Do fake service dogs exist

Answer 1

Unfortunately, they do.

A fake service dog is a dog that is not properly trainedor a handler who is not legally disabled. In most states it's a serious crime to impersonated a disabled person or use an untrained service dog. FL Law gives up to 60 days in jail and/or a $5,000 fine as it's a second degree misdemeanor.

Legally disabled and medically disabled are not the same. The ADA and State Laws dictate who is legally disabled and allowed to use a service dog.

The west coast of the US is having epidemic issues with purse dogs claiming to be service dogs. These untrained pets are causing havoc with businesses and endangering the public by being vicious, loud and non-housebroken.

Many doctors are writing notes to enable patients to take their pets in to public as a service dog, which is illegal. The doctors note usually apply for ESA's (Emotional Support Animals) which are trained pets for the disabled in their homes only. The patient is supposed to take their dog to a school or properly train the pet to be a service dog before taking it in to public as a full service dog.

Most states have now enacted strict laws to punish fakers. The ADA is the federal law that allows service dogs to freely go with their disabled handler. Its vaguness is being used by some to bring their pets (trained or not) with them anywhere they go, though the law clearly states you must be legally disabledand the dog must be individually trained for YOUR disability.