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It is estimated that approximately 300 to 400 Albertans rely on the assistance of service dogs every day. These dogs receive rigorous training through certified schools before forming teams with their owners. The services provided by these companions vary with the disabilities of their owners, and these disabilities are often not immediately identifiable. Under Alberta’s Service Dogs Act these teams of owner and animal are permitted entrance to any location available to the general public, including:

• restaurants
• hotels
• retail stores
• movie theatres
• golf courses
• schools
• pet-restricted apartments or condos
• hospitals
• taxis and buses
• places of worship
• all other public areas

With respect to the hard work these dogs perform, please avoid distracting any assistance dog who is on duty. Distractions can include:

• Calling out to the dog
• Making kissing, barking, whistling, or other sounds in an attempt to attract the dogs attention
• Petting the dog without the handler’s express permission
• Allowing other pets to interact with the dog
• Offering the dog food

If an assistance dog’s handler doesn’t give you permission to pet his / her dog, don’t take it personally. Assistance dogs have a very important job to do, and require as few distractions as possible.

To learn more about these invaluable companions, their governing legislation, or how you can apply for your own service dog, please read on at the Government of Alberta’s official webpage.

Additional Resources:

Dogs With Wings: A service dog is qualified after it has successfully completed a training program delivered by a school or institution accredited by Assistance Dogs International Inc. The Alberta registered training group is Dogs with Wings Assistance Dog Society. They are often looking for volunteers to foster puppies that are being considered for training.