Editor's note: Mr. Parsons writes in response to the BayToday story Young family concerned by overzealous people around service dog.
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To the editor:
I am with my second Service Dog.
She is a four-year-old, very active, and cute Border Collie who is self-trained, tested every two years, and registered with the Province of Nova Scotia.
I share many of your experiences. But, please understand that you are the anomaly that people see amongst the crowd. It is natural for anyone to have warm feelings for a furry ball of love; especially when they are young.
My strategy is to vigorously exercise my dog every morning. Once her energy is low, I take her out in public. She is then less prone to distraction.
I also watch my schedule for low peak times in public places.
Remember that it is a balancing act that changes as the dog ages and gains experience. Whenever I encounter someone who wants to pet my dog, I view it as an opportunity for advocacy and an educational session encouraging active interactive conversation.
It is more of a challenge for me as my disabilities are invisible. When challenged I compassionately state that I have a catastrophic brain injury. I have noticed that many school-aged children will ask if they can pet my dog which shows that things are improving for us.
If you have any questions, I remain available.
Stephen Parsons
Halifax
