Current Events > Is it rude to ask to pet someone's service animal?

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I work at a hospital and I recently showed up to work my graveyard shift. I saw someone walking in the hospital with their service dog. I see a young girl, maybe 8 years old, ask to pet the dog. I know you dont pet service animals. That is rude. I dont know about asking for permission though. Is that considered rude?

I think the guy let her pet the dog. Im not sure. It isnt like I was standing around watching. Maybe the guy didnt say anything because she was a little girl. Maybe its not rude at all. Just curious what the right etiquette is.

No. You're absolutely supposed to ask if they aren't wearing a "do not pet" sign. Petting it without asking is the rude part because they might be actively working.

Kinda
it depends on the circumstance
like a person on the street randomly walking?no
if the dog and its owner is in a mostly relaxed place like the hospital ten yes it's ok to ask cause the dog won't be as alert

most domesticated animals like dogs or cats can sense if people are good or bad so it won't be as concerned about the kid being told by itso wner in a nice voice it's ok to touch the service dog
on the other hand a dog would probably start barking or be a barrier if the kid ran up to it on te street

hyperskate65 posted...

No. You're absolutely supposed to ask if they aren't wearing a "do not pet" sign. Petting it without asking is the rude part because they might be actively working.

it's dangerous not just rude

if they ask first, no
otherwise, yes

Absolutely never pet without asking, but feel free to ask if there's not a "Do Not Pet" sign hanging over them. Worst case they'll tell you no, best case you get to pet a good dog.

Asking to pet isn't rude. The child is 8. Cut them some slack.

Adults? Just don't even consider petting.

Secret_Asian_Man posted...

Asking to pet isn't rude. The child is 8. Cut them some slack.

Adults? Just don't even consider petting.

I wasnt trying to go after the kid. She is young and ignorant. It isnt fair to judge her like that at all. I was just curious about if her actions were OK or not because I didnt even know myself

It's very rude. A service dog is a legal extension of the human being they're assisting. You might as well be asking permission to run your fingers through someone's hair. It's fine if someone volunteers to let you pet their service animal, but don't ask.

Be courteous and resist the urge to touch the fluffy. There are other cute doggos that are available for petting.