You’ve probably noticed service dogs around and wondered how people get them. If you or a loved one live in Oklahoma and could benefit from a service dog, this blog post explores the process step-by-step.
We’re going to cover everything from how to determine if you’re eligible and find programs that provide service dogs in OK, to what’s involved in training and partnering with your new assistance dog. With the right preparation, getting a service dog could be an amazing experience. Stick with us to learn how Oklahomans can get their own hardworking service dog companion.
Service Dogs in Oklahoma: Legal Requirements
Firstly — Oklahoma has some laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities to be accompanied by service animals. Here’s what you need to know:
- To be considered a service dog in Oklahoma, the dog must be specifically trained to perform tasks that help mitigate their handler’s disability.
- Assistance dogs are allowed access to all public places and modes of transportation with their handlers. This includes restaurants, hotels, taxis, busses, stores, hospitals, etc.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies in Oklahoma. It’s illegal for any business to deny access or refuse service to someone because they have a service dog with them.
- Service dogs in training have the same access rights as fully trained service dogs when accompanied by a trainer.
- Businesses only ask 2 questions about a service dog: 1) Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability? and 2) What work or task has the dog been trained to perform? They cannot ask about the person’s disability.
- Service dogs are not required to wear a vest or have identification. However, some type of visual identifier can help avoid access issues.
- Although your therapy dog could be essential, neither pets, therapy dogs, or emotional support animals qualify as service dogs under the ADA. They could be denied access.
Knowing these laws helps ensure your rights to be accompanied by your service dog are protected.
Obtaining a Service Dog in Oklahoma
Getting a service dog in Oklahoma requires patience but is very rewarding. Here are the steps:
Doctor’s Prescription
Receive a doctor’s prescription for a service dog. This is required to legally have public access rights with your service dog in Oklahoma. Talk to your doctor about your medical needs and see if they recommend a service dog.
Training Your Service Dog
Find an accredited service dog training organization. Many reputable service dog programs such as Paws With A Cause or Assistance Dogs international members provide trained mobility or psychiatric service dogs. You may need to first go on a waiting list. Otherwise — owner train your own service dog. This requires extensive training but can be more affordable. Look for a dog with the right temperament from a shelter or breeder. Work with a professional trainer.
License
Apply for a service dog license with the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture. This provides you and your dog legal access rights.
Maintenance Training
Keep up with maintenance training. Continue reinforcing your dog’s skills or mobility service dog tasks regularly. Annual recertification may be needed.
Be patient!
Owner training takes time and commitment. But having a well-trained service dog by your side is invaluable. Reach out to local service dog groups for support too.
With the right preparation and training, a service dog can provide life-changing assistance. Take it step-by-step and soon you’re going to have a loyal companion at your side.
Service Dog Training Programs in Oklahoma
Ready to get your service dog trained? When finding a service dog training program in Oklahoma, there’re several great options to consider. Here are some reputable organizations:
- SitMeansSit Service Dog Training – Serving Edmond and it’s surrounding area, SitMeansSit offers professional off-leash dog training for service dogs. Their trainers will work 1-on-1 with you and your dog over 2-4 weeks to reinforce commands, public access skills, as well as task training.
- K9 University – Serving the Edmond area, K9 University has trained service dogs for people with disabilities as well as service-connected disabled veterans for over 15 years. Their trainers specialize in custom training each dog for their human’s unique needs.
- Adventure Dog Training Oklahoma City – Based in Oklahoma City, Adventure Dog’s experts train dogs one-on-one, using certain positive reinforcement techniques tailored to your individual animal’s personality and strengths. This allows them to match clients with the perfect service dog to match their needs.
- Gentle Canines – Oklahoma’s Gentle Canines uses training facilities that include real world environments to prepare the dogs for diverse situations they may encounter when assisting their human partners. This includes simulations of crowds, traffic, elevators, stairs, restaurants, airports, and other difficult settings.
No matter your condition or needs, one of Oklahoma’s exceptional service dog training programs can provide you with a loyal, trained companion to enhance your independence and quality of life. Reach out for details on application requirements, waitlists, costs and training methods. With a professionally trained service dog by your side, you’ll have a life-changing partner and friend.
Tips for Handling Access Issues With Your Service Dog
Bringing your service dog with you into public places comes with some challenges. Here are a few tips for handling access issues smoothly:
- Carry your service dog ID and certification with you. Be ready to educate businesses and organizations about your legal right to have your dog with you. Stay calm and friendly.
- If you are denied access, ask to speak to a manager right away. Politely explain the ADA laws that allow service dogs access and provide your credentials.
- Be proactive and call ahead when making reservations or appointments to confirm your service dog is welcome. This avoids problems when you arrive.
- Advise those around you that your dog is a working service dog, not a pet. Your dog’s vest can help convey this. Discourage people from interacting with your dog while it’s on duty.
- If your dog has an accident or misbehaves, apologize sincerely and leave promptly. This reflects well on all service dog users.
- Consider carrying a small clean-up kit with you just in case. Also bring small treats and bottled water for your dog when you’ll be out for extended periods.
- Know your rights, but don’t be afraid to walk away from confrontations. Seek help from management or authorities if you feel unsafe or threatened.
Staying calm and knowing the laws will help make your outings with your service dog go smoothly. With patience and practice, access issues will become easier to handle. Your service dog deserves to accompany you and do its important job.
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If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely trying to obtain a service dog in Oklahoma. We hope we were able to help with the process — but how about we help even more?
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