Officially forming the theory that the reason more service dog handlers don't use protective gear like boots, goggles, and ear protection on their dog is because the public becomes 3000% more unbearable when they try.
We're all used to "aaaaawwww look the the doggo" when we go out with our working animals, but getting
1. Accosted for pictures (whether folks ask or just invade your space and distract your dog)
2. Pointed at like an exhibit
3. Shouted at (OMG DOGGLES, "why is it wearing that" etc)
4. Actively followed around by strangers
Is downright fucking awful.
I know it looks cool. I know some of our gear is specialized. I know pet dogs don't usually wear/tolerate what SDs learn the wear. But for the love of whatever you deem holy, BE KIND ABOUT IT. All of the actions listed above are just fucking rude. Leave people alone. Leave service dogs alone.
Disabled people can exist without being spectacles
