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Nebraska group offers advice on how to treat service animals

Posted at 10:17 AM, Feb 27, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-27 11:19:51-05

In the past few years, there has been an increase in service animals. But experts say not everyone knows what to do if they see one.

KMTV talked to the group Nebraska Dog Trainers. They say if you see someone with a service dog do not try and get their attention or pet them.

Distracting them in any way keeps them from doing their job. If the dog is distracted it could miss being alerted to a medical emergency and put their owners life in jeopardy.

But there is a way you can be of help to a service dog.

"Typically if a dog has approached you, try and follow the dog because the owner may be down, possibly having a seizure or fallen and can't get up,” said Danielle Owens of Nebraska Dog Trainers.

Service dogs will also have a tag on their harness with instructions or a number for you to call.