterans, decrease the number of hospitalizations, and lower the cost of medications and human care."
The bill was co-sponsored by Sen. Johnny Isakson (R-GA) along with others from both sides of the aisle including Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Mary Landrieu (D-LA), Mark Begich (D-AK), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), and John Ensign (R-NV).

The bill still needs to go through the House but chances are high that it will pass and be signed by Obama. You can read more on the Talking Points Memo blog.

Minnesota Senator Al Franken is serious about Service and Assistance Dogs.

2009-07-19T13:07:00.011-05:00

Yesterday Al Franken wrote an article for the Minneapolis Star Tribune about his first piece of legislation as senator of Minnesota. He could have written his first bill for anything, but he chose to write it to help disabled veterans get Service Dogs.

This is an issue that has long been on Franken's radar and now, as the Junior Senator from Minnesota, he has the ability to do something about it. In January he met retired intelligence officer Capt. Luis Carlos Montalvan and Tuesday, his golden retriever Service Dog. Capt. Montalvan uses a cane, and worse, suffers from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from serving in the Anbar Provence in Iraq where he was the target of an assassination attempt. His Service Dog Tuesday helps him get through life every day.

Franken hopes that his legislation will make it easier for disabled vets to obtain Service and Assistance Dogs, which can cost upwards of $20,000. We support Senator Franken in his mission. If you have questions or would like to help, you contact him at info@franken.senate.gov or by phone at 202-224-5641.

Queen's University Belfast study finds dogs can help diabetics

2009-06-22T11:03:00.007-05:00

There is still a large prejudice in the general public over what exactly qualifies as a Service or Assistance Animal. Small animals especially are at risk for discrimination because of their size, but sometimes those animals are perfect for assisting with certain types of conditions such as hypoglycemic episodes in diabetics.

Reuters published a story today about how researchers at Queen's University Belfast found a whopping 65 percent of 212 people with insulin-dependent diabetes reported that when they had a hypoglycemic episode their pets naturally alerted them by whining, barking, licking or by some other means. Training can only further that ability.

At the Cancer and Bio-Detection Dogs research center in Aylesbury, southern England, animal trainers are putting that finding into practice and honing dogs' innate skills.

The charity has 17 rescue dogs at various stages of training that will be paired up with diabetic owners, many of them children.

"Dogs have been trained to detect certain odors down to parts per trillion, so we are talking tiny, tiny amounts. Their world is really very different to ours," Chief Executive Claire Guest told Reuters TV.

The center was started five years ago by orthopedic surgeon Dr John Hunt, who wanted to investigate curious anecdotes about dogs pestering their owners repeatedly on parts of their body that were later found to be cancerous.

At around the same time, the first hard evidence was being gathered by researchers down the road at Amersham Hospital that dogs could identify bladder cancer from chemicals in urine.

The move into diabetes followed the case of Paul Jackson, who told Guest and her team about his dog Tinker who warns him when his sugar levels get too low and he is in danger of collapsing.

"It's generally licking my face, panting beside me. It depends how far I have gone before he realizes," Jackson said.

Tinker has now been trained by the Aylesbury center and is a fully qualified Diabetic Hypo-Alert dog, complete with red jacket to announce himself as a working assistance animal.

Stray dog saves another dog in heavy traffic

2009-05-27T10:51:00.004-05:00

This is by no means Service Dog news, but it is absolutely incredible nevertheless. A stray dog wanders into traffic on a highway in Chile and is hit by oncoming traffic. Another stray dog sees the injured dog and pulls it to safety with it's paws. The injured dog lives after being spotted by highway workers.

I'll leave this video to speak for itself.

One of our Service Dog Registry members is in the news!

2009-05-19T05:55:00.018-05:00

We're proud to say one of our registrants is in the news! Darlene Guthrie, a retired Police Animal Control Officer uses her dog, Fancy, to help with her epileptic seizures. She's been featured on local television news and in the newspaper.

Elkhart County Service Dog Displays a Unique Talent

by Tom Moore
South Bend Tribune Staff Writer

ELKHART — A dog left in a drop box at the Elkhart County Humane Society is making the most of a second chance at life.

Fancy, a 3-year-old Kai Ken-shepherd mix, was adopted by Darlene Guthrie in 2005, when Fancy was just 5 weeks old and weighed less than 3 pounds.

Guthrie, Elkhart Police Department’s animal rescue officer at the time, saw Fancy while dropping off a couple of other neglected dogs. It was love at first sight.

“She was so small; she looked like a kitten,” Guthrie recalled. “She kept batting her foot out of the cage. I picked her up and fell in love.”

But that was only the beginning. It wasn’t long until Guthrie noticed Fancy had a special talent — the ability to sense seizures in other dogs before they happen.

When Guthrie’s old Labrador dog began having seizures, Fancy would come to Guthrie and her husband.

“She’d come and get us and sit with the dog and us until it was over,” Guthrie said. “We just thought she was smart.”

Guthrie researched procedures to have a dog become a certified work dog and has been working with Fancy for the past several years. Fancy is registered with the United States Service Dog Registry and is considered a service dog.

But Fancy really did have a special talent, apart from being intelligent, and it wasn’t just sensing seizures in other dogs. Guthrie found that out when she developed epilepsy and began having seizures herself in September.

“I knew it was coming when she’d come up to me,” said Guthrie, who owns other dogs. “All you can do is lie down. She would actually stand over me, so my other dogs wouldn’t step over me. She literally stands over me and pushes the dogs off.

“I know I can trust her. I know exactly what she’s trying to tell me. I take her everywhere, now.”

Fancy would alert her owner about 15 seconds before a seizure, come over to her and start shaking.

Because of medication, Guthrie rarely has seizures anymore, but her condition did force her to retire recently from the Police Department, a job she loved for the past 20 years — 12 serving as the animal rescue officer.

Fancy is now Guthrie’s full-time service dog.

“Most service dogs do not want you to pet them,” Guthrie said. “Not because they’re not social, but because they’re working. But I have a sign around her in public that says, ‘I’m friendly, please pet me.’ ”

Dogs for the Deaf leads the way with Autism Assistance Dog training

2009-05-11T11:24:00.007-05:00

Dogs for the Deaf in Oregon has launched one of the first programs in the country to train Autism Assistance Dogs — and they were featured a few months ago on KDRV Channel 12 in Medford, Oregon. A news crew came to film Dogs for the Deaf President and CEO, Robin Dickson and Canine Instructor, Carrie Brooks in a local mall where they were introducing the program to the public.

The Dogs for the Deaf Autism Assistance Dog program has been created in response to a need for help in the growing number of autism cases across the world. Dogs for the Deaf is leading the way with this type of Service Dog training. And this new type of training is backed up by experience — Dogs for the Deaf is the nation's oldest hearing dog program and has trained over 3,000 Service Dogs since it's start over 30 years ago.

Autism is a difficult condition for children and their parents. Trained Autism Assistance Dogs provide extremely valuable to help parents with calming and controlling children, especially as they are transitioning from one activity or environment to another. The dogs can also help draw a child out of their shell, allowing them to be more interactive which can help them learn and grow.

For more information on Dogs for the Deaf, to take a tour of their facility or to make a donation please visit their website or call 541-826-9220. You can also follow @dogsforthedeaf on Twitter where you can find information about their upcoming events, news and other news.

Service Dog numbers likely to increase as population ages

2009-05-04T15:24:00.005-05:00

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services came out with a report this morning with some not-so-surprising results. The number of adults in the United States reporting disabilities increased by by 3.4 million between 1999 and 2005,. The study, published in today′s Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, finds an estimated 1 in 5 U.S. adults (47.5 million, or 21.8 percent) report a disability. The three most common causes of disability among adults in the United States are arthritis or rheumatism, back or spine problems, and heart disease.

“It is likely we will see more dramatic increases in the number of adults with a disability as the baby boomer population begins to enter higher risk, older age groups over the next 20 years,” said Chad Helmick, M.D., CDC medical epidemiologist and coauthor of the study. “CDC is working with state health departments and communities to expand the availability of self-management education programs and interventions, such as appropriate physical activity programs, that can reduce the impact of disability.”

Arthritis encompasses more than 100 diseases and conditions that affect joints and other connective tissue. Training Service and Assistance Dogs for arthritis, rheumatism and other mobility conditions will most likely increase as well. Dogs can be trained to open and close doors, retrieve medicines, tools or other objects.

The study of data collected from the U.S. Census Bureau's Survey of Income and Program Participation found that women ( 24.4 percent ) have a higher prevalence of disability compared with men ( 19.9 percent ) at all ages. The study also found that disability prevalence doubled for each successive age group — 11.0 percent for ages 18-44, 23.9 percent for ages 45-64, and 51.8 percent for ages 65 or older.

For more information please visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC)

We've updated our Terms and Conditions!

2009-04-25T14:50:00.007-05:00

We know it doesn't make for an interesting read, but we've just officially updated our Terms and Conditions as we're getting ready for our website update. We're posting them here so everyone can read through them. Don't worry, most of it is just common sense and standard legal verbiage that goes into any website. Of course, use of our website, your 10 Digit Identification Number, Archival Documentation Package and Patches are subject to these terms.

1. ACCEPTANCE OF TERMS AND CONDITIONS

The United States Service Dog Registry. ("US Service Dog Registry" or referred to here as “USSDR”) warmly welcomes you. The USSDR has been created as a benefit to Service and Assistance Dog owners or handlers living or residing in the United States. The USSDR provides Services (defined below) to you subject to the following Terms and Conditions or Terms of Service ("TOS"), which may be updated by us from time to time without notice to you. By accessing and using this Website or Services you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of the TOS. In addition, if you choose to use Identification Materials with references to the USSDR (regardless of their source. i.e.. either made by you or purchased from a third party), use any of Materials we sell or provide on our website (including, but not limited to Identification Cards, Certificates, Patches, Animal Tags, etc.), refer to the USSDR in any way online or offline, you accept and agree to be bound by the terms and provision of the TOS. All such terms, guidelines or rules (including but not limited to our Privacy Policy) are hereby incorporated by reference into the TOS. All information in the USSDR, including but not limited to, data and information provided by users and registrants, information provided by the USSDR both in online form and offline form, shall hereby referred to as Content.

2. DESCRIPTION OF THE USSDR SERVICES

Our Responsibility and Rules of Conduct:
Our purpose is to create a powerful tool for all Service and Assistance Dog handlers regardless of certification levels, training methods or other affiliations. At the core of that is our deep commitment to do the right thing in all aspects of our business including how we treat the environment, our customers and the Service Dog community as a whole. Our intention is to create a friendly and open Registry.

Participant's Responsibility and Rules of Conduct:
We expect and hope that you will use this Registry as intended and in a responsible and respectful manner. Registration is conducted under the honor system and any individual found to violate these rules will be expelled from the Registry. All Owners, Handlers (Registrants) and Animals must qualify under the United States Department of Justice's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Please visit http://www.ada.gov for more information if you need clarification. The Registry is not intended to be a certification process and we do not judge the proficiency of our registrants in any way, and nor would that be necessary under the law. Of course, we can not be responsible or liable for the actions of dog owners or their dogs either online or offline.

The USSDR provides Services only to Registrants who conform to the United States Department of Justice Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Our services provide no protection above or beyond the law. We are a tool, similar to an online resume or other online profile service. All data that is used is based solely on the assertions of the provider or Registrant themselves.

You understand and agree that the USSDR Services are provided "AS-IS" and that the USSDR assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, deletion, mis-delivery or failure to store any user communications or personalization settings. You are responsible for obtaining access to the USSDR Services, and that access may involve third-party fees (such as Internet service provider or airtime charges). You are responsible for those fees, including those fees associated with the display or delivery of advertisements. In addition, you must provide and are responsible for all equipment (ie. your computer, laptop or other wireless device) necessary to access the USSDR Services.

3. YOUR REGISTRATION OBLIGATIONS

In consideration of your use of the USSDR Services, you represent that you are of legal age to form a binding contract and are not a person barred from receiving the USSDR Services under the laws of the United States or other applicable jurisdiction. That means all USSDR registrants must conform fully to the current ADA law, meaning that you or the Registrant are the legal and rightful owner and user of a Service or Assistance Animal as described by the United States Department of Justice Americans with Disabilities Act. (ADA). It is the responsibility of the registrants and users to understand and obey the ADA law online and offline. Other types of pets and working dogs including, but not limited to Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs and Agility Dogs are strictly forbidden from registration and using the USSDR Services or Website. This is true unless an animal meets the ADA requirements but is also dually trained to act as both a Service or Assistance Animal as well as to fulfill other duties such as that of a Therapy Dog. You also agree to: (a) provide true, accurate, current and complete information about yourself as prompted by the USSDR Service's registration form (the "Registration Data") and (b) maintain and promptly update the Registration Data to keep it true, accurate, current and complete. If you provide any information that is untrue, inaccurate, not current or incomplete, or the USSDR has reasonable grounds to suspect that such information is untrue, inaccurate, not current or incomplete, the USSDR has the right to suspend or terminate your account and refuse any and all current or future use of the USSDR Services (or any portion thereof).

4. USSDR PRIVACY POLICY

Registration and Profile Data and certain other information about you are subject to our applicable Privacy Policy. For more information, see the full USSDR Privacy Policy at http://www.usservicedogregistry.org/privacy.php. You understand that through your use of the USSDR Services you consent to the collection and use (as set forth in the applicable privacy policy) of this information.

5. MEMBER ACCOUNT, PASSWORD AND SECURITY

You will create a password and account designation upon completing the USSDR Service's registration process. You are responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of the password and account and are fully responsible for all activities that occur under your password or account. You agree to (a) immediately notify the USSDR of any unauthorized use of your password or account or any other breach of security, and (b) ensure that you exit from your account at the end of each session. The USSDR cannot and will not be liable for any loss or damage arising from your failure to comply with this Section 5.

6. MEMBER CONDUCT

You understand that all information, data, text, photographs, graphics, messages or other materials ("Content"), whether publicly posted or privately transmitted, are the sole responsibility of the person from whom such Content originated. This means that you, and not the USSDR, are entirely responsible for all Content that you upload, post, email, transmit or otherwise make available via the USSDR Services. USSDR does not control the Content posted to areas such as, but not limited to, Profile Pages and Blog comments via the USSDR Services and, as such, does not guarantee the accuracy, integrity or quality of such Content. The registry is constantly updated with new Content from users, so although we hope it does not happen, you understand that by using the USSDR Services, you may be exposed to Content that is offensive, indecent or objectionable. We will make a reasonable effort to remove such content. Under no circumstances will the USSDR be liable in any way for any Content, including, but not limited to objectionable or offensive Content in Profile Pages, any errors or omissions in any Content, or any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of the use of any Content posted, e-mailed, transmitted or otherwise made available either online or offline.

You agree to not use the USSDR Services to:
misrepresent any animal as a Service or Assistance Animal for any reason whatsoever, whether personal, public or private, online or offline. Misrepresenting an animal as a Service or Assistance animal may be punishable by incarceration, fines including, but not limited to, other local or federal laws;
intentionally or unintentionally violate any applicable local, state, national or international law, including, but not limited to, the United States Department of Justice Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
upload, post, email, transmit or otherwise make available any Content that is unlawful, harmful, threatening, abusive, harassing, tortious, defamatory, vulgar, obscene, libelous, invasive of another's privacy, hateful, or racially, ethnically or otherwise objectionable;
harm any individual, company, entity or animal in any way;
impersonate any person or entity, including, but not limited to, a USSDR official, employee, volunteer or falsely state or otherwise misrepresent your affiliation with a person or entity;
forge headers or otherwise manipulate identifiers in order to disguise the origin of any Content transmitted through the USSDR Service;
upload, post, email, transmit or otherwise make available any Content that you do not have a right to make available under any law or under contractual or fiduciary relationships (such as inside information, proprietary and confidential information learned or disclosed as part of employment relationships or under nondisclosure agreements);
upload, post, email, transmit or otherwise make available any Content that infringes any patent, trademark, trade secret, copyright or other proprietary rights ("Rights") of any party;
upload, post, email, transmit or otherwise make available any material that contains software viruses or any other computer code, files or programs designed to interrupt, destroy or limit the functionality of any computer software or hardware or telecommunications equipment;
intentionally or unintentionally violate any applicable local, state, national or international law, including, but not limited to, regulations promulgated by the U.S. Department of Justice, or any other entities or agencies having the force of law;
collect or store personal data about other users in connection with the prohibited conduct and activities set forth in paragraphs 1 through 10 above.

You acknowledge that the USSDR may or may not pre-screen Registrations or Content, but that the USSDR shall have the right (but not the obligation) in their sole discretion to pre-screen, refuse, or remove any Registrations or Content that are available via the USSDR Services. Without limiting the foregoing, the USSDR shall have the right to remove any Content that violates the TOS or is otherwise objectionable. You agree that you must evaluate, and bear all risks associated with, the use or viewing of any Content, including any reliance on the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of such Content.

You acknowledge, consent and agree that USSDR may access, preserve and disclose your account information and Content if required to do so by law or in a good faith belief that such access preservation or disclosure is reasonably necessary to: (i) comply with legal process; (ii) enforce the TOS; (iii) respond to claims that any Content violates the rights of third parties; (iv) respond to your requests for customer service; or (v) protect the rights, property or personal safety of the USSDR, its users and the public.

7. CONTENT SUBMITTED OR MADE AVAILABLE FOR INCLUSION ON THE USSDR WEBSITE AND SERVICES

The USSDR does not claim ownership of your Registration or Content you submit or make available for inclusion on the USSDR Service. We will never share or distribute your personal information for any reason. However, please note that certain portions of the USSDR Website and Services Publicly Accessible, including a registrant’s Profile Page, which may be accessed via the 10 Digit Lookup Feature, Advanced Search or by direct URL link.

8. CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE USSDR

The USSDR has been founded and created from the ideas, suggestions, documents, and/or proposals ("Contributions") of Service and Assistance Dog owners and others who care about them. By submitting Contributions to the USSDR through e-mail or survey pages, you acknowledge and agree that: (a) your Contributions do not contain confidential or proprietary information; (b) the USSDR is not under any obligation of confidentiality, express or implied, with respect to the Contributions; (c) the USSDR shall be entitled to use or disclose (or choose not to use or disclose) such Contributions for any purpose, in any way, in any media worldwide; (d) the USSDR may have something similar to the Contributions already under consideration or in development; (e) your Contributions automatically become the property of the USSDR without any obligation of the USSDR to you; and (f) you are not entitled to any compensation or reimbursement of any kind from the USSDR under any circumstances.

9. INDEMNITY

You agree to indemnify and hold the USSDR, EBC Partners, LLC. and affiliates, volunteers, employees and partners harmless from any claim or demand, including reasonable attorneys' fees, made by any third party due to or arising out of Content you submit, post, transmit, modify or otherwise make available through the USSDR Services, your use of the USSDR Services, your connection to the USSDR Services, your use of any and all USSDR branded merchandise including but not limited to Patches, Identification Cards, Certificates, Animal Tags or other materials, your violation of the TOS, or your violation of any rights of another.

10. NO COMMERCIAL REUSE OF THE USSDR SERVICES, WEBSITE OR MATERIALS

You agree not to reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, trade, resell or exploit for any commercial purposes, personal gain (including, but not limited to, access to public or private buildings or transportation) any portion or use of, or access to, the USSDR Services (including, but not limited to, the USSDR Logo, the names “United States Service Dog Registy”, “US Service Dog Registry”, or the USSDR URL, “usservicedogregistry.org”, “usservicedogregistry.com”, Content, Patches, Identification Cards, Certificates, Animal Tags, or 10 Digit Identification Number).

11. GENERAL PRACTICES REGARDING USE AND STORAGE

You acknowledge that the USSDR may establish general practices and limits concerning use of the USSDR Services, including without limitation a maximum about of time, months or years your data or other uploaded Content will be retained by the USSDR Services or Websites, the maximum disk space that will be allotted on the USSDR’s servers on your behalf. You agree that the USSDR, EBC Partners, LLC. and affiliates, volunteers, employees and partners has no responsibility or liability for the deletion or failure to store any data or other Content maintained or transmitted to the USSDR Services. You acknowledge that the USSDR reserves the right to inactivate or delete accounts that are inactive for an extended period of time. You further acknowledge that the USSDR reserves the right to modify these general practices and limits from time to time.

You also understand and agree that the USSDR may include advertisements and that these advertisements are necessary for the USSDR to provide Services. You also understand and agree that the USSDR Services may include certain important communications from the USSDR, such as service announcements, administrative messages and other informational updates, and that these communications are considered part of the USSDR membership and you will not be able to opt out of receiving them. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, any new features that augment or enhance the current USSDR Services, including the release of new products, shall be subject to the TOS.

12. MODIFICATIONS TO THE USSDR SERVICES

The USSDR reserves the right at any time and from time to time to modify or discontinue, temporarily or permanently, the USSDR Services (or any part thereof) with or without notice. You agree that the USSDR shall not be liable to you or to any third party for any modification, suspension or discontinuance of the USSDR Services (or any part thereof).

13. TERMINATION

You may terminate your USSDR account, associated 10 Digit Identification Number and access to the USSDR Services by deleting your registrations from within the Registry using the tools we provide.

You agree that the USSDR may, without prior notice, immediately terminate, limit your access to or suspend your USSDR account, associated 10 Digit Identification Number, and access to the USSDR Services. Cause for such termination, limitation of access or suspension shall include, but not be limited to, (a) breaches or violations of the TOS or other incorporated agreements or guidelines, (b)requests by law enforcement or other government agencies, (c) discontinuance or material modification to the USSDR Services (or any part thereof), (d) unexpected technical or security issues or problems, (e) extended periods of inactivity, (f) engagement by you in fraudulent or illegal activities including, but not limited to, misrepresentation of an animal as described in Section XX. Further, you agree that all terminations, limitations of access and suspensions for cause shall be made in the USSDR's sole discretion and that USSDR shall not be liable to you or any third party for any termination of your account, associated 10 Digit Identification Number or access to the USSDR Services.

Termination of your USSDR account includes any or all of the following: (a) removal of access to all or part of the offerings within the USSDR Services, (b) deletion of your password and all related information, files and content associated with or inside your account (or any part thereof), and (c) barring of further use of all or part of the USSDR Services.

14. DEALINGS WITH ADVERTISERS AND RESOURCES

Part of our mission is to help connect Service and Assistance Dog users with Trainers, Breeders or other Companies that may provide education or other benefit. Your correspondence or business dealings with, or participation in promotions of, advertisers or resources found on or through the USSDR Services, including payment and delivery of related goods or services, and any other terms, conditions, warranties or representations associated with such dealings, are solely between you and such advertiser or resource. You agree that the USSDR shall not be responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any sort incurred as the result of any such dealings or as the result of the presence of such advertisers or resources found on the USSDR Services.

15. LINKS

The USSDR Services may provide, or third parties may provide, links to other World Wide Web sites or resources. You acknowledge and agree that the USSDR is not responsible for the availability of such external sites or resources, and does not endorse and is not responsible or liable for any Content, advertising, products or other materials on or available from such sites or resources. You further acknowledge and agree that the USSDR shall not be responsible or liable, directly or indirectly, for any damage or loss caused or alleged to be caused by or in connection with use of or reliance on any such

16. THE USSDR’S PROPRIETARY RIGHTS

You acknowledge and agree that the USSDR Services and any necessary software or database programming used in connection with the USSDR Services ("Software") contain proprietary and confidential information that is protected by applicable intellectual property and other laws. You further acknowledge and agree that Content contained in advertisements or resources or information presented to you through the USSDR Services or by advertisers and resources is protected by copyrights, trademarks, service marks, patents or other proprietary rights and laws. Except as expressly permitted by applicable law or as authorized by the USSDR or the applicable licensor (such as an advertiser or resource), you agree not to modify, rent, lease, loan, sell, distribute, transmit, broadcast, publicly perform or create derivative works based on the USSDR Services, such Content or the Software, in whole or in part.

17. DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTIES

A. YOUR USE OF THE USSDR SERVICES AND MATERIALS ARE AT YOUR SOLE RISK. THE USSDR SERVICES AND MATERIALS ARE PROVIDED ON AN "AS IS" AND "AS AVAILABLE" BASIS. THE USSDR, EBC PARTNERS, LLC. AND AFFILIATES, VOLUNTEERS, EMPLOYEES AND PARTNERS EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ALL WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, WHETHER EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF TITLE, MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE AND NON-INFRINGEMENT.

B. USSDR, EBC PARTNERS, LLC. AND AFFILIATES, VOLUNTEERS, EMPLOYEES AND PARTNERS MAKE NO WARRANTY THAT (i) THE USSDR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS WILL MEET YOUR REQUIREMENTS; (ii) THE USSDR SERVICES OR PRODUCTS WILL BE UNINTERRUPTED, TIMELY, SECURE OR ERROR-FREE; (iii) THE RESULTS THAT MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE USE OF THE USSDR SERVICES OR MATERIALS WILL BE ACCURATE OR RELIABLE; (iv) THE QUALITY OF ANY PRODUCTS, SERVICES, INFORMATION OR OTHER MATERIAL PURCHASED OR OBTAINED BY YOU THROUGH THE USSDR SERVICES WILL MEET YOUR EXPECTATIONS; AND (v) ANY ERRORS IN THE SERVICES OR MATERIALS WILL BE CORRECTED.

C. ANY MATERIAL DOWNLOADED, E-MAILED, SENT VIA TRADITIONAL MAIL OR OTHERWISE OBTAINED THROUGH THE USE OF THE USSDR SERVICES IS ACCESSED AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION AND RISK, AND YOU WILL BE SOLELY RESPONSIBLE FOR AND HEREBY WAIVE ANY AND ALL CLAIMS AND CAUSES OF ACTION WITH RESPECT TO ANY DAMAGE THAT RESULTS FROM THE RECIEPT OF ANY SUCH MATERIAL.

D. NO ADVICE OR INFORMATION, WHETHER ORAL OR WRITTEN, OBTAINED BY YOU FROM THE USSDR OR THROUGH OR FROM THE USSDR SERVICES OR MATERIALS SHALL CREATE ANY WARRANTY NOT EXPRESSLY STATED IN THE TOS.

18. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

YOU EXPRESSLY UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT THE USSDR, EBC PARTNERS, LLC. AND AFFILIATES, VOLUNTEERS, EMPLOYEES AND PARTNERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY PUNITIVE, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR EXEMPLARY DAMAGES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, DAMAGES FOR LOSS OF PROFITS, EMPLOYMENT, PERMANENT OR TEMPORARY HOUSING, GOODWILL, USE, DATA OR OTHER INTANGIBLE LOSSES (EVEN IF THE USSDR HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES), RESULTING FROM: (a) THE USE OR THE INABILITY TO USE THE USSDR SERVICE; (b) THE COST OF PROCUREMENT OF SUBSTITUTE GOODS AND SERVICES; (c) UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO OR ALTERATION OF YOUR TRANSMISSIONS OR DATA; (d) STATEMENTS OR CONDUCT OF ANY THIRD PARTY ONLINE OR OFFLINE; OR (e) ANY OTHER MATTER RELATING TO THE USSDR SERVICE.

19. NO THIRD-PARTY BENEFICIARIES

You agree that, except as otherwise expressly provided in this TOS, there shall be no third-party beneficiaries to this agreement.

20. NOTICE

The USSDR may provide you with notices, including those regarding changes to the TOS, including, but not limited to e-mail, traditional mail, Twitter and Blog postings on the USSDR Services, or other reasonable means now known or hereafter developed. Such notices may not be received if you violate this TOS by accessing the USSDR Services in an unauthorized manner. Your agreement to this TOS constitutes your agreement that you are deemed to have received any and all notices that would have been delivered had you accessed the USSDR Services in an authorized manner.

21. TRADEMARK AND COPYRIGHT INFORMATION

You agree that all of the USSDR’s trademarks, trade names, service marks and other USSDR logos and brand features, including the Mascot “Reggie the Service Dog”, Access Icons and product and service names are trademarks and the property of EBC Partners, LLC. (the "USSDR Marks"). Without USSDR's prior permission, you agree not to display or use in any manner the USSDR Marks.

21a. HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN IDENTIFICATON

We do allow our members to create their own identification, either at their own home, at a local copy shop or online. All forms of ID are acceptable under the ADA. You may only use our name, your 10 digit ID code and a link to our website. You may not us any of the USSDR logos, Mascots or Access Icons.

22. GENERAL INFORMATION

Entire Agreement. The TOS constitutes the entire agreement between you and the USSDR and governs your use of the USSDR Services, superseding any prior version of this TOS between you and USSDR with respect to the USSDR Services. You also may be subject to additional terms and conditions that may apply when you use affiliate services, third-party content or third-party products, including, but not limited to, Flickr, Twitter or PayPal.

Choice of Law and Forum. You agree that the USSDR will have first choice of forum regardless of your location.

Waiver and Severability of Terms. The failure of the USSDR to exercise or enforce any right or provision of the TOS shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision. If any provision of the TOS is found by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the parties nevertheless agree that the court should endeavor to give effect to the parties' intentions as reflected in the provision, and the other provisions of the TOS remain in full force and effect.

No Right of Survivorship and Non-Transferability. You agree that your USSDR Account and Registration is non-transferable and any rights to your USSDR 10 Digit ID Number or Profile Contents within your Account and Registration terminate upon your death. Upon receipt of a copy of a death certificate, your account may be terminated and all contents therein permanently deleted.

Statute of Limitations. You agree that regardless of any statute or law to the contrary, any claim or cause of action arising out of or related to use of the USSDR Services or the TOS must be filed within one (1) year after such claim or cause of action arose or be forever barred.

The section titles in the TOS are for convenience only and have no legal or contractual effect.

Please report any violations of the TOS privately to our Customer Service Department.

-Alert- We need your help; would-be Service Dog needs home

2009-04-15T21:04:00.021-05:00

Sometimes some dogs just don't work out as Service Dogs. Despite everyone's best intentions either the training doesn't take, a dog won't alert when needed on a seizure or the owner can't handle the animal any longer.

We were recently contacted by the The City of Manassas Animal Adoption Center in Virginia because they received a female one-year-old white German Shepherd Dog wearing one of our United States Service Dog Registry tags. We immediately checked our registry and found that the animal was not turned in by the original owner. As per our policy, we forwarded the information to the owner of record in case there was a mistake; giving the original owner the opportunity to respond if they so wished. The original owner can't take care of the animal any longer.

We want to help find a good home for this dog and we are reaching out to our community to spread the word about this animal. In addition to this blog we will be sending out alerts on Twitter and posting these pictures in our Flickr account. If you're on Twitter, please retweet us.

If you know of anyone who may be able to claim this dog, please contact The City of Manassas Animal Adoption Center as soon as possible. According to the Animal Adoption Center, if this dog is not claimed she may be put down.

The City of Manassas Animal Adoption Center
10039 Dean Drive, Manassas, VA 20110
Phone: (703) 257-2420 or E-Mail

HOURS:
Mon, Tues & Fri: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm; 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Wed : 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Thurs: CLOSED
Sat : 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Sun & Holidays: CLOSED

The United States Service Dog Registry is on Superman's resource list

2009-03-21T15:22:00.003-05:00

We've been recommended by a lot of organizations, but this one makes us the happiest. We just found out today we're included on the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Paralysis Resource Center List. The foundation promotes the health and well-being of people living with a spinal cord injury, mobility impairment and paralysis by providing comprehensive information, resources and referral services.

You can download a copy of the PDF from christopherreeve.org here.

Get a free eye exam for your service dog

2009-03-19T21:27:00.007-05:00

Here's some great news. The American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) is going to be giving free eye exams to documented working dogs durring the week of May 3-9, 2009. Over 180 board certified veterinary ophthalmologists are going to donate their time and services.

The program is sponsored by Hills Pet Nutrition, KONG Veterinary Products (yep, KONG, you know, the rubber things you fill with peanut butter) and OptiGen, a company that helps provide genetic DNA based diagnoses and information about inherited diseases of dogs.

Note: Yes, we know that they are using the term "Service Dogs" incorrectly and we've notified the ACVO. We're also thrilled that they are offering this generous and amazing service. Please pass this information along!

Tweet! The United States Service Dog Registry is now on Twitter

2009-03-01T22:22:00.006-06:00

We're happy to announce that the United States Service Dog Registry is on Twitter! We're going to be Tweeting service and assistance dog news from around the world as well as information about ourselves. We hope you add us to your mobile device or your computer.

New to Twitter? We recommend using Firefox and the Twitterfox addon (just visit Firefox and search for Twitterfox). We like it because it adds a small "t" to the bottom of your browser and displays Tweets in an easy and out-of-the way place.

The United States Service Dog Registry helps find lost Service Dog

2009-02-08T14:04:00.006-06:00

-For Immediate Release-

GRAND RAPIDS, MI — The United States Service Dog Registry helps reunite a lost autism Service Dog with the two children she is trained to serve. The reunion occurred just days before the children's mother left for Iraq where she is a Clinical Psychologist assisting units dealing with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) as part of the Behavioral Sciences division of the Medical Service Corps.

Because of the Registry's strict privacy policy no names may be used, but for ease of explanation we will refer to the family as the "Smiths."

In December the Smiths moved to Michigan with their two autistic children. While still in the process of moving in to their new home, one of the children let the dog out and she became lost in an unfamiliar neighborhood. The dog was wearing tags, but the contact information had not been changed for the new address. Luckily, one of the tags the Service Dog was wearing was a United States Service Dog Registry tag.

The dog was found by a teacher who works at a special education center. The teacher contacted us via e-mail requesting the owner's information. Due to our privacy policy we do not give out private information for any reason, but we were able to quickly identify the owner via the number printed on the tag. Adding to the difficulty of the situation was the fact that the contact information listed in the Registry was also for the family's old address. Fortunately, we had a current e-mail that we were able to use to reach the family.

"Thank you!" said Dr. Jane Smith. "It was beginning to snow here and I'm leaving for Iraq and we were getting a bit anxious about having her home. My kids didn't sleep last night." After the Service Dog was home safe and sound, Dr. Smith updated her Registry information. Even though this isn't the main purpose of the Registry, we were very happy to have been able to help this family.

About the The United States Service Dog Registry: With the input from over 100 Service Dog handlers in America, the United States Service Dog Registry (USSDR) represents the most democratic realization of an assistance animal registry to-date. The results are a Registry with free online registration conducted by an independent, non-governmental, secure and privacy-conscious service. Service Dog teams may register online at http://www.usservicedogregistry.org

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The 133rd Westminster Dog Show begins Monday in New York

2009-02-07T13:06:00.010-06:00

Sure, it's not a Service Dog event but it's still fun. And if you're looking for someone to root for, we suggest D'Artagnan, one of the top five Bouviers des Flandres in the nation — and also a certified Service Dog who helps his handler, Tracy Turner.

The Westminster Kennel Club 133rd Annual Dog Show is this Monday and Tuesday in New York. Tickets are still available for the Madison Square Garden event, and if you can't make it you can watch it on TV. The Hound, Terrier, Non-Sporting, and Herding group competition will be televised live Monday on USA Network from 8-9PM ET and continuing on CNBC from 9-11PM ET. The Sporting, Working, Toy, and Best In Show competition will be televised live Tuesday on USA Network from 8-11PM ET.

Breed judging highlight videos are available throughout the day on Monday and Tuesday on the Westminster Web site. These highlights will be available after the show, as well.

In New York everybody seems to get into the show in a big way. The Empire State Building has put on the dog with Westminster’s official gold and purple colors. Macy’s and Saks 5th Avenue have put up doggy window displays. Even New York's pet-friendly restaurants bone-up with special canine menus. It's part of history — Madison Square Garden has been the home of the dog show since the 1800s. After all, the Westminster Dog Show is one of the top 10 events in the city.

Events surrounding the show carry on all week. For more information check out Metromix New York.

Please don't buy your pet from a puppy mill

2009-01-07T15:13:00.006-06:00

The United States Service Dog Registry is a proud supporter of the Humane Society of the United States. One of their focuses is their campaign to Stop Puppy Mills. This Saturday, January 10th, they are hosting rallies across the country to educate people about the problems with buying your dog from a puppy mill.

Puppy mill dogs often have health and behavior problems.
Consider adopting from a local shelter instead of buying a puppy from a pet store or an internet ad.
Puppy mill dogs are raised in poor conditions and lack social interaction.

What are puppy mills?
Puppy mills are breeding facilities that house dogs in poor conditions where they are bred and sold for profit. Many of these dogs are caged for years, bred continuously, and lack social skills because they receive no human companionship.

Once puppy mill dogs are no longer fertile, they are commonly killed, abandoned, or sold to another puppy mill. The result of puppy mills is hundreds of thousands of puppies, many with behavior or health problems, and many with little hope of ever being adopted.

Puppy mills exist because unsuspecting consumers keep buying dogs from pet stores, classifieds, or over the internet. It is up to us to spread the word and educate our friends and family about the reality of puppy mills.

What can you do?
The Humane Society has a whole page of tips, including materials you can use to help stage a grassroots campaign.

Dogs can go on strike, demand their fair share

2008-12-10T12:02:00.011-06:00

This just in: animals are able to exhibit a wide range of emotions. I'm sure you're shocked. But there's more to it than that and it's pretty fascinating.

When Friederike Range and her colleagues at the University of Vienna in Austria asked 43 trained dogs to extend a paw to a human they were able to scientifically prove what most of us already knew: that dogs have a complex range of emotions that not only include happiness, but also jealousy and pride — and most interestingly, the ability to know when they're getting the shaft.

In the study groups of dogs were trained to "give paw" or "shake." The researchers noted that all of the animals performed the trick almost all of the time whether they were given a reward or not. But here's the interesting part: since the dogs were in a group they could see what was going on with the others. And when other dogs received a treat for shaking, but they did not, they became less interested in giving a shake. They even showed more signs of stress and aggravation. In effect, it was proven that dogs can understand the concept of fairness and will go on strike. Researchers call it "jealousy" but that has a negative connotation. I think it is more similar to how most humans would react in an office environment if a boss were to give out raises to others but not to you. You'd probably become less inclined to go that extra mile, and rightly so.

The study, published in New Scientist magazine, proves that it's not just humans and chimpanzees that show this type of complex behavior. It explains why some dogs are jealous of a new baby and some even try to negotiate for position in the family (or pack). Marc Bekoff, Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado in Boulder, Fellow of the Animal Behavior Society and former Guggenheim Fellow, confirms this with his studies of carnivores. One of his main focuses is studying cognitive ethology (the study of animal minds). He believes that some animals can express empathy and may even have a moral sense.

It may be something that's been obvious to us, but when science can back it up then it becomes tangible. That's science we can use.

Could robots replace service dogs or assistance animals?

2008-12-01T10:12:00.010-06:00

"Waiting for laser command." El-E, a robot designed at the Center for Healthcare Robotics at Georgia Tech in Atlanta demonstrates picking up a box of Claritin after the user points to it with a laser.

This morning CNN reported on a new technology from the Center for Healthcare Robotics at Georgia Tech in Atlanta, Georgia. It's a 5 foot tall gray metal robot called El-E (pronounced Ellie) and it's being designed to help assist with patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. See El-E in action.

The robot is able to drive itself around a room and has proximity sensors that allow it to navigate itself and it's arm around obstacles — and can be directed to pick up an object with a green laser pointer. For example, if the person using the robot wants an object off of a shelf such as a hairbrush or TV remote, they would point the laser pointer at the object and El-E would fetch it and bring it to the person. El-E can also open cabinet doors and drawers as well as room doors.

What's interesting is that after a short time people seem to begin to respond to the robot as a companion. CNN interviewed Norma Margeson, an artist living in Georgia who has ALS. "Oh, I love it," she said. "I think it is such a unique character. It has a personality all its own. It can be a friend, a very good friend." That may not be a coincidence because Charles Kemp, the director for the Center of Healthcare Robotics lead his team in studying assistance animals as part of the developmental research for El-E.

El-E is, of course, a long way from being available to the public. We don't think that a robot could ever replace the warmth and companionship of an animal, but it may be an additional tool to help people with mobility and motor impairments in the future.

Traveling with your assistance animal

2008-11-22T13:40:00.009-06:00

It's that time of year again that many of us begin to think about traveling to be with family and friends for the holidays. While traveling with your trained assistance animal is your privilege, there are some steps you need to take to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Know what to expect
The Department of Homeland Security's Transportation Security Administration has universal guidelines for traveling with your assistance animal. But each airline interprets them slightly differently.

Some people are uncomfortable flying, and so are some animals
Even the best trained assistance animal may have difficulty flying and you need to judge your own animals temperment before you consider flying. If you are at all concerned about how your assistance animal will react to flying consider driving, Amtrak or Greyhound. Please note that while emotional support animals are afforded the same privliges as assistance animals under the ADA law they will also require special documentation from your doctor.

Contact your airline before you travel
The crew may need to make preparations for your boarding, so you must call to make them aware of what type of animal you use. The agent may also be able to help you select the most comfortable seat for you and your animal. Find a direct flight if possible because it will make for an easier experience for you and your animal.

We've provided some links to the major carriers to make your life easier. Carrying certificates of training or identification cards, such as the ones we provide will help speed things along.

Before you arrive, limit water and exercise your assistance animal
Most likely, it will be a long time before you'll find a good place for your service animal to relieve themselves again. Note: If you need to leave the secure boarding area to relieve your animal, you must undergo the full screening process again. Inform the Security Officer upon your return to the security checkpoint and she/him will move you to the front of the screening line to expedite the screening process.

Arrive at the airport early and let security know that your animal is not a pet
Inform the Security Officer that the animal accompanying you is a service animal and not a pet. This will provide you with an opportunity to move to the front of the screening line since the Security Officer may need to spend more time with you. Again, carrying appropriate identification such as cards or documentation, presence of a harness or markings on the harness, or other credible assurance of the passenger using the animal for their disability is required. At no time during the screening process will you be required to be separated from your service animal.

Be polite and accommodating of the Security Officers
Being polite and friendly with the Security Officers will go a long way to making your admission quicker. Remember, they have a stressful job and treating them with respect will make things easier. Security Officers have been trained how to treat assistance animals and their handlers. They know not to communicate, distract, interact, play, feed, or pet service animals.
You must assist with the inspection process by controlling the service animal while the Security Officer conducts the inspection. You must maintain control of your animal in a manner that ensures the animal cannot harm the Security Officer.

Proceeding through Security
Advise the Security Officer how you and your dog can best achieve screening when going through the metal detector as a team (i.e., whether walking together or with the service dog walking in front of or behind you). If the walk through metal detector alarms in the situation where you and your service dog have walked together, both you and the dog must undergo additional screening.

If the walk through metal detector alarms on either you or your service dog individually (because you walked through separately), additional screening must be conducted on whoever alarmed the walk through metal detector. If your service dog alarms the walk through metal detector, the Security Officer will ask your permission and assistance before they touch you service dog and its belongings. The Security Officer will then perform a physical inspection of your dog and its belongings (collar, harness, leash, backpack, vest, etc.) The belongings will not be removed from your dog at any time.

Check in at the gate
After you've gone through security, check in at the counter at the gate. Let the flight attendants know that you have an assistance animal. If this is your first time flying with your assistance animal on this airline, ask them what you need to do. Most likely you will be allowed to board the aircraft first.

Boarding the airplane
Once you've passed through the skybridge to the aircraft, the flight attendants on board will guide you to your seat. Most airlines require your assistance animal to use the space at your feet. Small dry treats for your animal will help them feel more comfortable. Avoid bringing water onto the plane for your dog.

Happy Thanksgiving and safe traveling!
We want to wish all of you a warm and happy Thanksgiving holiday! You can always refer others to confirm your registration here with your 10 digit code. Safe traveling!

We've listened. And now we're ready to start working on the update!

2008-10-03T16:35:00.001-05:00

During the month of September the United States Service Dog Registry invited everyone to write in with their suggestions about how they would like to see the the registry improved. And we had an amazing response—bigger than we had anticipated! We want to warmly thank all of you who wrote in with your suggestions (and many compliments)! We're still going through all of our e-mails, categorizing suggestions and tabulating votes for specific things. We also want to remind everyone that not all of your suggestions will be able to be included either because of cost issues or because they will compromise privacy. But we do have a few exciting things that we are ready to say will be officially included in the next update:

The United States Service Dog Registry (Version 2.0)

Profile Pages By far, most people writing in wanted to be able to do more with their profile pages. They wanted to be able to include links to their social networking sites like Facebook, Twitter and their blogs. So the biggest improvement we are planning for the Registry is a complete revamping of everyone's profile page. We will allow the option to link to all of your social networking sites and blogs directly from your profile page. We will also be making it easier for everyone to link back to your United States Service Dog Registry profile page from other social networking sites.

Name Change It seems most people refer to their dogs as Service Dogs, some people refer to them as Assistance Dogs or Assistance Animals, and yet another smaller group of people prefer to call them by what disability they help with (ie. Hearing Dog, Guide Dog, Epilepsy Dog, etc). While we won't be changing the name of the registry at this point, we have decided to start using the term "Assistance Animal" because it is more inclusive. We will have a new tagline on all of our materials where it will fit, "United States Service Dog Registry, Assistance Animal Registration Service."

Memorial Pages We've had quite a few requests to create Memorial Pages for Assistance Animals who have passed on. Therefore we will be allowing users to "deactivate" the working status of their dog and retire it's 10 digit ID, which will be yours forever. Your dog's profile page will remain up as a memorial, and we will include a place for you to include a short epitaph in memory of him or her. If you have a new Assistance Animal, we will also allow the option for you to link to your previous animal's memorial profile page.

These are only a few of the improvements we will be making to the Registry. As we move further into our programming stage we will be able to announce more. And of course, the registry will still be free as always — including every improvement we will make. Again, thank you for your responses and we look forward to working hard on making this Registry better for all who need it!

We're updating our website and services, now is your time to be heard!

2008-09-03T11:03:00.011-05:00

We are going to be conducting a major overhaul of the United States Service Dog Registry starting in October, which means you once again have the chance to give us your input to make this Assistance Animal Registry exactly what you need! We're going to be including a lot of new features. We will slightly revise the site layout with more information, add the ability to register other types of animals and allow access to a few more items in our shop. Please send us your comments and we will take them into consideration when we perform our update. Now is your chance to be heard!

Introducing Reggie!
Reggie is our new Assistance Animal mascot who is helping us get the word out about the Registry. Some of you may have already met him on Flickr or if you have ordered something from us. He's going to be a big help in educating the public about the different types of Assistance Animals in use today.

Service Dogs (and their handlers) should consider taking the Canine Good Citizen test too

2008-08-19T12:33:00.008-05:00

Training your dog to help with your disability is a very complex and time consuming process. Some people who put in many hours training their dog to help them with their own epilepsy, mobility issues, blindness, psychiatric conditions, etc. do not take into consideration how their dog behaves toward others in public. One of the best things you can do to help train your dog is to take the American Kennel Club's Canine Good Citizen Test. While we don't require it, the United States Service Dog Registry highly recommends getting your dog retested with the AKC's Canine Good Citizen test every two years.

The test is fairly simple and consists of 10 items. Don't be nervous. The test is easier than you may fear.

Test 1: Accepting a friendly stranger
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to approach it and speak to the handler in a natural, everyday situation. The evaluator walks up to the dog and handler and greets the handler in a friendly manner, ignoring the dog. The evaluator and handler shake hands and exchange pleasantries. The dog must show no sign of resentment or shyness, and must not break position or try to go to the evaluator.

Test 2: Sitting politely for petting
This test demonstrates that the dog will allow a friendly stranger to touch it while it is out with its handler. With the dog sitting at the handler's side, to begin the exercise, the evaluator pets the dog on the head and body. The handler may talk to his or her dog throughout the exercise. The dog may stand in place as it is petted. The dog must not show shyness or resentment.

Test 3: Appearance and grooming
This practical test demonstrates that the dog will welcome being groomed and examined and will permit someone, such as a veterinarian, groomer or friend of the owner, to do so. It also demonstrates the owner's care, concern and sense of responsibility. The evaluator inspects the dog to determine if it is clean and groomed. The dog must appear to be in healthy condition (i.e., proper weight, clean, healthy and alert). The handler should supply the comb or brush commonly used on the dog. The evaluator then softly combs or brushes the dog, and in a natural manner, lightly examines the ears and gently picks up each front foot. It is not necessary for the dog to hold a specific position during the examination, and the handler may talk to the dog, praise it and give encouragement throughout.

Test 4: Out for a walk (walking on a loose lead)
This test demonstrates that the handler is in control of the dog. The dog may be on either side of the handler. The dog's position should leave no doubt that the dog is attentive to the handler and is responding to the handler's movements and changes of direction. The dog need not be perfectly aligned with the handler and need not sit when the handler stops. The evaluator may use a pre-plotted course or may direct the handler/dog team by issuing instructions or commands. In either case, there should be a right turn, left turn, and an about turn with at least one stop in between and another at the end. The handler may talk to the dog along the way, praise the dog, or give commands in a normal tone of voice. The handler may sit the dog at the halts if desired.

Test 5: Walking through a crowd
This test demonstrates that the dog can move about politely in pedestrian traffic and is under control in public places. The dog and handler walk around and pass close to several people (at least three). The dog may show some interest in the strangers but should continue to walk with the handler, without evidence of over-exuberance, shyness or resentment. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise the dog throughout the test. The dog should not jump on people in the crowd or strain on the leash.

Test 6: Sit and down on command and Staying in place
This test demonstrates that the dog has training, will respond to the handler's commands to sit and down and will remain in the place commanded by the handler (sit or down position, whichever the handler prefers). The dog must do sit AND down on command, then the owner chooses the position for leaving the dog in the stay. Prior to this test, the dog's leash is replaced with a line 20 feet long. The handler may take a reasonable amount of time and use more than one command to get the dog to sit and then down. The evaluator must determine if the dog has responded to the handler's commands. The handler may not force the dog into position but may touch the dog to offer gentle guidance. When instructed by the evaluator, the handler tells the dog to stay and walks forward the length of the line, turns and returns to the dog at a natural pace. The dog must remain in the place in which it was left (it may change position) until the evaluator instructs the handler to release the dog. The dog may be released from the front or the side.

Test 7: Coming when called
This test demonstrates that the dog will come when called by the handler. The handler will walk 10 feet from the dog, turn to face the dog, and call the dog. The handler may use encouragement to get the dog to come. Handlers may choose to tell dogs to "stay" or "wait" or they may simply walk away, giving no instructions to the dog.

Test 8: Reaction to another dog
This test demonstrates that the dog can behave politely around other dogs. Two handlers and their dogs approach each other from a distance of about 20 feet, stop, shake hands and exchange pleasantries, and continue on for about 10 feet. The dogs should show no more than casual interest in each other. Neither dog should go to the other dog or its handler.

Test 9: Reaction to distraction
This test demonstrates that the dog is confident at all times when faced with common distracting situations. The evaluator will select and present two distractions. Examples of distractions include dropping a chair, rolling a crate dolly past the dog, having a jogger run in front of the dog, or dropping a crutch or cane. The dog may express natural interest and curiosity and/or may appear slightly startled but should not panic, try to run away, show aggressiveness, or bark. The handler may talk to the dog and encourage or praise it throughout the exercise.

Test 10: Supervised separation
This test demonstrates that a dog can be left with a trusted person, if necessary, and will maintain training and good manners. Evaluators are encouraged to say something like, "Would you like me to watch your dog?" and then take hold of the dog's leash. The owner will go out of sight for three minutes. The dog does not have to stay in position but should not continually bark, whine, or pace unnecessarily, or show anything stronger than mild agitation or nervousness. Evaluators may talk to the dog but should not engage in excessive talking, petting, or management attempts (e.g, "there, there, it's alright").

Remember, the impression you give others about your Service Animal will last forever. You work hard training your dog to assist you, make sure your dog is trained to work with the public too.

We need your help! The Department of Justice is proposing a new definition of Service Animals

2008-08-13T15:27:00.006-05:00

We need your help! The Department of Justice is revisiting the definition of a service animal and this is our chance to make the definition something that helps service dog handlers everywhere! There are three parts to this post and we've organized them to make it easier for you to understand this quickly.

What is the newly proposed definition of a Service Animal?
What do we think needs to change?
How can you help?

We've long needed a new and updated definition of Service Dogs that includes more specifically the many different types of dogs in use today. Now is our chance to make the definition exactly what we want it to be. For the most part, we think the new definition is a big leap forward. However we have some things we would like to see changed. The United States Service Dog Registry is in full agreement with the IAADP's changes to the law.

1. What is the newly proposed definition of a service animal?

New Proposed Service Animal Defintion
PART 36-NONDISCRIMINATION ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY BY PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS AND IN COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
Subpart A-General
PROPOSED DEFINITION

Service animal means any dog or other common domestic 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 who are blind or have low vision, alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing to the presence of people or sounds, providing minimal protection or rescue work, pulling a wheelchair, fetching items, assisting an individual during a seizure, retrieving medicine or the telephone, providing physical support and assistance with balance and stability to individuals with mobility disabilities, and assisting individuals, including those with cognitive disabilities, with navigation. The term service animal includes individually trained animals that do work or perform tasks for the benefit of individuals with disabilities, including psychiatric, cognitive, and mental disabilities. The term service animal does not include wild animals (including nonhuman primates born in captivity), reptiles, rabbits, farm animals (including any breed of horse, miniature horse, pony, pig, or goat), ferrets, amphibians, and rodents. Animals whose sole function is to provide emotional support, comfort, therapy, companionship, therapeutic benefits, or to promote emotional well-being are not service animals.

2. What do we think needs to change?

There are four things we would like to see changed:

We think "minimal protection" needs to be removed from the definition. It's confusing. Service Animals aren't guard dogs.
There needs to be guidelines about what "other species" are accepted as Service Animals. Other animals would need to meet the same standards of behavior as assistance dogs currently do.
There should be no size or weight limit on service animals. Period.
The phrase "do work" is confusing and does not sufficiently define the difference between service animals and emotional support animals, which are not covered under the ADA law.

3. What can you do to help?

Please fill out the form at Regulations.gov and copy-paste the four things from above into the Public Comment field at the bottom of the form. Remember, the deadline is August 18, 2008!

In a hurry? Have your Documentation Package sent to your travel destination

2008-08-13T14:45:00.007-05:00

We just had an order request from someone who was leaving for a trip and wanted a Documentation Package — but she was departing in two days! No problem. After she placed her order we sent her PDF's of the certificate and ID cards for her to print out at home along with her boarding pass. Then, instead of having the package sent to her home we sent it via Priority Mail to her hotel at her destination so she would have it for her trip home. It's just another way the United States Service Dog Registry trying to make life easier for Service Dog Handlers.

Raising money for people who need Service Dogs

2008-07-18T16:21:00.006-05:00

Yesterday someone asked us if we knew of sources who could help with funding for Service Dogs. As all of you reading this blog probably already know, training a Service Dog involves a lot of work and time. Costs from a reputable trainer can reach up to $20,000, according to Susquehanna Service Dogs, a program of Keystone Human Services. Often that total amount is offset by private donations and very few people actually pay that much, but the actual cost to a handler can be quite considerable.

Raising that much money can be a daunting task for just about anyone. People have turned to friends, held small fundraisers, gotten help from local businesses and churches — and in one case even opened a lemonade stand to help cover the high cost of a Service Dog. But what if you are unable to raise money for your Service Dog? There are a few programs like the Assistance Dog United Campaign that help provide financial assistance. But be prepared for a wait. Even with their high cost, there is usually a waiting list for well trained Service Dogs. Some organizations like Pawsibilities not only train Service Dogs but also try to find sponsors to help pay for the dogs.

Take your time and do your research. See if you can meet with people who have received dogs from the trainer or organization you would like to get your animal from. Pairing with a Service Animal is an extremely personal decision for you, and one you will have to live with for years to come.

What does the law say about flying with your Service Dog?

2008-06-25T21:04:00.011-05:00

If you have a Service Dog, you may have read parts of the law concerning air travel. While it may not be the most exciting bedtime story of all time, we do recommend reading the whole thing. Below is the full text of the policy guidelines which is distributed to airline and airport employees. We've bolded the "in a nutshell" part of the policy which describes the most important parts of the policy in brief.

4910-62-P
68 FR 24875, May 9, 2003
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Office of the Secretary
14 CFR Part 382
Docket No. OST-2003-15072
Guidance Concerning Service Animals in Air Transportation
AGENCY: Department of Transportation, Office of the Secretary.
ACTION: Guidance Concerning Service Animals in Air Transportation.
SUMMARY: This notice publishes a revision to the Department of Transportation’s Guidance Concerning Service Animals in Air Transportation, originally published in the Federal Register on November 1, 1996 (61 FR 56409, 56420). It is the result of the Department’s review of a September 19, 2002, submission of suggested improvements to the existing guidance from representatives of the disability community and the airline industry.
ADDRESSES: This guidance document is available on the Department’s Web site at http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov/ and future updates or revisions will be posted there. Questions regarding this notice may be addressed to the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings, C-70, 400 7th Street, SW, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Damon P. Whitehead, Office of the General Counsel, Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings, 400 Seventh Street, SW, Washington, DC 20590; (202) 366-1743; fax: (202) 366-7152; E-mail: damon.whitehead@ost.dot.gov.

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
WASHINGTON, DC

POLICY GUIDANCE CONCERNING SERVICE ANIMALS IN AIR TRANSPORTATION

In 1990, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) promulgated the official regulations implementing the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Those rules are entitled Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel (14 CFR Part 382). Since then the number of people with disabilities traveling by air has grown steadily. This growth has increased the demand for air transportation accessible to all people with disabilities and the importance of understanding DOT’s regulations and how to apply them. This document expands on an earlier DOT guidance document published in 1996 , which was based on an earlier Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) service animal guide issued by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in July 1996. The purpose of this document is to aid airline employees and people with disabilities in understanding and applying the ACAA and the provisions of Part 382 with respect to service animals in determining:

whether an animal is a service animal and its user a qualified individual with a disability;
how to accommodate a qualified person with a disability with a service animal in the aircraft cabin; and
when a service animal legally can be refused carriage in the cabin.

Background
The 1996 DOT guidance document defines a service animal as “any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. If the animal meets this definition, it is considered a service animal regardless of whether it has been licensed or certified by a state or local government.” This document refines DOT’s previous definition of service animal by making it clear that animals that assist persons with disabilities by providing emotional support qualify as service animals and ensuring that, in situations concerning emotional support animals, the authority of airline personnel to require documentation of the individual’s disability and the medical necessity of the passenger traveling with the animal is understood.

Today, both the general public and people with disabilities use many different terms to identify animals that can meet the legal definition of “service animal.” These range from umbrella terms such as “assistance animal” to specific labels such as “hearing,” “signal,” “seizure alert,” “psychiatric service,” “emotional support” animal, etc. that describe how the animal assists a person with a disability.

When Part 382 was promulgated, most service animals were guide or hearing dogs. Since then, a wider variety of animals (e.g., cats, monkeys, etc.) have been individually trained to assist people with disabilities. Service animals also perform a much wider variety of functions than ever before (e.g., alerting a person with epilepsy of imminent seizure onset, pulling a wheelchair, assisting persons with mobility impairments with balance). These developments can make it difficult for airline employees to distinguish service animals from pets, especially when a passenger does not appear to be disabled, or the animal has no obvious indicators that it is a service animal. Passengers may claim that their animals are service animals at times to get around airline policies that restrict the carriage of pets. Clear guidelines are needed to assist airline personnel and people with disabilities in knowing what to expect and what to do when these assessments are made.

Since airlines also are obliged to provide all accommodations in accordance with FAA safety regulations (see section 382.3(d)), educated consumers help assure that airlines provide accommodations consistent with the carriers’ safety duties and responsibilities. Educated consumers also assist the airline in providing them the services they want, including accommodations, as quickly and efficiently as possible.

General Requirements of Part 382
In a nutshell, the main requirements of Part 382 regarding service animals are:

Carriers shall permit dogs and other service animals used by persons with disabilities to accompany the persons on a flight. See section 382.55(a)(1-2).
Carriers shall accept as evidence that an animal is a service animal identifiers such as identification cards, other written documentation, presence of harnesses, tags or the credible verbal assurances of a qualified individual with a disability using the animal.
Carriers shall permit a service animal to accompany a qualified individual with a disability in any seat in which the person sits, unless the animal obstructs an aisle or other area that must remain unobstructed in order to facilitate an emergency evacuation or to comply with FAA regulations.
If a service animal cannot be accommodated at the seat location of the qualified individual with a disability whom the animal is accompanying, the carrier shall offer the passenger the opportunity to move with the animal to a seat location in the same class of service, if present on the aircraft, where the animal can be accommodated, as an alternative to requiring that the animal travel in the cargo hold (see section 382.37(c)).
Carriers shall not impose charges for providing facilities, equipment, or services that are required by this part to be provided to qualified individuals with a disability (see section 382.57).

Two Steps for Airline Personnel
To determine whether an animal is a service animal and should be allowed to accompany its user in the cabin, airline personnel should:

Establish whether the animal is a pet or a service animal, and whether the passenger is a qualified individual with a disability; and then
Determine if the service animal presents either:

a “direct threat to the health or safety of others,” or
a significant threat of disruption to the airline service in the cabin (i.e. a “fundamental alteration” to passenger service). See 382.7(c).

Service Animals
How do I know it’s a service animal and not a pet?
Remember: In most situations the key is TRAINING. Generally, a service animal is individually trained to perform functions to assist the passenger who is a qualified individual with a disability. In a few extremely limited situations, an animal such as a seizure alert animal may be capable of performing functions to assist a qualified person with a disability without individualized training. Also, an animal used for emotional support need not have specific training for that function. Similar to an animal that has been individually trained, the definition of a service animal includes:

an animal that has been shown to have the innate ability to assist a person with a disability; or
an emotional support animal.

These five steps can help one determine whether an animal is a service animal or a pet:
1. Obtain credible verbal assurances: Ask the passenger: “Is this your pet?” If the passenger responds that the animal is a service animal and not a pet, but uncertainty remains about the animal, appropriate follow-up questions would include:

“What tasks or functions does your animal perform for you?" or
“What has it been trained to do for you?”
“Would you describe how the animal performs this task (or function) for you?”

As noted earlier, functions include, but are not limited to:

A. helping blind or visually impaired people to safely negotiate their surroundings;
B. alerting deaf and hard-of-hearing persons to sounds;
C. helping people with mobility impairments to open and close doors, retrieve objects, transfer from one seat to another, maintain balance; or
D. alert or respond to a disability-related need or emergency (e.g., seizure, extreme social anxiety or panic attack).

Note that to be a service animal that can properly travel in the cabin, the animal need not necessarily perform a function for the passenger during the flight. For example, some dogs are trained to help pull a passenger’s wheelchair or carry items that the passenger cannot readily carry while using his or her wheelchair. It would not be appropriate to deny transportation in the cabin to such a dog.

If a passenger cannot provide credible assurances that an animal has been individually trained or is able to perform some task or function to assist the passenger with his or her disability, the animal might not be a service animal. In this case, the airline personnel may require documentation (see Documentation below). There may be cases in which a passenger with a disability has personally trained an animal to perform a specific function (e.g., seizure alert). Such an animal may not have been trained through a formal training program (e.g., a “school” for service animals). If the passenger can provide a reasonable explanation of how the animal was trained or how it performs the function for which it is being used, this can constitute a “credible verbal assurance” that the animal has been trained to perform a function for the passenger.

2. Look for physical indicators on the animal: Some service animals wear harnesses, vests, capes or backpacks. Markings on these items or on the animal’s tags may identify it as a service animal. It should be noted, however, that the absence of such equipment does not necessarily mean the animal is not a service animal.

3. Request documentation for service animals other than emotional support animals: The law allows airline personnel to ask for documentation as a means of verifying that the animal is a service animal, but DOT urges carriers not to require documentation as a condition for permitting an individual to travel with his or her service animal in the cabin unless a passenger’s verbal assurance is not credible. In that case, the airline may require documentation as a condition for allowing the animal to travel in the cabin. The purpose of documentation is to substantiate the passenger’s disability-related need for the animal’s accompaniment, which the airline may require as a condition to permit the animal to travel in the cabin. Examples of documentation include a letter from a licensed professional treating the passenger’s condition (e.g., physician, mental health professional, vocational case manager, etc.)

4. Require documentation for emotional support animals: With respect to an animal used for emotional support (which need not have specific training for that function), airline personnel may require current documentation (i.e., not more than one year old) on letterhead from a mental health professional stating (1) that the passenger has a mental health-related disability; (2) that having the animal accompany the passenger is necessary to the passenger’s mental health or treatment or to assist the passenger (with his or her disability); and (3) that the individual providing the assessment of the passenger is a licensed mental health professional and the passenger is under his or her professional care. Airline personnel may require this documentation as a condition of permitting the animal to accompany the passenger in the cabin. The purpose of this provision is to prevent abuse by passengers that do not have a medical need for an emotional support animal and to ensure that passengers who have a legitimate need for emotional support animals are permitted to travel with their service animals on the aircraft. Airlines are not permitted to require the documentation to specify the type of mental health disability, e.g., panic attacks.

5. Observe behavior of animals: Service animals are trained to behave properly in public settings. For example, a properly trained guide dog will remain at its owner’s feet. It does not run freely around an aircraft or an airport gate area, bark or growl repeatedly at other persons on the aircraft, bite or jump on people, or urinate or defecate in the cabin or gate area. An animal that engages in such disruptive behavior shows that it has not been successfully trained to function as a service animal in public settings. Therefore, airlines are not required to treat it as a service animal, even if the animal performs an assistive function for a passenger with a disability or is necessary for a passenger’s emotional well-being.

What about service animals in training?
Part 382 requires airlines to allow service animals to accompany their handlers in the cabin of the aircraft, but airlines are not required otherwise to carry animals of any kind either in the cabin or in the cargo hold. Airlines are free to adopt any policy they choose regarding the carriage of pets and other animals provided that they comply with other applicable requirements (e.g., the Animal Welfare Act). Although “service animals in training” are not pets, the ACAA does not include them, because “in training” status indicates that they do not yet meet the legal definition of service animal. However, like pet policies, airline policies regarding service animals in training vary. Some airlines permit qualified trainers to bring service animals in training aboard an aircraft for training purposes. Trainers of service animals should consult with airlines, and become familiar with their policies.

What about a service animal that is not accompanying a qualified individual with a disability?
When a service animal is not accompanying a passenger with a disability, the airline's general policies on the carriage of animals usually apply. Airline personnel should know their company’s policies on pets, service animals in training, and the carriage of animals generally. Individuals planning to travel with a service animal other than their own should inquire about the applicable policies in advance.

Qualified Individuals with Disabilities
How do I know if a passenger is a qualified individual with a disability who is entitled to bring a service animal in the cabin of the aircraft if the disability is not readily apparent?

Ask the passenger about his or her disability as it relates to the need for a service animal. Once the passenger identifies the animal as a service animal, you may ask, “How does your animal assist you with your disability?” Avoid the question “What is your disability?” as this implies you are asking for a medical label or the cause of the disability, which is intrusive and inconsistent with the intent of the ACAA. Remember, Part 382 is intended to facilitate travel by people with disabilities by requiring airlines to accommodate them on an individual basis.
Ask the passenger whether he or she has documentation as a means of verifying the medical necessity of the passenger traveling with the animal. Keep in mind that you can ask but cannot require documentation as proof of service animal status UNLESS (1) a passenger’s verbal assurance is not credible and the airline personnel cannot in good faith determine whether the animal is a service animal without documentation, or (2) a passenger indicates that the animal is to be used as an emotional support animal.
Using the questions and other factors above, you must decide whether it is reasonable to believe that the passenger is a qualified individual with a disability, and the animal is a service animal.

Denying a Service Animal Carriage in the Cabin
What do I do if I believe that carriage of the animal in the cabin of the aircraft would inconvenience non-disabled passengers?

Part 382 requires airlines to permit qualified individuals with a disability to be accompanied by their service animals in the cabin, as long as the animals do not 1) pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others (e.g., animal displays threatening behaviors by growling, snarling, lunging at, or attempting to bite other persons on the aircraft) or 2) cause a significant disruption in cabin service (i.e. a “fundamental alteration” to passenger service). Inconvenience of other passengers is not sufficient grounds to deny a service animal carriage in the cabin; as indicated later in this document, however, airlines are not required to ask other passengers to relinquish space that they would normally use in order to accommodate a service animal (e.g., space under the seat in front of the non-disabled passenger).

What do I do if I believe that a passenger’s assertions about having a disability or a service animal are not credible?

Ask if the passenger has documentation that satisfies the requirements for determining that the animal is a service animal (see discussion of “Documentation” above).
If the passenger has no documents, then explain to the passenger that the animal cannot be carried in the cabin, because it does not meet the criteria for service animals. Explain your airline’s policy on pets (i.e., will or will not accept for carriage in the cabin or cargo hold), and what procedures to follow.
If the passenger does not accept your explanation, avoid getting into an argument. Ask the passenger to wait while you contact your airline’s complaint resolution official (CRO). Part 382 requires all airlines to have a CRO available at each airport they serve during all hours of operation. The CRO may be made available by telephone. The CRO is a resource for resolving difficulties related to disability accommodation.
Consult with the CRO immediately, if possible. The CRO normally has the authority to make the final decision regarding carriage of service animals. In the rare instance that a service animal would raise a concern regarding flight safety, the CRO may consult with the pilot-in-command. If the pilot-in-command makes a decision to restrict the animal from the cabin or the flight for safety reasons, the CRO cannot countermand the pilot’s decision. This does not preclude the Department from taking subsequent enforcement action, however, if it is determined that the pilot’s decision was inconsistent with Part 382.
If a passenger makes a complaint to a CRO about a past decision not to accept an animal as a service animal, then the CRO must provide a written statement to the passenger within 10 days explaining the reason(s) for that determination. If carrier personnel other than the CRO make the final decision, a written explanation is not required; however, because denying carriage of a legitimate service animal is a potential civil rights violation, it is recommended that carrier personnel explain to the passenger the reason the animal will not be accepted as a service animal. A recommended practice may include sending passengers whose animals are not accepted as service animals a letter within ten business days explaining the basis for such a decision.

In considering whether a service animal should be excluded from the cabin, keep these things in mind:

Certain unusual service animals pose unavoidable safety and/or public health concerns and airlines are not required to transport them. Snakes, other reptiles, ferrets, rodents, and spiders certainly fall within this category of animals.
In all other circumstances, each situation must be considered individually. Do not make assumptions about how a particular unusual animal is likely to behave based on past experience with other animals. You may inquire, however, about whether a particular animal has been trained to behave properly in a public setting.
Before deciding to exclude the animal, you should consider and try available means of mitigating the problem (e.g., muzzling a dog that barks frequently, allowing the passenger a reasonable amount of time under the circumstances to correct the disruptive behavior, offering the passenger a different seat where the animal won’t block the aisle.)
If it is determined that the animal should not accompany the disabled passenger in the cabin at this time, offer the passenger alternative accommodations in accordance with Part 382 and company policy (e.g., accept the animal for carriage in the cargo hold).

What about unusual service animals?

As indicated above, certain unusual service animals, pose unavoidable safety and/or public health concerns and airlines are not required to transport them. Snakes, other reptiles, ferrets, rodents, and spiders certainly fall within this category of animals. The release of such an animal in the aircraft cabin could result in a direct threat to the health or safety of passengers and crewmembers. For these reasons, airlines are not required to transport these types of service animals in the cabin, and carriage in the cargo hold will be in accordance with company policies on the carriage of animals generally.
Other unusual animals such as miniature horses, pigs and monkeys should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Factors to consider are the animal’s size, weight, state and foreign country restrictions, and whether or not the animal would pose a direct threat to the health or safety of others, or cause a fundamental alteration (significant disruption) in the cabin service. If none of these factors apply, the animal may accompany the passenger in the cabin. In most other situations, the animal should be carried in the cargo hold in accordance with company policy.

Miscellaneous Questions
What about the passenger who has two or more service animals?
A single passenger legitimately may have two or more service animals. In these circumstances, you should make every reasonable effort to accommodate them in the cabin in accordance with Part 382 and company policies on seating. This might include permitting the passenger to purchase a second seat so that the animals can be accommodated in accordance with FAA safety regulations. You may offer the passenger a seat on a later flight if the passenger and animals cannot be accommodated together at a single passenger seat. Airlines may not charge passengers for accommodations that are required by Part 382, including transporting service animals in the cargo compartment. If carriage in the cargo compartment is unavoidable, notify the destination station to return the service animal(s) to the passenger at the gate as soon as possible, or to assist the passenger as necessary to retrieve them in the appropriate location.

What if the service animal is too large to fit under the seat in front of the customer?
If the service animal does not fit in the assigned location, you should relocate the passenger and the service animal to some other place in the cabin in the same class of service where the animal will fit under the seat in front of the passenger and not create an obstruction, such as the bulkhead. If no single seat in the cabin will accommodate the animal and passenger without causing an obstruction, you may offer the option of purchasing a second seat, traveling on a later flight or having the service animal travel in the cargo hold. As indicated above, airlines may not charge passengers with disabilities for services required by Part 382, including transporting their oversized service animals in the cargo compartment.

Should passengers provide advance notice to the airline concerning multiple or large service animals?
In most cases, airlines may not insist on advance notice or health certificates for service animals under the ACAA regulations. However, it is very useful for passengers to contact the airline well in advance if one or more of their service animals may need to be transported in the cargo compartment. The passenger will need to understand airline policies and should find out what type of documents the carrier would need to ensure the safe passage of the service animal in the cargo compartment and any restrictions for cargo travel that might apply (e.g., temperature conditions that limit live animal transport).

What if an airline employee or another passenger on board is allergic or has an adverse reaction to a passenger’s service animal?
Passengers who state they have allergies or other animal aversions should be located as far away from the service animal as practicable. Whether or not an individual’s allergies or animal aversions are disabilities (an issue this Guidance does not address), each individual's needs should be addressed to the fullest extent possible under the circumstances and in accordance with the requirements of Part 382 and company policy.

Accommodating Passengers With Service Animals in the Cabin
How can airline personnel help ensure that passengers with service animals are assigned and obtain appropriate seats on the aircraft?

Let passengers know the airline’s policy about seat assignments for people with disabilities. For instance: (1) should the passenger request pre-boarding at the gate? or (2) should the passenger request an advance seat assignment (a priority seat such as a bulkhead seat or aisle seat) up to 24 hours before departure? or (3) should the passenger request an advance seat assignment at the gate on the day of departure? When assigning priority seats, ask the passenger what location best fits his/her needs.
Passengers generally know what kinds of seats best suit their service animals. In certain circumstances, passengers with service animals must either be provided their pre-requested priority seats, or if their requested seat location cannot be made available, they must be assigned to other available priority seats of their choice in the same cabin class. Part 382.38 requires airlines to provide a bulkhead seat or a seat other than a bulkhead seat at the request of an individual traveling with a service animal.
Passengers should comply with airline recommendations or requirements regarding when they should arrive at the gate before a flight. This may vary from airport to airport and airline to airline. Not all airlines announce pre-boarding for passengers with special needs, although it may be available. If you wish to request pre-boarding, tell the agent at the gate.
Unless pre-boarding is not part of your carrier’s business operation, a timely request for pre-boarding by a passenger with a disability should be honored (382.38 (d)).

Part 382 does not require carriers to make modifications that would constitute an undue burden or would fundamentally alter their programs (382.7 (c)). Therefore, the following are not required in providing accommodations for users of service animals and are examples of what might realistically be viewed as creating an undue burden:

Asking another passenger to give up the space in front of his or her seat to accommodate a service animal;
Denying transportation to any individual on a flight in order to provide an accommodation to a passenger with a service animal;
Furnishing more than one seat per ticket; and
Providing a seat in a class of service other than the one the passenger has purchased.

Are airline personnel responsible for the care and feeding of service animals?
Airline personnel are not required to provide care, food, or special facilities for service animals. The care and supervision of a service animal is solely the responsibility of the passenger with a disability whom the animal is accompanying.

May an air carrier charge a maintenance or cleaning fee to passengers who travel with service animals?
Part 382 prohibits air carriers from imposing special charges for accommodations required by the regulation, such as carriage of a service animal. However, an air carrier may charge passengers with a disability if a service animal causes damage, as long as it is its regular practice to charge non-disabled passengers for similar kinds of damage. For example, it could charge a passenger with a disability for the cost of repairing or cleaning a seat damaged by a service animal, assuming that it is its policy to charge when a non-disabled passenger or his or her pet causes similar damage.

Advice for Passengers with Service Animals

Ask about the airline’s policy on advance seat assignments for people with disabilities. For instance: (1) should a passenger request pre-boarding at the gate? or (2) should a passenger request an advance seat assignment (a priority seat such as a (bulkhead seat or aisle seat)) up to 24 hours before departure? or (3) should a passenger request an advance seat assignment at the gate on the day of departure?
Although airlines are not permitted to automatically require documentation for service animals other than emotional support animals, if you think it would help you explain the need for a service animal, you may want to carry documentation from your physician or other licensed professional confirming your need for the service animal. Passengers with unusual service animals also may want to carry documentation confirming that their animal has been trained to perform a function or task for them.
If you need a specific seat assignment for yourself and your service animal, make your reservation as far in advance as you can, and identify your need at that time.
You may have to be flexible if your assigned seat unexpectedly turns out to be in an emergency exit row. When an aircraft is changed at the last minute, seating may be reassigned automatically. Automatic systems generally do not recognize special needs, and may make inappropriate seat assignments. In that case, you may be required by FAA regulations to move to another seat.
Arrive at the gate when instructed by the airline, typically at least one hour before departure, and ask the gate agent for pre-boarding -- if that is your desire.
Remember that your assigned seat may be reassigned if you fail to check in on time; airlines typically release seat assignments not claimed 30 minutes before scheduled departure. In addition, if you fail to check in on time you may not be able to take advantage of the airline’s pre-board offer.
If you have a very large service animal or multiple animals that might need to be transported in the cargo compartment, contact the airline well in advance of your travel date. In most cases, airlines cannot insist on advance notice or health certificates for service animals under the ACAA regulations. However, it is very useful for passengers to contact the airline well in advance if one or more of their service animals may need to be transported in the cargo compartment. The passenger will need to understand airline policies and should find out what type of documents the carrier would need to ensure the safe passage of the service animal in the cargo compartment and any restrictions for cargo travel that might apply (e.g., temperature conditions that limit live animal transport).
If you are having difficulty receiving an appropriate accommodation, ask the airline employee to contact the airline’s complaint resolution official (CRO). Part 382 requires all airlines to have a CRO available during all hours of operation. The CRO is a resource for resolving difficulties related to disability accommodations.
Another resource for resolving issues related to disability accommodations is the U.S. Department of Transportation’s aviation consumer disability hotline. The toll-free number is 1-800-778-4838 (voice) and 1-800-455-9880 (TTY).

Glossary
Direct Threat to the Health or Safety of Others
A significant risk to the health or safety of others that cannot be eliminated by a modification of policies, practices, or procedures, or by the provision of auxiliary aids or services.

Fundamental Alteration
A modification that substantially alters the basic nature or purpose of a program, service, product or activity.

Individual with a Disability
“Any individual who has a physical or mental impairment that, on a permanent or temporary basis, substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment.” (Section 382.5).

Qualified Individual with a Disability
Any individual with a disability who:

“takes those actions necessary to avail himself or herself of facilities or services offered by an air carrier to the general public with respect to accompanying or meeting a traveler, use of ground transportation, using terminal facilities, or obtaining information about schedules, fares or policies”;
“offers, or makes a good faith attempt to offer, to purchase or otherwise validly to obtain . . . a ticket” “for air transportation on an air carrier”; or
“purchases or possesses a valid ticket for air transportation on an air carrier and presents himself or herself at the airport for the purpose of traveling on the flight for which the ticket has been purchased or obtained; and meets reasonable, nondiscriminatory contract of carriage requirements applicable to all passengers.” (Section 382.5).

Service Animal
Any animal that is individually trained or able to provide assistance to a qualified person with a disability; or any animal shown by documentation to be necessary for the emotional well being of a passenger.

Sources
See: 14 CFR 382.5, 14 CFR 382.37(a) and (c), 14 CFR 382.38 (a)(3), (b), (d) & (h)-(j), 14 CFR 382.55(a)(1)-(3), 14 CFR 382.57, “Guidance Concerning Service Animals in Air Transportation,” (61 FR 56420-56422, (November 1, 1996)), “Commonly Asked Questions About Service Animals in Places of Business” (Department of Justice, July, 1996), and “ADA Business Brief: Service Animals” (Department of Justice, April 2002).

Questions regarding this notice may be addressed to the Office of Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings, C-70, 400 7th Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20590. A copy of this notice will be published in the Federal Register.

An electronic version of this document is available on the World Wide Web at http://airconsumer.ost.dot.gov
Issued in Washington, DC on May 2, 2003.

Samuel Podberesky,
Assistant General Counsel for Aviation Enforcement and Proceedings