How to Register a Service Dog: A Simple Guide
When looking to register a service dog, you have three options that will get you on the right path. So, read below to learn how you can register a service dog!
1)Government Requirements
Many websites allow you to fill out a registration for your dog to become a service animal. However, the U.S. does not require official registration for service dogs. With that being said, avoid unofficial sites that require a registration fee. Some scam sites include:
- Service Animal Registry of America
- United Service Animal Registry
- Service Dogs America
- Registered Service Dog
- Service Dog Certification of America
- National Service Animal Registry
There are many sites out there that claim your dog will not be “officially registered” unless you register through their site. However, this is untrue. Keep government requirements in mind when registering your pal.
2)ADI Public Access Test
The ADI Public Access Test gives proof of your service dog’s skills. So, while no official registration is required, documentation of abilities may be requested. The ADI test is considered the most credible service animal skill’s test. To help your pal pass this test, you can find a service dog trainer. Again, there are no certification requirements for service dog trainers. But, having a trainer can help your pal learn more effectively and efficiently. Among other disability-related tasks, your pal is expected to:
- safely cross a street
- not solicit food or affection
- avoid distraction
- self-control excitement
- only going to the bathroom on command
- not bark, bite, growl, or show other aggressive behavior
Though the ADI test is not required, some type of training is needed to meet the definition of a service dog.
3)Psychiatric Service Dog Doctor’s Note
Psychiatric service dogs are trained to help with mental illness-related disabilities. So, your doctor or therapist can write a letter proving your service dog’s credibility. However, a letter is not legal registration but may be needed to bring your pal on a plane or in other situations. Additionally, avoid websites that provide doctor letters. These are frequently fraudulent and do not come from real clinical professionals. Doctors can also write letters for non-psychiatric service dogs to make housing, traveling, or other things easier for you.
Remember, legal registration of service animals is not required by law. However, certain documentation of proof of your service dog’s abilities may be requested. To be a service dog, your furry friend needs some type of training. So, follow the guide above if you are looking to register your dog as a service animal.