Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and Germany is no exception. However, one of the effective ways to manage PTSD is through the assistance of specially trained dogs. These dogs, commonly known as PTSD assistance dogs, are trained to help people with PTSD cope with their symptoms and live more fulfilling lives.
However, owning a PTSD assistance dog in Germany comes with legal obligations and protections. In this blog post, we will discuss the legal rights of PTSD assistance dog owners in Germany and what you need to know before getting one.
1. Definition of Assistance Dogs in Germany
Assistance dogs are specifically trained to support people with disabilities in their daily lives. The German federal law defines assistance dogs as animals that provide support to their owners with mobility, hearing, visual or mental disabilities. This definition includes PTSD assistance dogs as they are trained to support people with mental disabilities such as PTSD.
2. Legal Rights of Assistance Dog Owners in Germany
The German government provides legal protection to assistance dog owners. According to the German Disability Equality Act (BGG), assistance dog owners are allowed to take their dogs to public places such as shops, restaurants, and public transport. Assistance dog owners are also allowed to take their dogs to work and are protected from discrimination in the workplace.
3. Training and Certification of Assistance Dogs in Germany
PTSD assistance dogs need to undergo rigorous training to become certified as assistance dogs. The training program for PTSD assistance dogs in Germany typically lasts between 18-24 months and includes tasks such as:
- Alerting the owner to panic attacks or other physical manifestations of anxiety
- Providing comfort during flashbacks or dissociative episodes
- Creating physical space between the owner and strangers when needed
- Retrieving medication or other items when requested
Certification for PTSD assistance dogs is handled by accredited organizations, and owners must provide proof of certification when accessing public places with their dogs.
4. Responsibilities of Assistance Dog Owners in Germany
Assistance dog owners in Germany are expected to follow certain responsibilities. These include:
- Ensuring their dogs are trained and certified as assistance dogs
- Providing necessary documentation for their dogs such as vaccination records and certification of assistance dog status
- Keeping their dogs under control in public places and ensuring that they do not pose a danger or nuisance to others
- Providing adequate care and attention to their dogs, including regular veterinary check-ups and exercise
5. Penalties for Violating Assistance Dog Laws in Germany
Violating assistance dog laws in Germany can result in penalties such as fines or imprisonment. For example, it is illegal to deny access to a public place to an assistance dog owner. If a person denies access to a PTSD assistance dog owner, they may face a fine of up to €50,000.
In conclusion, owning a PTSD assistance dog in Germany comes with legal obligations and protections. By understanding the legal framework around assistance dogs in Germany, you can ensure that you and your dog are protected and that you can access public places without discrimination. It is important to note that owning a PTSD assistance dog requires dedication and responsibility, but it can also greatly improve the quality of life for people with PTSD.
