Kim and Samson Working Dog Wednesday

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Written by Jimmy Tatum

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Working Dog Wednesday | News

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April 24, 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.

Kim and Samson Working Dog Wednesday

by Jimmy Tatum | Apr 24, 2019 | Working Dog Wednesday, News

Good morning, everyone! Unlike most, I prefer to start the day waking my family up with a single bark. This notifies my family to come to the bottom of the stairs and await my presence. My Alpha tells people I am scared of the dark, but that isn’t true – I simply have a healthy respect for spaces that I can’t see into. Luckily, my human put a night light in so my bedroom isn’t completely dark.

Once I come downstairs, I go outside and start playing with my brother Hans. We often times play and wrestle for hours, making the Alpha offer up bacon or salami treats to get us to come back in the house. For those who don’t know, I love to eat! After all, I am a big boy, tipping the scales at a measly 108lbs. Everyone at the VA likes to make comments on how I am a small horse and all I am missing is a saddle.

Even though I am big, I am really just a gentle giant who is scared of the dark, the groomer and the vet. When I sulk, I often go and hide my head underneath the bed (I would hide more, but I simply don’t fit). I can’t fit my body, but at least my head fits. If you don’t find me hiding, you will most likely hear me talking to my human. I often conversate with her, telling her exactly how I feel and why.