How can a handler ensure their service dog remains effective throughout their working life?

The effectiveness of a service dog throughout its working life is fundamentally linked to consistent training, socialization, and regular veterinary care. Ongoing training ensures that the dog retains and sharpens the skills necessary to perform its duties, which is vital because these tasks can often be complex. Socialization is critical as it helps the dog become accustomed to various environments and situations, thereby enhancing its ability to perform tasks reliably in real-world scenarios.

Veterinary care plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and well-being of the dog, ensuring it is physically capable of performing its duties. Regular check-ups can prevent or address health issues before they detract from the dog's ability to work effectively. When all these components—training, socialization, and veterinary care—are prioritized, the service dog can maintain its effectiveness and remain a reliable partner for the handler throughout its working life.