I have worked with people with disabilties for the past 16 years, and many of them receive comfort and assistance from animals. We are long past the days of the "seeing eye dog," as animals can now be trained to open doors, smell smoke, remind a person to take medication, and signal an impending seizure. A dog is the most likely species to acquire these skills; however, I have received calls from individuals wanting to take their iguanas on a bus to help navigate terrain, or have their cat in a mall to calm anxiety.
The US Attorney General's staff members comment that they are tired of people abusing the law by taking all kinds of pets into all kinds of establishments. I certainly agree that some definition is needed to prevent zoo-like atmospheres and to maintain health codes. Is drawing the line at just dogs the answer? I am interested in everyone's thoughts about this.
Cathy Bisaillon
President & CEO
Easter Seals Washington
