The PetCot Company: Fun Facts About Assistance Dogs

The law recognizes three differnt types of assistance dogs, and all of the are highly valued by their owners. The most recent statistic suggest that there are at least 387,000 service dogs in the United States, and that doesn't include therapy or emotional support dogs. August 4th is Assistance Dogs Day, and it's celebrated every year to gear up for International Assistance Dog Week, which is happening on August 7th - 13th. Here are some interesting facts about assistance dogs, the different types there are, and more.

3 Types of Assistance Dogs

Service Dogs

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks, and the law even allows for owners to train their own dogs. There are many different types of disbilities that require a service, the most common are mobility problems, blindness, paralysis, epilepsy panic attacks, deafness, speech problems, and PTSD.

Emotional Support Dogs

These dogs are not required to be trained to perform a specific task. Their job is to be there for companionship, affection, and to provide comfort to their owner. You will see an emotional support dog for conditions like anxiety disorders, panic attacks, stress, social phobia, PTSD, and chronic depression.

Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs are not trained in a specific task, and much like emotional support dogs, are there for companionship. The difference is that they are generall used for patients in a hospital, nursing home, or other palliative care environment. A dog under this category is not afforded the same protections under the ADA as service dogs and emotional support dogs, and they may not be able to accompany you to as many public places.

International Assistance Dog Week

Every year on the first Sunday of August we celebrate this week to recognize of all the devoted, hardworking assistance dogs helping people navigate their disability-related limitations. Assistance dogs transform the lives of their human partners with debilitating physical and mental disabilities by serving as their companion, helper, aide, best friend and close member of their family.

History of International Assistance Dog Week

This event was established due to the efforts of Marcie Davis, a paraplegic for over 35 years. As a member of a service dog team, she founded Working Like Dogs to honor assistance dogs around the world and is sponsoring International Assistance Dog Week.

Pet Beds for Service Dogs

At the PetCot Company, we love every furry friend, but there is a special place in our heart for the pups who stand by their human's side through the adversity that may come from illness. Do you know an assistance dog who would love to have a place they can come home to at night and relax? A PetCot bed is a premium raised pet bed that would be ideal for any pet. It sits 4.5" above the floor, allowing for proper support and ultimate comfort. If you're ready to purchase one of our premium pet beds, visit our website today: www.PetCot.com.

Taking Comfort and Care to a New Level for Pets!