UPDATE. The Grand Canyon's shuttle company sincerely apologized for our experience. They have been working toward better training practices regarding Service Animals and as part of that effort, they will be using part of this video for their Spring Trainings. Together we are making the world a more compassionate place ❤
It is a process. I taught disabled children for 34 years. Public knowledge and understanding are slow to respond. You are in a golden place to educate. Don't give up. You can change the world for others.
Molly Burke has said a few times in her youtube videos that she sometimes has to have her mom get an uber while she hides with her guide dog Gallop and only comes out of hiding when her mom is halfway into the car so they cant drive off. So it sucks, but this doesn't surprise me that the bus drivers seemed to be doing that. I'm still a very new handler so I am grateful that you're sharing your stories so I have a better idea of what to expect so it's hopefully less jarring when discrimination happens.
I LOOOOOVEEEE Molly! I've definitely watched a video where she shared that, and I think I've mentioned her story in a video before. It's really a shame that it happens, but I do think it's getting better with time and exposure. My optometrist told me she knew not to pet Buddy BECAUSE OF Molly's channel. So awesome! I'm glad my sharing is helping you feel more prepared on your SD journey. Thanks for dropping in to say hello 💜
@@MommingwithMigraine Hi Jen, I have been binge watching your channel since yesterday. & was about to mention Molly Burke to you!! One of your vids mentioned that you had a hard time finding videos about SD's issues about "other people" staring or bothering your dog (or you) and I knew Molly had quite a few! So glad you found her. I learned a LOT from her channel. While most of this seems like it SHOULD be common sense... NOT everyone has "common sense"!! **eye roll* (OR should fall under the rules of "Good Manners"!) I have taught my children to follow these guidelines. Also so happy that you're having a baby.. SO exciting! God Bless.
Never used user but in taxis where rhe driver uses their own car I've never had anything worse than 'don't let the dog on the seat' which I wouldn't anyway. My SD is a 9lb chihuahua, a lot of people say he's too small to be an SD, he is too small for some of my needs, but he does have quite a few tasks he CAN do, he is a fully task trained SD and is very helpful until I can get a bigger dog. I know a bigger sd will increase my independence more than my current sd has already, but I'm also dreading certain things, ie travelling on a crowded bus and being turned away from a taxi because the driver doesn't want a big hairy dog in the car :( Right now my dogs size is a benefit in taxis, I can put him on my lap so he's not making ANY contact with any part of the car. a bigger dog would defo be more problematic with asshat drivers :/
I am so sorry you had this experience at Grand Canyon. As a fellow park ranger, I can explain from our side, we see a lot of visitors trying to pass off their pets as service animals. I usually saw at least one a week, oftentimes two plus. That being said, that is no excuse for being excluded. In the National Park Service, we also have concessionaires who run the bookstores, buses, food, and lodging in the park that are contracted out. Listening to your story, most people you interacted with who did not understand what was going on was part of the concession. I have found at the parks that I have worked at, the concessionaires' training on ADA and service dog laws is not the same as the training we receive as rangers. I am trying my best to change this culture from the inside, as a future handler waiting for my service dog placement, and I am fighting as hard as I can for you and me and people like us! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Very helpful to see it from the Park Ranger side Maggie, Thank You. Yes, I can see that the concessionaires, basically sub-contractors, are probably not trained as well. I too have a Service Dog and have run into exactly the same thing in many places. Often we as handlers assume everyone working at a store, or mall, or National Park, or airport, etc is an employee there. But very often they are not, but work instead for someone who works for a company that has been hired to do something for the entity. And they often are not trained as well at all. I know I have gotten upset too at people not knowing the laws, and how they are supposed to be dealing with Service Dogs. Thanks for reminding us.
They cannot in fact require you to sit in handicap section legally. I would also recommend contacting the park about your experience in hopes the train their staff about service dogs and the rights of handlers.
No service dogs involved story, but a favorite. I was on a San Antonio city bus. Temp was in the 20's which is very cold for San Antonio. Both wheelchair spots are occupied when the driver pulls up to a stop with a guy in a manual wheelchair. He was an amputee. Driver starts out apologizing that he can't take anymore wheelchairs and when the next bus is due. I'm expecting him to shut the door and take off when he suddenly asks the guy if he can sit in a regular seat. Guy says yes. So driver tells a passenger in the closest available seat to the front to move and assists the new passenger into the bus and to the now empty seat. Folds up his chair and places it next to the man with the amputated leg, then we take off. The driver did not have to do that. Since both wheelchair spots were already taken by people in wheelchairs the driver legally was not required to accommodate someone else in a wheelchair, but he did. I have always respected that driver.
That’s incredible! One time I saw a service dog and I was ignoring it like you should. Then some kid is shouted how cute the dog is and “Can I pet it” I’m just I’m head like, wtf parents stop your kid. Rude when people do this to a pet dog when you wanna be left alone. A million times worse when it’s a service dog whose handler needs the dog focused
As a paraplegic that often gets told where to sit "for the safety and convenience of others", I'm not surprised you got told where you needed to sit. What DID surprise me, was them not letting your husband sit with you. I've never not been allowed to have whoever I'm with sit with me. Like you said, some disabled people might actually need their person nearby and something could happen to them if they are separated. You'd assume they would want to cover their a$$es lol
When it's for actual health and safety reasons it's absolutely fine, I was once told to Start using a different entrance & waiting room at the clinic I went regularly....because they didn't want anyone to know my dog was there in case they started bringing pets in 0_o Like yes that is a real possibility and I had quite a few people actually ask where to buy a vest so they could just bring their untrained pets in :/ that doesn't make it OK to put me in a different waiting room though, they even told me to put my dog in a bag on top of sitting in an empty waiting room! 🤣 I did it at first to shut them up, then gradually started just started walking him in through the normal entrance lol The only thing that made it slightly OK is that they knew I'd rather be in a quieter waiting area anyway, I'd had panic attacks in the normal waiting room before so they thought they were doing me a favour, but tell me to put my dog in a bag took the piss
My favorite was probably Zion! I had no problems with my service dog there and bus drivers were helpful and kind. I spent the day there alone with Mavis, which is rare for me as I usually stay with my husband (he wanted to ride a bike that day, which is not an option for me). They double checked at the entrance that my SD was indeed a working dog and not a pet, but once that was done, they gave us full access to the park without any issues. I took my last SD to the Grand Canyon and never had any problems while there either (probably 7 years ago?). I'm sorry that you did - it really can ruin our day when we run into access problems with our dogs. I was at some po-dunk park somewhere a few years ago, and when I entered a lighthouse, the 'ranger' behind the desk yelled across probably 2 DOZEN people, "No dogs allowed inside!" The place fell silent. Then I told her Mavis was a SD, and she literally said "IF that's a service dog, what's wrong with you?"!!!! I was floored! It was SO embarrassing and I nearly passed out. I expect people to be nosy at times, but to holler this across a room with a bunch of strangers? It absolutely ruined my entire day. 😢 Last thing - Thank you for showing us your baby kicking!! Brought back wonderful memories! One of my 'babies' is now 6'3" and 190 pounds!! 🤭
Wow, that's super messed up!! I'm sorry you went through that. We had a good experience at Zion as well. In hindsight, I feel like Grand Canyon was the only one that wasn't great to the pups, so I consider myself lucky. That might partially be rose-colored glasses though. Glad you could see little baby wiggles 😍 The time is going too slowly and too quickly at the same time.
Good gracious! Sorry that happened. It reminds me of a CVS trip, a tiny elderly came over to talk to me, she pushed Baron aside to get really close. Then she said “He shouldn’t be in here without a thing on his face, these dogs are very dangerous. He could bite someone.” Everyone was staring, but the woman was very elderly so I just explained “He’s a task trained service dog, he won’t bite anyone.” She poked his head and repeated her concerns, people were stunned, so I just bit my lip. She left and other customers apologized and complimented Barons behavior, then I burst out laughing. “So, she sees a “dangerous dog”, walk she right up to it, pushes it aside, and then pokes it in the head?” 😂 We all giggled, and another woman said she could see why if she’d been bitten before. Sheesh! 😅
My three year old wanted to go pet a service dog while we were grocery shopping and as I always do I explained that this dog is doing a very important job and we can’t distract them. The handler actually cried and thanked me for teaching my daughter that and it made me so sad. How often must people just touch or distract her dog that this was the reaction she had to me teaching my daughter what everyone should be. So frustrating. Thank you for making this content and educating people.
Hey! I also consider myself a relatively new SD handler, but I do want to confirm that according to ADA laws it is illegal for them to require you to sit in a certain location because of an SD and to ask your non-disabled party members to sit away from you. (They may limit the size of your party occupying accessible seating to you and a caretaker, but your dog isn’t your caretaker he’s legally your medical equipment).
All public transit in the US has the policy for people with service dogs to sit in seats reserved for the disabled. It isn't illegal and it is in fact common on most buses, trains and airlines in the US.
@@Meskarune This is so interesting to me, would you be able to link me to any policy that states that? It seems to conflict with the language of the ADA which states “persons with disabilities cannot be segregated from or treated less favorably than others.”
@@hayleysilvers5237 They make the request for people with service dogs to sit up front or in disabled seating for safety and also to avoid getting dog fur/dander all over and instead contain it to one area. There are a lot of people with dog allergies or dog phobias and having the dog up front (where they normally ask service dog handlers to sit) means other people who also have health issues affected by a dog can use the bus. It also allows the driver to help the disabled person easier like telling you when you are at the stop or helping prevent other passengers messing with your dog. I have had a service dog for 10 years and have a vision impairment so I cannot drive a car - meaning I exclusively use trains and buses. On every bus, train, airplane, etc they ask you to use certain seats, this is very normal. They make these same requests to non-disabled people too, someone with a baby might be told to sit in a certain area that has more space, someone with lots of bags might be told to sit in a different spot. Public transit is a communal space everyone has to share.
@@Meskarune Again this is so interesting for me, I really do respect your experience, as I’ve said, I’m relatively new to being an SD handler. I’ve flown and been told they would not allow us in bulkhead seating (even though I was using a wheelchair and had my dog at the time) unless we upgraded our tickets, I’ve never been asked on any public transit to sit in a specific location. I haven’t seen this policy in action, that’s the only reason I asked for a link to the policy. I would love to read it.
@@hayleysilvers5237 Hi Hayley, I am not disabled but learned from my Dad at an early age to ask for the bulkhead seats due to space. (esp. when we traveled long overseas flights) Starting about 15+ years ago I was no longer able to request these seats as they are now reserved for handicap or people with child seats. On some airlines where you CAN purchase a bulkhead seat there is "wording" that you can be relocated IF the seat is needed for handicap/child car seat situations. So I no longer risk purchasing them. (I did get moved once with my 9 yr old- luckily I had "platinum" status & they had room for us in First class) So I would definitely check the rules of the airline you choose.... they SHOULD be available to you if you have a wheelchair! I use to live overseas (early 2000's) & have much experience with flying coach, First class & bulkhead. However, it is amazing sometimes how the rules can change DEPENDING on who you happen to be speaking to! (FYI: always print out a copy of the airline policy on this to carry with you when you fly!)
It’s illegal to dictate where you sit unless they were telling you because it was an extremely small bus and that was the only space that Buddy could fit
No that's false, all public transit asks people with service dogs to sit in seats specific for the disabled. This is a common and normal thing, not illegal at all.
@@Meskarune Actually that Is dubbed as segregation. Under the ADA you can not segragate a disabled owner with a service dog to a pasific area or seating.
@@Meskarune Direct copied info: Can any transport make someone sit in a certain spot? No. Since access to public and private transportation is a civil right for customers with disabilities under the ADA, a customer with a service animal cannot be segregated from other customers , I.e forced to sit in a assigned area , and the service animal must be permitted to accompany its owner on the vehicle.
@@dreamersfantasysutdio5322 They don't *force you* but it is VERY common and normal that you are requested to sit in certain places, which isn't illegal to do. I traveled a lot via bus and train with my dog because I have a vision impairment and cannot drive a car and even on airlines they request you sit in certain seats - always a window seat. You are told to sit away from emgerncy exits and in the front or in disabled seating on buses and trains. This is not discrimination, It's meant to help keep you and others safe. At the front the driver can deal with people trying to harass you or pet your dog. If the driver isn't doing that they are failing to do their job. Many disabled cannot safely deal with an emergency exit hence why they make requests to not sit there and many people have dog allergies or anxiety and train/bus operators want to contain the dog fur to one area. Making these requests is common, normal and not illegal. You can always say no and request another seat and give a reason. People are supposed to make _reasonable_ accomodations for the disabled, however if an accommodation will cause safety issues or harm to others they do not legally have to do it.
I wish people would actually keep up with service dog laws vs companion animals. Service dogs have a legitimate job, they’re well trained and capable. I’ve watched companion animals with owners claiming that they are a service dog run around and destroy places. Legitimate service animals are necessary, the people running around claiming their animal is are wrecking it for others. Fakes are a huge thing. I’ve seen more fakes than real ones.
I don’t know how I ended up on this channel, but this is third video and I love her. Yes we are having a chat. She’s chatting and I’m getting some work done. Carry on please.
Sounds like there needs to be some training on the ADA at the grand canyon. That driver who said your husband has to sit somewhere else, um NO. What if someone with autism or down's syndrome is at the park with a parent or care taker? Is that driver going to separate them? I remember a boy with type 1 diabetes at my church got a service dog. I'd like to see that driver make that child sit in one area of the bus and his parents sit somewhere else. Mother's tend to be very protective of their children. What you experienced was blatant discrimination.
Well, as to your update... Maybe not so much. My Wife is disabled and we are now also full-time RV'ers. Wish we had seen this video before we went. A little more than a year ago we went to the GC with her SD a small Morkie. Stayed at the GC Campground in our 42' 5th wheel and were so looking forward to a great time. We have lived in AZ most of our lives. We did initially have the same issue with a "ranger" at the visitors center but blew it off (She worked for police and I for fire.) Same deal with our first bus hardly anyone in line and a well-informed driver gave us a Green card with an SD drawing on it. After boarding a few others without issue other than the petting deal. We were standing in line for a return bus at the end of the day, when a grumpy arss "gatekeeper" at the stop challenged us. She reluctantly backed down but we could hear her telling others (people in line) and other employees that she didn't think that my wife's SD was real, that it was too small to be a "real SD" At that moment, for lack of a better word a "Tweaker" agressively boarded the buss, charged towards my wife and dog, sat abruptly in front of the dog and leaned towards it. The dog let out a surprised bark and positioned itself between my wife and the person. Well, that employee charged into the buss and shouted that we had to exit the buss. As well as we should have bought a better-trained dog. Rather than making a scene there, we did Hand the woman a "law card" and advised her that we would be contacting the DOJ and State (there are penalties in AZ for discriminating against SD & handlers) as well as her administration and the park for violation of Fed and State laws. We began walking . She must have thought about it quickly because she followed us for ways saying that she would get us another bus. At this point the experience was ruined and we were scheduled to leave the next day anyways. Sorry Long story... Sorry for your experience! It seems that the parks HR needs to institute some serious ADA training. We won't ever go back...😒🙏 OLT
With having MS some of my issues cannot be seen, but some are very noticeable especially with movement.. so when I get told I don't look disabled, I say "thank you- that's my goal"!!! I started taking it as a compliment, some people just don't know how else to tell you that you look healthy!!! And some just don't know what else to say!! But when they are being mean saying it, I say "you don't look stupid"!!!!
Just saw your post...thank you so very much...I'm in a wheelchair and training my service dog and have been wanting to take him to the grand canyon...I will definitely have to pick another state park since him and I would be alone. This video helped sooooo very much thank you!!! Hugs and congratulations...loved seeing the baby kicking 😍
Now that you told about your personal problems with the Grand Canyon National Park I remember mine and my family's trip to it over 20 years ago. I'm from Germany. We were traveling with a group of tourists at the westcoast and our tour guide knew that I was able to speak English. So she send me to the counter of the hotel to ask for twenty tourist maps so that every family in our bus could get one to not get lost. I was 21 years old by that time. I went inside and asked the woman at the service point for 20 maps and while she was counting them to hand them to me a manager came and said that they could just give TWO maps to foreigners, who wouldn't even stay at the hotel. I had no other bad experience like that on the entire trip. Must be a Grand Canyon thing...
I have recently stumbled across your channel and I absolutely love it and you and Buddy of course! You energy and positivity is so uplifting:) I’m so sorry for everything you have had to go through! I have suffered from migraines (very mild compared to most) and have progressively been getting worse/ more chronic. I finally decided I was sick of it and wanted to take and initiative to try and help myself out and now I am currently in med school for chiropractic. Long story short, chiropractic care has helped tremendously and I can not speak highly enough of it! I have not watched all of your videos yet so I’m not sure if you have already sought the care of a DC, or are open to it, but I would really really encourage you to look into it if you have not! We have extremely incredible minds teaching us that are so empathetic towards migraines due to experiencing them themselves and understanding awful they are! I wish I could provide more specifics on what we learn about chronic migraines and how to help treat them, but I’m just barley in the middle of my journey though med school. So sorry if this came off wrong... I have no idea how much you go through everyday I’m not at all trying to play dr/ diagnose you, and I can’t even begin to say I understand, but I would love to encourage you to look into chiropractic if you haven’t yet! It is also highly effective in expecting mothers and babies:)
Thank you for sharing your experience! I feel like it's important to talk about these things not only to generate conversation but also to shed light on things!
No, they cannot dictate where you sit. If they insisted then they are in violation of the ADA. And it's definitely not OK to tell you someone with you cannot sit with you - whoever did that needs some training. Sorry to hear about your experiences. My daughter's had a service dog since 2006 and she is now with her second dog. Her disabilities are not obvious and unfortunately we have a bunch of similar stories - again sorry you had those experiences.
Im so sorry about your experience. I visited the Grand Canyon this year. I do hope y'all can make the trip again another time in the future. Highly advise taking the bus for sunrise. Less people, and everyone is tired and eager for hiking. The visitor center wasn't open when we went. They had maps at the hotel and info outside the visitor center building. I'm so sorry this happened. I would like to give the rangers the benefit of doubt.. Like maybe issues with fake service dogs. The canyon can be pretty dangerous, so maybe they also have issues with dogs not able to make the hikes.? That is a very weird experience you had.. Also when it was dark and my boyfriend and I were walking along the road, a bus stopped and asked if we wanted a lift. At least now you've gone through that, so maybe you or your husband can speak up next time. I'm glad you're opened minded about other people's attitudes and reactions. It's easy to feel attacked and it is not fair a national park wasn't welcoming to part of the nation's population. Despite that, it's awesome that you all were able to do so much traveling and visit other parks!
The one thing I'm worried about with the grand canyon is that of there are people that will say there pet is a survise dog and the dog falls or something because its acting out
It's really unfortunate that other people who are abusing disability laws are making life harder for people who actually have disabilities. With how much of an issue fake service dogs are in the US, I wonder if requiring documentation for service dogs would help.
This is so upsetting to hear. I do not have a service dog, but cannot believe the way you were treated. Those workers should have automatically felt the need to make sure you felt comfortable and heard because that’s just human decency. In my mind, this is not only an issue of employees not having proper training... it’s also an issue of people being incredibly unkind. This is a great post to educate, but also an important reminder that we are here on this earth to help each other, not discriminate. ❤️
I could FEEL my blood pressure rise as you told the bus stories..... I am soooo pissed off right now. Being a Texan, If I had been on any of those buses with you I'm sure I would have fussed at the drivers for treating both of you so badly! I am actually surprised others did not say anything. NONE of this was ok! I hope you wrote a letter/email to them regarding your experience. They need re-training. The laws are clear on this!! I am so sorry this happens to you. It is not acceptable in any way. :( For the future, You should have a small notepad handy to write down names so you can report them. (and let them see you are taking names - & bus numbers when needed) It is esp. nuts to me that the "rules" changed from bus to bus! I was a manager in a large dept. store many years ago, and this type of treatment could have gotten someone fired easily. This is worthy of a lawsuit waiting to happen! I am just glad you did not faint or get hurt during all this. - *I believe Molly Burke carries copies of the law with her regarding SD's if I remember right.* I certainly would. This needs to STOP.
I'm sorry you had such a difficult time at such a beautiful park. The only way things like this can be fixed is if the ones in charge are brought aware of the issue. I really hope you brought this up with Grand Canyon National Park Services. You can explain that you're not contacting them to just complain for your sake but to keep future service dog handlers from having the same experience. That's what I do anytime I have an access issue. It's not about retribution for what happens in the past, it's for bettering the experience for the next teams.
I just left the Grand Canyon this morning. I was shocked by the disrespect my service dog and I experienced. It seems to be a culture there because I have never experienced this before and have been a handler for a year, still knew but thankfully more confident for this awful experience. The land was beautiful but the NP employees there are totally ignorant to their legal standings on this and didn’t approach us first with kindness which felt so awful.
I'm pretty shocked! When I worked there (almost a decade ago) they were really strict on “if it even vaguely looks like a service dog let them in.” That said, I never worked on the shuttles. I'm so sorry.
I appreciate that! I think things have gotten more out of hand with fake SDs/poorly trained SDs because the internet has made people aware of how "easy" it is to get away with it. The shuttle company and I have been in contact and they are taking steps to ensure this improves.
Kind of like the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in KY. 9:37 :) They have a little wrist-band-like thing one can attach to the SD's vest, collar, or leash and one should keep that on there until they leave these attractions' premises entirely so they don't have to create a new one at all. They have a Security Officer that looks almost exactly like any police officer ask the Two ADA Approved Questions and give the handler this tag thingy once the SD Handler answers both questions correctly. Then that Sec. Officer radios to all the other Creation Museum and Ark Encounter Security Officers and Staff that there is a Service Dog on premises and gives them that tag's code number. This way, all other Sec. Officers and Staff do not ask you the same questions everywhere you go. I really like that system and think if businesses all did that, {except maybe the tag thingy, unless it's a huge place like these}, it'd *really* help stop the frauds.
I know this is a month old and such. But when we were in public school, we had a disabled activist (don't ask me but that is what he called himself) come in and talk to us about disabled people, service dogs, and service dog handlers. To help spread knowledge and awareness about it and to help with questions. He was very kind and his service dog, a golden retriever mix, was also very kind and listened very well! At the time he said he was living in a big city (I don't remember the town sorry) but explained that service dogs and service dog handlers are allowed to sit in the handy cap spots, unless needed for a wheel chair access. Reason being it's close to the door encase of a bus evacuation, you are close enough to notify the bus driver without yelling, and it's close to the doors too encase there is ever a medical emergency and 911 is called for assistance. Whether or not that's still the deal, I'm not too sure, seeings it's been a lifetime since that time in public school. haha.
So sorry that happened to you but glad that they are using the video for training purposes. That’s awesome you guys were able to visit so many states museums and parks, especially before corona happened. You weren’t pregnant back then right? Did you make a video on any adaptations you made for your medical conditions while you’re traveling?
I'm watching this with my cat in my lap and she was focused on your hand the whole time. I'm so sorry that you had this experience! Especially being treated differently and having thing be assumed because your disability isn't visible.
Let me just tell you, it takes a thick skin to travel with a disability. Especially when, to everyone else, you look "normal" I am legally blind and doing anything independently is very important to me. So traveling alone is difficult, if not impossible. Partially because looking at me its hard to tell I have a vision inpairment. I hate that you were treated this way and it is not acceptable but I can completely relate.
We had a very bad experience at the Grand Canyon as well. We got kicked off a shuttle bus because the driver didn't think that my wife service dog was a service dog " because service dogs don't act like that" Meaning my wife's dog was winning which is how she indicates my wife BS was going dangerous low. We had a big discussion with the bus company. THEY ARE NOT SERVICE DOG FRIENDLY>
Not quite the same thing but I raised Guide Dog puppies for about 5 years in the early 2000's, had a wonderful time doing it and any issues were rare. My friend is doing it now, in the same area, and she is constantly being harrassed by places. She isn't going to do it again when she's done with this dog. I did for a while say I think it's the uptick of fake service dogs but now I say the problem is that people let their dogs behave so badly while faking it. If people just trained their dogs well no one would care...The petting thing is a huge issue. I have done some training of aggressive dogs and had people try to pet them while the dog is activly snarling at them and I am saying "do not touch this dog, it WILL bite." People roll their eyes and tell me I am being dramatic, tell me it's abusive to have the dog muzzled, and still reach for the dog. I don't understand the entitlement, so weird.
Thank you for this video! As a new service dog handler I feel more prepared for issues by watching these videos. Have you stayed in AirBnB’s? Those have been my only issues. We recently stayed in three different ones and got slammed in reviews because of my service dog. Even though I know we’re not required to, we cleaned each unit to make sure there wasn’t a lot of dog hair left behind. Just curious how you or others handle these issues?
I work at a retail store treat everyone the same . Normal, disabled, service dog or no service dog. I treat people how I would want to be treated. I just think this may be you some day.
I don't have a service dog and I have no idea why your channel was recommended to me. But let's roll with it. Haha. I'm sorry for the less than stellar experiences you had at the Grand Canyon. I think you should file a complaint with the park. Not to complain, but to let them know that they have areas where they need to improve training. I would let them know all the other parks that got it right, too, so they know that they're the one with the problem.
Assumptions are awful. Before COVID when I've been out and about I ran across several people at Walmart with service dogs. It was crazy how many people wanted to pet the dogs. I had to tell a lady to leave the dog alone, her owner looked so stressed out. I felt so bad for her.
as a retired nps employee...co tact the grand canyon and let them know of your experiences. they can't correct the issues if they aren't aware of them. all it takes are a few people with lack of total understanding to create issues. reach out, they will fix it. not all park service rangers are ignorant most are not, and not all concession drivers are bad....it takes just a few to put a sour taste in your mouth. none of that should have occurred.
I think your experience with your service dog on the bus was totally un called for. You, by law can take your service dog anywhere the public goes except a sterile area ( operating room) . If they don't want your dog there, they have to clearly post the law why not. My service dog has been to every national park. Including Alaskas national parks. Also, Disney World three times! You go girl! (And your little dog too)
Churches can also tell you NOT to bring your service dog. They are exempt from the federal laws, but I haven't heard of any church that would deny you access. Also, swimming pool, hot tub and sauna areas, won't let you in. You NEED your pup just like I need mine. I would love to get together with our pups. I love camping. Or hotels. I would stand up for any handicap dog handler team. Any time, any where. We are no different than anyone else! BTW, I enjoy that you have the guts to talk about your life on the Tube.🐝
@@mom.p3818 Its ridiculous that a church of all places can refuse access. I dint remember who it was but I know a veteran RUclipsr that has a german shepherd SD. I think he lives around Arkansas but he was checking out new churches to go to and one refused him. He was pretty upset and was like Christian's r suppose to be accepting and they denied a disabled veteran
So sorry to hear such a bad experience, I love hearing stories about service dogs. I live in Germany and I feel we hava a lot less Service Dogs than in the U.S., while this is kind of sad because a lot of people could probably benefit from them. Before you mentioned them having problems with "fake" service dogs, I never thought of that. So I guess that's the downside of having more and maybe selftrained service dogs (I'm not saying selftrained service dogs can't perform in general, I just think that it leaves more room for faking their training). Well, I'm glad that you're sharing your stories and would be glad to hear what you think about my thought, as those are mostly just assumptions.
Professionally trained dogs can cost upwards of 30k. That is why people are allowed to self train there dog. The problem is there are companies who advertise turning your pet into a emotional support animal for a few and then take your pet with you everywhere. They are scammers and the real problem!
Might I suggest you email this vid to the head ranger (or whatever his title is) of the Grand Canyon. Unless he's just plain anti-handicapped (i.e., prejudiced), it should make him aware of an area in need of improvement. Unfortunately, based on the interactions, I'd bet he is one of those ignorant, insensitive SOBs who is anti-handicapped and lets his people know and they are following his lead. If he gives you grief about your vid/email. Send your vid and his response to his boss - Head of the Parks Service(?), President of the United States(?). ADA is a Federal Law. We should at least be able to expect and demand that Federal agencies follow the law. Also, the head guy at Bryce Canyon might appreciate a complimentary comment from you. Help him see how much we appreciate him and his staff's professional service.
I had a very different experience from you since I don't have a disability or service dog....nevertheless, in 2016 my husband and I did a huge roadtrip for our honeymoon and we had done quite a lot of driving through the west by the time we got to the Grand Canyon. (We live in Indiana, went north then west, then south, and then headed east/northeast again.) Anyway, by the time we got to the Grand Canyon, we'd see so much awesome scenery that we felt like we'd seen grander canyons. So I feel like you really aren't missing out on much. But I'm still sorry to hear that's the experience you had.
On Friday more than one person literally picked my SD up off the floor in a clinic, then on the bus home people were petting him 0_o What's wrong with these people?!?!
Sure, I can think of another explanation! Those poor drivers took one look at you and said to themselves, "Oh, no! It's a dangerous, dangerous person! Avoid!" That explanation might be a long shot.
I have the same problem as you with buses, but mine is with city buses. I do not have a service dog but I do use a white cane because I am blind. When I have my cane they tend not to stop but when I hid my cane till I am getting on the bus they almost always stop.
This sounds really horrible! It would be very interesting if anyone working at the Grand Canyon to watch this and respond! It's such a great park otherwise.
Can you make a video talking about hiking with POTS and with a service dog? My family had an incident hiking with our pet dog where he narrowly escaped a very bad injury trying to help my mom
Jen I am in England I drive buses. In England it is down to the driver whether your dog gets on or not.it is company saying to us when we train.do u know if this is English law or just company policy
It's diffrent here in the USA according to the ADA anywhere the public goes so can a service dog. They are medical equipment that a disabled person needs. Even a bus here can not refuse access
@Bos Fla Zoos yes but churches can not. There was actually a church sued for discrimination of not allowing a service dog which is " MEDICAL EQUIPMENT" to enter. Zoos I have seen bit a church if it is open for visitors or to the public must allow service Dogs. It's like denying and discrimination to someone in a wheel chair.
Crikey Owen cook.. that's terrible. I live in England and I didn't know that.. admittedly I haven't been on a bus in a while, but I didn't think a service dog could be denied access. I knew it was at the driver's discretion for normal pet dogs.. but I thought service dogs were allowed automatically, unless there's no room for anyone...
We went to grand canon even tho we dont have anyone with a disability we had young kids in our group and were thinking about others with disability s and all agreed it was not accessible (this was in 2020 we all wore masks) They might not have let you on because of space they wouldn't stop for a pregnent lady and a bunch of little kids.
You are correct. You can not be segregated to a certain part of a bus or a restaurant or whatever... And to segregate you from your husband also illegal.... So sorry. Makes me not want to go there! I am a wheelchair user also so double whammy....
Do people not know not to pet service dogs? I even ask to pet regular dogs as I have no idea what it's temperament is. If I go barrelling in with my hand I have no idea how that dog will react. Parents need to be teaching their kids this too - you are not entitled to touch an animal of any sort but you can ask the owner and ask the animal by reading its body language.
I am amazed how badly they treated you too because a bus driver should know the rules. And to leave you stranded at night regardless is just wrong. Funny thought, how many people try to touch your pregnant belly with or without asking? Just curious I thought of it when you were talking about people petting the dog! I've noticed a lot of strangers try to touch preggo bellies and I always thought that was super intrusive.
9:39 No I don't think so? The thing that comes to mind is that when they give you something like that it is their way of saying that they give you permission to have something that federal law gives you the right to have in the first place. 10:28 Absolutely Positivity NOT! The ADA Disability seating area is for people with disabilities to sit but if a person doesn't want to sit in that area because they don't need to sit there because they don't need that area because the ADA seating areas are for people who have mobility issues that prevent them from utilizing or accessing other seats. 14:19 I totally understand what it felt like when the driver said that you weren't handicapped. I totally believe that he should have been fired on the spot. One he doesn't know that and like any other business can only ask you the two questions, Is its SD and What are its tasks. The care that you were handed and you were misrepresented that the placard that you were given would not bring you any problems from other drivers. To be honest I would have not accepted the card in the first place and I would have said that the card is labeling you without your permission. The fact that the one bus driver told you that you had to sit in the ADA section would be like you being told that you had to sit in a certain section away from the public in a restaurant. That is illegal. The other thing is that it is a form of "segregation" and the fact that the driver would have the balls to actually state that your husband couldn't sit with you is still putting you in danger. 20:10 No you are not complaining. There are people out there that like to make us as disabled people feel like crap when we are trying to fight for our "RIGHTS" and I wish that you could have captured video and recordings of these experiences because people like those who treated you like that don't really get it until they see how it really affects us.
Legally she violated ADA laws by asking anything more invasive than “is he a service dog?” And “what tasks is he trained to help with?” That bus driver was just an A$$. I’m in a wheelchair and I’d have FLIPPED if he had told me my mom or whoever was with me couldn’t sit with me because I have severe anxiety especially in large crowds. And I’m pretty sure it’s definitely not legal he made you sit there. But I could be wrong
The reason I like to watch some of these videos (access issues) is to prepare myself for similar access issues. I make scripts for myself to practice so I don't freeze when there are access issues (I don't like videos that are just click bait or where the handler creates the problem)
I sincerely hope you spoke to someone a little further up the food chain than a bus driver or a Ranger. The Supervising Ranger should be made aware of the behavior of the first Ranger you met and the bus drivers need to all be educated about Service Dogs and the Federal Law that allows them to go everywhere with their Handler. They cannot ask you or demand you tell them why you need a Service Dog, whatever medical problems you may have, nor "prove" that she is a true Service Dog. They cant tell you that you must sit in a certain spot, nor may they insist that you give up your seat to elderly passengers. In normal circumstances it would be a very nice thing if someone *volunteered* , but he cannot insist that even a fully abled(or seemingly so) passenger give up their seat, let alone someone with a disability! Even though you cannot prove that the buses deliberately drove past you without stopping, I have no doubt that the drivers' supervisor would be very interested to hear about that, along with how you were treated by other drivers. It is Management's duty to ensure that the drivers are properly trained on how to deal with riders who have Service Dogs, and to make sure all drivers know what is expected of them in order to perform their jobs in a professional manner and treat all passengers with kindness and respect due every single guest at the park. If those in charge are not made aware of improper behavior, how can they see to it that employees are fully informed of the requirements of the job and so they change their behavior and perform their job(s) in an appropriate manner? Actions or lack thereof, should have consequences. You are probably not the first person to be treated this way, but if you alert the proper people to the issue at hand, they can make sure that neither the employee in question, nor any other employee, ever acts that way again. They will review park policy with all employees to make sure everyone knows what is expected of them. If I were their supervisor/Superior Officer, I'd be furious to learn that a park guest had been treated in such a fashion. Stand up and speak up for your rights.
That is just a terrible experience. But I really find it hard to understand why a lot of people are so uneducated and they want to pet the dog they don't know. Especially without asking. As a daughter of a policeman I was taught from a very young age that dogs bite! You don't know that dog. It is an animal. Have a self security feeling (or whatever it is called in English). You can not just assume that the dog will not bite you just because it looks cute. And if you really see that it is a service dog, you should really know that you are not allowed to pet it... I just don't get why people don't teach their kids to keep their hands away from the dog they don't know. :/
I had to use a mini segway for a year when I tore the ligaments in my ankle. I finally went to my doctor to get “legal documentation,” so I could get a government “certification“ so people would leave me alone. The doctor office manager made me get off of it and break my ankle further to come see my doctor! People in this culture are idiots! ☹️
Dictating where you are allowed to sit in the bus is treating you less than a human. It is like saying a person with an air tank also has to sit in the handicap zone.
I can't believe how many people try to pet your service dog!! I have a dog crazy 5 year old and I drill it into her head that you don't pet a dog without asking (she even asks to pet our own dog and my boyfriends dog 🤣) and if the dog is wearing a vest or a harness I always point out to her that the dog is working and we don't distract them. Im sorry people are so ignorant 😔
It is not acceptable for facility workers/associates to be pieces. I'm sorry hun. ... Many people assume that because I have a neurological condition that IS visible I must be deaf, dumb and blind. It's super irritating. ...
You should have a cam on the dogs collar if you can't pull out your phone to record because the visitor center lady and the bus guy was out of line. This is ridiculous, they can't do that tell you where to sit, and they can only ask three questions. If they think they can infringe on HIPA and ADA because they take you less seriously because you look normal and functional at the moment. If someone starts crap with you if they try to make it difficult to record. This is why mine has a descret camera collar piece so it will be recorded regardless if they try and disrupt you from using your phone so you have proof, especially if people are harassing you, trying to pet your dog you have it on film. They should not be allowed to pet your dog and the people at the park should step up and say no you can't pet a service dog or you will be removed from the bus. Shame on Grand Canyon 😕 I will not go there they owe compensation for such blantent disrespectful behavior towards a handler and service dog. I'd call the police and they should be sued. Only way these stuck up KAREN ignorant people learn is by getting sued and having it on cam when they pull this sh## to show it. When you don't do that it puts others with a Service Dog at risk by not doing more including recording and seeing them then they are black listed by ADA as a warning to other possible service dog handlers who might be victims of the same thing, because nothing was done enough to put these people in check, it posses risk for those like me.
I’m from the UK and I would just be like. Come back when you know facts. Thanks Hun p.s. I don’t have a service dog but it annoys me so much when people go to pet him like “dogs are so cute” like wouldn’t be cute if he bit your hand off
So frigging ableist 🙄 I have invisible illness too I have fibromyalgia and PoTs and I don’t have a service dog but I do need my patner with me pretty much everywhere I go or atleast someone who is aware of my conditions or there can be issues and boy oh boy I’m so sick of ableism and people being rude as fuck it’s not even just to invisible illness too for some reason people are ableist about litterally everything my dear friend can’t even get subtitles on his lecture slides
I think part of the issue might be the sheer volume of people who try to pass their normal dogs off as service dogs in public. Many people in the tourism industry have seen it happen frequently... sometimes it is blatantly obvious because of the dog's poor behavior. This is probably why the ranger made the comment about the two service dogs getting along, they have witnessed "service dogs" that don't. Unfortunately, this causes a major bias and issue for people like yourself who require service animals help. Folks with invisible illnesses have to fight both the dog bias and the problem of looking like an able-bodied person. I'm hoping the Grand Canyon begins to do a better job of educating its staff for future visitors.
It really baffles me how much harassment SD Handlers face in the US. I personally don't have a service dog, only a "normal" dog and over here (Europe, mainly Germany, Austria and Switzerland) you can take your dog pretty much anywhere. Exceptions of course do exist, especially with stores that sell foods or related items. Other than that it's not unusual to take your dog to shopping centers, restaurants, public transportation etc.. I can't even think of any kind of park, especially not national parks where you're not allowed to take your pooch (there must be exceptions, although I never heard of any). I never would've thought such a huge park as the Grand Canyon would make such a fuss about dogs. Especially not service dogs...
Wow ppl r assholes. Ppl pet my dog all the time with out asking. Im a little more forgiving with little kids. U dont know if the dog is going to bite. My dog is a little unpredictable with ppl bc he didnt get his early socialization as a really young pup bc Covid shut everything down. I have been working backwords with him really hard to get him to a good point. He has come a long way, but still has a little improving to do. Ppl still try to pet him with out asking. Ppl should be charged for petting a service dog without asking. And for none service dogs if they bite someone that pet them with out asking it should not be considered the dogs or the owners fault. All the time ppl get bit by dogs they pet without asking and it ends up being the owner that gets in trouble and the dog put down. I agree if the dogs bites and the person had permission to bite then ya its on the owner, but owners and dogs should not get in trouble when someone didnt ask first. Just my opinion.
UPDATE. The Grand Canyon's shuttle company sincerely apologized for our experience. They have been working toward better training practices regarding Service Animals and as part of that effort, they will be using part of this video for their Spring Trainings. Together we are making the world a more compassionate place ❤
That's great! :D
It is a process. I taught disabled children for 34 years. Public knowledge and understanding are slow to respond. You are in a golden place to educate. Don't give up. You can change the world for others.
yay! great job!
That’s so amazing to hear! So great!
Molly Burke has said a few times in her youtube videos that she sometimes has to have her mom get an uber while she hides with her guide dog Gallop and only comes out of hiding when her mom is halfway into the car so they cant drive off. So it sucks, but this doesn't surprise me that the bus drivers seemed to be doing that. I'm still a very new handler so I am grateful that you're sharing your stories so I have a better idea of what to expect so it's hopefully less jarring when discrimination happens.
I LOOOOOVEEEE Molly! I've definitely watched a video where she shared that, and I think I've mentioned her story in a video before. It's really a shame that it happens, but I do think it's getting better with time and exposure. My optometrist told me she knew not to pet Buddy BECAUSE OF Molly's channel. So awesome! I'm glad my sharing is helping you feel more prepared on your SD journey. Thanks for dropping in to say hello 💜
@@MommingwithMigraine problem o
@@MommingwithMigraine Hi Jen, I have been binge watching your channel since yesterday. & was about to mention Molly Burke to you!! One of your vids mentioned that you had a hard time finding videos about SD's issues about "other people" staring or bothering your dog (or you) and I knew Molly had quite a few! So glad you found her. I learned a LOT from her channel. While most of this seems like it SHOULD be common sense... NOT everyone has "common sense"!! **eye roll* (OR should fall under the rules of "Good Manners"!) I have taught my children to follow these guidelines. Also so happy that you're having a baby.. SO exciting! God Bless.
Never used user but in taxis where rhe driver uses their own car I've never had anything worse than 'don't let the dog on the seat' which I wouldn't anyway.
My SD is a 9lb chihuahua, a lot of people say he's too small to be an SD, he is too small for some of my needs, but he does have quite a few tasks he CAN do, he is a fully task trained SD and is very helpful until I can get a bigger dog.
I know a bigger sd will increase my independence more than my current sd has already, but I'm also dreading certain things, ie travelling on a crowded bus and being turned away from a taxi because the driver doesn't want a big hairy dog in the car :(
Right now my dogs size is a benefit in taxis, I can put him on my lap so he's not making ANY contact with any part of the car.
a bigger dog would defo be more problematic with asshat drivers :/
I am so sorry you had this experience at Grand Canyon. As a fellow park ranger, I can explain from our side, we see a lot of visitors trying to pass off their pets as service animals. I usually saw at least one a week, oftentimes two plus. That being said, that is no excuse for being excluded. In the National Park Service, we also have concessionaires who run the bookstores, buses, food, and lodging in the park that are contracted out. Listening to your story, most people you interacted with who did not understand what was going on was part of the concession. I have found at the parks that I have worked at, the concessionaires' training on ADA and service dog laws is not the same as the training we receive as rangers. I am trying my best to change this culture from the inside, as a future handler waiting for my service dog placement, and I am fighting as hard as I can for you and me and people like us! Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help.
Very helpful to see it from the Park Ranger side Maggie, Thank You. Yes, I can see that the concessionaires, basically sub-contractors, are probably not trained as well. I too have a Service Dog and have run into exactly the same thing in many places. Often we as handlers assume everyone working at a store, or mall, or National Park, or airport, etc is an employee there. But very often they are not, but work instead for someone who works for a company that has been hired to do something for the entity. And they often are not trained as well at all. I know I have gotten upset too at people not knowing the laws, and how they are supposed to be dealing with Service Dogs. Thanks for reminding us.
They cannot in fact require you to sit in handicap section legally. I would also recommend contacting the park about your experience in hopes the train their staff about service dogs and the rights of handlers.
Yes. If the boss doesn't know there's a problem ... how can it be fixed?
@@veralenora7368 Teaching people what is expected and required so they know what to do in the situation.
No service dogs involved story, but a favorite. I was on a San Antonio city bus. Temp was in the 20's which is very cold for San Antonio. Both wheelchair spots are occupied when the driver pulls up to a stop with a guy in a manual wheelchair. He was an amputee. Driver starts out apologizing that he can't take anymore wheelchairs and when the next bus is due. I'm expecting him to shut the door and take off when he suddenly asks the guy if he can sit in a regular seat. Guy says yes. So driver tells a passenger in the closest available seat to the front to move and assists the new passenger into the bus and to the now empty seat. Folds up his chair and places it next to the man with the amputated leg, then we take off. The driver did not have to do that. Since both wheelchair spots were already taken by people in wheelchairs the driver legally was not required to accommodate someone else in a wheelchair, but he did. I have always respected that driver.
Yay... Texas hospitality at its finest! Thx for this story.
That’s incredible! One time I saw a service dog and I was ignoring it like you should. Then some kid is shouted how cute the dog is and “Can I pet it” I’m just I’m head like, wtf parents stop your kid. Rude when people do this to a pet dog when you wanna be left alone. A million times worse when it’s a service dog whose handler needs the dog focused
As a paraplegic that often gets told where to sit "for the safety and convenience of others", I'm not surprised you got told where you needed to sit. What DID surprise me, was them not letting your husband sit with you. I've never not been allowed to have whoever I'm with sit with me. Like you said, some disabled people might actually need their person nearby and something could happen to them if they are separated. You'd assume they would want to cover their a$$es lol
Couldn't have said it better myself! Thanks for taking the time
When it's for actual health and safety reasons it's absolutely fine, I was once told to Start using a different entrance & waiting room at the clinic I went regularly....because they didn't want anyone to know my dog was there in case they started bringing pets in 0_o
Like yes that is a real possibility and I had quite a few people actually ask where to buy a vest so they could just bring their untrained pets in :/
that doesn't make it OK to put me in a different waiting room though, they even told me to put my dog in a bag on top of sitting in an empty waiting room! 🤣
I did it at first to shut them up, then gradually started just started walking him in through the normal entrance lol
The only thing that made it slightly OK is that they knew I'd rather be in a quieter waiting area anyway, I'd had panic attacks in the normal waiting room before so they thought they were doing me a favour, but tell me to put my dog in a bag took the piss
My favorite was probably Zion! I had no problems with my service dog there and bus drivers were helpful and kind. I spent the day there alone with Mavis, which is rare for me as I usually stay with my husband (he wanted to ride a bike that day, which is not an option for me). They double checked at the entrance that my SD was indeed a working dog and not a pet, but once that was done, they gave us full access to the park without any issues. I took my last SD to the Grand Canyon and never had any problems while there either (probably 7 years ago?). I'm sorry that you did - it really can ruin our day when we run into access problems with our dogs. I was at some po-dunk park somewhere a few years ago, and when I entered a lighthouse, the 'ranger' behind the desk yelled across probably 2 DOZEN people, "No dogs allowed inside!" The place fell silent. Then I told her Mavis was a SD, and she literally said "IF that's a service dog, what's wrong with you?"!!!! I was floored! It was SO embarrassing and I nearly passed out. I expect people to be nosy at times, but to holler this across a room with a bunch of strangers? It absolutely ruined my entire day. 😢 Last thing - Thank you for showing us your baby kicking!! Brought back wonderful memories! One of my 'babies' is now 6'3" and 190 pounds!! 🤭
Wow, that's super messed up!! I'm sorry you went through that. We had a good experience at Zion as well. In hindsight, I feel like Grand Canyon was the only one that wasn't great to the pups, so I consider myself lucky. That might partially be rose-colored glasses though. Glad you could see little baby wiggles 😍 The time is going too slowly and too quickly at the same time.
It is illegal for them to ask for your medical info! And plain RUDE the way he did it.
Good gracious! Sorry that happened. It reminds me of a CVS trip, a tiny elderly came over to talk to me, she pushed Baron aside to get really close. Then she said “He shouldn’t be in here without a thing on his face, these dogs are very dangerous. He could bite someone.” Everyone was staring, but the woman was very elderly so I just explained “He’s a task trained service dog, he won’t bite anyone.” She poked his head and repeated her concerns, people were stunned, so I just bit my lip. She left and other customers apologized and complimented Barons behavior, then I burst out laughing. “So, she sees a “dangerous dog”, walk she right up to it, pushes it aside, and then pokes it in the head?” 😂 We all giggled, and another woman said she could see why if she’d been bitten before. Sheesh! 😅
My three year old wanted to go pet a service dog while we were grocery shopping and as I always do I explained that this dog is doing a very important job and we can’t distract them. The handler actually cried and thanked me for teaching my daughter that and it made me so sad. How often must people just touch or distract her dog that this was the reaction she had to me teaching my daughter what everyone should be. So frustrating. Thank you for making this content and educating people.
Hey! I also consider myself a relatively new SD handler, but I do want to confirm that according to ADA laws it is illegal for them to require you to sit in a certain location because of an SD and to ask your non-disabled party members to sit away from you. (They may limit the size of your party occupying accessible seating to you and a caretaker, but your dog isn’t your caretaker he’s legally your medical equipment).
All public transit in the US has the policy for people with service dogs to sit in seats reserved for the disabled. It isn't illegal and it is in fact common on most buses, trains and airlines in the US.
@@Meskarune This is so interesting to me, would you be able to link me to any policy that states that? It seems to conflict with the language of the ADA which states “persons with disabilities cannot be segregated from or treated less favorably than others.”
@@hayleysilvers5237 They make the request for people with service dogs to sit up front or in disabled seating for safety and also to avoid getting dog fur/dander all over and instead contain it to one area. There are a lot of people with dog allergies or dog phobias and having the dog up front (where they normally ask service dog handlers to sit) means other people who also have health issues affected by a dog can use the bus. It also allows the driver to help the disabled person easier like telling you when you are at the stop or helping prevent other passengers messing with your dog. I have had a service dog for 10 years and have a vision impairment so I cannot drive a car - meaning I exclusively use trains and buses. On every bus, train, airplane, etc they ask you to use certain seats, this is very normal. They make these same requests to non-disabled people too, someone with a baby might be told to sit in a certain area that has more space, someone with lots of bags might be told to sit in a different spot. Public transit is a communal space everyone has to share.
@@Meskarune Again this is so interesting for me, I really do respect your experience, as I’ve said, I’m relatively new to being an SD handler. I’ve flown and been told they would not allow us in bulkhead seating (even though I was using a wheelchair and had my dog at the time) unless we upgraded our tickets, I’ve never been asked on any public transit to sit in a specific location. I haven’t seen this policy in action, that’s the only reason I asked for a link to the policy. I would love to read it.
@@hayleysilvers5237 Hi Hayley, I am not disabled but learned from my Dad at an early age to ask for the bulkhead seats due to space. (esp. when we traveled long overseas flights) Starting about 15+ years ago I was no longer able to request these seats as they are now reserved for handicap or people with child seats. On some airlines where you CAN purchase a bulkhead seat there is "wording" that you can be relocated IF the seat is needed for handicap/child car seat situations. So I no longer risk purchasing them. (I did get moved once with my 9 yr old- luckily I had "platinum" status & they had room for us in First class) So I would definitely check the rules of the airline you choose.... they SHOULD be available to you if you have a wheelchair!
I use to live overseas (early 2000's) & have much experience with flying coach, First class & bulkhead.
However, it is amazing sometimes how the rules can change DEPENDING on who you happen to be speaking to! (FYI: always print out a copy of the airline policy on this to carry with you when you fly!)
They 100% cannot dictate where you sit!
So true!!!!!
It’s illegal to dictate where you sit unless they were telling you because it was an extremely small bus and that was the only space that Buddy could fit
Even if it was a small bus by ADA law you can not segergate a disabled owner with their service dog period .
No that's false, all public transit asks people with service dogs to sit in seats specific for the disabled. This is a common and normal thing, not illegal at all.
@@Meskarune Actually that Is dubbed as segregation. Under the ADA you can not segragate a disabled owner with a service dog to a pasific area or seating.
@@Meskarune Direct copied info:
Can any transport make someone sit in a certain spot?
No. Since access to public and private transportation is a civil right for customers with disabilities under the ADA, a customer with a service animal cannot be segregated from other customers , I.e forced to sit in a assigned area , and the service animal must be permitted to accompany its owner on the vehicle.
@@dreamersfantasysutdio5322 They don't *force you* but it is VERY common and normal that you are requested to sit in certain places, which isn't illegal to do. I traveled a lot via bus and train with my dog because I have a vision impairment and cannot drive a car and even on airlines they request you sit in certain seats - always a window seat. You are told to sit away from emgerncy exits and in the front or in disabled seating on buses and trains. This is not discrimination, It's meant to help keep you and others safe. At the front the driver can deal with people trying to harass you or pet your dog. If the driver isn't doing that they are failing to do their job. Many disabled cannot safely deal with an emergency exit hence why they make requests to not sit there and many people have dog allergies or anxiety and train/bus operators want to contain the dog fur to one area. Making these requests is common, normal and not illegal. You can always say no and request another seat and give a reason. People are supposed to make _reasonable_ accomodations for the disabled, however if an accommodation will cause safety issues or harm to others they do not legally have to do it.
I would call their corporate office that is unacceptable
I wish people would actually keep up with service dog laws vs companion animals. Service dogs have a legitimate job, they’re well trained and capable. I’ve watched companion animals with owners claiming that they are a service dog run around and destroy places.
Legitimate service animals are necessary, the people running around claiming their animal is are wrecking it for others.
Fakes are a huge thing. I’ve seen more fakes than real ones.
I don’t know how I ended up on this channel, but this is third video and I love her. Yes we are having a chat. She’s chatting and I’m getting some work done. Carry on please.
Hello and welcome, happy to have ya!
Same!! :-D
Sounds like there needs to be some training on the ADA at the grand canyon. That driver who said your husband has to sit somewhere else, um NO. What if someone with autism or down's syndrome is at the park with a parent or care taker? Is that driver going to separate them? I remember a boy with type 1 diabetes at my church got a service dog. I'd like to see that driver make that child sit in one area of the bus and his parents sit somewhere else. Mother's tend to be very protective of their children. What you experienced was blatant discrimination.
Well, as to your update... Maybe not so much. My Wife is disabled and we are now also full-time RV'ers. Wish we had seen this video before we went. A little more than a year ago we went to the GC with her SD a small Morkie. Stayed at the GC Campground in our 42' 5th wheel and were so looking forward to a great time. We have lived in AZ most of our lives. We did initially have the same issue with a "ranger" at the visitors center but blew it off (She worked for police and I for fire.) Same deal with our first bus hardly anyone in line and a well-informed driver gave us a Green card with an SD drawing on it. After boarding a few others without issue other than the petting deal. We were standing in line for a return bus at the end of the day, when a grumpy arss "gatekeeper" at the stop challenged us. She reluctantly backed down but we could hear her telling others (people in line) and other employees that she didn't think that my wife's SD was real, that it was too small to be a "real SD" At that moment, for lack of a better word a "Tweaker" agressively boarded the buss, charged towards my wife and dog, sat abruptly in front of the dog and leaned towards it. The dog let out a surprised bark and positioned itself between my wife and the person. Well, that employee charged into the buss and shouted that we had to exit the buss. As well as we should have bought a better-trained dog. Rather than making a scene there, we did Hand the woman a "law card" and advised her that we would be contacting the DOJ and State (there are penalties in AZ for discriminating against SD & handlers) as well as her administration and the park for violation of Fed and State laws. We began walking . She must have thought about it quickly because she followed us for ways saying that she would get us another bus. At this point the experience was ruined and we were scheduled to leave the next day anyways. Sorry Long story... Sorry for your experience! It seems that the parks HR needs to institute some serious ADA training. We won't ever go back...😒🙏 OLT
This is just straight up harassment! If they treated me like this I would report them to the authorities.
With having MS some of my issues cannot be seen, but some are very noticeable especially with movement.. so when I get told I don't look disabled, I say "thank you- that's my goal"!!! I started taking it as a compliment, some people just don't know how else to tell you that you look healthy!!! And some just don't know what else to say!! But when they are being mean saying it, I say "you don't look stupid"!!!!
I have a SD too for a invisible chronic illness in Canada. Totally can relate. ♡
Just saw your post...thank you so very much...I'm in a wheelchair and training my service dog and have been wanting to take him to the grand canyon...I will definitely have to pick another state park since him and I would be alone. This video helped sooooo very much thank you!!! Hugs and congratulations...loved seeing the baby kicking 😍
Now that you told about your personal problems with the Grand Canyon National Park I remember mine and my family's trip to it over 20 years ago. I'm from Germany. We were traveling with a group of tourists at the westcoast and our tour guide knew that I was able to speak English. So she send me to the counter of the hotel to ask for twenty tourist maps so that every family in our bus could get one to not get lost. I was 21 years old by that time. I went inside and asked the woman at the service point for 20 maps and while she was counting them to hand them to me a manager came and said that they could just give TWO maps to foreigners, who wouldn't even stay at the hotel. I had no other bad experience like that on the entire trip. Must be a Grand Canyon thing...
I have recently stumbled across your channel and I absolutely love it and you and Buddy of course! You energy and positivity is so uplifting:) I’m so sorry for everything you have had to go through! I have suffered from migraines (very mild compared to most) and have progressively been getting worse/ more chronic. I finally decided I was sick of it and wanted to take and initiative to try and help myself out and now I am currently in med school for chiropractic. Long story short, chiropractic care has helped tremendously and I can not speak highly enough of it! I have not watched all of your videos yet so I’m not sure if you have already sought the care of a DC, or are open to it, but I would really really encourage you to look into it if you have not! We have extremely incredible minds teaching us that are so empathetic towards migraines due to experiencing them themselves and understanding awful they are! I wish I could provide more specifics on what we learn about chronic migraines and how to help treat them, but I’m just barley in the middle of my journey though med school. So sorry if this came off wrong... I have no idea how much you go through everyday I’m not at all trying to play dr/ diagnose you, and I can’t even begin to say I understand, but I would love to encourage you to look into chiropractic if you haven’t yet! It is also highly effective in expecting mothers and babies:)
I'm so sorry you had so many issues at the Grand Canyon. I LOVE hiking and camping there, and I really hate that you had so many bad experiences.
You're sweet, thank you. I'm glad it was so smooth for most of it.
Thank you for sharing your experience! I feel like it's important to talk about these things not only to generate conversation but also to shed light on things!
What's your favorite State/National Park? Mine's Bryce Canyon!!
Arches!!!
Ludington (Michigan) State Park!
ruclips.net/video/-9xyaZCU0ls/видео.html
Avenue of the Giants in Northern California
Fort Pickens Area - Gulf Island National Seashore
Yellowstone
No, they cannot dictate where you sit. If they insisted then they are in violation of the ADA. And it's definitely not OK to tell you someone with you cannot sit with you - whoever did that needs some training. Sorry to hear about your experiences. My daughter's had a service dog since 2006 and she is now with her second dog. Her disabilities are not obvious and unfortunately we have a bunch of similar stories - again sorry you had those experiences.
Im so sorry about your experience. I visited the Grand Canyon this year. I do hope y'all can make the trip again another time in the future. Highly advise taking the bus for sunrise. Less people, and everyone is tired and eager for hiking. The visitor center wasn't open when we went. They had maps at the hotel and info outside the visitor center building. I'm so sorry this happened. I would like to give the rangers the benefit of doubt.. Like maybe issues with fake service dogs. The canyon can be pretty dangerous, so maybe they also have issues with dogs not able to make the hikes.? That is a very weird experience you had.. Also when it was dark and my boyfriend and I were walking along the road, a bus stopped and asked if we wanted a lift. At least now you've gone through that, so maybe you or your husband can speak up next time. I'm glad you're opened minded about other people's attitudes and reactions. It's easy to feel attacked and it is not fair a national park wasn't welcoming to part of the nation's population. Despite that, it's awesome that you all were able to do so much traveling and visit other parks!
Totally agree with the no petting.
The one thing I'm worried about with the grand canyon is that of there are people that will say there pet is a survise dog and the dog falls or something because its acting out
It's really unfortunate that other people who are abusing disability laws are making life harder for people who actually have disabilities. With how much of an issue fake service dogs are in the US, I wonder if requiring documentation for service dogs would help.
The reason they don't require documentation is a cost and it would cause many who are disabled to bot be able to get a dog.
This is so upsetting to hear. I do not have a service dog, but cannot believe the way you were treated. Those workers should have automatically felt the need to make sure you felt comfortable and heard because that’s just human decency. In my mind, this is not only an issue of employees not having proper training... it’s also an issue of people being incredibly unkind. This is a great post to educate, but also an important reminder that we are here on this earth to help each other, not discriminate. ❤️
I could FEEL my blood pressure rise as you told the bus stories..... I am soooo pissed off right now. Being a Texan, If I had been on any of those buses with you I'm sure I would have fussed at the drivers for treating both of you so badly! I am actually surprised others did not say anything. NONE of this was ok! I hope you wrote a letter/email to them regarding your experience. They need re-training. The laws are clear on this!! I am so sorry this happens to you. It is not acceptable in any way. :( For the future, You should have a small notepad handy to write down names so you can report them. (and let them see you are taking names - & bus numbers when needed) It is esp. nuts to me that the "rules" changed from bus to bus!
I was a manager in a large dept. store many years ago, and this type of treatment could have gotten someone fired easily. This is worthy of a lawsuit waiting to happen! I am just glad you did not faint or get hurt during all this. - *I believe Molly Burke carries copies of the law with her regarding SD's if I remember right.* I certainly would. This needs to STOP.
I'm sorry you had such a difficult time at such a beautiful park. The only way things like this can be fixed is if the ones in charge are brought aware of the issue. I really hope you brought this up with Grand Canyon National Park Services. You can explain that you're not contacting them to just complain for your sake but to keep future service dog handlers from having the same experience. That's what I do anytime I have an access issue. It's not about retribution for what happens in the past, it's for bettering the experience for the next teams.
I just left the Grand Canyon this morning. I was shocked by the disrespect my service dog and I experienced. It seems to be a culture there because I have never experienced this before and have been a handler for a year, still knew but thankfully more confident for this awful experience. The land was beautiful but the NP employees there are totally ignorant to their legal standings on this and didn’t approach us first with kindness which felt so awful.
I'm pretty shocked! When I worked there (almost a decade ago) they were really strict on “if it even vaguely looks like a service dog let them in.” That said, I never worked on the shuttles. I'm so sorry.
I appreciate that! I think things have gotten more out of hand with fake SDs/poorly trained SDs because the internet has made people aware of how "easy" it is to get away with it. The shuttle company and I have been in contact and they are taking steps to ensure this improves.
Kind of like the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter in KY. 9:37 :) They have a little wrist-band-like thing one can attach to the SD's vest, collar, or leash and one should keep that on there until they leave these attractions' premises entirely so they don't have to create a new one at all. They have a Security Officer that looks almost exactly like any police officer ask the Two ADA Approved Questions and give the handler this tag thingy once the SD Handler answers both questions correctly. Then that Sec. Officer radios to all the other Creation Museum and Ark Encounter Security Officers and Staff that there is a Service Dog on premises and gives them that tag's code number. This way, all other Sec. Officers and Staff do not ask you the same questions everywhere you go. I really like that system and think if businesses all did that, {except maybe the tag thingy, unless it's a huge place like these}, it'd *really* help stop the frauds.
I know this is a month old and such. But when we were in public school, we had a disabled activist (don't ask me but that is what he called himself) come in and talk to us about disabled people, service dogs, and service dog handlers. To help spread knowledge and awareness about it and to help with questions. He was very kind and his service dog, a golden retriever mix, was also very kind and listened very well! At the time he said he was living in a big city (I don't remember the town sorry) but explained that service dogs and service dog handlers are allowed to sit in the handy cap spots, unless needed for a wheel chair access. Reason being it's close to the door encase of a bus evacuation, you are close enough to notify the bus driver without yelling, and it's close to the doors too encase there is ever a medical emergency and 911 is called for assistance. Whether or not that's still the deal, I'm not too sure, seeings it's been a lifetime since that time in public school. haha.
So sorry that happened to you but glad that they are using the video for training purposes. That’s awesome you guys were able to visit so many states museums and parks, especially before corona happened. You weren’t pregnant back then right? Did you make a video on any adaptations you made for your medical conditions while you’re traveling?
I'm watching this with my cat in my lap and she was focused on your hand the whole time.
I'm so sorry that you had this experience! Especially being treated differently and having thing be assumed because your disability isn't visible.
Let me just tell you, it takes a thick skin to travel with a disability. Especially when, to everyone else, you look "normal"
I am legally blind and doing anything independently is very important to me. So traveling alone is difficult, if not impossible. Partially because looking at me its hard to tell I have a vision inpairment.
I hate that you were treated this way and it is not acceptable but I can completely relate.
We had a very bad experience at the Grand Canyon as well. We got kicked off a shuttle bus because the driver didn't think that my wife service dog was a service dog " because service dogs don't act like that" Meaning my wife's dog was winning which is how she indicates my wife BS was going dangerous low. We had a big discussion with the bus company. THEY ARE NOT SERVICE DOG FRIENDLY>
Not quite the same thing but I raised Guide Dog puppies for about 5 years in the early 2000's, had a wonderful time doing it and any issues were rare. My friend is doing it now, in the same area, and she is constantly being harrassed by places. She isn't going to do it again when she's done with this dog. I did for a while say I think it's the uptick of fake service dogs but now I say the problem is that people let their dogs behave so badly while faking it. If people just trained their dogs well no one would care...The petting thing is a huge issue. I have done some training of aggressive dogs and had people try to pet them while the dog is activly snarling at them and I am saying "do not touch this dog, it WILL bite." People roll their eyes and tell me I am being dramatic, tell me it's abusive to have the dog muzzled, and still reach for the dog. I don't understand the entitlement, so weird.
Thank you for this video! As a new service dog handler I feel more prepared for issues by watching these videos. Have you stayed in AirBnB’s? Those have been my only issues. We recently stayed in three different ones and got slammed in reviews because of my service dog. Even though I know we’re not required to, we cleaned each unit to make sure there wasn’t a lot of dog hair left behind. Just curious how you or others handle these issues?
I work at a retail store treat everyone the same . Normal, disabled, service dog or no service dog. I treat people how I would want to be treated. I just think this may be you some day.
I don't have a service dog and I have no idea why your channel was recommended to me. But let's roll with it. Haha. I'm sorry for the less than stellar experiences you had at the Grand Canyon. I think you should file a complaint with the park. Not to complain, but to let them know that they have areas where they need to improve training. I would let them know all the other parks that got it right, too, so they know that they're the one with the problem.
Haha! Welcome!! 🤗
Yay! I've been waiting for today's video!
Too sweet!! Hope you enjoyed it!
I am really sorry about other people. Mean you and I support you and I completely understand
Assumptions are awful. Before COVID when I've been out and about I ran across several people at Walmart with service dogs. It was crazy how many people wanted to pet the dogs. I had to tell a lady to leave the dog alone, her owner looked so stressed out. I felt so bad for her.
as a retired nps employee...co tact the grand canyon and let them know of your experiences. they can't correct the issues if they aren't aware of them. all it takes are a few people with lack of total understanding to create issues. reach out, they will fix it. not all park service rangers are ignorant most are not, and not all concession drivers are bad....it takes just a few to put a sour taste in your mouth. none of that should have occurred.
I think your experience with your service dog on the bus was totally un called for. You, by law can take your service dog anywhere the public goes except a sterile area ( operating room) . If they don't want your dog there, they have to clearly post the law why not. My service dog has been to every national park. Including Alaskas national parks. Also, Disney World three times! You go girl! (And your little dog too)
Churches can also tell you NOT to bring your service dog. They are exempt from the federal laws, but I haven't heard of any church that would deny you access. Also, swimming pool, hot tub and sauna areas, won't let you in. You NEED your pup just like I need mine. I would love to get together with our pups. I love camping. Or hotels. I would stand up for any handicap dog handler team. Any time, any where. We are no different than anyone else! BTW, I enjoy that you have the guts to talk about your life on the Tube.🐝
@@mom.p3818 Its ridiculous that a church of all places can refuse access. I dint remember who it was but I know a veteran RUclipsr that has a german shepherd SD. I think he lives around Arkansas but he was checking out new churches to go to and one refused him. He was pretty upset and was like Christian's r suppose to be accepting and they denied a disabled veteran
I’m new to the Chanel : are the grey edited parts migraine jen speaking ?
They're sorta... side tangents i guess?
They can't segregate you I'm so sorry that your experience was awful.
So sorry to hear such a bad experience, I love hearing stories about service dogs. I live in Germany and I feel we hava a lot less Service Dogs than in the U.S., while this is kind of sad because a lot of people could probably benefit from them. Before you mentioned them having problems with "fake" service dogs, I never thought of that. So I guess that's the downside of having more and maybe selftrained service dogs (I'm not saying selftrained service dogs can't perform in general, I just think that it leaves more room for faking their training). Well, I'm glad that you're sharing your stories and would be glad to hear what you think about my thought, as those are mostly just assumptions.
Professionally trained dogs can cost upwards of 30k. That is why people are allowed to self train there dog. The problem is there are companies who advertise turning your pet into a emotional support animal for a few and then take your pet with you everywhere. They are scammers and the real problem!
I think this is really important information. I would encourage you to share this with management at the parks, not to bash them but to educate them.
Might I suggest you email this vid to the head ranger (or whatever his title is) of the Grand Canyon. Unless he's just plain anti-handicapped (i.e., prejudiced), it should make him aware of an area in need of improvement. Unfortunately, based on the interactions, I'd bet he is one of those ignorant, insensitive SOBs who is anti-handicapped and lets his people know and they are following his lead. If he gives you grief about your vid/email. Send your vid and his response to his boss - Head of the Parks Service(?), President of the United States(?). ADA is a Federal Law. We should at least be able to expect and demand that Federal agencies follow the law.
Also, the head guy at Bryce Canyon might appreciate a complimentary comment from you. Help him see how much we appreciate him and his staff's professional service.
I had a very different experience from you since I don't have a disability or service dog....nevertheless, in 2016 my husband and I did a huge roadtrip for our honeymoon and we had done quite a lot of driving through the west by the time we got to the Grand Canyon. (We live in Indiana, went north then west, then south, and then headed east/northeast again.) Anyway, by the time we got to the Grand Canyon, we'd see so much awesome scenery that we felt like we'd seen grander canyons. So I feel like you really aren't missing out on much. But I'm still sorry to hear that's the experience you had.
On Friday more than one person literally picked my SD up off the floor in a clinic, then on the bus home people were petting him 0_o
What's wrong with these people?!?!
Sure, I can think of another explanation! Those poor drivers took one look at you and said to themselves, "Oh, no! It's a dangerous, dangerous person! Avoid!"
That explanation might be a long shot.
I have the same problem as you with buses, but mine is with city buses. I do not have a service dog but I do use a white cane because I am blind. When I have my cane they tend not to stop but when I hid my cane till I am getting on the bus they almost always stop.
This sounds really horrible! It would be very interesting if anyone working at the Grand Canyon to watch this and respond! It's such a great park otherwise.
Can you make a video talking about hiking with POTS and with a service dog? My family had an incident hiking with our pet dog where he narrowly escaped a very bad injury trying to help my mom
Jen I am in England I drive buses. In England it is down to the driver whether your dog gets on or not.it is company saying to us when we train.do u know if this is English law or just company policy
It's diffrent here in the USA according to the ADA anywhere the public goes so can a service dog. They are medical equipment that a disabled person needs. Even a bus here can not refuse access
@Bos Fla Actually there is not. According to the ADA any place that is OPEN to the public must legally allow service Dogs entry too.
@Bos Fla Zoos yes but churches can not. There was actually a church sued for discrimination of not allowing a service dog which is " MEDICAL EQUIPMENT" to enter.
Zoos I have seen bit a church if it is open for visitors or to the public must allow service Dogs. It's like denying and discrimination to someone in a wheel chair.
Crikey Owen cook.. that's terrible. I live in England and I didn't know that.. admittedly I haven't been on a bus in a while, but I didn't think a service dog could be denied access. I knew it was at the driver's discretion for normal pet dogs.. but I thought service dogs were allowed automatically, unless there's no room for anyone...
It makes me feel so irritated that people/places don’t allow you to take your medical equipment with you.
This should be seen by the one
responsible for the staff att grand canyon, there is clearly a big education gap in the service dog area
We went to grand canon even tho we dont have anyone with a disability we had young kids in our group and were thinking about others with disability s and all agreed it was not accessible (this was in 2020 we all wore masks)
They might not have let you on because of space they wouldn't stop for a pregnent lady and a bunch of little kids.
Did you have buddy while you were in labor/how did you prepare to have him in the room for that if you did
How do you know when your dog is ready to go out in public
You are correct. You can not be segregated to a certain part of a bus or a restaurant or whatever... And to segregate you from your husband also illegal.... So sorry. Makes me not want to go there! I am a wheelchair user also so double whammy....
Do people not know not to pet service dogs? I even ask to pet regular dogs as I have no idea what it's temperament is. If I go barrelling in with my hand I have no idea how that dog will react.
Parents need to be teaching their kids this too - you are not entitled to touch an animal of any sort but you can ask the owner and ask the animal by reading its body language.
That's how I was raised but I feel like a lot of parents don't teach that now.
A lot of them know, and just don’t care because this is how little they respect the safety and personal space of a disabled person.
I am amazed how badly they treated you too because a bus driver should know the rules. And to leave you stranded at night regardless is just wrong. Funny thought, how many people try to touch your pregnant belly with or without asking? Just curious I thought of it when you were talking about people petting the dog! I've noticed a lot of strangers try to touch preggo bellies and I always thought that was super intrusive.
9:39 No I don't think so? The thing that comes to mind is that when they give you something like that it is their way of saying that they give you permission to have something that federal law gives you the right to have in the first place.
10:28 Absolutely Positivity NOT! The ADA Disability seating area is for people with disabilities to sit but if a person doesn't want to sit in that area because they don't need to sit there because they don't need that area because the ADA seating areas are for people who have mobility issues that prevent them from utilizing or accessing other seats.
14:19 I totally understand what it felt like when the driver said that you weren't handicapped. I totally believe that he should have been fired on the spot. One he doesn't know that and like any other business can only ask you the two questions, Is its SD and What are its tasks. The care that you were handed and you were misrepresented that the placard that you were given would not bring you any problems from other drivers. To be honest I would have not accepted the card in the first place and I would have said that the card is labeling you without your permission. The fact that the one bus driver told you that you had to sit in the ADA section would be like you being told that you had to sit in a certain section away from the public in a restaurant. That is illegal. The other thing is that it is a form of "segregation" and the fact that the driver would have the balls to actually state that your husband couldn't sit with you is still putting you in danger.
20:10 No you are not complaining. There are people out there that like to make us as disabled people feel like crap when we are trying to fight for our "RIGHTS" and I wish that you could have captured video and recordings of these experiences because people like those who treated you like that don't really get it until they see how it really affects us.
I'd be speaking up even if it wasn't to do with me. They treated you shit. That's sick I'm so sorry!
Did you ever contact management?
Legally she violated ADA laws by asking anything more invasive than “is he a service dog?” And “what tasks is he trained to help with?”
That bus driver was just an A$$. I’m in a wheelchair and I’d have FLIPPED if he had told me my mom or whoever was with me couldn’t sit with me because I have severe anxiety especially in large crowds. And I’m pretty sure it’s definitely not legal he made you sit there. But I could be wrong
It is illegal, you are right.
That's so sad.
That was wrong on the bus driver. You and your SD have the right to sit wherever you want. He was discriminating against a SD and handler.
The reason I like to watch some of these videos (access issues) is to prepare myself for similar access issues. I make scripts for myself to practice so I don't freeze when there are access issues
(I don't like videos that are just click bait or where the handler creates the problem)
I sincerely hope you spoke to someone a little further up the food chain than a bus driver or a Ranger. The Supervising Ranger should be made aware of the behavior of the first Ranger you met and the bus drivers need to all be educated about Service Dogs and the Federal Law that allows them to go everywhere with their Handler. They cannot ask you or demand you tell them why you need a Service Dog, whatever medical problems you may have, nor "prove" that she is a true Service Dog.
They cant tell you that you must sit in a certain spot, nor may they insist that you give up your seat to elderly passengers.
In normal circumstances it would be a very nice thing if someone *volunteered* , but he cannot insist that even a fully abled(or seemingly so) passenger give up their seat, let alone someone with a disability!
Even though you cannot prove that the buses deliberately drove past you without stopping, I have no doubt that the drivers' supervisor would be very interested to hear about that, along with how you were treated by other drivers.
It is Management's duty to ensure that the drivers are properly trained on how to deal with riders who have Service Dogs, and to make sure all drivers know what is expected of them in order to perform their jobs in a professional manner and treat all passengers with kindness and respect due every single guest at the park.
If those in charge are not made aware of improper behavior, how can they see to it that employees are fully informed of the requirements of the job and so they change their behavior and perform their job(s) in an appropriate manner?
Actions or lack thereof, should have consequences. You are probably not the first person to be treated this way, but if you alert the proper people to the issue at hand, they can make sure that neither the employee in question, nor any other employee, ever acts that way again. They will review park policy with all employees to make sure everyone knows what is expected of them.
If I were their supervisor/Superior Officer, I'd be furious to learn that a park guest had been treated in such a fashion.
Stand up and speak up for your rights.
Of course I did. They took excellent action.
That is just a terrible experience. But I really find it hard to understand why a lot of people are so uneducated and they want to pet the dog they don't know. Especially without asking. As a daughter of a policeman I was taught from a very young age that dogs bite! You don't know that dog. It is an animal. Have a self security feeling (or whatever it is called in English). You can not just assume that the dog will not bite you just because it looks cute. And if you really see that it is a service dog, you should really know that you are not allowed to pet it... I just don't get why people don't teach their kids to keep their hands away from the dog they don't know. :/
A lot of people think having a service dog is some kind of first world privilege and handlers think they're special or some nonsense like that.
My health issues are also invisible
I had to use a mini segway for a year when I tore the ligaments in my ankle. I finally went to my doctor to get “legal documentation,” so I could get a government “certification“ so people would leave me alone. The doctor office manager made me get off of it and break my ankle further to come see my doctor! People in this culture are idiots! ☹️
Yup forcing you to sit in the handicap spot and not letting you sit with your husband is illegal
Dictating where you are allowed to sit in the bus is treating you less than a human. It is like saying a person with an air tank also has to sit in the handicap zone.
💚
I can't believe how many people try to pet your service dog!! I have a dog crazy 5 year old and I drill it into her head that you don't pet a dog without asking (she even asks to pet our own dog and my boyfriends dog 🤣) and if the dog is wearing a vest or a harness I always point out to her that the dog is working and we don't distract them. Im sorry people are so ignorant 😔
Wait, are we just STILL glossing over why your husband was mute? How did he get un-mute? Is he (please) open to sharing more about this?
Technically yes, but it's not on purpose! He's willing to share, and we definitely plan to. 👍
It is not acceptable for facility workers/associates to be pieces. I'm sorry hun. ... Many people assume that because I have a neurological condition that IS visible I must be deaf, dumb and blind. It's super irritating. ...
NO LAW THAT SAY YOU CAN OR CAN'T STOP AT STOPS ... LEGALLY
You should have a cam on the dogs collar if you can't pull out your phone to record because the visitor center lady and the bus guy was out of line. This is ridiculous, they can't do that tell you where to sit, and they can only ask three questions. If they think they can infringe on HIPA and ADA because they take you less seriously because you look normal and functional at the moment. If someone starts crap with you if they try to make it difficult to record. This is why mine has a descret camera collar piece so it will be recorded regardless if they try and disrupt you from using your phone so you have proof, especially if people are harassing you, trying to pet your dog you have it on film.
They should not be allowed to pet your dog and the people at the park should step up and say no you can't pet a service dog or you will be removed from the bus.
Shame on Grand Canyon 😕 I will not go there they owe compensation for such blantent disrespectful behavior towards a handler and service dog. I'd call the police and they should be sued.
Only way these stuck up KAREN ignorant people learn is by getting sued and having it on cam when they pull this sh## to show it. When you don't do that it puts others with a Service Dog at risk by not doing more including recording and seeing them then they are black listed by ADA as a warning to other possible service dog handlers who might be victims of the same thing, because nothing was done enough to put these people in check, it posses risk for those like me.
How can people be better advocates? I know you and your husband are perfectly capable for advocating for yourself, I imagine it gets exhausting.
ITS NOT AN LAW YOU CAN SIT ANYWHERE ON THE PUBLIC TRANSITS.....
I wonder if the people trying to pet the dog were foreigners cuz over 50% of the guests are.
Its like the Percy Jackson monsters; the look human to humans (while still acting like monsters) 👹
LOVE IT
I’m from the UK and I would just be like. Come back when you know facts. Thanks Hun p.s. I don’t have a service dog but it annoys me so much when people go to pet him like “dogs are so cute” like wouldn’t be cute if he bit your hand off
SLAP their hands away!!!!
So frigging ableist 🙄 I have invisible illness too I have fibromyalgia and PoTs and I don’t have a service dog but I do need my patner with me pretty much everywhere I go or atleast someone who is aware of my conditions or there can be issues and boy oh boy I’m so sick of ableism and people being rude as fuck it’s not even just to invisible illness too for some reason people are ableist about litterally everything my dear friend can’t even get subtitles on his lecture slides
I think part of the issue might be the sheer volume of people who try to pass their normal dogs off as service dogs in public. Many people in the tourism industry have seen it happen frequently... sometimes it is blatantly obvious because of the dog's poor behavior. This is probably why the ranger made the comment about the two service dogs getting along, they have witnessed "service dogs" that don't. Unfortunately, this causes a major bias and issue for people like yourself who require service animals help. Folks with invisible illnesses have to fight both the dog bias and the problem of looking like an able-bodied person. I'm hoping the Grand Canyon begins to do a better job of educating its staff for future visitors.
having you sit in a certain section due to your disability is segregation and legally they cant
It really baffles me how much harassment SD Handlers face in the US.
I personally don't have a service dog, only a "normal" dog and over here (Europe, mainly Germany, Austria and Switzerland) you can take your dog pretty much anywhere. Exceptions of course do exist, especially with stores that sell foods or related items. Other than that it's not unusual to take your dog to shopping centers, restaurants, public transportation etc.. I can't even think of any kind of park, especially not national parks where you're not allowed to take your pooch (there must be exceptions, although I never heard of any).
I never would've thought such a huge park as the Grand Canyon would make such a fuss about dogs. Especially not service dogs...
Wow ppl r assholes. Ppl pet my dog all the time with out asking. Im a little more forgiving with little kids. U dont know if the dog is going to bite. My dog is a little unpredictable with ppl bc he didnt get his early socialization as a really young pup bc Covid shut everything down. I have been working backwords with him really hard to get him to a good point. He has come a long way, but still has a little improving to do. Ppl still try to pet him with out asking.
Ppl should be charged for petting a service dog without asking.
And for none service dogs if they bite someone that pet them with out asking it should not be considered the dogs or the owners fault. All the time ppl get bit by dogs they pet without asking and it ends up being the owner that gets in trouble and the dog put down. I agree if the dogs bites and the person had permission to bite then ya its on the owner, but owners and dogs should not get in trouble when someone didnt ask first. Just my opinion.
I think national parks have different rules and don't so strictly have to follow the Ada. But out side of national parks, no. He can't do that