Jimmy & Remington – Working Dog Wednesday

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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Working Dog Wednesday | News | Veteran Service Dog Teams

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January 29, 2019

Discover why flea markets may not be the best environment for service dogs.

Learn about risks, distractions, and considerations for handlers.

1. Crowded Environment: Flea markets are often bustling with crowds, which can be overwhelming for a service dog. The dog may become stressed or anxious in such a busy atmosphere.

2. Distractions: Flea markets are filled with various sights, sounds, and smells that can distract a service dog from its duties. This could potentially compromise its ability to assist its handler effectively.

3. Unpredictable Behavior of Other Animals: Other visitors to the flea market may bring their pets along, which can lead to encounters with unfamiliar animals. This may pose a risk to the safety and focus of the service dog.

4. Risk of Injury: With so many people moving around and browsing items, there’s an increased risk of accidental tripping or stepping on the service dog, which could lead to injury.

5. Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Flea markets may not always maintain the cleanest environment, and the service dog may come into contact with unsanitary surfaces or substances.

6. Lack of Accommodation for the Dog: Flea markets may not be equipped to handle service dogs properly, such as providing suitable resting areas, water, or relief spots for the dog.

7. Potential Stress for the Dog: A flea market’s constant stimulation and unfamiliar surroundings could cause stress or discomfort for the service dog, which may affect its overall well-being and ability to perform its tasks.

Given these factors, it’s important for service dog handlers to carefully consider whether taking their dog to a flea market is truly necessary and in the best interest of the dog’s welfare and effectiveness in assisting its handler.

Hey humans of the internet!

My name is Remington.

I am a service dog and got my vest from K9 Partners for Patriots in May of last year. I love people, in fact my human says I have never met a stranger! The way to my heart is through scratching my ears! My favorite activity to date is sleeping in! Nothing is better than the feeling of my humans bed and comforter in the morning. If it wasn’t for having to go to work, I would stay in bed till lunch time! Squirrels, are not to be trusted… I am ever vigilant in my quest to chase off all of the furry intruders from my immediate vicinity. Obviously, I love chasing anything that moves and my favorite thing to chase is my squeaking ball, nothing beats a noisy toy! I often wait till my human is distracted watching a movie or on the phone to start squeaking it as loudly as possible – just to get his attention.

Handler: Jimmy

Branch of Service: Army, 9yrs