What is the role of a service dog during a medical emergency?

The role of a service dog during a medical emergency is primarily to assist the handler effectively. One significant function is alerting others to the emergency, which can be crucial in ensuring that help arrives quickly. Additionally, service dogs are trained to provide physical support, such as stability, to their handlers during a medical crisis, which can prevent falls and reduce panic.

In many cases, the presence of a service dog can also help manage a handler's anxiety or distress during emergencies, as the dog is a familiar and comforting presence. This multifaceted support highlights the value of service dogs beyond merely being a companion; they are trained to act in ways that directly contribute to the safety and well-being of their handlers during emergencies.

The other options do not encompass the comprehensive support that service dogs provide in medical situations. Remaining passive or avoiding interaction would not address the handler's needs during a crisis, and searching for help is generally a more limited function than the proactive assistance that service dogs offer. Signaling the handler to stay calm might be helpful but does not fully represent the functional responsibilities and skills service dogs are trained to exhibit in such scenarios.