Assistance Dogs in Alberta

It is estimated that approximately 300 to 400 Albertans rely on the assistance of service dogs every day. These dogs receive rigorous training through certified schools before forming teams with their owners. The services provided by these companions vary with the disabilities of their owners, and these disabilities are often not immediately identifiable. Under Alberta’s Service Dogs Act these teams of owner and animal are permitted entrance to any location available to the general public, including:

restaurants
hotels
retail stores
movie theatres
golf courses
schools
pet-restricted apartments or condos
hospitals
taxis and buses
places of worship
all other public areas

Types of Assistance Dogs

Assistance dogs (also called service or support dogs) in Alberta are trained to perform specific tasks tailored to their handler's needs. Guide dogs, for instance, help individuals with low or no vision by navigating obstacles and locating important landmarks. Other service dogs may be trained to alert their handlers to medical emergencies, provide physical support or offer emotional assistance.

Certification and Standards

To be recognized as a qualified service dog in Alberta, the dog must be trained and tested to meet specific safety standards for public interaction. The province has approved several organizations that meet the Alberta Training Standard. Organizations accredited by or holding candidacy status with Assistance Dogs International also apply.

How to Obtain a Service Dog

Individuals seeking a service dog in Alberta can apply through accredited organizations. For example, Dogs With Wings, a charitable organization based in Alberta, provides assistance dogs to individuals and agencies across Canada. The process typically involves an application, assessment of needs and matching with a suitable dog.

For more information on obtaining a service dog or understanding the rights and responsibilities associated with service dog teams, individuals can refer to the Government of Alberta's official web page on service dogs or contact approved service dog organizations directly.

Distractions

With respect to the hard work these dogs perform, please avoid distracting any assistance dog who is on duty. Distractions can include:

Calling out to the dog
Making kissing, barking, whistling, or other sounds in an attempt to attract the dogs attention
Petting the dog without the handler’s express permission
Allowing other pets to interact with the dog
Offering the dog food

If an assistance dog’s handler doesn’t give you permission to pet his / her dog, don’t take it personally. Assistance dogs have a very important job to do, and require as few distractions as possible.

Learn More

To learn more about these invaluable companions, their governing legislation, or how you can apply for your own service dog, please read on at the Government of Alberta’s official web page.