If you're thinking about investing in a service dog to help you with a disability, you likely know that additional costs come with owning these canines compared to the average pet.

Service dogs are highly trained, capable animals. Because they assist and perform tasks for people with diverse abilities and needs, it's vital that the training they receive is comprehensive and professional. For that reason, the costs associated with training a service dog are high. However, this high cost comes with benefits. The higher fees mean you're getting the best-trained canine possible. For example, it can take years to train a seeing eye dog and very few of those that are trained get accepted as working dogs.

All businesses must allow people with disabilities to access their premises with a service dog. In fact, the law requires it. However, far too often, businesses do not follow these practices. They will prohibit a person from entering the establishment even when they state their animal is a service animal. 

In this guide, we'll cover the protections you are guaranteed under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We'll also address what actions you can take if a business fails to comply with the law and violates your rights as a service dog owner.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures protections for people with disabilities. Part of this protection includes the right for a person with a disability to have a service dog. Service dogs can help manage daily tasks, making life easier for their owners. 

Unfortunately, a service dog also might make a person with a disability stand out. Businesses often ask probing questions about the service dog. Depending on the nature of these questions, they may violate the rights of the person with a disability. 

The ADA sets forth guidelines for business owners to follow, but that doesn't mean these businesses always comply. You should know your rights when entering a place with a business. Here, we cover the kinds of questions businesses are permitted to ask you without violating your rights.

If you suffer from a disability and require assistance with daily tasks you may qualify for a service dog per the Americans with Disabilities Act.  

You're probably wondering whether or not your dog meets the requirements for this. In particular, you may be curious if there is a size limit or any other criteria for service dogs. Here is everything you need to know about size limits and service dogs.

In short, yes a service dog is a tax write off. Service dogs are working animals for people with disabilities. As a result, their owners won't be penalized with taxes for using their animal as a medical device.  

Below are the answers to some of the commonly asked questions about taxation and service dogs.