Service Dog Discrimination — What to Do
A comprehensive guide to help you understand your rights in Canada, recognize discrimination, document incidents effectively, and take informed action.
What is Service Dog Discrimination?
Under Canadian provincial laws, if you are denied access, treated unfairly, charged fees, or harassed because of your service dog, this may be discrimination.
Denied Entry
A restaurant, store, or business tells you “no dogs allowed” and refuses entry even after you explain your service dog’s role.
Extra Charges
Being asked to pay pet fees, deposits, or surcharges not charged to others because of your service dog or ESA.
Unlawful Questions
Demanding certification, vet records, proof of training, or asking invasive questions about your medical diagnosis.
What Staff Can Legally Ask
In most cases, staff may only ask two questions: (1) “Is this a service dog required for a disability?” and (2) “What task is the dog trained to perform?” They cannot demand paperwork, certification, or a demonstration.
How to Respond to Discrimination
Discrimination often comes from misunderstanding, not malice. Here’s how to respond calmly and confidently.
Stay Calm and Polite
Take a breath. Getting visibly upset can escalate the situation. A calm, factual response is more effective and helps you document the incident later.
State Your Rights Clearly
Try saying: “Under provincial accessibility law, my service dog is allowed in public spaces. You may ask what task my dog performs, but you cannot require certification or proof.”
Ask for a Manager
If the first staff person is unsure or refuses, politely ask to speak with a manager or supervisor. Often, someone with more authority will be better informed.
Document Everything
If the issue isn’t resolved, note the date, time, location, names of staff involved, and what was said. Take photos or video if safe to do so.
Documenting the Incident
Good documentation makes your complaint stronger and easier to act on. Record these details immediately after an incident.
Document These Details
File a Complaint in Canada
Each province has a Human Rights Commission or Tribunal that handles discrimination complaints. Select your province to file a complaint.
🍁 Ontario
File Complaint →🏔️ British Columbia
File Complaint →⛰️ Alberta
File Complaint →⚜️ Quebec
File Complaint →🌾 Manitoba
File Complaint →🌻 Saskatchewan
File Complaint →🌊 Nova Scotia
File Complaint →🦞 New Brunswick
File Complaint →For Air Travel Complaints
If you experienced discrimination on a flight, file a complaint with the Canadian Transportation Agency. For U.S. flights, use the U.S. Department of Transportation.
🐾 Need Documentation for Your Service Dog?
Proper documentation can help prevent discrimination. Get your clinical letters, airline forms, and ID cards from TheraPetic — Canada’s trusted nonprofit provider.
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