Service dogs perform specific tasks to assist individuals with disabilities, helping them navigate daily life with greater independence and safety. Their roles vary depending on the needs of the person they assist. Here’s a breakdown of common tasks service dogs perform:

Types of Service Dogs and Their Tasks

1. Guide Dogs (for Visual Impairments)

• Lead individuals with vision loss around obstacles.
• Help locate doors, stairs, elevators, and crosswalks.
• Signal when it’s safe to cross streets.

2. Hearing Dogs

• Alert their handler to important sounds like doorbells, alarms, phones, or approaching vehicles.
• Signal the presence of someone calling their name.

3. Mobility Assistance Dogs

• Retrieve dropped items or objects.
• Open and close doors or cabinets.
• Help with balance and stability for walking.
• Assist in getting up after a fall or transitioning from a seated to a standing position.

4. Medical Alert Dogs

• Detect and alert to changes in their handler’s medical condition, such as:
  • Low or high blood sugar levels (diabetes).
  • Imminent seizures (epilepsy).
  • Cardiac issues or blood pressure fluctuations.

5. Psychiatric Service Dogs

• Assist individuals with PTSD, anxiety, or other mental health conditions by:
  • Interrupting panic attacks or self-harming behaviors.
  • Providing deep pressure therapy (leaning or lying on their handler).
  • Guiding their handler away from stressful situations.

6. Autism Assistance Dogs

• Help prevent bolting or wandering.
• Provide calming support during sensory overload.
• Assist with social interactions.

7. Allergy Detection Dogs

• Sniff out specific allergens in food or the environment (e.g., peanuts, gluten).

8. Seizure Response Dogs

• Stay with their handler during a seizure for comfort and safety.
• Fetch help or an emergency device.
• Position their handler to prevent injury.

Additional Skills

Many service dogs are trained in basic and advanced obedience, ensuring they remain calm, focused, and responsive even in busy or chaotic environments.

Do you want information on a specific type of service dog? Email us. 😊