Students or visitors of Rising Phoenix Karatedo classes may notice that I am accompanied by a Service-Dog…similar to a Seeing-Eye-Dog, she is a certified Working-Dog and I can bring her to almost all public spaces under the Ontarians With Disabilities Act. A Diabetic Alert Dog-Guide, she has a “very particular set of skills” that make her helpful in managing Type-1 Diabetes. You can learn more about certified Diabetic Alert Dogs as well as the rights and responsibilities of Service-Dog handlers at:
Although she is extremely friendly and well-behaved, students and visitors are asked not to pat or otherwise interact with the Dog in any way…though she might appear very relaxed, while she is wearing her vest she is WORKING and must not be distracted. Even if someone meets a Dog who does not appear to be a Service-Animal, the most respectful and safest thing to do is ask permission from the handler before engaging with the Dog.
Please be assured that my Dog receives plenty of love, affection, playtime, and is well looked-after. However, she is not considered merely a pet, but rather an animal with an important job to do. Your co-operation allows her to continue to assist me, even during the rigours of training in the Art of Karatedo.
If you have any questions or concerns about the above, please see the website, email, or phone. Thank-you!
-Sensei Daniel
