Divers with Service Dogs.

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Hoping I do not sound rude, How does a Service Dog differ from any other medical device such as canes, wheel chairs, braces? Again ot wanting to sound rude it is a honest question.

It's uncommon (though definitely not unheard of as we do get wounded warriors on our local boats from time to time) to find canes, wheel chairs, etc. on dive boats. Also, inanimate objects don't usually have a way of getting under foot on a pitching boat. Space is at a premium on a dive boat, unless you were going to charter the whole boat and bring your dog on board (I can't really see any reason why someone would object to this approach) it's unlikely that there would be room for the pup. I would personally worry about tanks rolling around, people falling over on or in some other way harming the dog. As a passenger I'm sort of routinely covered in mystery bruises from being run into with tanks. I'd hate to put my pup through that.

One local boat that I crew on occasionally does have a boat dog that belongs to the Captain. The dog is kept in the bridge and cannot get to the dive deck. It's not without its challenges as not everyone likes listening to a dog bark on their dive charter. I think you'd be best finding an operation that is willing to work with you and/or looking into a boat ownership situation or co-op where you can make the rules. I don't think it's impossible, but the standard weekend cattle boat seems like it would be a challenge for your particular needs.
 
Where's Smokey going to do his business on the 3-4 hr. typical dive charter? Most captains won't appreciate it all over the brightwork...

Dogs can handle that length of time with no problems. My dogs sometimes have to manage 13 hours.

One possibility would be leaving the dog at the dock and relying on assistance from a dive buddy for balance assistance while on the boat. Heck, this happens normally if the deck is pitching / rolling anyway.

Carl
 
Yes Smokey would have no issues with the potty control what so ever, however I think it is time to close this thread as it is abundantly clear the majority opinions are no matter how well trained a service dog is it is best left onshore. I was mainly asking for information on is it possible to bring him along OR what others do with their Service Dogs when diving I did not mean for this to turn into a discussion of the reasons why dogs do not belong on boats LOL and for that I am sorry. I believe I can manage with out my service Dog on a boat as long as I find someone I can trust (Preferably female diver) for the time needed on a dive.

BTW to those posters I see with Dolphin emblems Thank you for your Submarine Service. I graduated Basic Submarine School in Groton CT. (rotten Groton) in 1988 But sadly fate had other ideas for me than the Military. God Bless and protect all that have and will serve.
 
Edward,

Thank you for your patience through out the discussion. Many other's would be too self focused to so much as entertain opposing ideas. Those of the PHIN are a tight group subject to rational rather than inpulse. Thank you and your are welcome.
 
Sorry for my ignorance, but I'm just curious as to how exactly does the dog help in the case of balance lost on stairs, specially since you stated it is primarily in public places, shopping malls, restaurant, etc...?
 
If I start to lean toward the Rail of the stairs he stops and counter leans the other way a bit to give me time to react and correct myself also forces me to slow down on stairs. It is built on the Brace command which he also does for me if I should fall down and he stands rigid for me to use him to stand back up. but that is VERY rare.
 
Perhaps you could try a service human, a private divemaster. Also, regarding ADA compliance, small craft are exempt. Don't give up if you enjoyed your experience, find a way to accomplish your goals.
 
Perhaps you could try a service human, a private divemaster. Also, regarding ADA compliance, small craft are exempt. Don't give up if you enjoyed your experience, find a way to accomplish your goals.

That would be way more useful than a dog on a boat, and kinder to the dog.

I've seen this before and after several years, the dog still gets upset when it's owner goes underwater, and is still at risk of being hurt by falling/rolling equipment.

Anybody who needs a dog on a dive boat for physical or emotional support should bring a good friend instead.

The dog would thank you if it could.

flots.
 
Edward, I wish you success in finding the answers to your questions. Don't give up if you hit a few roadblocks with being able to bring your dog along. It might turn out that boat diving with a service dog is more trouble than it's worth. As others have suggested, try contacting SUDS.

I don't have any disabilities, but diving is a tremendous stress reliever for me. I find it very theraputic to commune with the perch and bass in 20' of water at one of my local dive sites. Hell, I find it theraputic to just throw on my gear and meditate while laying on the bottom of my pool. I can only imagine the freedom and relaxation YOU will feel!

Consider this your opportunity to educate others about service dogs.

Dogs...YAY!
 
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