Woman hits barriers registering pet as disability assist dog
A deaf woman is struggling to get her pet toy poodle certified as a disability assist dog due to restrictive industry regulations. She argues that her dog provides essential medical alerts and assistance, saving the government money, yet only one organization considers owner-trained dogs.
Why it matters
The story highlights systemic barriers for disabled individuals seeking to utilize service animals for health management and independence.
A deaf woman with a health condition has hit barriers getting her toy poodle registered as a disability assist dog. <b>By Amy Williams </b><a href="https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/health/2069737/life-closed-in-as-woman-hits-barriers-getting-pet-registered-as-disability-assist-dog"><b>of RNZ</b></a> There are eight organisations that certify and train disability assist dogs, allowing the animals and their handlers access rights in public places, such as supermarkets, libraries and on public transport. But only one organisation will consider dogs that are already in a disabled person's house and Joanne Marshall said that needs to change. She started training Kiko when she adopted him as a puppy about two years ago and he responds to her signs and voice commands. At her request he often helps her to undress by pulling gently on her socks and trousers. "He's blown me away many times," Marshall said.
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