Thousands of people with disabilities rely on assistance dogs for support in their daily activities and to maintain independence.1,2

Assistance dogs are highly trained to support individuals with disabilities or long-term medical conditions, such as autism, anxiety, epilepsy, and diabetes.1,3 They should be treated as ‘auxiliary aids', rather than pets.3 Most working assistance dogs have an identification book and may wear a jacket or harness. However, these are not legal requirements. In the UK, there are no strict regulations regarding assistance dog training. The crucial requirement is that the dog must be highly trained; this training can be provided by a charity, independent trainer, or the owner.1,3,4

Therapy dogs, however, are trained to offer support and comfort. They typically interact with a wide range of people, visiting settings such as hospital wards, schools and care homes. Therapy dogs do not hold the same legal privileges as assistance dogs.1,2

Emotional support dogs, which do not require specialist training, are not referenced in law and therefore do not hold the same legal protections.1

Healthcare providers have a duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for disabled patients.2,3,4 However, the specifics of each case should be considered. In a dental practice, the assistance or therapy dog may not be able to accompany their owner into certain areas due to infection control. If this occurs, the practice must find a safe and appropriate place where the dog can be left.2,4

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) released guidance for dental practices on assistance and therapy dogs.2

Assistance and therapy dogs should remain calm in the dental environment, be trained not to react to dropped equipment or instruments and should not pick anything up from the floor.2

The CQC also suggests that assistance or therapy dogs should ideally be hypoallergenic breeds. Practices should take reasonable steps to minimise exposure to the dog for individuals with an allergy or phobia.2,4 One approach is scheduling appointments for patients with assistance or therapy dogs at the end of a clinical session.

Potential hazards that can affect the dog must also be considered. If a dog suffers a sharps injury, the affected area should be rinsed under clean running water. If this is not feasible, or if the injury is more severe, the owner should seek veterinary advice.2

Dental professionals should facilitate access for patients who rely on assistance and therapy dogs, with policies in place to minimise risk to other patients and staff.2,3,4