How should the public interact with service dogs? Service dog owners appreciate your admiration for the work and training that has gone into their dogs, but there are a few things you should keep in mind. These dogs are working partners. Not pets. Just like you wouldn’t walk up and start steering a person’s wheel chair, you should not walk up and pet their service dog. Explain to children that the dog is working and can’t be distracted. Be considerate with your pets around a service dog by keeping them under control. Service dogs are not looking for play time when working. Give them some space. Be aware in crowded areas such as restaurants that a service dog may be under a table next to you, and give them space to be comfortable. If you’re uncomfortable around a dog or have allergies, ask the staff of an establishment to move you to another location. Confronting a service dog owner directly is usually uncomfortable for both of you. Should a service dog be acting inappropriately, feel free to address it with management. They have the right and obligation to remove the dog from the premises.
