General Info:
Definition of a Service DogGeneral: A service dog is a dog that has been specifically trained to perform tasks for an individual living with a disability.Freedom Service Dogs trains three types of assistance dogs: Professional Service Dogs, Skilled Companion Dogs and Professional Therapy Dogs Professional Service Dog A professional service dog is a highly trained dog that is paired with a person living with a disability, such as multiple sclerosis, muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or a spinal cord injury. Service dogs are required to assist their human partners with a minimum of three tasks. The variety of tasks performed include retrieving and carrying objects, opening and closing doors, operating lights, pushing 911 and lifeline buttons, provides brace and balance while walking, and other specialized tasks needed by the client.Service dogs are legally guaranteed full public access and are able to accompany their partners to the grocery store, airport, place of employment or school, restaurants, and all other public places. Service dogs are paired with individuals who are 16 years of age or older and capable of handling a dog in public without assistance from a family member, friend, or caregiver. In cases when an individual is under the age of 16 or unable to handle a dog in public, they are matched with a canine partner with the stipulation that the parent or guardian must accompany the team when in public.A skilled companion dog is a highly trained dog that is matched with person with a condition such as autism, post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD ), or anxiety disorder. Skilled companion dogs offer many of the same benefits as service dogs ; however, companion dogs lack access to public places. Companion dogs are typically paired with individuals who are under the age of 16. In such cases, the client's parent or guardian is responsible for the care of the dog.