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Anyone had Service Dog Experiences in Ecuador?

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JacquieMackenzie

My husband is a Purple Heart Awarded Vietnam Veteran. He returned from military service with Diabetes, PTSD, Heart Disease, Hearing Loss, Lung Scarring, and High Blood Pressure. He uses a 15 pound service dog (vest, tags, carrier, letters). Any advice related to bus or airline travel, stores, etc?

Thanks,

Jacquie & Don

ZenSPIKE

J & D,
I just heard from some friends that are coming down from San Francisco that they were allowed to bring their small dog into Ecuador, in the cabin with them! They got the dog designated as a service dog, but I don't really believe that's the case, unless you consider all dogs as a form of service provider as in what they can do to calm the human condition.< smile> I guess as long as the pooch will fit on your lap it was cool with the airlines.
If you need more detailed info, PM me and I can put you in touch with them, and the procedures they went through.
Best Wishes,
Neil

JacquieMackenzie

Yes, PLEASE. The dogs have to fit under the seat as "pets" but the rules for service dogs are different in the USA, UK, and some other more enlightened parts of the world as the international studies are all positive.

We have a psychologist here in Central Mexico making totally amazing progress with terrified homeless (shelter) dogs and severely abused kids.

Studies show it works the same for adults; the dogs protect by alerting of sugar imbalance, pending stroke or heart attack, vertigo, cancer, and more.

We need to contact your friends and find out particulars: airlines, carrier size, vet verifications of health (some are within 24 hours of boarding!).

Thank you so much!!!

Jacquie & Don

CB48

Dear Jacquie and Don,
   It will be very difficult to use a service dog on the bus in Quito. It is EXTREMELY crowded and the doors close no matter who is in the way.  People will assist by pulling one inside and out of harms way but a small dog would have a hard time negotiating his way.  That being said, I saw an unaccompanied dog of about 40 pounds manage getting on and off very well yesterday.  Sidewalks are very narrow in many places in the city of Quito and I have seen lots of people carrying their small dogs. 
  I visited a pet shop yesterday--most brands of dog food available but not all flavors or types (my dog is partial to beef flavor little bites and they didn't carry it but did have other Purina)  They also carried most other major US dog foods, leashes, but No toys or beds.  Have seen a few people with well groomed small  dogs so there is obviously a good groomer in town.
If you fly Delta (and most other airlines) and the dog will fit in their carrier, you can bring him in the cabin  Service dogs can always go in the cabin, I think???  Have a good trip. 
Cathie

timo31750

Inquire to the airlines directly for advice. As for stores etc. each will have their own policies. Do you have any special tags indicating this is a medically issued support function?
If so, they should honor that as they would a blind individuals dog.
I am afraid that each situation encountered will be on a case by case basis unless each store you desire to visit is pre-notified or you have the appropriate medical credentials at the time of your visits to support your claim of medical necessities for your husband. Bear in mind they do not have to honor USA authorizations regarding medical requirements and you may need to contact the appropriate Ecuadorian Govt, Agency to explore your options. You'll find most you encounter courteous and willing to help you.
Good Luck Gunny Sgt. USMC 6th Marines Recon,. 67-78 (3 hearts)

JacquieMackenzie

Thank you!!

Yes, we have vests, tags, and medical letters.

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