Bringing a service dog home is an exciting decision. Your service dog will provide assistance just when you need it. You’ll experience a fuller life and greater independence with your service dog. Preparing for this significant change is crucial, however, as it will affect not only you but those around you. As a result, making sure that you’ve made all the necessary arrangements for your service dog’s comfort and security should top your priority list. This blog post will provide you with an overview of the essential items to consider before bringing your service dog home.
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Research the Right Service Dog for You
One should not choose a service dog solely based on breed or looks. While it is crucial to have a dog you relate to, what is even more important is to choose a dog with the right temperament, energy level, and training to fit your specific needs. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are famous for being excellent service animals, but each dog is exceptional in their way. Research and consult a service dog organization for guidance to understand the right type of service dog for your needs.
Make Home Adjustments
By bringing the service dog home, you are taking a new family member that will share space and love from everyone in your family and home. You will have to adjust your space to accommodate your service dog. Make sure that your home is safe and ready for your furry friend with particular attention to your living quarters, furniture, electrical cords, yard space, and removing any harmful items that could be dangerous to your service dog. Consult and follow recommendations given by your service dog provider to create a comfortable and secure environment.
Establish a Daily Routine
Dogs of any kind thrive when there is a structure in place. They’re creatures of habit, and knowing what you’re expecting from them helps them to feel safe and secure. Your service dog comes with a specific set of rules and routines that you’ll have to master. For instance, you will need to establish a consistent schedule for your service dog’s feeding, grooming, playing, exercise, and working hours. Your service dog provider will offer recommendations, and a customized plan can be put in place that suits you both.
Training Your Service Dog
Training your service dog to work and bond with you is essential to make the relationship productive. On becoming a service dog owner, you’ll have to go through several months, even years, of intensive training with your service dog. Service dogs work on simple cues such as voice commands and gestures, and knowing how to train your service dog to follow and obey your commands is essential. Your service dog organization will offer training sessions to create a perfect bonding between you and your service dog.
Legalities
It’s important to make sure you have all the necessary legal documents for owning a service dog. If you are staying in an apartment or gated community, find out whether pets are allowed and whether there could be restrictions for you owning a service dog. In addition, consult with a lawyer to know your rights as a service dog owner, and what measures are in place to protect you and ensure that you are accorded the necessary privileges and rights during travel, work, or home stay.
Conclusion
Support of a trained service dog can change one’s life and experience of living with a disability. It’s essential to prepare yourself and your surrounding before making the decision to bring a service dog home. Your research should include the dog breed, the service dog organization’s reputation, and legality before getting a service animal. By making the necessary adjustements for a service dog, establishing a routine, and accessing the proper training and certification, you will ensure your service dog and you bond effectively. Your new service dog is a valuable addition to your family, and you will establish a deeper connection as you build trust and respect, making memories that will last a lifetime.