Service Dog Etiquette Guide for Employees in Non-Pet-Friendly Stores in Saskatchewan
Written by Christopher Froess of Kairo’s K9s Training in Saskatoon
Service Dogs play a crucial role in assisting individuals with disabilities, and they are legally allowed in most public spaces, including non-pet-friendly establishments.
However, there are clear guidelines that must be followed to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all customers and staff.
What is a Service Dog?
A Service Dog is a specially trained dog that assists a person with a disability by performing specific tasks related to that disability. Service Dogs are not the same as emotional support animals or therapy dogs, which do not have the same public access rights.
Legally Allowed Questions for Service Dog Handlers
In Saskatchewan, employees are legally allowed to ask two questions if it is unclear whether a dog is a legitimate Service Dog:
1) “Is this a Service Dog required because of a disability?”
2) “What task or service does the dog provide?”
Remember that emotional support is NOT a task, a task is a specific action the dog is trained to do.
For example. If Service Dog Kairo and I entered your store
“Is this a Service Dog required because of a disability?”
Me: Yes
“What task or service does the dog provide?”
Me: BP Alert, Seizure Alert, and Migrane Alert and Object retrieval and light guidework
What You Cannot Ask in Saskatchewan:
You cannot ask for proof of certification, medical documents, or personal details about the handler’s disability.
You cannot require a Service Dog to wear a vest, ID, or special harness.
You cannot ask a handler to have the dog demonstrate tasks, or alert on cue.
Please understand, real Service Dog handlers REALLY appreciate it when staff ask us these questions. It shows a true commitment to provide a safe and stress-free environment for everyone.
How to Identify a Legitimate Service Dog
A legitimate Service Dog should:
Be calm and focused in public.
Stay under control at all times.
Remain by the handler’s side or in a proper working position (such as under a table or at their handler’s feet).
Ignore distractions and avoid approaching other people or animals.
Be housebroken and not cause disruptions.
Service dogs do make the occasional mistake, and are not robots, but if they do make an error, it will be MINOR in nature and easily remedied.
A vest on a dog does NOT automatically mean it is a real Service Dog. Some people put vests on pets to gain access to non-pet-friendly places.
The same legal rights apply to Service Dogs in training, but – its customary in the community to ask for permission to train a SDIT in non pet friendly spaces.
When Can a Service Dog Be Asked to Leave?
Employees can ask a Service Dog and their handler to leave the premises if the dog:
Is not housebroken (e.g., has an accident inside the store).
Causes a disturbance (e.g., excessive barking, or growling at customers or staff).
Is lunging at people or other animals.
Is out of the handler’s control, and the handler cannot regain control of the dog.
If a dog is causing issues, staff can say:
“I’m sorry, but your Service Dog is not under control. If you are unable to manage your dog, I will have to ask you to leave.”
What NOT to Do Around a Service Dog
Do not touch or pet the Service Dog without asking.
Do not distract the dog by making noises, calling it, or offering treats.
Do not ask the handler about their disability—this is private information.
Do not refuse entry unless the dog is behaving inappropriately as outlined above.
What to Do if You Suspect a Fake Service Dog
If you believe a dog is not a real Service Dog, but the handler insists they have the right to be there, focus on the dog’s behavior rather than questioning the handler further.
If the dog is well-behaved, assume it is a legitimate Service Dog and allow access.
If the dog is disruptive, politely ask the handler to correct the behavior or leave if necessary.
Example Script:
“We welcome Service Dogs, but your dog must remain under control at all times. If the behavior continues, I will have to ask you to leave.”
Photo and video evidence of a dog misbehaving is always a good rule of thumb
Final Thoughts
Service Dog handlers have the right to access public spaces with their working dogs. However, businesses also have the right to maintain a safe and clean environment for all customers. Following these guidelines ensures a respectful and legally compliant approach to welcoming Service Dog teams while upholding store policies.
If you have any concerns or need clarification, please speak with your store manager.
By following this guide, employees can confidently handle Service Dog interactions while maintaining a professional and welcoming environment for all customers.
Helpful links for Saskatchewan: SASK HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Interested in getting some Training help for you and your dog? Check out Kairo’s K9s Training!