10/25/2025
Lets do a break down! First, this is not a "lunge" the word lunge is typically used to describe aggressive dives forward. This dog was interested and going in for a sniff and/or interaction. Next, "thats not service dog behavior" is said. While i would agree that interacting with another dog is not acceptable while working, dogs are not robots. I personally have had the honor of growing up alongside professionally trained guide dogs and working with multiple service dogs of my own. Dogs are individuals. This dog clearly needs more work on ignoring distractions, but if this is that dogs first trip to a place like Disney, it is probably out of its element, and over stimulated. Finally, what could have been done differently. The handler of the "offending" dog should be more aware of areas that their dog may struggle. Especially if this was a new situation for their service dog. They should come prepared to treat this as a training trip and be prepared to reinforce appropriate behaviors. Service dog training is now downloading a software. It is a life long task. I personally, understand the frustration of "fake" or under trained service dogs in public spaces. My own service dogs both experienced attacks while working, but the reality is that more education is needed. Not more judgement or hate.
