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CPT Multifunctional Logistician
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Edited 11 y ago
SGT Cepero, I think you are absolutely correct in thinking that part of the problem is ignorance and lack of training.  Service dogs are definitely not just for blind people anymore.  The disabled veteran confronted at Starbucks on Memorial Day was particular surprising, but I am glad Starbuck eventually recognized the error and apologized.  Employees clearly need to be more aware, but these situations could easily be avoided.  All an employee really needs to do is ask "Is that a service dog?"  If the answer is yes, the next question should simply be "How can I help you today?"  This really shouldn't be a big issue.  A little compassion and understanding can go a long way if we simply take 5 seconds to listen rather than jump to conclusions.
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SFC Anabel Cepero
SFC Anabel Cepero
11 y
Sir,

Exactly my point! It's like these people forget that they are in the customer service industry. I get that some people are just dumb and lie about their animal being a service dog. But it is not their place to be rude if they are uncertain. That's the quickest way to lose your customers. 
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SPC Charles Slininger
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I'm certainly hoping that this behavior and treatment has evolved over the past year. Of course with things put in the news media still needs to be taken with a grain of salt as for every story like this there may be 10 with a subtle, more positive spin as its not news if its not visceral.

To me the service dog (along with musical treatment) is a very unsung hero to what improvements and immediate emotional attention is needed for suffering veterans. Dogs can sense much more than the trained eye could catch. Just that gentle nudge or calming force can mean such a difference for some (not all of course). I just came across a video this week that struck a chord with me and makes a lot of sense. I'm not sure how often this is addressed under the current VA support or otherwise but I feel this should get more attention & support.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIlPFRsseQ8

Thoughts?
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MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca
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I think in this instance Mr. Baer was definitely mistreated by the outlandish questioning by the Starbucks employee. I try not to judge but I do question the definition of "service" dog when the situation is not obvious. I've seen people come into a supermarket or restaurant with a dog in a carrier wearing some type of harness and claim its their "service" dog. Supposedly, according to the law, you are not supposed to question anyone further once they claim the dog is a service dog - whether or not they are wearing a harness. If they are in a carrier and that small of a dog, what service are they performing? I also understand their are PTS companion service dogs that are allowed to accompany individuals with PTS as a means of comforting and calming them.
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