The sight of a service dog may conjure feelings of admiration or provoke a tinge of curiosity. Is there just a single type of service dog? What do they specifically do, day to day, to help those in need of their assistance? Are their keen senses inherited or learned?
Hoping to spread further awareness, knowledge, and appreciation for service dogs-- who allow people with disabilities to lead a life of independence--the preceding research conveys their significance and remarkable skills.
First, it's important to understand the various types of service dogs. There are eight-- including Autism Service Dogs, Hearing Dogs, Diabetic Alert Dogs, Seizure Response Dogs, Guide Dogs, Allergy Detection Dogs, PTSD Service Dogs, and Mobility Assistance Dogs. Typically, the breeds range from (but are not limited to) Labradors to German Shepherds to Golden Retrievers, mainly due to their high intelligence levels. They are all trained to fit the needs of their owner’s specific disability.
The most common type of service dog, Guide Dogs, assists visually impaired and blind people with certain tasks the individual’s disability may impair, such as crossing the street and overall navigation. Next, Hearing Dogs work to caution their hard-of-hearing companions from various sounds of significance, such as smoke alarms or baby cries. With the service dogs’ guidance, numerous safety hazards can be avoided.
Moreover, Medical Alert Dogs, specifically Diabetic Alert Dogs, are seen as “simple, uncomplicated prescription[s],” according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). These dogs warn and detect medical issues such as diabetes, for example. To elaborate, the canines are trained to identify smells from their owner that indicate low blood sugar levels--an absolutely fascinating skill. Their talent does not end here, either; they can retrieve necessities such as glucose tabs, juice, phones, and another human, if the situation requires such action.
Additionally, Seizure Responsive Dogs are trained to protect their owner during a seizure, to signal an alarm, and bark to inform the surrounding individuals of the medical emergency at hand, according to the Epilepsy Foundation.
Another type, known as Psychiatric Service Dogs, help those struggling with conditions including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Schizophrenia, and others. Many veterans utilize this four-legged resource, as they help with the troubling aftermath of traumatic, war-related experiences and flashbacks. Plus, these dogs help to disrupt anxiety attacks, turn on lights to relieve stress, and remind the person to take their medication.
As a whole, service dogs’ incredible work deserves widespread recognition, as they inherently save lives, both physically and emotionally. Currently, service dogs are aiding 80 million Americans, according to the AKC. Their tremendous talents continue to aid those in need through bouts of love, care, and unrelenting dedication.
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