Thursday, July 8, 2010

Service Dog = Guide Dog, Right? Wrong.

Totally wrong! Certainly, a Guide Dog is a Service Dog, but a Service Dog is not necessarily a Guide Dog. See, Service Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and serve almost limitless purposes. Here are a few different types of Service Dogs - this list is certainly NOT all inclusive.

Also, our explanations here will be very brief - just enough so you "get the idea"

Mobility Dog - this type of Service Dog is used to assist with balance issues and walking issues. They are trained to assist their handler with his or her mobility.

Guide Dog - this Service Dog will help somebody with a visual impairment navigate their way through stores, on walks, around the house and in virtually every aspect of life. Many times, this sort of Service Dog is the only eyes the handler will have.

Medical Alert Dog - Wow! This type of Service Dog is a broad term in and of itself. Medical Alert Dogs are able to alert to oncoming Seizures, Peanut Allergies, Blood Sugar drops and many more other medical issues - you will see many small dogs utilized as a Medical Alert Service Dog.

Autism Service Dog - these dogs really hold a special place in our hearts. They will be used to help keep those with challenges within the Austism Spectrum Disorder to keep from wandering as well as many other things. Truly an amazing type of Service Dog.

Hearing Dog - as the title shows, this type of Service Dog would be used as a help to somebody facing an auditory challenge. These dogs can alert to a ringing doorbell, phone or even an approaching person or car.

This is just a small sampling of some of the things Service Dogs are able to do for those who have them. We are amazed, daily, at the calls and stories we hear about when it comes to these magnificent dogs.

Just remember, not every Service Dog is a Guide Dog and not every Service Dog is a German Shepherd or Labrador (although they are popular breeds for work). Service Dogs truly do come in all shapes and sizes and with many different jobs!

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