Best practices
UZURV chats with service dog training organization, The Seeing Eye®
“As my legs stretched out, and my shoulders went back, and my head went up, and the wind blew in my face, I knew I had my independence….”
~ Morris Frank, co-founder of The Seeing Eye, describes the
first guided walk with his service dog, Buddy.
Service animals provide an important function. They offer disabled riders greater independence and accessibility to work, play, and everyday life.
The tasks that service animals perform create a vital link to mobility, safety, and community participation for millions of people.
UZURV spoke with Melissa Allman, Advocacy and Government Relations Specialist for The Seeing Eye in Morristown, NJ.
Established in 1929 by Dorothy Harrison Eustis and Morris Frank, who is quoted above, The Seeing Eye is the first service dog training organization in the United States and the oldest one in the world.
“Service animals are important because they perform tasks for people with disabilities,” Allman explained.
“Seeing, hearing, walking, thinking – these are major life activities central to what people do. If one of those areas is substantially impaired, that is a disability.”
PHOTO: Vested Shepherd: A 6-month-old German shepherd puppy proudly displays his Seeing Eye vest. This is worn by puppies who are at least 6 months of age and have passed a basic obedience and temperament test.
Pro-tip:
When your Rider has a service animal...
- Always ask before interacting with the animal.
- Never grab the animal’s harness or leash.
- Make room for the service animal by moving vehicle seats.
- Keep a blanket handy to reduce animal hair on seats.
- Don't pet service animals while they are working. Let them focus on their job.
Don't forget...
- You're required by law to provide service animals access to your vehicle.
- Allergies aren't a legally protected reason to deny a service animal.
- You can't ask for proof that the animal is a service animal.
- Always provide door-to-door service – every ride, every time!
🐕 Make your rider and their service animal feel welcome! 🐕
In the news:
September is National Service Dog Month, celebrating canine partners who support independence and quality of life for those in our community who need them. Canine.org offers helpful information about service dogs and the important jobs they perform.
Questions or comments?
Contact support@uzurv.com. We're always happy to hear from you!
