Understanding the Ethics of Working a Disabled Dog for Service Work

In this newsletter, we wish to address a topic that bears significant ethical implications in the service dog community: the use of dogs with disabilities as working service animals. This conversation is crucial not only for the welfare of our canine companions but also for the effectiveness of service animal partnerships.

Understanding the Ethics of Working a Disabled Dog for Service Work

The Ethical Considerations

It is imperative to recognize that working a dog with a disability can be considered unethical for several reasons. The primary concern is that asking a dog—who may be dealing with challenges such as blindness, deafness, amputation, or other medical conditions—to perform tasks at the level of an able-bodied dog can compromise its well-being. Dogs, unlike humans, may not have the cognitive awareness of their disabilities, yet they can experience significant physical and mental ramifications when tasked beyond their capabilities.

Dogs With Disabilities: Our Vet Explains Types & Gives Care Advice

Studies indicate that dogs who are disabled—such as those missing a limb—often face extreme consequences that affect their overall health and longevity. For instance, a dog missing a leg may struggle with mobility, which can lead to chronic pain or joint issues over time (see articles below). Similarly, a partially blind dog may find difficulty performing guide tasks effectively, raising concerns about both the safety and efficacy of the partnership. Partially blind dogs will have to move their head in more directions in order to see in areas that the other eye lacks to see. Remember, there is always over compensation. 

A Comprehensive Guide on How to Care for Dogs with Disabilities

Deaf dogs often require specialized training methods, relying on visual cues and hand signals. This can make the training process more challenging and time-consuming. Some argue that not all handlers may have the expertise or resources to effectively train a deaf dog. Without the ability to hear, a deaf service dog may be at a higher risk in certain situations, such as busy traffic or emergency scenarios. Many may argue that this increased vulnerability could compromise the dog's safety and effectiveness.

Caring for Dogs with Special Needs

In public spaces, effective communication between the handler and the dog is crucial. Since many people are unaware of a dog’s deafness, a deaf service dog may struggle to respond to commands or cues from strangers, leading to potential misunderstandings, especially if the handler is unresponsive or in an emergency and cannot handle the dog. It is more advocated for placing deaf dogs in roles or environments better suited to their abilities, such as therapy work or as companionship animals, rather than in high-demand service roles that may not fully utilize their strengths. There are also dangers that a handler may not always be able to be on top of, especially with another dog approaching, a possible vehicle speeding by, someone running up behind the dog and they cannot react more appropriately or be able to alert their handler that someone is behind them and so much more.

While there are exceptions—often referred to as “unicorns”—who may be capable of performing extraordinary tasks despite their disabilities, these cases should not serve as the standard. The expectation that a dog with a disability should perform at the same level as an able-bodied counterpart is both unrealistic and dismissive of the dog's individual needs and potential for success. Some may argue, “My veterinarian says my dog is happy and healthy, so it’s fine for them to work like any other dog.” However, it is essential to recognize that veterinarians may sometimes accommodate the perceptions or desires of handlers or owners, leading to the assumption that as long as the dog is deemed "healthy," they are capable of performing tasks just like their able-bodied peers. This perspective warrants careful consideration. Veterinarians may only address concerns when the handler brings the dog in due to early signs of fatigue or lameness, which could have been prevented had the dog not been expected to perform at the same level as an able-bodied dog. Therefore, it is crucial to prioritize realistic expectations that align with the unique capabilities of each dog, ensuring their well-being and longevity. 

It is important to recognize that many veterinarians may not have specialized knowledge of working dogs and the specific demands of their roles. Consequently, while a dog may appear healthy or normal, this does not necessarily reflect their overall well-being. This is why able-bodied dogs engaged in high-level sports often seek the expertise of sports medicine specialists, as well as chiropractic care, acupuncture, and canine physical therapists. These professionals focus on addressing the dogs' comprehensive physical needs, promoting mobility, and enhancing overall physical well-being through various techniques, including stretching, exercise, and rehabilitation programs.

Three Legged Dog Keeps Up Care for Disabled Teen

The Right Dog for the Right Role

Handlers seeking service animals often face overwhelming circumstances, and the urgency to secure assistance can lead to unfortunate decisions. It’s understandable that some may feel compelled to utilize a dog that may not be ideally suited for service work (free, cheaper, can get it sooner, someone with no backing says it has potential)—sometimes labeling the unique traits of a disabled dog as advantages. However, this mindset typically stems from immediate needs rather than a long-term vision for the dog's welfare.

Ultimately, it is the handler's responsibility to prioritize finding a suitable service dog that can meet both their needs and those of the canine partner. Rushing into a partnership with a dog that has a disability might provide temporary relief for human needs but sets a precedent that overlooks the fundamental rights of the dog.

Caring for Dogs with Disabilities

Questions to Consider when Understanding the Ethics of Working a Disabled Dog for Service Work

When contemplating the suitability of a disabled dog for service work, it is essential to reflect on these critical questions:

• How can a partially blind dog effectively assist with guide tasks, and not just for the visually impaired?

• How will a dog missing a limb keep pace with the demanding physical requirements expected of able bodied service animals?

• In what ways does a dog’s anatomical structure differ from that of a human, particularly regarding distributing weight and potential for discomfort or shortened lifespan due to disability?

Prioritizing Welfare Over Urgency

We implore individuals seeking service dogs to engage in thorough discussions with healthcare professionals and experienced  trainers about the benefits of working with able-bodied dogs. Patience is paramount in this process; rushing can lead to compromised outcomes for both handlers and dogs alike. Remember, while disabled dogs can live fulfilling lives through tailored adaptations, they should never be held to the same expectations as their non-disabled peers.

Together, we can ensure that the welfare of our canine companions remains at the forefront of our service dog initiatives.

Quite frankly, there are a LOT of articles that show the long term effects of working a dog with a missing limb.

Prioritizing Welfare Over Urgency

We implore individuals seeking service dogs to engage in thorough discussions with healthcare professionals and experienced  trainers about the benefits of working with able-bodied dogs. Patience is paramount in this process; rushing can lead to compromised outcomes for both handlers and dogs alike. Remember, while disabled dogs can live fulfilling lives through tailored adaptations, they should never be held to the same expectations as their non-disabled peers.

Together, we can ensure that the welfare of our canine companions remains at the forefront of our service dog initiatives.