National Service Dog Month

History & origins

National Service Dog Month is an informal September observance in the United States that raises awareness for service dogs and the people who rely on them. It is commonly traced to 2008, when actor and animal advocate Dick Van Patten launched it as National Guide Dog Month; the observance later broadened to include service dogs more generally. Its purpose is tied to disability awareness and public education about working dogs, not a formal federal holiday.

Why it matters

Service dogs can make daily life safer and more independent for people with disabilities by performing trained tasks such as guiding, alerting, retrieving, or interrupting anxiety or seizure episodes. The month also matters because it reminds the public that these dogs are working animals, helping reduce distractions, misinformation, and unnecessary access problems for handlers. Support during September can also help nonprofit training programs cover the high cost of raising and placing service dogs.

How to celebrate

Learn about service dog training and laws. Don't pet working dogs without asking. Support service dog organizations. Share service dog stories. Donate to training programs.

Facts

• Service dogs perform specific tasks for people with disabilities
• Training a service dog costs $20,000-$40,000
• They're protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Never distract or pet a working service dog
• Service dogs dramatically improve quality of life