There are 500,000 ADA service dogs in the United States.
Every single one of their handlers deserves to walk down the street, use public transit, shop at a store, go to the grocery store, stay at a hotel, and visit their doctor in peace.

What We Do

How Justice Speaks Makes a Difference

Training

We train school-aged kids on what a service dog is, how to act around service dogs, and how to advocate for service dog handlers' rights.

Learn More about school training

Workplace Compliance

We train employees, HR staff, and senior staff members of businesses on service dog handler rights according to the ADA law.

Learn More about workplace compliance

Advocacy

We provide resources to the community to learn more about service dog handler rights and what to do when they aren't respected.

Learn More about advocacy

Why We Do It

Every day, people like Cathy and Aziza are denied their ADA-guaranteed rights to take part in regular activities because they're accompanied by something that provides them necessary support: their service dogs.

A service dog handler seated at a restaurant table

Restaurants and Cafes

Service dog handlers may face challenges when attempting to dine in restaurants or cafes. Some establishments might mistakenly refuse entry, not recognizing that service dogs are legally allowed to accompany their handlers in public eating areas, not just patios or outdoor spaces. This misunderstanding can lead to service dog handlers being unjustly asked to leave or dine outside, despite the ADA's clear stipulation that service dogs are permitted in areas where the general public is allowed.

A service dog handler checking in at a hotel

Hotels and Lodging

Accommodation providers sometimes lack awareness or understanding of the ADA's provisions regarding service dogs. This can result in service dog handlers being denied access to hotel rooms or being charged extra fees for their service dogs. Such practices are against the ADA, which mandates that service dogs are allowed in all guest rooms and public areas in hotels, motels, and other lodging establishments without additional charges.

A service dog handler riding public transportation

Public Transportation and Ride Shares

Service dog handlers might encounter difficulties when using public transportation, such as buses, trains, taxis, or well-known ride share services. Drivers may be unaware that service dogs must be allowed to accompany their handlers on all forms of public transportation. This can lead to service dog handlers being denied boarding or being asked to provide proof of their dog's status, which goes against the ADA guidelines. Some ride share app drivers may pull away as soon as they see their rider has a service dog!

Interested in bringing Justice Speaks to your workplace to educate your staff on service dog handler rights?

Are you a teacher or administrator who'd like us to visit your classrooms to talk about service dog advocacy?

Contact Us Now

Learn Service Dog Basics and More

  • What is a Service Dog?

    Looking to better understand the role service dogs play in your community? Learn more from our Founder, Cathy!

  • Who Qualifies for a Service Dog?

    It is important to understand who qualifies for a service dog under the Americans with Disabilities act. Learn more here!

  • Service Dog Etiquette

    Discover proper service dog etiquette for handlers and the public. Learn about guidelines, avoiding interaction, and fostering respect.

Read All Articles