Willow’s Mom here. I don’t dare say she’s laying and dreaming about First Responders but, she is napping and enjoying some well deserved rest. We’ve had a busy week. Life in general (remember she is with me 24/7), we had a number of speaking/training commitments and we attended the band concert of one of her favorite people. Renee’s Son. She loves him so much and was so thrilled to see him. So she is a bit tuckered and said I could write today.

While we’re out educating, my partner in “Dames with Danes” Rennee LeVerrier and I learn so very much. Some I’ve already shared. As Service Dog handler’s we have a responsibility to do so many things. It’s a huge commitment. However, remember we’re also disabled. This means we come to the table with some medical challenges in most cases. We also need to take responsibility for that. That’s where the “GO” bag comes in. Remember, in an emergency the goal is the Service dog and the handler both arrive at the hospital. We train with regard to the best method to achieve that under what circumstance but, that’s the end result.

What’s a “GO” Bag? No, it’s not to hold supplies for your dogs “potty” needs although they should be in there as well. It’s a bag that in an emergency EMS could easily identify as belonging to your Service Dog. It also helps indicate that you HAVE a Service Dog. You should have one in your car and one in your house near your door. Easy to see and grab. It can be a small nylon duffel with Service Dog patches, DO NOT Separate and any medication inside patches if applicable. Attached to it should be a laminated hang tag with your dogs name, emergency handler contact info, emergency vet info and what type of service dog. Special commands even. Anything that would help someone that may have to handle your dog in an emergency. Also attached should be what’s called a “File of Life.” This is YOUR information. Emergency contact info, medical history, etc. These can be obtained at your towns Senior center or Fire Departments.

The “Go” bag is going to make it easier for EMS to help you in an emergency and make it easier to adhere to the ‘DO NOT Separate Service Dog from Handler” Again, we as handler’s have a responsibility to help them, help us. And quite frankly, Renee and I are not killing ourselves to educate First Responders to ensure they do what’s right if handler’s are not going to do their part.

What should be in the “GO” bag?

1. Extra leash

2. Extra Collar with tag including emergency contact information

3. Extra vest, harness, etc.

4. Small supply of food

5. Collapsible Bowl

6. “Fluffy of mat (if your dog uses one)

7. Muzzle- Shocked? Don’t be. Here’s why. Imagine a motor vehicle accident. God forbid your Service Dog is injured! Even the sweetest, best trained dog in the world my be reactive if injured. Better to be safe and have someone muzzle an injured dog than risk a bite out of a reaction to pain that nonetheless would result in a bite record and your Service Dog being retired. Also, get them used to having it put on.

8.Carabiner hook. These can be very helpful for securing the Service Dog during transport in an ambulance or other vehicle. They attach to the vest not the collar!

9. Potty supplies. Bags, etc.

10. Medications if applicable

With regard to the File of Life. There should also be one on your fridge. Yes, that’s where they go to look for it. On that you can also put information about your Service Dog. REDUNDANCY! It can’t hurt and it can save your life!  ~ Willow’s Mom