tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76179578922622029262024-03-13T18:17:15.250-05:00NOT NOW WE ARE WORKINGD.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-66883105843644131242017-10-14T10:40:00.000-05:002017-10-14T14:34:45.400-05:00From "Oh Dog!" to "No Dog!" Life at the end of a Service Dog Leash<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>This blog
is lovingly dedicated to veterans everywhere. Many of you find independence
from war wounds with a service dog. It’s heartbreaking to know, the same tool
that gives you freedom, can produce a barrier. Receiving a Bronze Star for
meritorious service in a combat zone is only the beginning of a battle. You
come home fighting a new war to get a simple cup of coffee, because someone
doesn’t want to follow the ADA and allow your Service Dog in the restaurant. I
read of people getting fists and trash can lids to the side of the head while other
restaurant patrons cheer. RESPECT is lacking in the 21<sup>st</sup> century. </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>Thank you
for your service everyone!</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><b>PREFACE</b><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i>I offer this blog as an educational tool. My opinions are strong, they are my own.
—If you don’t like them write your own blog. The events and impressions come
from my many years of experience with a Service Dog. I don’t share names of
people or organizations because that would serve no purpose. However, if you
find something of educational value please feel free to apply it to your life
and share it with others.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“OH DOG!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“What a
cute doggie”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“Oh, poor
baby having to work.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“Such a
good dog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“see the
dog, see the dog, woof, woof, see the dog.” (People apparently want their child
to see a dog it must be a large event)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">These remarks
are wonderful under NORMAL circumstances for a PET dog. What happens when they
are applied to the SERVICE DOG, who functions as a MEDICAL DEVICE?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Well, the
Service Dog and human hear these remarks again, again, and again, everywhere
they go 30, 60, 90 times per day times 365 days a year. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">I’m often
told this is “harmless,” “no big deal,” “just deal with it.” I can’t always
reply when I’m out in public so I would like to do so now:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">To everyone who tries to “help”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">It is nice
to have someone offer help but please do not be offended if I don’t accept. For
my own preservation and independence, it’s important to use the Service Dog for
the work she is trained to do. You won’t always be around, and what you think
is “help” may cause me to fall, or disrupt the working dog. It’s interesting to
me that I needed help for years, often unable to reach things, or manage
stairs.—upon asking for help people would look at me like I was from outer
space..—Now I need far less help because I have a Service Dog,--Yet, there is
this rush of “help” from well-meaning people who are actually just in the way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">PS. Don’t
place my hand on things and shout “someone help the blind lady.” I have friends
who are blind and friends who are deaf.—There is no shame in being either or
both.—BUT, I don't appreciate you making assumptions based upon the
Service Dog, an outward symbol of my disability, something I have to wear like a scarlet letter. Don't presume, assume, or think you know anything about me </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">.—SERVICE DOGS ARE NOT JUST FOR BLIND PEOPLE!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">To Miss “I’m such a dog person I
can’t help it” and</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> Mr. & Mrs. “2-year
old needs a teachable moment.”<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The dog
you think is “so cute” is a MEDICAL DEVICE it was not brought to this public
forum for your amusement or education. Could I interest you in petting a cane
or wheelchair? Oh, why not? You are so captivated by my device that allows me
to get where I’m going and be “normal.”
You only want “pets” and “teach time” with things that have fur? There
are lots of dogs at the local shelter who need stokes, love, attention, eyes,
petting, and gawking, please go there, and leave the Service Dog ALONE! I am not
a public spectacle, a thing, for your child to see, touch, feel, or experience.
I am a PERSON trying to live life without being stared at, picked apart, watched,
or stalked.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Don’t
expect me to reply to questions about my dog. My super happy auto-pilot is not
always working. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Your curious questions
are a painful, private part of my life, coping with a disability. Oh, but since
you mentioned it, do you use latex or non-latex condoms and what do they do for
you? Well, don’t be upset I know I’m a total stranger but, I just thought I
would ask , I noticed the condoms in your basket, I could search for the
information on my own but I figured I would ask you because that condom package
is so adorable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> PS. There is a HUMAN attached to the end of
the Service Dog’s leash, most of you pass by and don’t even notice. A day,
week, month… years of these experiences produces a feeling of isolation and invisibility
for the human, it also shows how RUDE people are!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">To everyone who just has ONE
question:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">No one
ever has just one question about the service dog. If I reply to your questions
I have to reply to questions from the 25 people behind you, a line forms, it
takes me 3 hours to do a “quick trip” to the store. –and you block the
aisle for 25+ people who actually don’t give a darn about dogs they are just
trying to transact business. Please spare us all by using a search engine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">To the many people out there with
dog stories:<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">The Service
Dog handler hears MANY dog stories every day. A single trip to a large store
means up 15 dog stories per hour and hearing “dog” up to 100 times per hour.—(my
own actual stats kept from years of trying to go out and live my life). Can we
stand another dog story? Yes, but try to make it a happy one instead of telling
us about the dog that just got run over, or looked exactly like ours and had to
be put down. It’s interesting to us that your cousin’s best friend has a
service dog but we don’t necessarily need comparisons such as: “I know most
people who have service dogs are blind and you are not blind—are you?—so that
means you probably don’t need your dog as much as well, if you were actually
blind.. Finally, PLEASE avoid the one thing we hear many times per week: “I
just can’t stand to be away from my dog I love him so much. I went out and
bought a Service Dog vest so he could go on vacation with me.”: UGH! Thanks for
letting me know you are making my life more difficult by bringing your untrained
dog into public places. You love your dog so much that you FAKE a disability? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>To the many people who think I am
lucky to take my dog everywhere:<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">I have a
disability that requires me to be connected to the Service Dog 24/7. I am
certainly grateful for the freedom that the Service dog provides but, please
don’t tell me how “lucky” I am be to be disabled. As much as you would love to
have your pet with you everywhere, I would LOVE to not need my Service Dog with
me. No one wants to be told how lucky they are to need a medical device.
Finally, I ask you to read the rest of this blog carefully and then tell me how
“lucky” I am to take my dog everywhere!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>“NO DOG!”</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">“NO DOG!" is the other side of the Service Dog coin. Many places do not train their
employees in Service Dog access law and basic manners. Some organizations
continually apologize but do nothing to change employee behavior, and sadly
there are a few people out there that just don’t want to follow Federal Law.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Yes “NO DOG” is the worst for me!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">"Hello
Goodee, the Service Dog welcome to the blog. Why were you not active during the
“Oh Dog!” part?"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Well mom, when people gush and make silly
faces, I take it in stride and ignore them because I’m a trained service dog
but when people say, “NO DOG” everything comes to a halt.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “That’s true I can’t get anything done
without you Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Not even this blog!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Very funny Goodee, since you are so good
with words why not tell our friends about some “NO DOG!” experiences?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Let’s see there’s some discrete events
like:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Not being invited to lunch because co-workers
are afraid of dogs.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Not being invited to parties because people have
pets that might not get along with your service dog.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Being excluded from volunteer work you use to do
before “the dog” because well, “the dog might be a problem for some people.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><!--[endif]-->“I would invite you over but our landlord doesn’t
like dogs. I know, I know it’s a Service Dog but our landlord is just mean and
I don’t want to “make problems” for other tenants.”<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “These are certainly in our “NO DOG!”
experiences Goodee but they aren’t against the law. Some people are afraid of
dogs, or they have pets that might not get along with the dog. What can we do
about it?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “#4
is illegal mom… A landlord can’t keep a visitor out because they have a Service
Dog. Service Dogs must be allowed to accompany people with disabilities in all
areas of public access.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Oh, I stand corrected Goodee the Service
Dog, #4 is a matter of Service Dog access protected by law but, what do we do
about 1, 2, and 3?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “There’s not anything we can do mom but,
we need to educate people and let them know how it feels for someone with a
Service Dog. The person with the Service Dog has a disability. They can’t
control the fact that they need the dog. The Service Dog is meant to allow the
disabled person to do things. I’m just saying mom… A person should not have to
apologize for needing a Service Dog, and they certainly should not be
confronted with a barrier and treated like a totally different “odd” person
just because they need the dog!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Okay Goodee, remember this is not a rant.
Just finish up with one of the worst “NO DOG!” experiences you can think of.
Something that’s not against the law but, is still rude and makes us feel
badly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Well there was this ride share driver,
U-know who U-are.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Careful Goodee, no names."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “yes, well this made me mad mom so I would like
to say what’s on my mind”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Okay continue Goodee”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “This guy drives up and I’m in a vest that
says SERVICE DOG ACCESS REQUIRED and you are holding my leash. He rolls his
eyes, exhaling in a huff and says:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Does the dog HAVE to go with us.?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Well no shit Sherlock, yes the dog does
HAVE to go!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “So, he was lacking brains give the driver
a break Goodee. I did advise him that you are a Service Dog and even told him
you are trained in balance/counter balance. —He gave us a ride so what’s the
big deal?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “The big deal mom is how he went out of
his way to be continually rude. You showed him our blanket, he gets a blanket
from his trunk and then a SECOND time says: “Does the dog HAVE to go? It’s just
that it’s a NEW car with LEATHER interior.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “He was over the top Goodee but, it was a
NEW CAR with LEATHER interior you know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Oh mom, do I have to explain it to you?
The driver knows that he is required by law to transport Service Dogs. All the
ride share companies suggest that drivers carry a blanket because they are
required to transport Service Dogs. It was the driver’s choice to be a driver
for U-know who, using his NEW car with LEATHER interior.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Wow, I had never thought of that Goodee!
You mean the driver has a choice whether he wants to hire his car out but, I
don’t have a choice about not being able to stand up without a Service dog?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"> “Exactly mom! This guy was so irritating
the way he went on about his new car, he even told us a THIRD time that
he had a NEW car with LEATHER interior. Just put us in the car and be done with
it.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><b>IN SUMMARY</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">So, that’s
life at the end of the Service Dog leash. I am either the invisible person you
don’t even notice because the dog is so gosh darn cute, the mean person who won’t
let you pet the dog, or the person who ranks in importance somewhere well below
the NEW car LEATHER interior.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">While I am most grateful and thankful, I ask you:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Am I "lucky" to take my dog everywhere?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Team
Goodee appreciates our family and friends when we are out and about we must
say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Not Now We
Are Working!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">and when
we are lucky<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Not Now We
Are On Vacation!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;">Check out GoodeeWorks Productions on Facebook.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><b>UPCOMING EVENTS:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">It’s Your Dime Travel has put together an accessible affordable cruise for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><b>HALLOWEEN AT SEA 2018!<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Cruise along with TEAM GOODEE as we explore 3 Service Dog friendly ports.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">We receive no compensation for reservations. We just love cruising and want to have a few friends along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0in 0in 4.5pt;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">We'll be sailing on the new MSC ship, Seaside, from the Port of Miami, through the Eastern Caribbean to St. Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico and Nassau Bahamas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 4.5pt 0in;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">MSC Seaside rewrites the rule book of cruise ship design, blending indoor and outdoor areas to connect you with the sea like never before. Circling the entire ship as low as Deck 8 is a unique seafront promenade lined with places to eat, drink, shop, sw<span class="textexposedshow">im and sunbathe. And you can enjoy more superb views from the two-deck glass-walled atrium and panoramic elevators.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><b><i>Come on in the water is fine!<o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;">https://www.facebook.com/events/113215115945800/<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 17.12px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9qidZsqdZM/WWglPl5fMtI/AAAAAAAAADY/WnkUdHTwaxooa88FBdwKV6O_SJwj3EPogCLcBGAs/s1600/HALLOWEEN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="843" height="179" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9qidZsqdZM/WWglPl5fMtI/AAAAAAAAADY/WnkUdHTwaxooa88FBdwKV6O_SJwj3EPogCLcBGAs/s320/HALLOWEEN.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; clear: both; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: center; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACs/mUVDVBv3P2MGGy31iBpSP6mKeElMeLIgACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACs/mUVDVBv3P2MGGy31iBpSP6mKeElMeLIgACPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADE/DHIxU1Xa1N0YsKctQ_TwJEHQh0SlrWbGwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADE/DHIxU1Xa1N0YsKctQ_TwJEHQh0SlrWbGwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0679.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-10338917002020952062017-07-13T21:06:00.000-05:002017-07-13T21:06:18.709-05:00CHILL OUT! Interaction with the Service Dog Team<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="color: red;"><b>PREFACE: Summer
can be a difficult time for the Service Dog team, heat, and crowds bring on
additional stress. <o:p></o:p></b></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="color: red;"><b>I constantly hear people say, “I just didn’t know.”
That’s why this blog exists, so that people may know, understand, and educate
themselves. <o:p></o:p></b></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="color: red;"><b>This post is lovingly dedicated to U.S.
veterans. Thank you for your service and
sacrifice. Team Goodee is blessed to have Service Dog friends in every branch
of the U.S. military, and some in the U.K., and Canada. Social media makes the world our
neighborhood.<o:p></o:p></b></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><i><span style="color: red;"><b>To our military friends, thanks for teaching us to
“walk in our shoes,” stand up, and speak out.</b></span></i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">It’s hard to find ways to educate others. Giving out
information when we are out and about is difficult at best. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“We should
probably let people walk in our shoes mom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“Oh, hello
Goodee the Service Dog nice of you to join the blog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“Let people
walk in our shoes? Goodee, don’t you mean empathize?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“No mom,
you said empathize, I didn’t. I don’t
use the big words I just supply the humor.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“You mean
you literally want people to walk in our shoes? It could get crowded. I hate to
point out the obvious but you don’t wear shoes.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“No mom, I
mean figuratively speaking, I want people assimilate what it is like for us as
Service Animal and human.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“<b>ASSEMILATE?</b> Goodee, <b><i>now</i></b> who is using<b> BIG </b>words?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Ok mom, people
just need to take in our culture and fully understand what we go through.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Oh, I see,
Goodee, why don’t we try to explain.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Right mom,
that’s code for I’m going to say things that might upset people and pretend
that the Service Dog said it.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>BUSTED</b> by my Service Dog again. I am known for keeping
people at a distance. I’ve had people say, “I remember you; you don’t want
people around you or your dog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">To which I
reply: “yes that would be me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Well it’s
not like I am an ordinary dog mom. I’m the medical device.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> "Correct
Goodee, you function like both a cane and a walker for me. You help with
balance/counter balance and estimate distances for me.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “I do all
that mom and more. I also tell you when to change your head position to avoid
migraine headaches, I help you find a safe place and your migraine medicine...
There’s a few other things too. Frankly, I deserve a raise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Well, I could
do a few extra pig ears per week.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Cool.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Since I
gave you a raise, could you help the blog along?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Goodee to
the rescue again. Why don’t we just explain to people what it’s like for us?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “You mean
so they can empathize?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Right mom,
empathize and<b> ASSEMILATE</b>.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>WALK IN OUR SHOES</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">I wish people could “walk in our shoes.” It would
involve much more than putting a vest on a dog and having you go out in public.
Even a highly trained dog would not simulate what it’s like
for the Service Dog, and handler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> I joined
several groups on social media before being paired with Goodee “the
great” Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">I thought: “Gosh these Service Dog people need to get
a grip. Why not just let people pet the dog? Surely a little eye contact, or talk
couldn’t hurt.? Why not tell people about your Service Dog or disability? They are just making conversation. —and
what’s the big deal if someone talks to the dog and not to you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">In just one week with Goodee, I learned the real
consequences of letting others treat the Service Dog like a pet. It took much
longer for me to understand how the Service Dog changed my life.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> “Gosh mom
that’s sounds epic. Are you going to be able to talk about all that in one
blog?” “I hope so Goodee”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>The “BIG DEAL” ABOUT SERVICE DOG INTERACTION</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">The Service Dog functions as a medical device. This is
a hard concept to grasp. Medical devices don’t usually have fur. Let me use an
illustration from my own life. ---Cerebral Palsy effects my entire left side.
Everything on the left side of my body is slower and weaker. My hips freeze up
on hard surfaces. Uneven surfaces are a nightmare. My peripheral
vision is so poor I cannot drive a car, ride a bike, go down steps, or walk a
half block. When I look down, things seem further away than they are. I need help
with stability. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> The Service Dog
is <b>AMAZING</b> for stability. A cane is useless to me it’s just another object over
which I might fall. However, the Service Dog provides constant motion to keep
my muscles and hips moving. My body
stays aligned, the dog goes ahead of me, finding handicap access ramps and
smooth surfaces. When I must take stairs, they are now no problem. I feel the
Service Dog going downward, and my I body adjusts accordingly. On the BEST
days, I can accomplish twice the number of things I did before having the
service dog, and at the end of the day I am pain free, instead of being unable
to move.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> The “best” days
are not easily accomplished. Balance is a delicate thing. I feel the slightest
shift as I walk with the Service Dog. My reaction time is slowed on the left. I
may know I need to make an adjustment but my body won’t allow me to do so. The Service dog can assist me in trying to
make adjustments. -- Notice I said <b><i>TRYING</i></b> to make adjustments. What could possibly prevent adjustments?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Usually it’s a person who has come upon us either in
front or behind the dog. On a bad day, it might be six people who stop dead in
their tracks to STARE at us. It could be the person who does a “fly-by pet,”
brushing, or poking at the dog. Irritating? Yes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>NOW</b> imagine, yourself, doing everything you do in a
day but, being <b>TOTALLY</b> dependent upon the Service Dog for balance. No cheating,
you must be with the dog 24/7. Hundreds of people per day at the bank, grocery
store, place of employment, doctor’s office, hair dresser, and restaurant. —365
days per year. Now you may have some idea how exhausting these interactions can
be.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Let me add detail to the imaginary exercise. The
Service Dog can prevent many falls but, sometimes there is no getting around it.
-- Literally people insist upon enclosing us in a circle or being at “zero
line” so there is just no room to move.
We can’t move, and other people won’t move (even when we ask them
nicely). Suddenly, someone directly behind, or in front of me insists upon
moving by pushing past me or the dog and I end up falling. Sometimes “the fall”
jars my entire spine. —This necessitates several visits to pain management. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>And Now the Rest of the Story… “I JUST WANT TO… “TALK, ASK, BE A FRIEND”</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">I wish I could put a shield of invisibility around
myself and the Service Dog. Part of me understands why people want to chat.
Before having a Service Dog, I was somewhat introverted but still friendly. Having
the Service Dog has changed my public personality. The freedom to go and do things
I could never do before is fantastic but it comes with a price. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Let me illustrate with a hypothetical:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">You
are out on a normal day. You have an accessory, “cool shades,” the accessory
everyone wants to look at and talk about</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">“Cool Shades”
are so cool everyone wants to tell you about their experience, or their
friend’s experience, and their uncle’s best friend and his girlfriend, and
their experience with the same but “sort of different “cool shades."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> In fact, your
“cool shades” remind people of the “cool shades” they lost so they break down crying
while telling you about their “cool shades.” You stop and listen to story #1,
2, 3,... 10. because you understand“the shades” are so cool. While you are
listening to stories and trying to be friendly people pass by “barking” and saying,
“oh cool shades.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> Can you image
how much sensory overload this causes?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Neither could I, until it happened to me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">At first, I saw no harm in chatting. By the end of the
first week with my Service Dog I allowed no one to pet, or talk to the dog. I learned,
even if I brace myself to prevent a fall, I am physically unable to stand while
25 people (literally I had a family member keep a count for me). came to say “hello.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">There are other practicalities:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Can
you imagine every errand you run taking you three times as long because you
have a stranger stop you and ask questions?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Can you imagine</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;"> being asked to share the most private details of your life every
day with total strangers? --Medical information, so private that it’s protected
by Federal Law. -- A stranger asks you about it as you stand between the toilet
tissue and soap at a supermarket?</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>REALLY? Yes, REALLY! </b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">This<b> REALLY</b> happens to me several
times a week!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Can
you imagine being sick in a doctor’s office and having a total stranger "talk at you," insisting upon being inches from you, while having their kid run straight at you <b>YELLING, "DOG!</b>"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Neither could I until it happened to me!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Continuing the example:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> Imagine, in addition to all the events above, you have
a physical injury, not just on one day, but
two or more days per month.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>NOW,</b> you have imagined “walking in our shoes.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Do you see how this could bet taxing? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"> Do you see how a
person might come across to people as “short,” and unfriendly, when in reality they
are simply emotionally drained?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">I hope so! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Service Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, to manage
all types of impairments. Each team works differently. Life
gets scary after many “near miss” and emergency situations. The priority of a
Service Dog handler is <b>SAFETY</b> for the Service Dog, themselves, and others out
in public. The second priority is managing our own limitations, completing
things in the same amount of time as a “normal” person, under very different
conditions. Where do you fit in? please understand we may not be delighted when
you “zero line,” pop out a camera, and/or start asking questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Why do we do what we do? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Together, dog and human make a great team and we do
what was once <b>IMPOSSIBLE</b>. That is <b>INCREDIBLE</b> and that is why we do what we do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">The ability to do that which you could <b>NEVER</b> do
without the Service Dog is worth <b>ANYTHING </b>life throws at you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">We love to hear from fans. Check out our Facebook
page, or drop us an email. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Please know when we are out and about we must say…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are Working!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>UPCOMING EVENTS:</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">It’s Your Dime Travel has put together an accessible
affordable cruise for us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b>HALLOWEEN AT SEA 2018!<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">Cruise along with TEAM GOODEE as we explore 3 Service
Dog friendly ports. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">We receive no compensation for reservations. We
just love cruising and want to have a few friends along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin-bottom: 4.5pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">We'll be sailing
on the new MSC ship, Seaside, from the Port of Miami, through the Eastern
Caribbean to St. Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico and Nassau Bahamas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 4.5pt 0in;">
<span style="color: #1d2129;">MSC Seaside rewrites the rule
book of cruise ship design, blending indoor and outdoor areas to connect you
with the sea like never before. Circling the entire ship as low as Deck 8 is a
unique seafront promenade lined with places to eat, drink, shop, sw<span class="textexposedshow">im and sunbathe. And you can enjoy more superb views from
the two-deck glass-walled atrium and panoramic elevators.</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><b><i>Come on in the water is fine!<o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;">https://www.facebook.com/events/113215115945800/<span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9qidZsqdZM/WWglPl5fMtI/AAAAAAAAADY/WnkUdHTwaxooa88FBdwKV6O_SJwj3EPogCLcBGAs/s1600/HALLOWEEN.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="474" data-original-width="843" height="179" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-u9qidZsqdZM/WWglPl5fMtI/AAAAAAAAADY/WnkUdHTwaxooa88FBdwKV6O_SJwj3EPogCLcBGAs/s320/HALLOWEEN.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACs/mUVDVBv3P2MGGy31iBpSP6mKeElMeLIgACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACs/mUVDVBv3P2MGGy31iBpSP6mKeElMeLIgACPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADE/DHIxU1Xa1N0YsKctQ_TwJEHQh0SlrWbGwCPcBGAYYCw/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADE/DHIxU1Xa1N0YsKctQ_TwJEHQh0SlrWbGwCPcBGAYYCw/s320/IMG_0679.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-39417072799077303842017-06-11T22:08:00.002-05:002017-06-19T13:24:16.608-05:00NOT NOW WE ARE ON VACATION!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: 2; text-align: left; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADA/uZqCyG6IhIA6FT4yLDUpwZVu554hCOXugCLcB/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3YmqcTGwzls/WT3G6P8x29I/AAAAAAAAADA/uZqCyG6IhIA6FT4yLDUpwZVu554hCOXugCLcB/s640/IMG_0679.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
CRUISE WITH THE SERVICE DOG</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2o9w1NwrcPo/WT3Hp3Kzx7I/AAAAAAAAADI/o2Pg7cLT_P8H4LtVlhH_fa1JnZISQarKACEw/s1600/IMG_0651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="240" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2o9w1NwrcPo/WT3Hp3Kzx7I/AAAAAAAAADI/o2Pg7cLT_P8H4LtVlhH_fa1JnZISQarKACEw/s640/IMG_0651.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i>Team Goodee lovingly dedicates this blog to everyone who
makes us possible. It takes a medical team, family, and friends to keep us
going. We are grateful and thankful for the opportunity to be out and about functioning
as a team.</i></span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We now continue our vacation series: Not Now We Are On
Vacation! Previously we highlighted interactions with strangers. These are
intense times on any outing. The human is trying to get from A to B, or do “X”,
when suddenly a well-meaning total stranger inserts themselves into your life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://goodeeworks.blogspot.com/2017/03/">http://goodeeworks.blogspot.com/2017/03/</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After reading that
blog, you might wonder why anyone with a Service Dog goes on vacation at all.
We presented the ugly examples to show how difficult things can get. Besides,
irritating, but, funny people who push their limits are fun to write about.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this blog, we highlight the cruise experience for the
Service Dog Team. If you are a Service Dog handler and you have thought about a
cruise, here is our advice…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>YES, DO IT! </b>Once upon a time we were looking for a few days
away. The cruise is economical and accessible. Food and entertainment in an
inclusive package. So, we said: Bahamas here we come! About six months later
when we were on the ship with all our documents in order we screamed and did a
happy dance.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey mom time, to answer the most asked
question.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, hello Goodee
the Service Dog. Nice of you to check-in on the blog. Well the most asked
question is your name and I think they already know you Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom not that
question: THE QUESTION for people who never thought about Service Dogs on
cruises.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh yes: THE
QUESTION”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>HOW DOES A SERVICE DOG “GO” ON A SHIP?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s a good
question mom I was wondering that myself. It’s like a big hotel on a swimming pool.
There’s no grass!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Correct Goodee
Several people made that observation before we entered the sea terminal.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, to the guy who mumbled for 45-minutes about how they don’t
let dogs on ships, and the lady who asked everyone on the bus if they knew
anything about how a dog gets to “go” on a ship. ---<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE ANSWER IS</b>: The cruise line provides a 4x4 wooden box
with sod or mulch material. The relief area is on an open deck with lots of
cross-wind. Service Dog. handlers should bring supplies to keep the area
clean.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>YES, THEY REALLY ARE GOING TO LET THE SERVICE DOG ON THE
SHIP!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Department of Transportation describes cruise ships as a
cross between transportation and public accommodations. Service Dogs must be
allowed to accompany a passenger in all areas of public access on the ship,
including lifeboats. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A Few points to help the Service Dog Team have a good time:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>PICK YOUR PORTS CAREFULLY</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Only you know how many days your Service Dog can handle.
Decide how often you need to see land. I have a list of destinations. I am
doing them in multiple trips instead of a long cruise, so the Service Dog can
visit land more often.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Each port of entry has their own dog import requirements.
Consult the USDA for the latest requirements. Example: Some ports require yearly
rabies vaccination, nearly all ports require a certificate of health from your
vet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>GET INFORMATION FROM THE CORRECT END OF THE HORSE</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t try to “google it.” There’s lots of bad/out dated
information about Service Dog travel out there. Don't listen to your mom's boyfriend's best friend who tried to go on a cruise several years ago. There’s also no shortage of companies that
will try to sell you a pet passport that is used in Europe but not the U.S. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I spent $60 in long distance calls to the Bahamas Dept. of
Agriculture. The phone help was polite but, they were not addressing my exact
question. A wonderful person at the USDA suggested that I call back and ask to
speak to a veterinarian.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I did it took me 10-minute to convince the person
that I needed to speak directly to a vet, and 15-minutes on hold for the vet to
take my call. However, I am so glad that I did that. The vet needed less than
two minutes to tell me which vaccinations are actually required (out of the
list of 20 on the permit). Only the Rabies vaccine is required, the others
listed are simply recommendations. –My vet advised all items listed are done as
puppy vaccines.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>GET INFORMATION TO THE CRUISE LINE EARLY AND OFTEN</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Some travel agents are more helpful than others. Service Dog
accommodations are too important to be left to someone else. When you make a
deposit on your cruise, notify the cruise line via e-mail that you are bringing
a Service Animal. When you make your final payment, send another email
confirming a relief area is planned for you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>OTHER RULES STILL APPLY</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Before flying, notify TSA cares by email
or phone <a href="https://www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support">https://www.tsa.gov/travel/passenger-support</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Also, consult the airline about bulkhead space for the
Service Dog. Remember, the Air Carrier Access Act allows impaired persons to be
accompanied by a Service Animal at no additional cost.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>EXPECT ANYTHING</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Cruise ships are a mass of humanity. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE BAD</b>: More people = More questions/ interaction attempts
with you and the dog. The first day it was like being in a big shopping center.
“what’s your dog’s name,” how cute,” etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Don’t forget the
guy who got right in my face and barked mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, he was unforgettable
and alcoholic impaired Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE GOOD</b>: The ship is BIG and you soon find little areas of
escape away, away, away from people if you need to.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>THE EXCELLENT:</b> The sea and beach are right outside. —They
are the only thing outside for a day or more. Entertainment is included. Your stateroom is a home away from home.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Better than home
mom. I mean bed turned down twice a day, meals by a chef, who has all that at
home?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Correct Goodee,
a cruise is better than home!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>DON'T SAY NO!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are a number of well-meaning able-bodied "normal" people who will say:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"You shouldn't go," "We wouldn't go," and my favorite: "Are you sure you should go alone?" You are the only person who knows what you can do with your Service Dog. Cruising is accessible. If you need assistance just ask. Above-all DO NOT TRY to go without your Service Dog. Don't try to substitute something for your Service Dog just because someone who has never had a disability or a Service Dog, suddenly wants to give you advice. You need your dog and you have a legal right to mitigate your disability and enjoy your vacation. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Up-coming Service Dog Friendly Cruises:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">PAWS WITH A
CAUSE 2018 CRUISE </span>January 21-18, 2018<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PAWS provides Service Dogs to people who need them at no
cost to the client. During this bi-annual fundraising event Royal Caribbean
will make a generous cash donation to PAWS for every state-room purchased.
7-days in the Caribbean on the Allure of the Seas. For information contact: <a href="mailto:ddavis@pawswithacause.org" target="_blank"><span style="background: white; color: #007271; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ddavis@pawswithacause.org.</span></a><span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">HALLOWEEN AT SEA 2018!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
October 27-November 3, 2018<b><span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Hosted by Your Travel Dime
Dream Vacations & GoodeeWorks Productions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Join select group of
travelers to celebrate Halloween at Sea 2018! We'll be sailing on the new MSC
ship, Seaside, from the Port of Miami, through the Eastern Caribbean to St.
Maarten, San Juan, Puerto Rico and Nassau Bahamas.</span><span style="color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">MSC Seaside rewrites the rule book of cruise ship design,
blending indoor and outdoor areas to connect you with the sea like never
before. Circling the entire ship as low as Deck 8 is a unique seafront
promenade lined with places to eat, drink, shop, swim and sunbathe. And you can
enjoy more superb views from the two-deck glass-walled atrium and panoramic
elevators.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">To celebrate Halloween, we're planning a private party with
costume contest and entertainment.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background: white;">Some cabins include unlimited drinks, onboard credit, spa
services and priority boarding. Cabins start at $349 pp, double occupancy plus
taxes and fees.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="background: white;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Our friends at Your
Travel Dime put this together for us. Team Goodee is not receiving any compensation
for promotion. We just want to check out the MSC SEASIDE and thought we would
invite a few friends along.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4b4f56; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">For information contact:
</span><a href="mailto:bmiller@dreamvacations.com"><span style="background: white; color: #337ab7; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 107%;">bmiller@dreamvacations.com</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Visit on Facebook: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://bmiller.dreamvacationsgroups.com/#/groups/8830479">http://bmiller.dreamvacationsgroups.com/#/groups/8830479</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #4f4f4f; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/113215115945800/?acontext=%7B%22ref%22%3A%223%22%2C%22ref_newsfeed_story_type%22%3A%22regular%22%2C%22feed_story_type%22%3A%22117%22%2C%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D">https://www.facebook.com/events/113215115945800/?acontext=%7B%22ref%22%3A%223%22%2C%22ref_newsfeed_story_type%22%3A%22regular%22%2C%22feed_story_type%22%3A%22117%22%2C%22action_history%22%3A%22null%22%7D</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-43773622918014610622017-04-06T02:23:00.000-05:002017-04-10T13:08:45.126-05:00PEOPLE! Standing On Our Last Nerve (The LONG blog that will be a book)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACo/p-rYg8XjX-gT8rbwfju6IxatoRxt8qPdQCLcB/s1600/IMG_0689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ysPd28ljV-s/WOWoap8R8HI/AAAAAAAAACo/p-rYg8XjX-gT8rbwfju6IxatoRxt8qPdQCLcB/s320/IMG_0689.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: 24pt;"><span style="color: red;">THE FOLLOWING BLOG IS RATED NC-17 for the use of the words bra, and sex.</span></span></i></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-size: 24pt;">The content
is for education of the public and support of the Service Dog community. – and we
hope a few laughs because no one likes boring rants. The use of “We” in this
blog applies exclusively to Team Goodee, and is not meant to apply to any other
Service Dog Team or group, real or imagined. Our strong opinions are our own.</span></i></h3>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: 24pt;"><b>Disclaimers:</b></span></i></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-size: 24pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 32px;"><i><b>The feature character "Dr-X" and office staff is a composite character of past medical providers and does not resemble any of Team Goodee's current medical team.</b></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 32px;"><i><b>The feature character Miss "Evil Spirit" Airways is a real person but, we wouldn't reveal her name even if we had it.</b></i></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 24pt;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Clearly mom, it’s time for a blog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Hello Goodee the Service Dog, What makes you think so?"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Well mom, you get a look. You are about
to explode on your Facebook status.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Oh yes, Goodee, it happens.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Well why not just do a blog so people
will know what’s on your mind?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Wonderful idea Goodee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Here we go…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;">TEAM GOODEE:
THINGS THAT MAKE US WANT TO SCREAM!</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Our survey says…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;">* People who
pet the Service Dog, or ask to pet after reading the words “DO NOT PET.”</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There are
several reasons petting is not allowed. First, the working dog might become
distracted causing them to miss a vital que to their job—For example, Seizure
alert dogs are able to signal their handler that a seizure is about to happen,
allowing time for the person to reach their medication or a “safe” zone.
However, when a stranger insists upon attention from the dog, even the best working
dog is delayed in signaling the handler This may lead to an unnecessary medical
emergency.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(Yes, it’s a
real deal. No, we may not know how the dog does it. Yes, we know you THINK you
are the exception to the rule. NO, there is NOT any exception to the “DO NOT
PET” rule.).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Second, if
you are close enough to pet the dog then you are too ___ close to the human handler
and dog. —both of whom need PERSONAL SPACE (sometimes for private medical
reasons). As an example, Goodee the Service Dog is trained to keep people away from me because
I am at risk of falling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">What happens
when people get too close?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “The chiropractor has an unexpected payday.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “correct Goodee but let’s break it down so
people understand. Here’s our example:”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I am paused
browsing a shelf at a secret location, our local mega-store (who didn’t pay me
for advertising so I’m not going to tell you their name). —Suddenly, I hear six
small kids yell “DOG!” I feel a rush of wind. Caught off-guard, spastic
cerebral palsy causes my legs to stiffen as all the children run towards Goodee
the Service Dog. I fall to the floor. Holding Goodee's leash helped, however, Goodee is correct both my chiropractor and massage therapist
got unexpected paydays during the next week. The fall shifted my whole spine. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">An adult did
“collect” her children. She smiled saying: “Oh I’m so proud of you no one
touched the dog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I was
speechless so I will reply now:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Dear adult
who left children unsupervised,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There’s a lot more to being around a Service Dog then just
not touching. The running child wind tunnel was cute. Your children almost ran into my cart. I moved quickly to prevent their head injury. My highly-trained dog did her best but it wasn't enough to
prevent my own fall. Thank you for the opportunity to entertain the kids. It cost
me three chiropractor visits and two massage therapy sessions—some items not covered by insurance, you are welcome.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;">*People who insist upon “helping.”</span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div style="border-bottom: solid windowtext 1.0pt; border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example: Dear stranger who thinks I am blind,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I know you are TRYING to help. However, I need to use the
chair to balance myself. When you abruptly pull the chair announcing, “I have
your chair for you,” the dog and I must adjust. In fact, if the dog wasn’t
helping me your yanking would cause me to fall. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(I sincerely appreciate any offers of help. However, please
don’t take it personally if I say, “No thanks.” The Service Dog and I have a
system. It’s important that we stick with it. We value our independence and you
are not always here to help. It is a source of amusement to me that
I previously struggled, needing help, wanting help, sometimes getting the odd look
from strangers clueless to my situation. Now, I have the Service Dog and I can
do things for myself. —people run to “help.”—Some are sincere, others look
around to make sure everyone knows they are “helping the disabled lady,” like a
child selected to collect milk money, or clean erasers.).</span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b>* People who
act like the human is invisible. / can’t see/ hear.</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example: At
the top-secret pharmacy (Who also didn’t pay advertising consideration), I asked the pharmacy
tech about a medication. The tech brought two boxes out looking “through” me to
the man standing behind me and said:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Which does
she want?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The stranger
shrugged “I don’t know.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Why don’t
you ask me?” I advised, after all “I asked the question.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I conclude
this is a “disability” thing. When I had no Service Dog I would stumble,
sometimes people would look at me like I must be drunk, I was crushed by crowds and shopping carts because I wasn’t moving fast enough but people would <u>never </u>avoid
eye contact with me. I didn’t have an outward symbol of disability, so I was
treated like a “normal” person. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I have been disabled my whole life but,
post Service Dog I am painfully aware of stereotyping. Suddenly the world thinks I can’t see,
hear, or think for myself . Instead of talking TO me strangers talk ABOUT me in third person. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Small town
USA drug store (won’t give you their name because I no longer do business with them.
—If they don’t recognize ME as a PERSON why do business there?). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Counter help
looks through me to the dog and asks my mom: “Can she see?” </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My reply: “Yes the dog and I can see and hear. My mom doesn't have her hearing aids in so she she has difficulty hearing you. I have a question about MY account, so you should probably speak with ME."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(The person
using a Service Dog may in fact be blind and deaf. There’s no shame in being
either or both. It is rude to talk about someone in third person like they are
invisible. Yes, a Service Dog is a sign that we are mitigating a disability
but, we are proud of being able to take care of our own business and certainly
have the right to do so. We know you probably do the same thing to people with
walkers, canes, and wheelchairs so please stop! We are people, Just people,
real people).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Boy mom you certainly are on a “soap box.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Goodee the Service Dog there’s plenty
more. Continuing on down our list…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b>*
Professionals who think they are the exception to the “DO NOT TOUCH” rule/ want
to make us “show-n-tell.”</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There’s a “top
secret” list of people who are the exception to our “Do Not Touch” rule. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “I ate the list it was tasty.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Thanks, Goodee."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Goodee “safe
circle” is a small group of people(they know who they are and under what
circumstances they may touch the Service Dog). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Service Dog knows boundaries
so don’t try to enter the circle uninvited. Do not
assume because you work for “Dr X” that you may touch the Service Dog. —especially
in front of others. The dog is not a prop to show how “cool” you are, or “brighten
your day.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Human and Service Dog in ER for human to get x-ray---</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Nurse, “oh what a cute dog,”
inviting other patients to come in and view “the doggie.”- - Please! We are not the “lookie
loo” tour.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red;"><b><span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b>* Total
strangers who invade our lives because we have “the dog.”</b></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People want
to tell you their story and know your story all in sixty seconds– Example: “My uncle’s best friend’s girlfriend
has a Service Dog, but, she’s blind and you don’t look blind so I think you don’t
need a Service Dog like she does. You look too young to need a Service Dog. Why
do you have your dog?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(SLOW DOWN, we
don’t know you. We are not here to be an interactive information board. We
wanted to get our hair done, shop, or go to the doctor just like you. BTW, we
really would like to be on our way now but, we will stop briefly to speak.
However, DON’T expect us to detail why we have a Service Dog. —This topic may
cause us anxiety or PTSD flashbacks. Also, it’s a bit personal. We notice you
are not wearing a bra, is there a medical reason for that, or do you just want
to look sexy? —Well gosh, we may not want to disclose details to a total
stranger either, especially in the supermarket checkout lane).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;">*Adults who
want to make the Service Dog a “teachable moment.” </span></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="color: red;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“See the doggie.
AH OH See the doggie, you see, see the doggie.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(Really? Do
you think the toddler with you is blind and doesn’t see the dog? What’s your
point? You want the child to see “different” people? Great, point out a few people with different
color skin than yours, where everyone can hear you and see what happens. Oh, you
just want the kid to have a distraction? Try the juice box or toy you
brought with you. —They are not busy and WE would like to shop in peace. The
dog may or may not be distracted by your babble but the human who must hear 40+ adults babble “doggie” all day every day every time we go out in
public is REALLY distracted, annoyed, and tired. If you simply must use the dog as a "teach time" please do so in a whisper and without pointing. The human needs no more reminders about how "different" they are. Would you point to a person using a walker and say "Oh do you see the cute walker?" --The Service Dog is a MEDICAL DEVICE, nothing more nothing less.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Teachable Moment Example #2: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">"See
the blind dog. It’s helping the lady."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(WOW! “Blind
dog.” While the child may not be able to understand everything If you are going
to “teach” at least try being close to correct. The dog should not be blind and the person may not be. How about.-- “see the helper dog it is working for the lady.”—Service
Dogs: They are not just for blind people!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">WE ARE NOT
WITHOUT SYMPATHY<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We do understanding
“teaching time.” It is wonderful when an adult says: “See the dog it’s working
and we don’t pet it.” I always stop and say, “Thank you so much!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We ask for SPACE, PRIVACY, and RESPECT. We are not public figures, information booths,
or interactive displays. There are places to get information about Service
Dogs, please don’t expect every Service Dog handler you meet to provide the 4-11.
If you would like to exchange information ask the person for their email address.
—Don’t ask the Service Dog they never check email.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Watch it”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Oh, Goodee the Service Dog, you are still here.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We
understand that you<u> want,</u> <u>want</u>,<u> want,</u> to pet the Service Dog. Sorry for some strange reason we need our
medical device; try the medical supply store next door, maybe there’s an insulin
pack you could pet. Oh, you NEED to pet the DOG? —We would sincerely ask that
you go to your local shelter where dogs ACTUALLY DO NEED you to pet them. —Tell
them Team Goodee sent you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">BE PREPARED
FOR OUR HONEST REACTION<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We are sorry
to disappoint you but we are not a magical unicorn act. We don’t fart rainbows
and keep a smile on our face for your benefit. We can’t stop our life for you.
We have business meetings/ family time, and our life does NOT revolve around
your need to “see,” and “chat” with the Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We don't go
out of our way to be rude but, we will make our point strongly. —Why? because
your “need” to see, feel, and, get excited about “the doggie” is a danger to
the human and the dog. Also, we have the Service Dog so that we may be out in public doing things. We cannot let people disrupt our routine to a ridiculous point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example 1:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Human goes
out of doctor office waiting area to make a PRIVATE business call. Human is
FOLLOWED by a patient. Human is on her cell phone, the “stalker” is “yapping”
at the dog so loudly that business comes to a sudden halt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Am I on
speaker phone?” the CONFIDENTIAL client asks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“No sorry, I
had to step outside, must be road noise.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(Placing the
call on mute, I inquire of “stalker:”--<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">"Would you
mind giving us a little space? I’m trying to have a private business
conversation.”)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">STALKER
REPLY: “Well MY GOD I was JUST talking to the dog!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ME: “Sorry
visiting hours are over.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(I walked
away, thankful “stalker” didn’t follow).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Example 2:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In hotel lobby,
tired from being on cruise ship and bus human and Service Dog trying to “chill.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Flight
attendant from "Evil Spirit” Airways comes through the door (She was wearing a uniform and honestly earned the title "Evil Spirit") ...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“OH, GOSH
WHAT A CUTE DOG!” (running towards us with her noisy roller bag).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ME: “Sorry
we are suffering through a little “jet lag.” Could you give us some space?"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">HER REPLY: (Pout)
“OH BUT THE DOG IS SO CUTE I JUST CAN’T HELP BUT WANT TO COME LOVE ON HER (kissy
smacking noise).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ME: “Sorry
we are not set up to be a tourist display.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">HER REPLY:
(as if totally ignoring my request) “OH SHE LOOKS SO TIRED.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">ME: (Getting
up from my seat) (announcing in a loud voice) “Be sure and look us up in the
American Express Travel Guide, one Service Dog, seen it… MOVE ON!"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Stalker” “Evil Spirit " Airways flight attendant turns to other flight attendants in the lobby:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Well I was
just being friendly.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I couldn’t
reply then but I will respond here:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Dear flight
attendant,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We realized
you were “off duty,” that’s why we didn’t ask you for any fluffy pillows, or
snacks. Sorry our "off duty" sign is broken. We are only able to vend out unnecessary idle stranger chat a few hours at a time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You are
totally clueless. Your conduct is scary. You lack listening skills, reading
comprehension, and basic manners.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We are sorry
you thought the words “Working Service Dog” meant “This way to the happy dog
display.” We tried to let you know (several times) that our “airhead tolerance”
was at an all-time low.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We are sorry
you were not impressed by any of our education efforts. You left a lasting
impression upon us, and we will never fly Spirit Airways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">PS. Does your employer know you act like that when your wearing your uniform in public? Your conduct at the very least was rude and under some conditions could have caused injury to myself or the dog. Nice branding Spirit Airways. Please allow me to design a tagline for you:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> "Spirit Airways home of clueless airheads."</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-----------------------------------------</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Team Goodee
is thankful for family, friends, and professionals who get us through life from
week to week.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We enjoy
fans—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Like” us on
Facebook: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">GoodeeWorks
Productions<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Contact us
by email: <a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com">GoodeeWorks@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com"><br /></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Please know
when we are out and about we might have to say: “NOT NOW WE ARE WORKING!” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">or if we are
lucky…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“NOT NOW WE
ARE ON VACATION!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Stay tuned
we promise another Vacation blog is coming soon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD &
GOODEE THE SERVICE DOG<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; mso-border-bottom-alt: solid windowtext .75pt; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 1.0pt 0in; padding: 0in;">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-24136361119825411852017-03-09T19:06:00.000-06:002017-03-12T12:21:56.909-05:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m40bV6Om6EI/WMHcB77k8jI/AAAAAAAAACU/wJ-KMPMfgvoC32eGkfvF6SWjTMgQfAVvACEw/s1600/IMG_0679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m40bV6Om6EI/WMHcB77k8jI/AAAAAAAAACU/wJ-KMPMfgvoC32eGkfvF6SWjTMgQfAVvACEw/s200/IMG_0679.JPG" width="150" /></a><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1S0Hkb8evM/WMHawkxAANI/AAAAAAAAACI/5wdJY2nTN-oH9dlN8Qpx9GuDNZFwaM6QACLcB/s1600/IMG_0651%2B%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1S0Hkb8evM/WMHawkxAANI/AAAAAAAAACI/5wdJY2nTN-oH9dlN8Qpx9GuDNZFwaM6QACLcB/s200/IMG_0651%2B%25281%2529.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<b>NOT NOW WE ARE ON VACATION!</b></h2>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
</h3>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><i>This blog is lovingly dedicated
to the memory of:</i> </span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><b>Dr John C Schmidt, DO. (Doc)</b></span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><b><br /><o:p></o:p></b><i>Without whom I would
not have the quality of life I do today. Doc had an ability to look for
solutions, and find them where others would not even try to look. He is gone
but never forgotten. </i><i>He loved beaches. On
the cruise, I thought of him and I feel like when I visit a beach a small part
of him is there. </i><i>I am blessed with the
friendship of his lovely wife Carol.</i></span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-size: x-small;"><i> </i><i>I know he would enjoy
the stories in this blog and he would tell people. —Well, maybe we shouldn’t
say it in this blog.</i><i>Okay, but only because
Goodee the Service Dog says to tell you. —The PG version </i><i>Dr. Schmidt would
probably tell you to “leave the dog the ___ alone!”</i></span></h4>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>Preface:</i></b><i> Team Goodee took
an AMAZING cruise to the Bahamas this past month. Why? Because: How could you forget?
(or be allowed to since I announced it every few months). I had not been
anywhere, not even to travel for business in 6 years. I looked upon the vacay
pics of friends not with envy but, a longing to go myself. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;">GO, YES, WE DID! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;">Thank you to family
and friends without whom it would not have been possible.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;">There will be a separate
blog about SERVICE DOG FRIENDLY CRUISING. —If you need information feel free to
comment below. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;">In this blog, we will
discuss: PUBLIC INTERACTION with the SERVICE DOG.</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Sometimes when you go on vacation, you want to be away from
people.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">Have you ever been on vacation and had people
STARE at you like you were an exhibit in a zoo?</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">Have you ever been on vacation and had people
YELL your name, over, and over, and over again?</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">Have you ever been on vacation and had literally
THOUSANDS of people want to touch and talk to your I-phone or other device you
were using but, TOTALLY IGNORE YOU?</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-indent: -0.25in;">While on vacation have you ever had, someone
insist upon doing something despite a posted sign, and polite request not to do
it?</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Have you ever been on vacation and had stranger
after stranger insist upon asking you 20+ questions?</span></li>
<li>·<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;">
</span><span style="font-weight: normal; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">Have you ever had someone talk about you as if
you were both blind and deaf?</span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Chances are good everyone can relate to some of these items.
Some people are just more friendly than others. However, if you relate to ALL
of them, you are probably a Service Dog handler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">With Spring Break upon us I offer this blog to educate the
well-meaning public.I often hear: “I
just didn’t know.”—After this blog I hope you will know, and I hope you will
share. These real- world examples make
my points:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
YES: THEY REALLY
ALLOW “THE DOG<span style="font-weight: normal;">”</span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “They are not
really going to let that lady on the ship with the DOG?” a man punches the lady
next to him. I ignore the exchange because after all he isn’t talking to me, he
is talking <u>ABOUT</u> me. —I’m on vacation and I don’t want to go into the paperwork
required to bring a SERVICE DOG on a cruise ship. If this guy needs to know all
that he can Google it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> Team Goodee gets
off the bus. Service Dog and human tired but excited. Once inside the Sea
Terminal we are taken directly to a special coordinator, who is tasked with
taking care of Importation requirements for the SERVICE DOG.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “I don’t know why
they let that lady off the bus with the DOG. They are not going to let her on
the ship with the DOG.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Out of the corner of my eye, I see this man who has been
pre-occupied with the DOG idea for nearly an hour now (literally since the
shuttle ride was 45 minutes). He punches the lady next to him again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Look they even
let her cut in line with the DOG while the rest of us wait. They will probably
send her home there’s no way a DOG goes on the ship.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">What he didn’t realize, in addition to being uneducated
about SERVICE DOGS is that I was not taking a “cut” in line. I was being
directed to the one person who could assist me and make sure my paperwork was
in order, thereby saving time for other people behind me who had 12 other representatives
that could assist them in boarding <u>ahead </u>of me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Everything is in
order, thank you.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">The kind lady sends us on our way with Miguel who assisted us
all the way to our stateroom. This was the accumulation of 6 months of research
and preparation. The “happy dance” came later but first, I turned around to the
man who was still mumbling “I know there’s no DOGS allowed on the ship.” I did thumbs
up saying: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“YES, THEY REALLY ARE GOING TO ALLOW THE SERVICE DOG ON THE SHIP!”</div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
</h4>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h4 style="text-align: left;">
WHY CAN’T I PET?</h4>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Day one of cruise and here’s dinner time. Human tries to
navigate her way to main dining room.—Can’t move at all until 40 people pass by
and say “DOGGIE.”—literally, I counted. If you think I am exaggerating I invite
you to shadow us on the next cruise. —Why is this a problem? You could simulate it sometime including jet
lag and migraine factor and see what you think. In addition, there’s a “wall”
created by people who literally stop to STARE at the dog. I am trying to move;
the dog is trying to help me move but there are people stopped in front of me
and behind me. There is nowhere to go. I must wait until someone decides to
move one direction or another. —I don’t mind waiting but, of course while I am
trying to figure a way around traffic, 10 people who read the “DO NOT PET” sign
ask: “May I pet your dog?” My universal reply must always be: “Not right now
she’s working.” For me, it’s nearly always true the dog is working but, in
public places, even if she’s not I can’t let one person pet. Why? Well I tried
that one day and it became the “petting zoo.”—If I let one person pet I must
let the 25 people behind them pet. —Then we all must listen to the 25 or so
people who really don’t care to pet the dog they just need SPACE to do what
they were there to do in the first place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">So, let’s see, people jammed in saying “doggie,”
continually, me needing to move but people not wanting to move because they all
want to STARE at the doggie, then they suddenly think they are the exception to
the posted rule so they ask to pet, but wait, there’s more. People will “fly-by”
pet where they pet and walk fast as if they are just so cool. —These fly-bys
nearly cause me to go to the ground but I must remain cheerful because after
all I should understand these people can’t help themselves they MUST pet, even
if it has serious medical consequences for me. Who am I to stand in their way?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Things finally smooth out and we wait for an elevator. An
older gentleman comes over and informs me in a serious tone</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “you shouldn’t
bring a dog if you are not going to let people pet it.”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">By this time, I have had enough. I decide these elements
will not ruin my vacation. Furthermore, I will not jeopardize my safety or that
of my Service Dog. The exchange continues:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">ME: “Sir the dog is a
medical device not a toy. To tell me I should not bring her is like telling
someone not to bring a cane or walker.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">(gentleman becomes
red in the face as the lady traveling with him grabs his collar trying to pull
him out of our space).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">HIS REPLY: “Well the
dog is cute and people like that.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">ME: “That’s nice but
people are not totally dependent upon her for balance like I am she is a tool
not a toy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Thankfully the elevator comes and he gets on. Team Goodee waits for the next one
(or the one after that).</span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
THERE ARE ALL KINDS
OF SERVICE DOGS THEY ARE NOT JUST FOR BLIND OR DEAF PEOPLE<br />(We may see and hear
what you are saying)</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">At several points in our trip:--airport, hotel, and on
the ship people would STARE at me then STARE at the Service Dog. Some people
would come “zero line” right up to the dog’s nose talk to the dog and then
leave as if there was no HUMAN attached to the leash.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> Sometimes people
would turn to someone with them and say “I wonder if the lady is blind?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">To their shock, I would say: “No, I’m not blind and I’m not
deaf either, did you have a question for me?”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
I would point out: There is nothing wrong with being both blind and deaf.--If a person is both, or either, it is still WRONG to talk ABOUT them as if they are not there.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">It was a source of amusement to me to STARE right back at people
and watch their reaction.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
SERVICE DOG SEEN IT,
MOVE ON</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> 60 people waiting for an elevator (yes,
I counted). I was seated tying a shoe while the mass of people were “talking at” the
dog. One man got right in the dog’s face and said “bow-wow.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “I think he was
intoxicated mom.”'<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “oh, hello Goodee
the Service Dog. Yes, I think you are right. What about the other people that
were talking about us like we were a stop on the all-access tour?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Well I don’t
know what their excuse was but you put them in their place"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Yes, Goodee I had
to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “So, are you
going to tell our readers what happens next?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “OK drum roll…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I stood up and said:</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">“Please visit us in the American Express
Travel Guide. Be sure to check us off your list. One Service Dog, seen it MOVE
ON!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">After this there were fewer on-lookers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
WE DON’T KNOW YOU SO
GIVE US A BREAK</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Some people just love to tell their story and never meet a
stranger. Others (like me) want to have a few close friends around but for the
most part, like to be left ALONE.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">At one point on the beach, Service Dog and human are
enjoying the view. A stranger comes over and begins to tell her entire life
story—two children, houses, dogs etc. without giving her name or asking mine. However,
she did find time to ask “what’s your dog’s name.?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">I know it’s just something to talk about but, why not ask my
name? Why does she care about the dog’s name but not a single other detail
about me?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">She looked at me oddly when I stuck my hand out saying, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “My
name is DD.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Apparently, this disrupted her thought pattern because she
started talking about something else and never came back to the dog’s name. She
went on, and on, and on some more…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “So, I have seen
you around the ship, and I notice how independent you are and that you do
things for yourself. I asked my husband and my sister if they knew but they
didn’t know, and I’ve been wondering to myself now for three days. "I wonder if
that lady with the dog is traveling with someone? I wonder how it works that she
and the dog can do things alone? I wonder how it is she got the dog on ship?" So
today I decide to ask you."<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">“Alone, we are alone. We prefer alone actually,” I said firmly as I moved further down the beach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Oh, I see. I
know about Service Dogs and how you shouldn’t pet them and all but I thought I
would ask because I miss my dog so much. Can I pet your dog?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Sorry not right
now she’s working.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Oh okay, I just
wish I could bring my dog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “I wish I didn’t
have to.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"> “Oh, I didn’t mean
(embarrassed look), well I will leave you be.”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">FINALLY, she gets it. Most days I don’t mind giving out
Service Dog information but by day three of this cruise I was worn thin. There
were thousands on this ship, thousands of people in the airports, and hundreds
of people in the hotel. Would you like to navigate that many people and be
asked the same four questions about your dog, every 4ft?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
IN CONCLUSION</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Most of the time people with Service Dogs don’t mind being
friendly but please don’t act like we ruined your whole vacation if we don’t
want to sit and chat. The Service Dog and human you see are not set up to be
public figures, goodwill ambassadors, or interactive toys to replace the dog
you left at home. The human is simply a person trying to get things done just
like you. Wanting to be on vacation and relax, just like you. By the way, the
dog looks like your dog but it is a highly trained medical device. The dog is
assisting the human to do something they would not otherwise be able to do, such as measure blood sugar level, detect allergens - – or maybe even something
you do as a matter of course, without assistance such as: walk, sit, stand,
hear, or see. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Would you sit and stare at someone in a wheelchair? Would
you ask to pet a walker? – See the Service Dog, admire at a distance and go on.
If you need information YCGI (You Can Google It).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Did I get a vacation? YES</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Would I do it again? SOON AND OFTEN<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Would I do it without my Service Dog? NEVER, it would not be
physically possible without my Service Dog. Other medical devices are not
effective for me. So, my choices are go with the Service Dog, or not at all.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Do I learn to take people’s outrageous behavior in
stride? YES<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">But let me ask you--- Should I have to do so? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;">We would like to thank our friends and family
who keep us going and our friends in the Service Dog Community who know the
shoes we walk in and the struggle we face.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"> Team Goodee
appreciates communication by email and Facebook. When you see us out and about
we will likely say: “Not Now We Are Working.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;">Come back next week when we address the popular question:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;">"How does a Service Dog do their business on a cruise ship?"</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif;"><br />
---DD & Goodee </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "calibri light" , sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: red; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
</div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-43334953727898031302017-02-11T13:26:00.000-06:002017-02-15T23:17:31.203-06:00Here's The Sign<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
On our weekly grocery run, there appeared a grandmother with
her grandson. Grandmother Reads aloud: “SERVICE DOG DO NOT TOUCH.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Hey mom that’s
what it says on my vest in pretty BIG letters!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Oh, hello Goodee
the Service Dog. Yes, you are correct that is what it says on your vest. How do Service Dogs read?"</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“That’s top-secret
CIA stuff mom if I told you, I might have to kill you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Fair enough
Goodee. We will just say Service Dogs are smart,"<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Let’s continue for our readers -- when a child is too young
to read you should read to them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this case, I continued browsing, to my shock and horror
grandmother says:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“GO ASK if YOU
CAN pet the dog!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m thinking “UGH!”
as I attempt a rapid walk away.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
(and Goodee the Service Dog is thinking: “WTF lady you just
READ the sign!”)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Goodee! Watch it! the blog is rated “E” for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well it reads
better rated “NC-17.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Your editorial
skills are masterful Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, grandson is hot on our trail. Grandmother
is still shopping a distance away. Inevitably the boy finds us again. I
stop to dispense with the big question. The boy gives me the best reason for “needing”
to pet the dog: </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Today is my birthday, <u>can</u> I pet the dog?” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I would like
to correct the child’s grammar but instead, simply reply: “Happy Birthday,
thanks for asking but, she’s working right now.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wrinkling a brow, the boy says: “Why’s she working.” “Well
she has to help me walk, “I replied, beginning to move my shopping basket. The
boy says “Oh,” but continues to follow us closely. Grandmother is nowhere in
sight. We drifted several directions, the little stalker remains relentless. He
darts over into our path, front, behind, all over the place. This behavior catches
the eye of other shoppers. Grandmother finally yells out, trying to find her
Denise the menace. He stops a few seconds but then continues to follow us. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What you did
next mom is pretty funny.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, Goodee it
was. I should tell the readers that it was all in the interest of revenge.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“True mom they
might get the wrong idea about you otherwise.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I will just address
my apology to the grandmother:"<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Dear Grandparent:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your grandson has stalked me all over the store for nearly
30 minutes now. I know you had a lot of shopping to do. I don’t mind
babysitting really, I think that your grandson is charming. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Do you normally allow your grandchild to follow and make
conversation with strangers? I find your
behavior odd, you allowed and encouraged the child to seek me out. You know
nothing about me but, I can tell a lot about you.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You are clueless about the number of things that could happen
in the dangerous situation you alone created. You gave up an opportunity to
teach the child some manners. You entered the child in the AMBER ALERT lottery,
thankfully he didn’t win.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m sorry for my loud chuckle but, it was fun watching you
try to explain the most personal of plastic products and jelly, as I ducted
into the beauty section. You looked my
direction but, it’s not my fault the little guy is attracted to bright
packaging.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today’s lesson brought to readers by the “clueless
grandmother”: Read and observe all signs, explain them to the children with you.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS. Would you tell a child “Go ask if you can pet the
wheelchair?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We didn’t think so!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Service Dog is a TOOL not a TOY!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 36.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We appreciate all our friends. Please know when we are out and about we must say:<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not now we are working!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DD & SERVICE DOG GOODEE</div>
</div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-92072800232109311912017-01-21T19:28:00.001-06:002017-01-22T13:53:29.962-06:00RIDESHARE: NAVIGATING THE WORLD WITH A SERVICE DOG<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yesterday I experienced another problem with access to
rideshare. This literally averages once per week, sometimes twice in a row. The
problem is similar no matter which rideshare company I use. The pattern is the
same: driver stops, sees clearly marked SERVICE DOG, Driver YELLS: NO DOG, or “You
CAN’T take the dog. Then, I TRY to educate (if they haven’t driven away
already).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To rideshare drivers who continually tell me: “I just didn’t
know they don’t tell us”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There IS training material. Do you need “scratch
and sniff books” to understand it?<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please recognize when you sign up to provide rideshare it is
a real job with real legal consequences.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you see, something that looks like a dog, don’t assume I
just want to take it with me to be cute.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wish I didn’t need the dog but here’s the deal:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have a disability. The dog functions as a cane. I tried
various other ways to mitigate my disability but nothing else worked. Federal
and state law requires that I be allowed to mitigate my disability using the
SERVICE DOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
SO: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When you see something that looks like a dog MR/MS RIDESHARE
DRIVER here is what you do:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You can ask the person with the dog two questions:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1. Is the dog a Service Animal required because of a
disability?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If the reply to question #1 is yes, and there is a
reasonable reply to question #2, you <b><u>must</u></b>
allow the dog in your car <b>PERIOD END OF
STORY!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here’s a link to Department of Justice ADA information<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Notice, you cannot ask what disability the person has, or
ask for documentation for the dog.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is no new car, or allergy exception to the law. In the
unlikely event that the Service Dog does damage or cleaning is required, you
can charge the Service Dog handler a fee, just like any other customer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Here are a few examples from each of the rideshare companies
I have used (company names have been left out because my goal is education). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Driver: Is the dog going?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: “Yes she is a Service Dog required for my disability.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Driver (interrupting before I go on to TRY and explain how
the dog functions):<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You will have to get another driver, I just can’t take the
dog.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: “The dog is required, she functions like a cane doing
balance/ counter-balance, if you refuse service you will be in violation of
Federal and State laws.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Driver: “Well let me call them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Me: “Please do and let me talk to them.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this instance the company did explain to the driver that
if she drove away she would be deactivated from their platform because she is required
by law to transport the Service Animal with me.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s pleasing that the driver took steps to call driver
support, and get correct information. Out of a full year with an average of 6
trips per week, I had only ONE driver say she would contact her support line
before refusing service. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There have been other instances where the driver shouted “You
can’t take the dog,” and promptly left without allowing any other interaction
and there have even been instances of the driver coming right up to me, seeing
the dog, and hitting “cancel.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When I experience a total denial of service I always
complain to the rideshare company and I do additional complaints to the
Department of Justice. The rideshare companies tell me they address drivers
accordingly, including temporary deactivation while they make sure the driver
understands the law.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
After the fact education is better than nothing but, in the
age of technology there is no excuse for having to do it.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Put yourself in my shoes just for the day:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You are physically not able to drive, not able to ride a
bike, not even able to walk ½ block due to physical limitations. You have a way
to mitigate your disability. You can be “normal” and get things done. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Fantastic! (maybe)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You must go for appointment so you start out an hour and
thirty minutes early because you have no idea whether the driver who is “minutes
away,” “like running water,” “at your disposal,” will comply with disability
access laws.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You have a 1 in 3 chance that the driver will refuse service
and you must try for driver #2 or #3 before getting the service you need.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On a rare great day there’s no problem on the first stop
but, wait you have to do two more errands before heading home so on stop two,
or three you just may encounter the driver who refuses no matter what you say.—so
NO DOG, means NO RIDE, which means no idea if you are going to make it to your next
appointment on time, or when you will return home.-- No way to run a life much
less have a social life.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On a bad day:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
First driver NO DOG, NO DOG NO DOG, yelled at the top of his
lungs<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Second driver: Roll by upon seeing the dog, hit “cancel,” I
get a text “sorry our driver had to cancel today,” REALLY? After coming from 12
minutes away the driver just happened to need to “cancel” upon seeing the
Service Dog? Third driver: “NOT IN MY CAR LADY” as he drivers away. Driver 4 finally knows the law and complies.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At the conclusion of the day, I contact customer care for
the rideshare company. The reply is always the same, “so sorry, it’s not our
policy, we will address it with the driver.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Wonderful! Glad to know you don’t routinely discriminate
against disabled people. Please find a way to communicate this to your drivers
so that I am provided the same service as your “normal” customers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
To people who have said: “You do eventually get a ride, so
what’s the big deal?” <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I say, come spend a week in my body and I will show you “the
big deal.” Navigating barriers to get things done is one thing, but having
unnecessary barriers because some jerk does not know, or does not want to comply
with the law, gets old. —These are people that get in your face and insist
that they are correct, refuse to listen to anything you have to say, and roll
away acting so superior.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
PS: This is the 21<sup>st</sup> century and discrimination
is against the law; I would also think it's considered rude to totally ignore a customer.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We appreciate all our friends. Please know when we are out
and about we must say: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Not now we are working!”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
DD & SERVICE DOG GOODEE<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-13118582599608254522016-11-15T17:54:00.003-06:002016-11-15T19:35:44.439-06:00SERVICE DOG HOLIDAY HANDBOOK<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><u>(Things you
need to know about Service Dogs during the holidays and obviously don’t)</u></b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My Service
Dog is a constant help to me. I have absolutely no balance without her. She
functions as a cane, and provides balance and counter balance. This is probably
something you don’t realize your body does for you automatically. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Service Dogs
are AMAZING; they provide things to a human that are not available from other
devices. In my case, my peripheral vison is so poor due to brain damage, that
my entire body is off-balance. I look down and things appear further away, or
closer than they are. —This means when I try to use a cane it becomes another
object to fall over. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Having my
Service Dog Goodee out in front of me allows my body to compensate and I become
aware of the depth of things, making it easier to use steps. I also use Goodee to retrieve things from high
shelves. In some instances, I am unable to see the handicap ramp but I give
Goodee a command to search for it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">A Service
Dog is life-changing for the disabled person who uses it. On some levels the
Service Dog looks and acts like every dog; however, they are in no way typical
or average. A Service Dog goes through years of training and continual training
and testing to be reliable for the disabled handler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is most
helpful and in fact vital that the Service Dog and handler be given access to
public areas and freedom of movement.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Here are a
few ways the well-meaning public blocks access for Service Dogs, creating a
barrier, and defeating the purpose of a person having a Service Dog. This
creates a highly frustrating situation. —Which is a nice way of saying: Please
get a grip, notice it’s a dog and move on. Service Dog handlers are people,
just like you. At the end of the day we just want to get stuff done.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1. THE BOX
IN: This is where the Service Dog and handler are turned around looking at
something on a shelf and everyone else in the store becomes so fascinated by
the “neat dog,” shopping carts and people form a circle, the Service Dog
handler turns around to try to exit finding the wagons are “circled” to a point
that there is NO EXIT. Someone finally realizes they need to BACK UP AND GIVE
THE DOG SPACE. —This would be so the human can continue shopping. --- PS. Don’t
look at the handler like they have three-heads as they are working their way
through the maze you created. Many Service Dog handlers can see and hear, we
all have feelings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">2. HANG UP
THE CELL PHONE AND DRIVE: When you are in a store please notice the Service Dog
and shopping cart are a wide load coming at you. —The dog may not be able to “stop
short,” “change lanes,” or “U-turn.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">3. THE
STALKER: Please don’t follow a Service
Dog and handler for several blocks throughout the store. They are not likely to
share information with you between the toilet paper and cat food. When you see
a Service Dog just MOVE ON. If you have a question about Service Dogs or
training, it’s on the web google: Service Dogs Your Town USA. If you have a
question about the dog: Their name, breed, rank in litter, that’s information
you don’t need. Why do you need the dog’s name? Are you wanting to make
conversation with a total stranger? Most Service Dog handlers don’t like to
give out the dog’s name. — because it’s natural to call the dog as soon as you
know the name, this causes a distraction for the working dog. If you want to
know: what the dog does, how long the person has it, or why they got it, this
may include private medical information and in some cases talking about these
items is a PTSD trigger. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">4. SILENCE
IS APPREACIATED: The Service Dog is trained to ignore you. When you continually
say “see doggie,” making barking noises, or point. It’s not cute it’s rude. You
don’t look cool you look like an idiot. While it is natural for a child to say “doggie”
when they see one, adults should not be nearly as amused. If the dog isn’t
distracted the human handler certainly is. In case you don’t notice you are not
original, the Service Dog and handler have heard all your obnoxious comments
before.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">5. IF YOU
MUST HAVE A “TEACHABLE MOMENT” for your child, please do so FAR AWAY from the
Service Dog. The dog you are making into a teaching exercise is in fact a
medical device upon which the handler is totally dependent. There is a one-time
limit on “see the doggie.”—If you say it 5 times and the child has still not
shown an interest please get over it and go away!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">6. NO “ARM
CHAIR” COMMENTS: Things such as: “You are making that poor dog work,” “Oh the
dog is working hard,” and “You made your dog tired,” are unnecessary and
unwanted. Only the handler knows when a dog is working. When you see, a dog
laying it doesn’t mean it is not “working.” If you have comments about a
working dog put them on opinion web sites don’t confront a handler while
shopping.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">7. PUT
YOURSELF ON “MUTE” AND KEEP YOUR HANDS AWAY FROM THE SERVICE DOG.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Do not talk
to the dog. Your chatter may contribute to a medical emergency for the disabled
person. No “fly by” pets. If a sign says DO NOT PET, it is there for a reason. When
you insist upon petting you are not cute, you are a jerk without regard for
others. “Fly bys” cause loss of function and may contribute to falls, seizures,
or “flashbacks” for the disabled handler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">8. No “Critiques”
for the dog. The Service Dog is aware of being “cute,” “good,” or any other adjective
you can use. DO NOT TELL the DOG “You’re a good dog.” In fact, you have no way
of knowing if the dog has been good or just done something for which they need to
be scolded. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">9. NO
FEEDING THE SERVICE DOG Many Service Animals are on special diets. ASK before
offering the Service Dog anything. I do not let my Service Dog accept food from
strangers. We go out often, and I don’t want her to think she will get food
everywhere. Furthermore, you just never know what a stranger may feed your dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">My Service
Dog Goodee is highly skilled with magic words. I was proud of her when she
showed no interest in shrimp, a worker threw to
the floor to “call the doggie.”—<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Dear Dipshit
employee,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The dog is
attached to a leash; she is trained NOT to pay attention to you. She is in
fact, attached to my body and it’s her job to stay with me. She knows not to
take food from strangers. —Yes, I CAN see I am NOT BLIND—even if I was I could
sense you trying to distract the dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Sorry we can’t
do a little show for you. Do you think you could go back to your job and leave
us to ours? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">PS. That
looked like good Jumbo Shrimp you threw to the ground. Does your employer know
you are wasteful?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When you see
us out and about please know we must say: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 24.0pt; line-height: 107%;">NOT NOW, WE
ARE WORKING!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-68812829863550995202016-11-12T18:39:00.001-06:002016-11-12T19:04:43.654-06:00The Holiday Life of a Service Dog Handler<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">PREFACE: I
have great friends and family. – a small, supportive group. Also, I am most
grateful and thankful for the medical staff that helps me deal with things life
brings my way. You all know who you are, and this blog is not addressed to you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I write on
behalf of others in the Service Dog community who feel frustrated, isolated,
unwanted, invisible, and unable to raise their voice. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I want to provide a small
glimpse into what it is like to navigate the world with a Service Dog during
the holiday season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Recently, boxed in by holiday inflatables in a store, instead of cheer, I
instantly thought of extra holiday shoppers. Like other people, I
will melt in and possibly be crushed by on-coming people traffic. —Unlike others, I will be the “spectacle,” the “teachable moment,” the “neat” thing people
point to(literally). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Do I not
like attention? Well, let give you a
sample of how “neat” it is to<b><u> need</u></b>
a Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Would you
like this?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">People on
both ends of the aisle STOP dead in their track to look, gawk and YELL, “Doggie.”
I guess no one has ever seen one before. I just need to get to the other side
of the aisle and truly want to be LEFT ALONE so I can get shopping done and
LEAVE. – Yet I cannot move because everyone on both sides of the aisle is
frozen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We finally
clear a path but not before 12 people come up and ask if they can pet the dog—Despite
the LARGE DO NOT PET sign. At least 6 of the 12 people will beg vocally to pet,
--one, will use the F word telling me I should not bring a dog if I don’t want
people to pet it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I finally
make it through shopping and need to go to the ladies’. I wait an extra 30 minutes because people are
in the large stall—the only stall I am able to use safely with my dog. I don’t
mind waiting but when there are small stalls vacant it would make sense for
people who CAN use them to do so and leave the large stall for the person with
the medical device.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Thankful
like others to be done with any shopping. –Then I realize, I didn’t buy
anything for parties because well I don’t get invited out because there is this
elephant of which no one speaks—THE DOG.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I have at
least 15 people or so per year ask if I could come do “X” and “Oh can you just
come without THE DOG because, well __ is afraid of dogs, oh and ___has to bring
her princess dog and that dog doesn’t get along with other dogs, and well you
know --- I CAN HELP YOU – You don’t really NEED the dog, do you?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I always
think WTF, of course I NEED the dog! She is not an optional extra! I always
manage to get a smile on my face, and lately choke back tears that are only
reserved for the therapist office because well after all “Service Dog people”
are so full of cheer. I politely decline all invitations to go without my
SERVICE DOG, the device which allows me to be “normal. “At least 3 people will
tell me how much they will miss me being there, once someone said “I guess you
get use to having to be left out.” --- To which I smile, say “I guess” and continue
to hold in emotion, looking forward to being alone so I can explode.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I am
constantly told “just continue to educate” “People just don’t know.”—SO here it
is. —Please make notes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1. When you
have a Service Dog it is a sign that you do NEED the dog to mitigate a disability—The
subject of people faking disability is a different blog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">2. Always
assume the person needs the dog and will tell you IF you can help. NO, you
cannot take the place of a highly trained medical device.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">3. NEVER ask
a person to leave their SERVICE DOG anywhere.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">4. If you
can’t have the Service Dog at the party because of ____ then don’t tell the
Service Dog handler, “Gosh I would but____.” People attached to Service Dogs
have real feelings, telling them what they will miss only adds to feelings of
isolation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">5. Don’t be
rude enough to call the person after the holiday and tell them about the party
to which “Gosh, I would have invited you but___,” There is enough isolation
without having to relive it again and again.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28pt;"> It doesn’t help to hear every
detail of your fun when I’m not invited.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Service Dog
handlers are the “toy of the month.” – The thing that people love to see as if
we are an interactive educational display. We often encounter people who talk
baby talk to the dog, scold us for having a dog, or tell us how lucky we are to
have a dog and then move on without asking a single thing about the human
attached to the end of the leash, or maybe not even acknowledging there is a
human at the end of the leash. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">During the
holidays Service Dog handlers have a hard time because we are treated like
entertainment on the schedule at the mall, then we get home and have no text,
no emails, no phone calls because, well we were good for a store display but
THE DOG would just not be good at the party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In closing
let me give you a glimpse into my life without THE DOG:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> I fell constantly, not even having enough
balance to get down steps. Sometimes I needed two people to help me sit or
stand. When I was younger my family would carry me up steps that were too steep
because there was no “disability access” back then, you just had to create your
own IF you wanted to do anything “normal.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Now, I have
THE DOG, we move when we want to move, I go places and do things completely by myself.
—All because THE DOG is able to provide things that mitigate my disability.
Would I like to have more human contact? Maybe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Would I like people to recognize me as a HUMAN
and stop talking to THE DOG as if she is THEIR TOY. —ABSOLUTELY! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Would I change anything? YES! I would love to change people's attitudes about Service Dogs. I want people to understand that "the doggie" is a medical TOOL and NOT a toy!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 28.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Would I ever want to be without my SERVICE
DOG--- NEVER!</span></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-45588539626018844732016-07-29T21:39:00.016-05:002016-07-30T12:27:52.538-05:00 Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided, it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list), old historic home near beach (another bucket list item).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device; the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u> and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is indescribable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty patch” close to our cabin. We have a Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation; merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made a was complete disaster.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests, we remove ourselves. I do not expect to be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments, I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The innkeeper and I came to a mutual understanding that ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people. I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?” Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some lovely innkeepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">I know accessibility is expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting. There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">We look forward to blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE! If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">So often I hear people say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Now faking a Service Dog can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get their pet into the aircraft cabin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">I never gave much thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker before me? Is it possible the innkeeper above had offered the cottages “out back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Faking a Service Dog is not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Remember when you see us out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">“Not Now, We Are Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Helpful Links and contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301 (Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-62631810276803218952016-07-29T21:39:00.015-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.612-06:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life
happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have
started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided,
it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip
in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her
preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and
human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list),
old historic home near beach (another bucket list item). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I
have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my
lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no
success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made
things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows
me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate
my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for
me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The
Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without
her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary
barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air
Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the
American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible
to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device;
the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The
Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals
with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u>
and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven
jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe
even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane
quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is
indescribable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no
ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to
Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty
patch” close to our cabin. We have a
Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a
medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of
having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will
get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation;
merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the
historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you
do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in
Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made was a complete disaster. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady
who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s
keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less
than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of
the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service
Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests,
we remove ourselves. I do not expect to
be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments,
I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not
just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The innkeeper and I came to a mutual understanding that
ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about
needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates
of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when
you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three
letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure
they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying
to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then
I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog
access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and
removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not
that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of
cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people.
I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life
of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE
for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding
none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?”
Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some
lovely innkeepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home
to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I know accessibility is
expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of
us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting.
There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">We look forward to
blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be
a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE!
If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the
dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">So often I hear people
say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t
have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Now faking a Service Dog
can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get
their pet into the aircraft cabin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I never gave much
thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take
the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker
before me? Is it possible the innkeeper above had offered the cottages “out
back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround
us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a
whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Faking a Service Dog is
not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects
upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces
extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t
want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember when you see us
out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are
Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Helpful Links and
contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA
Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301
(Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a
day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30
a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak
with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-91175263262247703412016-07-29T21:39:00.014-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.653-06:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life
happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have
started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided,
it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip
in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her
preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and
human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list),
old historic home near beach (another bucket list item). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I
have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my
lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no
success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made
things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows
me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate
my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for
me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The
Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without
her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary
barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air
Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the
American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible
to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device;
the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The
Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals
with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u>
and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven
jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe
even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane
quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is
indescribable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no
ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to
Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty
patch” close to our cabin. We have a
Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a
medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of
having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will
get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation;
merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the
historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you
do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in
Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made a was complete disaster. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady
who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s
keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less
than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of
the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service
Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests,
we remove ourselves. I do not expect to
be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments,
I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not
just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The innkeeper and I came to a mutual understanding that
ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about
needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates
of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when
you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three
letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure
they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying
to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then
I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog
access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and
removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not
that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of
cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people.
I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life
of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE
for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding
none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?”
Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some
lovely innkeepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home
to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I know accessibility is
expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of
us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting.
There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">We look forward to
blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be
a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE!
If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the
dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">So often I hear people
say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t
have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Now faking a Service Dog
can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get
their pet into the aircraft cabin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I never gave much
thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take
the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker
before me? Is it possible the innkeeper above had offered the cottages “out
back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround
us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a
whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Faking a Service Dog is
not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects
upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces
extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t
want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember when you see us
out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are
Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Helpful Links and
contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA
Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301
(Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a
day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30
a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak
with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-4398579703106461162016-07-29T21:39:00.013-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.590-06:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life
happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have
started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided,
it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip
in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her
preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and
human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list),
old historic home near beach (another bucket list item). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I
have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my
lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no
success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made
things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows
me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate
my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for
me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The
Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without
her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary
barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air
Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the
American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible
to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device;
the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The
Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals
with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u>
and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven
jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe
even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane
quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is
indescribable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no
ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to
Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty
patch” close to our cabin. We have a
Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a
medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of
having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will
get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation;
merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the
historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you
do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in
Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made a was complete disaster. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady
who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s
keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less
than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of
the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service
Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests,
we remove ourselves. I do not expect to
be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments,
I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not
just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The innkeeper and I came to a mutual understanding that
ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about
needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates
of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when
you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three
letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure
they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying
to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then
I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog
access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and
removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not
that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of
cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people.
I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life
of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE
for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding
none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?”
Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some
lovely innkeepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home
to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I know accessibility is
expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of
us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting.
There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">We look forward to
blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be
a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE!
If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the
dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">So often I hear people
say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t
have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Now faking a Service Dog
can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get
their pet into the aircraft cabin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I never gave much
thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take
the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker
before me? Is it possible the inn keeper above had offered the cottages “out
back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround
us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a
whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Faking a Service Dog is
not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects
upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces
extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t
want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember when you see us
out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are
Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Helpful Links and
contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA
Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301
(Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a
day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30
a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak
with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-65103076325171150242016-07-29T21:39:00.012-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.621-06:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life
happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have
started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided,
it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip
in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her
preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and
human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list),
old historic home near beach (another bucket list item). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I
have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my
lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no
success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made
things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows
me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate
my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for
me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The
Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without
her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary
barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air
Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the
American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible
to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device;
the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The
Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals
with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u>
and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven
jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe
even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane
quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is
indescribable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no
ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to
Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty
patch” close to our cabin. We have a
Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a
medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of
having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will
get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation;
merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the
historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you
do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in
Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made a was complete disaster. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady
who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s
keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less
than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of
the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service
Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests,
we remove ourselves. I do not expect to
be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments,
I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not
just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The inn keeper and I came to a mutual understanding that
ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about
needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates
of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when
you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three
letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure
they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying
to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then
I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog
access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and
removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not
that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of
cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people.
I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life
of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE
for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding
none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?”
Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some
lovely inn keepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home
to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I know accessibility is
expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of
us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting.
There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">We look forward to
blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be
a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE!
If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the
dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">So often I hear people
say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t
have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Now faking a Service Dog
can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get
their pet into the aircraft cabin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I never gave much
thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take
the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker
before me? Is it possible the inn keeper above had offered the cottages “out
back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround
us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a
whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Faking a Service Dog is
not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects
upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces
extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t
want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember when you see us
out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are
Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Helpful Links and
contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA
Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301
(Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a
day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30
a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak
with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-79026060467522528612016-07-29T21:39:00.011-05:002016-07-30T12:02:55.376-05:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided, it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list), old historic home near beach (another bucket list item).<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device; the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u> and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is indescribable.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty patch” close to our cabin. We have a Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation; merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made a was complete disaster.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests, we remove ourselves. I do not expect to be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments, I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The innkeeper and I came to a mutual understanding that ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else---In a lot of cases I would like that. However, I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people. I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?” Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some lovely innkeepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">I know accessibility is expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting. There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">We look forward to blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE! If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">So often I hear people say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Now faking a Service Dog can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get their pet into the aircraft cabin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">I never gave much thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker before me? Is it possible the innkeeper above had offered the cottages “out back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Faking a Service Dog is not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Remember when you see us out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">“Not Now, We Are Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">Helpful Links and contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301 (Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<br />
<div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: auto; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-66328876127322485112016-07-29T21:39:00.010-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.624-06:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-86712001660848912212016-07-29T21:39:00.009-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.643-06:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-60427889300733123292016-07-29T21:39:00.008-05:002016-07-30T00:05:16.791-05:00Disability Access is about CHOICE: Navigating the World with a Service Dog<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have not done a blog in a very long time. I can only say “life
happens” and I didn’t feel like my blog was important. Several times I have
started to get thoughts down and then the matter became less urgent.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This week with an accumulation of things, I finally decided,
it’s time for the BLOG.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog & myself have not been on a trip
in six years or so. Looking at places to go, the Service Dog noted her
preferences: flying (certainly, we like getting there quickly), limo, (dog and
human both like the creature comforts), cruise (YES! That’s on our bucket list),
old historic home near beach (another bucket list item). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Little did I know how much trouble some things can be. I
have mitigated a disability my entire life. Prior to having a Service Dog, my
lack of balance and poor peripheral vision caused frequent falls. I had no
success with a cane, it was just something else to fall over and actually made
things worse. Having a Service Dog ahead of me, increases my balance and allows
me to be aware of curbs, holes and other obstacles. I am the same person but, the way I mitigate
my disability is different. Having a Service Dog has opened so many doors for
me. Ramps and stares that were too steep for me are now no problem at all. The
Service Dog is a positive thing and there’s no way I could, or would do without
her. However, having a Service Dog can create a whole new set of unnecessary
barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Flying with the Service Dog is no problem thanks to the Air
Carrier Access Act(ACAA), the limo, or hired car are certainly no problem the
American’s with Disabilities Act(ADA) requires transportation to be accessible
to the Service Dog handler. The Service Dog is recognized as a medical device;
the disabled individual has a Federal right to mitigate their disability. The
Service Dog is specifically <u>trained to do work or perform tasks for individuals
with disabilities. –</u>This elevates the Service Dog to a <u>working animal</u>
and not a pet.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog allows me to navigate uneven
jet-ways. In the past I would have to wait for a gate agent or skycap, maybe
even order up a wheelchair but now with the Service Dog, I can board the plane
quickly, with no assistance. This gives me a feeling of “normal” that is
indescribable. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Would we be able to do a cruise to Mexico? Well there’s no
ADA there but, happily the details of a cruise have been no problem. Thanks to
Royal Caribbean disability department, Goodee the Service Dog has her own “potty
patch” close to our cabin. We have a
Consular agent to make sure all our paperwork is in order to enter Mexico. As a
medical device, Goodee the Service Dog will disembark with me, instead of
having to enter Mexico in cargo. There’s a private transport company that will
get us from dock to beach and back. It seems even without government regulation;
merchants want the American tourist dollar.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What about the
historic bed & breakfast?”<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, thanks for the reminder."<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“What would you
do without me?”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
"Well that’s what this blog is about."<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I decided to look at Bed & Breakfast establishments in
Galveston, Texas. The first inquiry I made was complete disaster. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well the lady
who replied to your email was a complete B@@@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Okay Goodee, let’s
keep it rated E for everyone.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Goodee the Service Dog is correct the reply I got was less
than welcoming:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b> “I would request that you rent one of
the cottages out back in case your dog barks it will not disturb other guests.”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I sent a polite but direct reply stating that I am a Service
Dog handler of many years and certainly if we are a disturbance to other guests,
we remove ourselves. I do not expect to
be isolated because someone thinks my dog may bark. When I visit establishments,
I expect to be treated just like other customers and given the same selection, not
just the one someone else thinks is best.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The inn keeper and I came to a mutual understanding that
ours is an unworkable situation. She indicated that I am “over the top” about
needing my dog. She went on to say “because you sent an inquiry with no dates
of travel “I suspect you are just trying to get someone to deny you.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Mom that’s when
you said: W@@”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes right Goodee”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“It’s only three
letters mom.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Yes, I’m sure
they get the picture Goodee.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I was more than a little upset by someone accusing me of “trying
to get someone to deny me.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
At first I was offended by her saying I was “over the top.” –Then
I realized, Yes I am in fact “over the top” about ADA rights and Service Dog
access. – For that I have no apologies. “Over the top” gets things done, and
removes barriers.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><span class="apple-converted-space">Access is about </span></span>CHOICE. What bothers me? It's not
that someone wants to put me and the dog away from everyone else--in a lot of
cases I would like that but. I want to have the CHOICE, just like other people.
I want to decide what is best for me and do it. Prior to the ADA disabled people faced a life
of "can't", "don't," "won't" I want the CHOICE
for myself. After years of having to look for ramps (and sometimes finding
none), I enjoy taking stairs. Does it take me longer than a “normal” person?”
Yes, but I LOVE it because now I have the FREEDOM to do it!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I am happy to report I also received an email from some
lovely inn keepers in the same neighborhood who have opened their entire home
to us.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I know accessibility is
expensive but lots of people in society benefit from it. At some point all of
us benefit from a ramp or railing. There are loans and grants for retrofitting.
There are 20 million disabled Americans (that’s a lot of buying power). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">We look forward to
blogging our further adventures. In closing (taking on something that should be
a whole other blog) we would like to say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">THINK BEFORE YOU FAKE!
If you don’t have a disability, you do not qualify for a Service Dog. If the
dog is not trained to do work or a task specifically for you, it is not a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">So often I hear people
say “I wish I could take my dog everywhere.”—to which I say “I wish I didn’t
have to!”<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Now faking a Service Dog
can include fines. I have heard of people getting fined $5,000 for trying to get
their pet into the aircraft cabin. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">I never gave much
thought to the fake until I endured UBER drivers yelling at me: “You can’t take
the dog!” It made me wonder, was this an effective approach with the faker
before me? Is it possible the inn keeper above had offered the cottages “out
back” to a faker and they thought this was cool? When kids rush up and surround
us, nearly causing me to fall to the floor, is it because the faker allowed a
whole restaurant full of people to pet the dog? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Faking a Service Dog is
not cool. Any problems your untrained pet causes in an establishment reflects
upon the Service Dog community. —The next legitimate Service Dog handler faces
extra strife and downright hostility from business owners all because you didn’t
want to be without your pet, or you were too cheap to buy an airline ticket for pet cargo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Remember when you see us
out and about, we must say:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">“Not Now, We Are
Working.!”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">--DD & Service Dog Goodee</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 14.98px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">Helpful Links and
contact info<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;">ADA Service Animals<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For questions about the ADA <o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; mso-line-height-alt: 12.0pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><a href="https://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><b><span style="color: #333333;">ADA
Information Line</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">800-514-0301
(Voice) and 800-514-0383 (TTY)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">24 hours a
day to order publications by mail.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">M-W, F 9:30
a.m. – 5:30 p.m., Th 12:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. (Eastern Time)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="background: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">to speak
with an ADA Specialist. All calls are confidential.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-9436363714626538462014-05-26T12:09:00.000-05:002017-02-11T12:46:04.661-06:00Yes! The Service Dog can Dine at the Inn (and anywhere else there is food)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-11668127377637615302014-05-25T01:16:00.000-05:002014-05-26T12:10:17.072-05:00YES! Service Dogs can Dine at the Inn (and anywhere else people eat food)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<h1>
<i><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">This is lovingly dedicated to all Veterans active duty, reserved and
retired, and to the families who lost a loved one in the service of our
country. “Thank you” for your service and sacrifice.<o:p></o:p></span></i></h1>
<h1>
<i><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Sadly while researching for this blog I found several cases of
discrimination against U.S. Veterans who tried to enter restaurants with their
Service Dog. I find this particularly
horrid and I think it’s a fitting starting point for any Service Dog discussion
this Memorial Day weekend.</span></i></h1>
<h1>
<i><span style="color: red; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Over the years I watched my Dad and Uncles discuss “battle fatigue.”
I saw Vietnam Veterans at my church talk about “flash-backs”. For these
generations invisible wounds often went misunderstood, untreated, and even
discounted as “all in your head.” In 1980 the <span style="background: white;">American
Psychiatric Association (APA) recognized a group of survivor symptoms as Post-Traumatic
Stress Disorder (PTSD) (see NH Fact Sheet). We now know that physical and
mental consequences are brought about by a trauma outside the individual and
these symptoms are not a sign of character weakness; Instead, they are a method the brain uses to process experiences. (For a full discussion of PTSD see
the educational resources below).<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></h1>
<div>
<h1>
<span style="background: white; color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“So what
you are really saying mom, is, that
wounded
Veterans are now fully able to
participate in life but, they are not allowed to because someone takes it upon
themselves to say “NO DOGS?”<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="background: white; color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> “Hello
Goodee the Service Dog I can always count on you to bring the blog back to my
original point. Yes, many social establishments try to exclude Service Dogs.”<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="background: white; color: #444444; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“ </span><span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“But Mom everyone CAN have a Service Dog with them, that’s
the LAW”<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“YES Goodee, that’s the Law but—“<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Oh I get it now mom ACCESS depends upon people
KNOWING and APPLYING the LAW. Well, that’s different there’s a whole learning
curve thing that goes on.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Goodee, what exactly is a “learning curve?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Well mom I’m not sure but that’s what Manger types
say when they should have known the Service Dog Access law and told their
employees about it but didn’t, or they think employees know about Service Dogs
but find out later they didn’t.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">“Right Goodee. The new guy or Learning Curve, hmm... Let’s see it would probably only take us five
minutes to educate people on the law that would help”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Let’s start with…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">COMMON
SENSE & CENTS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<h1>
<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <span style="font-weight: normal;"> Nearly 1 in 5
American’s has a disability (US Census Bureau, 2010). Estimates suggests there are over 300, 00 Service
Dogs in the U.S. specifically trained to mitigate a disability for their owner.
Information from Guide Dog schools shows that
less than 3% of the Service Dog population in the U.S. is used as a guide dog
for someone who is blind (For Service Dog stats see the Service Dog Central
link below). Taking all this into
account, it is likely that at some point an eating establishment will be asked
to serve a customer who has a Service Dog, and that person will be disabled but
not blind.<o:p></o:p></span></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%;"> “Wow, all that
information sounds like a logic puzzle.” <o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%;"> “Yes Goodee the
Service Dog, it is logical that Service Dogs are out there in the world helping
people and it may not always be obvious that the person is disabled and/or that
the dog is a Service Dog. , so the question becomes what to do when your
restaurant encounters a Dog?”<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: normal; line-height: 107%;"> “I know: Wouldn’t
it be best to treat a person with a Service Dog just like you do any other
person coming into your restaurant? Everyone
has to eat and it’s a matter of Economics really whether your establishment can
afford the penalties of violating Federal Laws which protect the access rights
of Service Dog handlers.”<o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<h1>
<span style="color: windowtext; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"> “YES, that’s it
Goodee! That sounded like you have an Economics and Marketing Degree but that
is the point. Interference with a Service Dog is not only poor customer service
it is a violation of Federal Law (fines can range from $300 to $50,000 for a
first offense, and in some cases can include jail time).</span><o:p></o:p></span></h1>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Points
to remember about Service Dogs in eating establishments<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Federal
Law requires that a Service Dog and their handler be allowed in all areas of
public access—there is no public health law or local rule to “trump” this.</span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">While
many Service Dogs have vests or ID Cards there are no documentation
requirements for Service Dogs.</span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Business
establishments may only ask:</span></li>
</ul>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">1. Is this a Service
Dog required because of a disability? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">And<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> 2. What work or tasks has the dog been
trained to perform?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">--- Please note that
you should NOT say “You are not blind, are you?”, or ask “What’s WRONG with
you?” Or even “Why do you have a Service
Dog?” No one is allowed to ask for medically
sensitive information. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is also poor form to
say “Is that all?”(Being able to stand or sit without assistance may be “nothing”
to you but for someone who has been unable to do it there is a world of
difference when they have a trained dog).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">If
a Service Dog disrupts business you may ask that the dog leave but you must
allow the patron to try and correct the disruption and the patron has the right
to stay in your place of business without their dog.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">The
best customer service practice is to ask the Service Dog handler where they
would like to be seated. Each Service Dog Team works differently and only the
handler knows what is best for their circumstances. --- Talk to the Human not the Dog. Talking to the dog distracts them from their job of taking care of the handler</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Remember
the Service Dog is a Medical Device to be treated like Durable Medical Equipment. You would not ask a customer to be without their eye glasses
or cane, so DON’T EXCLUDE “THE DOG”. You would not stare at a customer’s
wheelchair or ask them why they need to wear a mask… SO DON’T ASK about “THE
DOG” or “STARE” at the person or dog. You would not casually ask a customer if they
take Viagra so be careful how you ask a person about their Service Dog and how
it works for them. You would not allow your employees to empty out
of the kitchen and “check out this customer’s cool blood sugar meter” so DON’T
allow employees to create a “side show” about the Service Dog.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">Give
the Service Dog and handler SPACE. Do you suddenly stop your family time or <u>confidential
business conversation </u>to reply to twenty random questions from a total
stranger?--- We don’t either so don’t
expect us to do so!</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">DO
NOT FEED the Service Dog unless you have ASKED and RECEIVED permission from the
handler to do so.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For
Every Action there is a Reaction<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Team Goodee has been together since
2006. At first everywhere we went (especially where there was food) there was
an “issue.” We are happy to report that things are better but, shocked to find
there are some people who still don’t know Service Dog Access Laws. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We try our best to educate,
forgive, and forget but, just like other consumers first impressions last a
long time. Sometimes Team Goodee “bounces back” and allows food establishments
to “get it right.” but there are times when things go so wrong we don’t even <b><i><u>think
</u></i></b>of going back.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is an entertainment venue
that I use to patronize several times a year.—Team Goodee even went there for
several years… Until--- One day everyone from the Parking Lot Attendant to the
Food Service Manager wanted to refuse us service. I tried several different
ways of educating everyone eventually I called the local police who thankfully
took over the task of education and allowed us to TRY to enjoy ourselves.—this was
an event with expensive tickets. I had family and friends with me. I didn’t
NEED to have to stop what I was doing and defend myself. Even after a nice
apology from the General Manager and his private number for future use, Team
Goodee has not been back in over three years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We recently corresponded with the
mother of a young Service Dog friend about a bad experience-- The Manager of a
local pizza establishment was not only rude but left the 11-year old year old boy
in fear of his life.—Telling someone who has a life-threatening reaction to
tree nuts that you will just start cooking with Peanut Oil to keep the dog away
is as funny as playing Russian Roulette with loaded guns. What
seems like “no big deal”, or “just a learning curve” to you may very well be an
assault which causes real physical and emotional harm. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This blog has not used any business
names. We don’t wish to cause a problem for anyone. Our mission is to educate
and make life better for Service Dog Teams everywhere.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
“Let’s close on that note mom and remind people that we have educational links below.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">
“Good idea Goodee. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 38.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 21.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We welcome feedback by
email.</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 38.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 21.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">When you see us out
and about we often must say,</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 38.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 21.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Not Now We Are
Working!”</span></b><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 38.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 21.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">DD & GOODEE</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 38.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 21.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">GoodeeWorks
Productions</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #0933e8; font-size: 21.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com">GoodeeWorks@gmail.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #0933e8; font-size: 21.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com"><br /></a></span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Educational
Links and Further Reading<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: rgb(244, 243, 235); margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">NIH Fact Sheets -
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (NIH Fact Sheets - Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD))<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F4F3EB; line-height: 10.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 9.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://report.nih.gov/nihfactsheets/ViewFactSheet.aspx?csid=58">http://report.nih.gov/nihfactsheets/ViewFactSheet.aspx?csid=58</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: #F4F3EB; line-height: 10.0pt; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<h1 style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; line-height: 17.25pt; margin-top: 7.5pt;">
<b><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Until
Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Who Saved</span></i></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">
Him By Fmr. Capt. Luis Carlos Montalvan
(with Bret Witter)</span> <o:p></o:p></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(One of the best books ever written about
Understanding PTSD and the life-changing effects of a Service Dog. Available in many formats from fine book
sellers everywhere. For more information see</span> <a href="http://www.luiscarlosmontalvan.com/">http://www.luiscarlosmontalvan.com/</a>
)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Some of our friends who provide Service Dogs to U.S.
Veterans include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Shepherds
for Lost Sheep Inc</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.shepherdsforlostsheepinc.org/">http://www.shepherdsforlostsheepinc.org/</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">K9S
for Warriors<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.k9sforwarriors.org/">http://www.k9sforwarriors.org</a>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Service Dog information and services for business
owners:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Service
Dog 411(Sue Kindred)</span></b> <a href="http://www.servicedog411.com/">http://www.servicedog411.com/</a>G<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Statistics about the Service Dog Population:<br />
See Service Dog Central<br />
http://www.servicedogcentral.org/content/ </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
U.S. Department of Justice: Service Dog Access FAQ’s<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm">http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
U.S. Department of Justice ADA Requirements: What is a
Service Animal<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm">http://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>For assistance with Service
Dog Access contact the U.S. Dept. of Justice ADA Info line at:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">1-800-514-0301
(voice)</span></b><b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;"><br />
<b><span style="font-family: "Verdana","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi;">1-800-514-0383 (TTY) <o:p></o:p></span></b></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;">For information
on filing Service Dog Access Complaints see Service Dog Central <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #2d2d2d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 9pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="http://servicedogcentral.org/content/node/267"><span style="font-weight: normal;">http://servicedogcentral.org/content/node/267</span></a> <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #0933e8; font-size: 21.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com"><br /></a></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #0933e8; font-size: 21.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><a href="mailto:GoodeeWorks@gmail.com"><br /></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: rgb(244, 243, 235); margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 17.1200008392334px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
</span></li>
<li><br /></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-36002396762471306392014-03-08T19:24:00.000-06:002014-03-08T23:10:23.256-06:00Stupidity: The largest Service Dog Access Problem<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 13.5pt;"><br />
</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"> “Education
is the key to Service Dog access. People in all walks of life need to know what
Service Dogs are, what they do, and why the Service Dog must not be removed
from the handler.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">There we have it, a
perfect blog intro.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
“No mom it’s not perfect.—in fact, it’s watered down and not making the correct
point.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
“Hello Goodee the Service Dog you see your mom the human is working on the
blog.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
“I see your trying mom but not doing a very good job.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
“Okay, Goodee the Service Dog, just what would you say is a good blog intro?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
“UHHHM here it goes mom…”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">
Stupidity is the largest barrier to Service Dog access. Thousands of people are
totally dependent upon Service Dogs to help them with the most basic skills of
life. The </span><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Americans
With Disabilities Act, guarantees people with service dogs access to public
places. Many employers make sure their employees know the law by providing
Service Dog sensitivity training to their employees, then there are some individuals
who make no effort to know or understand the law and that creates the largest
problem for service dogs and their handlers—Not knowing the law, being dense,
refusal to understand, AKA: STUPIDITY.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Goodee the Service Dog you have written a near perfect intro. Do you mind if I
join in?”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Oh no mom anytime.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
As Goodee points out Service Dogs and their handlers are to be given access to
any area that is normally accessed by the public. In our nearly seven years
together Team Goodee has experienced challenges to access in: hotels, gas
stations, restaurants and office buildings. We do our share of education.
Usually misunderstandings are cleared up once people understand that Goodee the
Aussie is also Goodee the Service Dog (a medical device under the ADA).
Sometimes we have called local police, or members of management for further
clarification and things get ironed out.—however, there are times we will never
forget that require much more effort on our parts.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Come on mom tell it like it is: There are times that we have to waste way too
much time and energy explaining things because people are being STUPID!”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Oh yes Goodee the Service Dog, you are always good at being direct. Sometimes
people are just plain STUPID. If you have never been dependent upon a Service
Dog you may not realize just what one instance of Stupidity can do physically
and mentally to the Service Dog Team.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Let’s insert our best example here.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Yes that’s a good idea Goodee.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
My mom was recently hospitalized due to heart AFIB and a related fall. . At age 88 she
often tries to do more than her body will allow. She was release to our home
with specific orders from Medicare that she was to receive regular visits from
a nurse. I welcomed someone looking after my mom’s well-being.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Goodee
the Service Dog had kept my life “normal” she assisted me in walking across
surfaces so I could do the shopping, banking, cooking, and laundry. When
migraine triggers suddenly presented themselves Goodee would help me get meds,
or a better position for my head. Life for Team Goodee was “normal” but going
at a strained pace due to the things
needed for my mom. The nurse called and demanded that he come during a specific
time frame. However, I was ready to get help for my mom’s medical needs. I
truthfully did not think about my Service Dog because she is just a part of
me.—like a leg or an arm, she is a body part. Little did I know I was about to come upon the
largest access issue I have had in the history of Team Goodee. – Here it comes
the largest barrier for anyone with a Service Dog.—what’s that word again
Goodee.—STUPIDITY!</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“STUPIDITY,
Mom”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">“Thanks
Goodee, yes Stupidity, meaning a lack of intellect.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
When the nurse came to the door I was working on a three-day stretch of two
hours of sleep per night. Goodee the Service Dog was vested and leashed at my
side. Goodee barked at the first sign of a stranger at the door but soon
stopped when requested.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“I’m afraid of dogs.” the nurse said backing up a bit.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Oh I’m sorry she is my Service Dog,” I said, through a closed door, showing
the “SERVICE DOG” –patch on Goodee’s vest, right next to the one that says,
“ACCESS REQUIRED.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
The nurse bristled saying “I don’t like dogs anywhere around me, can you put
the dog away?”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
I was genuinely sympathetic to the situation and kept the door closed.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“I’m sorry for the misunderstanding I can’t be without the dog but could you
send someone who will work with dogs?”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“I will call my supervisor,” the nurse said, leaving the porch.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Oh well I will clear this up with the supervisor and they will send someone
else,” I thought to myself.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Simple
right?</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“WRONG MOM!”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
"Oh hello Goodee the Service Dog, glad you are still around. Do you
remember what happened after this?</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
" Well mom you had a big “melt down"
because you were trying to explain things but no one was listening.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
That’s it in a neat nut shell yes Goodee. It wasn’t pretty.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
My cell phone rang and the supervisor said “I don’t understand what’s the big
deal, what could it possibly hurt. just put the dog away for an hour
while the nurse is there.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I was
then informed by the RN Nurse Supervisor that she would not send another nurse
that I was being “unreasonable” and she would not have her nurses go where they
didn’t feel safe.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">I
tried several times in the conversation to point out that I was just requesting
a nurse that would work with dogs being present in the home. I went on to
disclose specific medical details as to why I needed the dog (something not
required by law but I felt would be nice to provide). I tried to explain the
dynamics, mom and I share a house, mom needs me, I need the dog, and the dog is
a SERVICE DOG a MEDICAL DEVICE, a TOOL NOT A TOY.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Yes that’s how it happened mom and in real life you were shouting in the all
caps parts. You shouted so loud that our friends could hear you all the way
down the driveway.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“Yes Goodee I was pretty upset.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
For years I struggled to stand, walk and do things. Now with the right medical
team in place and Service Dog Goodee I am able to do things and actually be
there for my mom when she needs me. With Service Dog Goodee I have the freedom
to be normal but now I encounter the barrier of unnecessary STUPIDITY. These
people are as my niece so correctly stated “Uneducated ding-dongs.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The
supervisor finally agreed to send a nurse who got along fine with Goodee the
Service Dog.—For the home health agency the problem was resolved but I was left with a large amount of anxiety due to
the encounter and Goodee the Service Dog also experienced anxiety of her own
due to my extra needs during the days following the event.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">This
event illustrates the most unnecessary barrier to service dog access. –The
initial barrier that is perfectly preventable. It takes such a small amount of
time to LEARN THE LAW. Every walk of life will be touched by the thousands of
Service Dogs in use.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
When an administrator called me about this event she was nice but the damage
was done.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
“It’s such a learning curve for us,” she told me. While I am glad they were
open to education, it saddens me to find out first-hand how under-educated the
medical profession is about ADA Service Dog Laws.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We
would like to thank our friends and family who keep us going and our friends in
the Service Dog Community who know the shoes we walk in and the struggle we
face.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">
Team Goodee appreciates communication by email and Facebook. When you see us
out and about we will likely say: “Not Now We Are Working.”</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />
---DD & Goodee </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Goodeeworks@gmail.com </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We
offer the educational links below for further reading and welcome the sharing
of our blog.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Service
Dog Resources</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">FAQ
Service Dog Access</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://servicedogcentral.org/content/faq/63"><span style="color: blue;">http://servicedogcentral.org/content/faq/63</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">DOJ:
Service Animal Briefs</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Federal
Policies on Service Dog Access</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/newsletters/v7n2/7n2hende.htm"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/newsletters/v7n2/7n2hende.htm</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Service
Dog Education for Law Enforcement & Business Owners</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Service
Dog 411</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://servicedog411.com/"><span style="color: blue;">http://servicedog411.com/</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shepherds
for Lost Sheep, Inc.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
non-profit organization dedicated to helping Veterans through the use of
Service K-9’s</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.shepherdsforlostsheepinc.org/"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.shepherdsforlostsheepinc.org/</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Until Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the
Golden Retriever Who Saved Him </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By
Luis Carlos Montalvan & Brent Whitter</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">A
best-seller must read about a warrior and the life-changing effects of a
Service Dog</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Available
in many formats</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?ie=UTF8&field-author=Luis+Carlos+Montalv%C3%A1n&search-alias=books&text=Luis+Carlos+Montalv%C3%A1n&sort=relevancerank"><span style="color: blue;">http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?ie=UTF8&field-author=Luis+Carlos+Montalv%C3%A1n&search-alias=books&text=Luis+Carlos+Montalv%C3%A1n&sort=relevancerank</span></a></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Coming
Soon</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<b><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Tuesday-Tucks-Me-between-Soldier/dp/1596438916/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1394326037&sr=1-2"><span style="color: #996633; font-weight: normal;">Tuesday Tucks Me In: The Loyal Bond
between a Soldier and His Service Dog</span></a> by Luis Carlos Montalván,
Bret Witter and Dan Dion (May 27, 2014)<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-41367772556413011702013-11-20T18:19:00.000-06:002014-05-26T12:11:59.831-05:00Making Cents: Service Dog Access In Business<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>1002</o:Words>
<o:Characters>5716</o:Characters>
<o:Company>Diva Horse</o:Company>
<o:Lines>47</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>11</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>7019</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>12.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>
<w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>
<w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
</w:Compatibility>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">“<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goodee the Service Dog why are you
still hard at work on a bog?” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well mom this is an
important topic: what good is a Service Dog if people don’t let you use them?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Right Goodee I wish
I had thought of that. It’s important for everyone understand Service Dog
access.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The most important
thing for people to understand mom is that Service Dogs are not just dogs.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">SERVICE DOG
ACCESS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You are right
Goodee. Let’s share an example:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If someone comes in a
place of business and says they have a Service Dog then that dog is given a
special status it is not a “pet.” The Service Dog must be allowed access to all
areas you would allow members of the public to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Team Goodee had a
horrible experience when a hotel staff member kept telling us “Pets are not
allowed.” We gestured to patches and explained that a Service Dog handler
cannot be separated from their dog, the employee continued to insist: “but the
dog is still a pet.”--- WRONG! “the dog” is a MEDICAL DEVICE and is NEVER a
PET.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A dog identified as a Service
Dog is specifically trained to assist the handler with a disability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">WHEN IN DOUBT:
ALLOW ACCESS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Mom how do people
know a Service Dog when they see one?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Good question
Goodee! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Actually Service Dogs look
just like any other dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">There are people
who fake Service Dogs and there are people who just want to bring their pets
into a place of business. Most Service Dog handlers have signs or patches
indicating the dog is a working service animal but, the ADA (Americans with
Disabilities Act) does not require signs or certificates<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A business owner inquiry is limited to:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If the dog is a Service Dog<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">What tasks the Service Dog does for the
handler<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Is the handler disabled?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Please note: no
one is allowed to ask the exact disability of the handler.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">IT’S ABOUT
CUSTOMER SERVICE <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">A Service Dog
handler is just like any other customer. They want to have their concerns
addressed, make their purchase, or run their errand and be done with their day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The Service Dog
serves only one purpose: to assist the Service Dog handler and therefore only
the handler can say when a Service Dog is “working.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Examples would be
good here mom.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Right Goodee can you
think of any?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well mom there’s
lots of times someone pets me without asking when I am standing with you or
laying by you.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Right Goodee that is
a good example, I’ve been told Goodee the Service Dog was “just standing there”
or “just laying there.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Actually mom I was
providing balance and many times you fall to the floor when someone just
reaches over and pets me without asking.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“ Goodee, Can you
think of other things that hurt or delay us when we are out and about?”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Well mom sometimes
people insist upon “helping” us when they don’t have a clue what they are
doing. It delays us at best and can harm us physically.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Yes Goodee, I have
an example for this one.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">We went inside a
bank lobby and we were scoping <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>an
area out for the human to sit down. A manager looking type came over and starting
doing a little dance in front of Service Dog Goodee. She immediately tried to
get Goodee to follow her. —(I guess she thought we needed to get to a teller.)
She then began laughing and telling employees that she was a dog “whisperer.” I
never did get her to understand I just needed her to get the ____ out of the
way so that I could tie my shoelace. This is an example of both someone who
thinks they are helping but is not and someone who is determined to make “the
dog” a personal sideshow -- In fact, all the “helper” did is create an obstacle.
— The Service Dog is a tool not a toy!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">SERVICE DOG REMINDERS FOR PLACES OF BUSINESS</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.75in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Remember
the human hander is a normal customer do not talk to the dog or anyone with the
handler.—Talk directly to the handler and ignore the dog.—any other behavior is
rude.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Don’t
chatter or insist upon helping the dog or handler—give them space if they need
help they will ask.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do
not feed the dog. —Team Goodee actually had an employee put seafood down on the
floor and call the “doggie.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.0in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo4; text-indent: -.75in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Your
customers will follow your lead. —Please instruct your employees to not touch,
talk, stalk, or otherwise mess with the Service dog. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">MAKING SENSE/
CENTS<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Like other
consumers Service Dog handlers evaluate where they spend money. Team Goodee has
several favorite places where we go in and get served quickly with “no circus.”
We have sent compliment letters to corporate headquarters and visit <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the same places week after week. –--
On the other side of the coin, there is a discount chain that we have not gone
in for a solid year because even after several complaints their employees
continue to interfere with us. When we have to eat, shop for our business or
home, the question is always the same: “Where can I go today and get the
service I need?” Many times Team Goodee stays away from sales because either
the dog or the human just can’t cope with the circus. In addition to the
economic impact many states have fines and jail time for interfering with a
Service Dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">There’s no reason
to be in the dark about Service Dog access Sue Kindred of Service Dog 411(<a href="http://www.servicedog411.com/services.html">http://www.servicedog411.com/services.html</a>)
has educational material and consulting services available. The U.S. Department
of Justice has business resources (see links below). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In closing we would like to thank the
many business establishments across the country that provide Service Dog
friendly customer service. Thank you to people who take time to address Service
Dog access concerns. Thank you to friends and family who accompany Service Dog
Teams and put up with the “circus” as people pet, prod, talk to, and tickle the
dog.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Team Goodee
welcomes your feedback by email, many times when you see us out and about we
have to say: “Not Now We Are Working.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">--DD &
GOODEE<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="mailto:Goodeeworks@gmail.com">Goodeeworks@gmail.com</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Educational
Links<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.ada.gov/infoline.htm"><span style="color: #4a9665; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-size: 19.0pt; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;">U.S. Department of Justice ADA Infoline</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">1-800-514-0301 </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .25in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://servicedogcentral.org/content/node/493"><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 19.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">http://servicedogcentral.org/content/node/493</span></a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 19.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 32.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">ADA Business BRIEF:
Service Animals</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.ada.gov/svcanimb.htm">http://www.ada.gov/svcanimb.htm</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 19.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 24.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">COMMONLY
ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-bidi-font-size: 24.0pt; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">SERVICE ANIMALS IN PLACES
OF BUSINESS </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm">http://www.ada.gov/qasrvc.htm</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">SERVICE DOG 411<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://www.servicedog411.com/services.html">http://www.servicedog411.com/services.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #4a9665; font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-40156100792718913412013-11-20T18:13:00.001-06:002017-02-11T12:46:04.579-06:00Making <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-80050381913339757942013-11-20T18:12:00.001-06:002017-02-11T12:46:04.635-06:00<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br /></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7617957892262202926.post-20189507393055606922013-11-03T19:07:00.001-06:002013-11-09T22:06:43.109-06:00Tis The Season for Service Dog Reminders<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<a name='more'></a><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<o:DocumentProperties>
<o:Template>Normal.dotm</o:Template>
<o:Revision>0</o:Revision>
<o:TotalTime>0</o:TotalTime>
<o:Pages>1</o:Pages>
<o:Words>1335</o:Words>
<o:Characters>7610</o:Characters>
<o:Company>Diva Horse</o:Company>
<o:Lines>63</o:Lines>
<o:Paragraphs>15</o:Paragraphs>
<o:CharactersWithSpaces>9345</o:CharactersWithSpaces>
<o:Version>12.0</o:Version>
</o:DocumentProperties>
<o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
<o:AllowPNG/>
</o:OfficeDocumentSettings>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:WordDocument>
<w:Zoom>0</w:Zoom>
<w:TrackMoves>false</w:TrackMoves>
<w:TrackFormatting/>
<w:PunctuationKerning/>
<w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing>
<w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing>
<w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery>
<w:ValidateAgainstSchemas/>
<w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid>
<w:IgnoreMixedContent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent>
<w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText>
<w:Compatibility>
<w:BreakWrappedTables/>
<w:DontGrowAutofit/>
<w:DontAutofitConstrainedTables/>
<w:DontVertAlignInTxbx/>
</w:Compatibility>
</w:WordDocument>
</xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
<w:LatentStyles DefLockedState="false" LatentStyleCount="276">
</w:LatentStyles>
</xml><![endif]-->
<!--[if gte mso 10]>
<style>
/* Style Definitions */
table.MsoNormalTable
{mso-style-name:"Table Normal";
mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0;
mso-tstyle-colband-size:0;
mso-style-noshow:yes;
mso-style-parent:"";
mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt;
mso-para-margin-top:0in;
mso-para-margin-right:0in;
mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt;
mso-para-margin-left:0in;
mso-pagination:widow-orphan;
font-size:12.0pt;
font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria;
mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;
mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";
mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast;
mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria;
mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;}
</style>
<![endif]-->
<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Goodee, why are you using so much paper?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I’m making a naughty list mom.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Naughty list?” “Santa takes care of that Goodee, why don’t we just
write a blog.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Well I happen to think Santa may need help this year.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Okay Goodee let me see.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> " </span>I don’t have everyone’s name mom but Santa will know who they are by my
descriptions.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m sure he will Goodee but this list has someone from every place
we’ve been in the past year.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Exactly, mom despite best efforts everywhere we have gone this year
people have been naughty and touched me, or talked to me when they were asked
not to, or even got between us when we were trying to work.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“People don’t mean to be naughty Goodee; they just need reminders so why
don’t we write a blog about things you should do for a Service Dog We could
probably forget about sending the naughty list to Santa."</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Okay, mom I know people don’t like lists of rules but it is a good way
for people to know what they need to do.” How about a list with examples?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Good idea here we go.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The Holiday Party<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When planning social parties remember that people with
Service Dogs MUST bring the dog. You wouldn’t ask someone not to bring their
cane, walker, or needed medical drugs --- The human is TOTALLY dependent upon
the dog so don’t ask them to be without it. ---No matter how polite you think
you have asked it is as cold and rude as a slap in the face. If there are other guests
who are allergic or afraid of dogs, just do your best to accommodate everyone.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Please consider making arrangements for other dogs to be
elsewhere. Remember, the Service Dog is a medical device unlike a normal dog
they are not available for petting and playing. ---They also may not appreciate
other dogs in their space.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Holiday Shopping<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“These rules are good anytime mom”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Yes, Goodee but in Holiday crowds they are even more important.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Remember that the Service Dog and human have to take up more
space than a single person. Whenever possible keep areas clear so they can
move. If you see a Service Dog do your best to give it space. Many people who
are dependent upon Service Dogs need extra space for medical reasons. —Crowding
in or getting between the human and the dog can be dangerous and cause physical
harm to the Service Dog handler. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“How about some real life examples here.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Well Goodee my memory isn’t as good as yours.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Okay mom there was one time a lady was trying to get to something in
the store and instead of going the most direct way to the item she asked you to
move back and patted the dog (that’s ME GOODEE the SERVICE DOG) on the head as
she passed by.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Good example Goodee, I had forgotten that. In this situation the person
was physically able to take other routes to do her task but instead decided I
should yield to her. It is difficult for me to move backward sometimes it can
even cause me to fall so backing up was quite a challenge and the lady looked
at me as if to say “hurry up!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Talk To The Human<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Service dog handlers are people who
compensate for the things they cannot physically do. They may not do things
exactly like you but it is RUDE to talk about them as if they are not there. DO
NOT talk to the DOG instead of the human and DON’T talk to anyone else with the
Service Dog handler. It is good customer service to look at the Service Dog
handler and say,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“May I help you?”
DO NOT LOOK at the dog or even mention the dog. --- Would you talk to a
wheelchair or even give it a second look? The Service Dog is an extension of
the human it is only there to help them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Do Not Touch--- Don’t
Even Ask<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many Service Dog Teams have patches saying “Ask to touch.”—In this case
it would be acceptable to politely ask the human prior to touching. However,
Team Goodee has patches indicating “Please Do Not Touch.” The number of people
who boldly touch and then act as if they have won a prize continually shocks us!
There is a reason for “Don’t Touch.”—In the case of Team Goodee it throws the
human off balance and many times causes a fall to the floor – Some people are
able to withstand a fall to the floor but others require medical attention or
even hospitalization afterward.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No matter how nicely you think you are asking the response will be
“No”—so please don’t ask.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may
give me a look like I took away your toy or I’m the meanest person in the world
but I still have to say “No the dog is working.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Quiet Please!<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Service Dog’s ONLY purpose is to help their human do
something they would not otherwise be able to do. —usually something<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>you can do without thinking about it
like--- standing, walking, or remember something. – The Service Dog Team needs
to work without distraction.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Please don’t bark or make other noises at the Service Dog. –It’s not
cute it ‘s dangerous. If the dog or human is distracted it can cause physical
harm. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“
There are other examples mom such as: saying “doggie” thirty or more times
until the Service Dog Team and everyone around them is tired of it. “Awe,” and
other nice things can all be distractions.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Right again Goodee.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">No Trips Down Memory
Lane or 20-Questions<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Don’t ask why we have a Service Dog and we promise we won’t ask you why
K-Y Jelly is in your shopping cart. The reason we have a service dog might be
personal and painful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you need
to talk to the person about Service Dogs consider giving them your email
address. There are educational resources please use one of them instead of
expecting a Service Dog Handler to be a personal ambassador<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">. <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>While it is nice
that your best friend’s mother’s cousin has a Service Dog, we may not have time
or be physically able to listen to every dog story you throw our way. —Please
forgive us if we need to excuse ourselves. —Sometime when you have time we
would love to share the thousands of dog examples we have been given over the
years.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">No Directions for the
Service Dog or Handler<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I struggled for many years before I got my Service Dog. It was an effort
to stand, climb, or open a door, yet many times everyone ignored me. Now, I
have a dog who does a wonderful job of helping me with all these items – I now
have many people who INSIST upon “helping” me. – To date the “help” has caused
me several trips to the doctor and delayed me many times. I will graciously
refuse offers for help. —I even understand why you offer to “help” but please
just LEAVE US ALONE! WE LOVE being independent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The human doesn’t need any help reading signs or seeing which direction
to go. —The dog is skilled and KNOWS when to go, come, lay, sit or do any other
commands. No matter how skilled you are as a trainer, or how devoted an animal
rights activist you are public is not a proper place for advice or debate.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“There’s an example here too mom!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Okay Goodee, what’s the example.”?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Once there was an employee in a store who look at me and said “Come on
baby it’s okay.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Yes Goodee, I was so GLAD you are properly trained and knew to ignore
her. I was putting things away in my purse and wasn’t ready to “go.” I advised
the employee that the dog “doesn’t go until I tell her.” I was then advised
that the employee “thought she was helping because the dog might be scared or
distracted and not know she could go.”—thanks for the “help” but “LEAVE US
ALONE!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">That means YOU!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>No matter how “special” you think you are remember rules apply to
everyone including cool store employees or medical office employees. – A
Service Dog is ALWAYS working even when they are: laying, chilling, or
sleeping. Unless you are told otherwise please read and observe all signs
around the Service Dog Team</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Yes, We Can!</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Service Dogs have access to all areas of public access. —Access
is required under Federal Law.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have examples here too!”<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Yes Goodee recently we had an encounter where a well-meaning employee
said “You can’t have the dog in here because of the food.” <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The employee was so sure of herself that
she repeated this to me three times. Only when I started to call the police did
she ask for her manager to sort out the situation. This is discouraging because
I would hope t food chains have advised their employees about Service Dog
access requirements. It takes only 5-minutes to properly train your employees
please do so</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">It’s Not About YOU</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></b>We like other
humans and enjoy you but when we are out the Service Dog Team is just trying to
do the many chores on our list. We are not a Show-N-Tell display for you, your
child, or your employee. —If you have to notice us please do so far away from
us. We are not your entertainment. We don’t do tricks on request. We might not
even want you to know the dog’s name. —Why? Because it’s not about YOU it’s
about us being able to move around safely and do things just like normal people
do..</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Let’s sign off mom”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“Okay Goodee.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As a reminder Team Goodee loves to hear from people via email and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Facebook. When you see us out and about
we may say:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“NOT NOW WE ARE WORKING!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
--DD & Goodee the Service Dog<br />
<br />
ddsteelemba@gmail.com<br />
Goodeeworks Productions</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Team Goodee is proud to announce that our young friend Teddy
now has his Allergy Alert Dog Gizmo!. You can follow Team Gizmo on their
Facebook page: “Adventures of Gizmo and Teddy.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--></div>
D.D. Steele, MBA, JDhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15890211735250637597noreply@blogger.com0