SERVICE ANIMALS
in special education
about service animals
Through a Dog's Eyes -- coming to PBS April 21 | Extended Preview | PBS
Background Knowledge
- Service animals are animals that assist people with disabilities. The animals are trained to perform tasks that their handlers cannot do for themselves. A service animal allows a person with a serious disability to be more independent and to live a fuller life.
- Three types
- service animal
- Guide animals
- hearing animals
- In September 2010 the civil rights division of the U.S redefined a "service animal"
- Examples of what these animals do
Research going on
- There is research going on about the canine brain.
- Canine intelligence is controversial
- a canine's ability to learn is great
- Studies being done at WVU with service dogs for vets.
Current practices on how schools address service animals
- The ADA requires schools to provide access to individuals with disabilities
- The must allow a service animal into the school if a child is assigned to one.
- The school districts must modify its policies and practices.
- It is determined by the child's education team
- Student aides in classrooms have a big role
- concerns of other students and faculty