No matter what we do they will always call us fake
No matter what I do or what I post people will never be satisfied. My dog is fully trained and covered by the ADA that’s all that matters. Other then that I do what works for us. I make working fun, I have off duty play sessions with him, I teach him tricks etc. People online see a 10 second video clip while my service dog has been by my side for 7 years. I think I’d know what’s best for him and what works for him more then a random internet stranger.
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We do not, have not and never will condone any threats or harassment towards commenters featured within this post.
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#hate #workingdog #servicedog #servicedogcommunity #serviceanimals
It feels like no matter what I do, someone's ready to call my service dog 'fake.' You probably saw the comments, like 'insufferable owners' or 'another faker.' It's not just me; this constant scrutiny and misunderstanding are a daily reality for so many of us in the service dog community. People often jump to conclusions, believing that if a service animal isn't performing a task every second, or if they're showing natural dog behaviors, they must be 'fake.' One common challenge I face revolves around my dog's downtime. Many people believe if you show your service dog off duty having fun, then they're 'living a sad life' or that 'It's not proper SD behavior.' But the truth is, a service dog is still a dog! Just like any dedicated worker, they need breaks, playtime, and a chance to just be a dog. My service dog isn't 'forced to spend it with... this' (as one comment suggested); we have an incredible bond built on trust and mutual respect. Off-duty time is crucial for their mental well-being, preventing burnout, and ensuring they can perform their vital tasks effectively when needed. A happy, well-adjusted dog is a better working partner. Then there are the misconceptions about public access. I've had people declare, 'Service animals aren't supposed to behave like while on duty then they are automatically fake' if my dog, for instance, glances at a distraction or adjusts their position. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) protects our right to have our service dogs in public places, but it doesn't mean the public always understands. People often assume that all service dogs must be a specific breed or always wear a vest, leading to comments like 'Another faker. They all look the same,' if my dog doesn’t fit their preconceived notion. The reality is, service dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and while vests are helpful, they don't define a service animal. The dog's training and the work or task it performs for its handler are what matter. The emotional toll of constantly defending your partner and your disability is immense. It truly wears you down when 'they'll call you a fake no matter what you do.' It's emotionally draining to constantly be on guard, ready to educate, or, more often, just ignore the ignorant stares and whispered comments. Sometimes, these confrontations can even escalate into unsafe situations, creating anxiety for both me and my dog. The very purpose of a service dog is to grant independence, yet these challenges can sometimes feel like they’re hindering that very goal. My advice to other service dog handlers facing similar challenges is to know your rights, connect with supportive communities, and most importantly, remember the invaluable bond you share with your dog. You don't owe strangers an explanation, but knowing the ADA can empower you. Focus on the incredible impact your service dog has on your life, rather than the uninformed opinions of others. At the end of the day, their judgment doesn't change the fact that your service dog is real, trained, and an essential part of your life.
