How do we stop assistance animals from being turned away in public places?

A recent study led by Dr Tiffani Howell from La Trobe University confirms what many people in the assistance animal community are reporting anecdotally: increasing rejections from transport companies, hospitality outlets and even medical centres.

An online survey of 77 handlers said these constant access denials made them feel annoyed, anxious, excluded, hurt, distressed, exhausted, discouraged and embarrassed. 

The rejections are concerning and point to a need for more education, clearer legislation and greater penalties, according to Lisa Robinson, Director of Assistance Animals International.

Sydney woman Rachael Fullerton, who lives with multiple disabilities, decided to take on the nation's biggest airline - Qantas - when she was refused permission to fly with her assistance dog, Strike. Rachael recently won that battle after a lengthy legal fight, but many challenges still remain.

In this episode of Paws for Thought, we hear three different perspectives relating to access issues experienced by animal assistance handlers. More details on each speaker can be found at:

Qantas agrees to change assistance dog processes after being sued for disability discrimination - ABC News

Full article: Disruptions in Transportation and Medical Care Experienced by Handlers of Assistance Dogs in Australia

ASSISTANCE ANIMALS INTERNATIONAL - Assistance Animals International