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Insights into Canadians' Perceptions of Service Dogs in Public Spaces
Maryellen Gibson1, Linzi Williamson2, Colleen Anne Dell1
1Department of Sociology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A2, Canada.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|October 14, 2023
Summary
Canadian public generally supports Service Dogs (SDs) in public spaces. Women, pet owners, and Indigenous individuals showed higher acceptance, while some cultural groups were less receptive, impacting Veterans with posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs).
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Disability Studies
- Sociology
Background:
- Service Dogs (SDs) increasingly support individuals with disabilities in Canada.
- Veterans with posttraumatic stress injuries (PTSIs) are a growing group using SDs.
- Previous research indicates Veterans experience stress from public interactions due to SDs drawing attention to their disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore public perceptions of Service Dogs in public settings.
- To identify demographic factors influencing these perceptions.
Main Methods:
- An online questionnaire surveyed 485 Canadians on their beliefs about SDs in public.
- Robust ordinary least squares (OLS) regression analyzed demographic data and perceptions.
Main Results:
- The Canadian public generally holds positive views of SDs in public spaces.
- Women, current pet owners, and Indigenous people were more supportive of SDs.
- Certain cultural heritage groups demonstrated lower receptivity towards SDs.
Conclusions:
- This study provides initial insights into public perceptions of SDs.
- Findings contribute to the expanding research on Service Dogs and Veteran health.
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