Service Dogs for Albertans with Disabilities

Albertans with disabilities who use qualified service dogs have access to all public places in the province. These are the same rights as blind and/or visually impaired persons who use a guide dog. Individuals with disabilities who are accompanied by a qualified service dog must be allowed access to taxis, buses, restaurants, hospitals, hotels, recreational facilities, businesses or any other location where the general public is allowed.

The Service Dogs Act became law on January 1, 2009. It complements the Blind Person’s Rights Act (BPRA) by legally recognizing service dogs. The Service Dogs Act extends to persons with disabilities using service dogs the same protections as those people protected under the BPRA.

Service dogs assist people with a variety of disabilities and can help with day-to-day tasks such as carrying or retrieving items, ringing doorbells, providing balance and stability, or responding to seizures or diabetic episodes.

Service Dog Team Identification Card

Government of Alberta identification cards are available to users of qualified service dogs. The identification cards have an Alberta Government logo and a picture of the individual and the service dog. The cards are not mandatory, but they are available to service dog teams to help them prove they are qualified under the Service Dogs Act.

Apply for a Service Dog Team Identification Card

More Information:

• Frequently asked questions
• Application Form for a Service Dog Team Identification Card
• Service Dogs Act
• Service Dogs Qualifications Regulation
• Alberta Human Rights Commission: Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act
• Assistance Dogs International

Contact:

• Email: servicedogs@gov.ab.ca
• Phone: 780-415-2740. Ask to speak to the Service Dogs Act administrator. To call toll-free, first dial 310-0000.
• Mail:
  Service Dogs Act
  Alberta Seniors and Community Supports
  12th Floor, Milner Building
  10040 104 Street
  Edmonton, AB T5J 0Z2