MILITARY K-9 DOGS
SERVICE
DOGS
Service dogs are individually trained to perform specific tasks that mitigate a person’s disability. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service dogs are legally protected and allowed to accompany their handlers in public places.
Key Characteristics
• Task-trained (not just emotional support)
• Highly obedient and neutral in public
• Focused on their handler at all times
Mobility Support Dogs
Assist individuals with physical disabilities by:
• Retrieving dropped items
• Opening and closing doors
• Providing balance and stability
• Assisting with transfers (wheelchair to bed, etc.)
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Guide Dogs
Support individuals who are blind or visually impaired by:
• Navigating obstacles
• Stopping at curbs and elevation changes
• Leading safely through crowds and traffic
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Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSD / PTDP)
Also referred to as PTDP (Post-Traumatic Disorder Dogs), these dogs assist individuals with mental health disabilities such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
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Tasks May Include:
• Interrupting panic attacks
• Providing grounding through tactile stimulation
• Waking handlers from night terrors
• Creating space in crowded environments
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Medical Alert Dogs
Trained to detect physiological changes in the body.
Examples:
• Seizure Alert/Response
• Diabetic Alert (blood sugar changes)
• Cardiac Alert
These dogs can alert their handler before a medical episode occurs or respond during/after the event.
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Odor Detection Service Dogs
Some service dogs are trained to detect specific biological or environmental odors related to a handler’s condition.
Examples Include:
• Detecting cortisol changes (stress response)
• Identifying allergens
• Alerting to migraines or other medical conditions
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Assist individuals with physical disabilities by:
• Retrieving dropped items
• Opening and closing doors
• Providing balance and stability
• Assisting with transfers (wheelchair to bed, etc.)
