Why distracting service dogs is dangerous
Service dogs are medical equipment and can be the key factor in their handler’s independence. One accurate comparison is service dogs are like wheelchairs or oxygen tanks. If you wouldn’t mess with someone’s medical device, then don’t distract service dogs, as it could have a similar consequence for their handler.
If the dog is trained for a medical alert and they are distracted, they could miss an alert that is meant to keep their handler safe. Be it missing a change in blood sugar to an oncoming seizure. Service dogs need to remain focused on their handler
Service dogs aren’t easily distracted, therefore you have to be actively trying to distract them. The best way to not distract a service dog is simply not to try to distract them.
How to not distract service dogs
- Avoid looking at the dog, eye contact can be distracting
- Don’t pet the dog, or try to touch it in any way
- Don’t make sounds specifically to get the dogs attention, it should be focused on its owner the whole time
Service Dog Etiquette 