I’ve recently discovered that disabled people really have few rights, but especially the mentally disabled. My biggest issue is how ESD’s (Emotional Support Dogs) have virtually NO rights in Canada. They are not considered service dogs, so they have no rights. This means that the patient suffering from PTSD, (like myself) severe panic attacks, debilitating depression, bipolar, or even severely autistic children can't have their ESD with them when they most need it. (Mainly in public places where the stress is heightened) Therefore, anyone with mental health issues have no real rights here. ESD’s should be classified as Service Dogs. They provide a much needed service to their owner. Some people cannot even function without them. I’ve talked to MANY people in this situation. Some literally owe their lives to their ESD’s. Yes, unfortunately some ignorant people use this as a way to get their family pet, Rover, into the local Walmart. That’s why ESD’s should be able to be registered. They should have to go through testing by qualified trainers, have basic obedience training, coping skills, & they should be signed off by both the Family doctor & a proper mental health professional. Have a department that puts the dogs through testing, & have the patient assessed by a government appointed phycologist or psychiatrist. But don’t say that ESD’s AREN’T service dogs! They do just as much, if not more! And the people who use & NEED them are JUST as important as those who require “Service Dogs”. People with mental health issues should have JUST as many rights as physically disabled or healthy people.
For the record, I have both physical AND mental disabilities. I suffer from PTSD & crippling panic attacks, and have multiple physical disabilities including a very rare brain disorder. I am mostly confined to a wheelchair now too.