22/05/2024
Handlers can choose whatever gear they prefer, whether it’s muted, themed, bright, metallic, light up, or nothing at all. There is no set uniform required by law for service dogs, and choosing a service dog’s gear can be a fun way for handlers to “customize” and express themselves. Service dogs don’t care what color their gear is, whether their shampoo had dye in it, or if they’re wearing eye or ear protection (when properly trained).
You’d be surprised to hear that in a day I’ve personally counted the interactions we had around theme parks with and without bright gear and a big rainbow@ bow on my previous service dog’s head. On the day WITH the bright gear, we received less interactions than on the day WITHOUT the bright gear. Those interactions primarily came from ADULTS, NOT CHILDREN. These experiences directly contrast the assumptions that are often made about the “consequences” of us “dressing up” our service dogs in expressive gear, customized gear, or interesting-looking protective gear.
