Service dogs at church?

Question

I'm going to have a service dog soon. Do you think he'll be allowed in church? The ADA laws say that they must be permitted anywhere that the public is allowed, but I don't know if church buildings count. They all say, "visitors welcome," which kinda sounds like they're public, but I could also see how they wouldn't be. 
My husband said that church is supposed to be a reverent place, and even though service dogs are trained to be calm in public situations, people at church might not be reverent around him. And I wouldn't want to disrupt church with him.
We decided that I would just talk to the bishop about it (and every subsequent bishop whose ward we move into). But I just want to know what you guys think. Is this a stupid question and I just shouldn't even try? Or do you think I probably could bring him?

Answer

See if they can make an announcement in primary or maybe they can do a little talk about service dogs and what they do and how they shouldn't be petted when they are working. It shouldn't be a problem and definitely speak to the bishop.

Answer

My ward had a woman with a service dog, she was allowed and the Church did not loose reverence because of the dog.

Answer

Hello there! I am a service dog handler of 6+ years :) Churches are exempt from ADA law. So no, they do not have to allow your service dog entry. However, no church has ever asked me to leave. My home church we told about my SD prior, and they were welcoming. When traveling and attending a different church, we did not call ahead. I have never had an issue with that either. Honestly, if a church is not accepting your service dog, there are deeper issues. But, law wise - no they do not have to require your service dog entrance. I am sure all will be fine though :)

Answer

I think that's a great idea! Take your service dog everywhere! They are amazing! I can't see them being a reason for people to feel like it's not reverent. Maybe the little kids will want to stare and maybe want to touch the dog but just explain to the kids (and their parents) that the dog is working and can't be petted. If people see that the dog has a working vest/ backpack on they will understand. Best of luck! Let me know how it goes :)

Answer

Someone had a service dog in my ward growing up. My parents explained to us that the dog had a job and it could be dangerous to its owner if we distracted it.

Answer

I've been in wards where service dogs would come. The only thing I noticed is the kids had to learn it's not like a normal animal and you can't play with it. But no one else batted an eye.

Answer

Bring it, I brought mine every Sunday

Answer

It should be fine but talk to your bishop real quick

Answer

In my home ward, there was a sister that was blind and she did bring her dog sometimes, I think that if you were allowed to bring your dog, it's a good idea to announce in RS and Priesthood that they need to start teaching their families and their kids not to touch/play/startle your dog unless you say it's alright to do so.

Answer

I have been in a few wards with service dogs and people respond the way the dog behaves. If dog is crazy people will be crazy. If the dog is well behaved and calm then people will behave the same. Good luck !!

Service dogs at church?

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