Therapy dogs: Too much latitude for pet owners
The number of therapy and support dogs in our world astounds me. I have spoken to restaurant servers about dogs in restaurants and they all say they can’t ask questions after someone declares their animal is a therapy animal.
The dog does not need any identification, either on its back or in the possession of the owner. Employees have to allow pet owners to bring their pets into a restaurant.
I have complained to the health department about dogs in restaurants. There’s no teeth in their laws. Generally I just don’t go back to any restaurant or bar that allows unregistered dogs into their establishment.
As a person with disabilities, I have to carry with me at all times an identification card. Anyone can ask me to see it and I will gladly present it. I am legitimate.
Why isn’t there a similar identification requirement for therapy and support dogs?
Airlines should also be able to verify a certified therapy animal. All you have to do is say the animal is for personal anxiety and therapy and there are no questions asked.
Where are the regulations that prevent this abuse?
Liza Morado, Tacoma
This story was originally published February 19, 2020 at 1:28 PM with the headline "Therapy dogs: Too much latitude for pet owners."