The idea of a service dog may strike you as an unnecessary option for those without a physical disability. However, people with a mental health diagnosis are deciding to get and train their dog to become a certified service dog. College campuses around the country are allowing their students to bring their service dogs into classrooms to allow for a more comfortable learning environment. Many of these service dogs provide their owners with good feelings during times of stress, anger, or even in medical emergencies. The best part about service animals is that they don't have to be dogs! There have been service cats, rabbits, birds, and even miniature horses that have assisted their owners in public in some way. College students also have the opportunity to build life skills while taking care of their service animals on their own if they are away from home.
Individuals with anxiety and/or depression may find comfort in having a service dog. The Daily Treat published an article about how service dogs can help humans with their anxiety and/or depression. These dogs can recognize the signs of a panic attack or breakdown, help their owners reconnect with society, and provide their owners with a sense of purpose. People suffering from PTSD benefit from service dogs as well. Matt Masingill, Lead Warrior Trainer for K9's for Warriors, told his story about how dealing with PTSD is not easy. "It is a life-altering experience. The dog is just there for you; there’s no judgment, no negative feedback," says Masingill. This goes for students living with a mental handicap as well. Service dogs can be much more than just a required aid; they can become a best friend for those that need one.
According to the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks for the individual that wishes to obtain service animal certification. On campus, handlers are responsible for the animal's vaccinations, ID tags, and pet care products. With that being said, the handler's college must comply with allow all students with service animals to have their companion with them at all times unless there is a law violation. The ADA also suggests that others follow simple etiquette rules when encountering a service animal and their owner:
- Avoid feeding the animal.
- Do not try to get the owner away from their animal for any reason.
- Do not harass the animal, as this may distract the animal from it's duties.
While these etiquette rules may seem straight-forward, many people disregard them. It is important to remember that service animals in public are working animals. Distracting them may result in harm to the animal or the owner.
Service dogs can be a huge help for college students with a disability or disorder. However there are important responsibilities that come with having a service dog, or any service animal. Although not everyone is a "dog person," there are still many ways that service dogs are helping students in schools and communities everywhere.
