They TETHER the children to the dogs for "flight risks" so either the dog is gonna take off dragging the kid, or the kid takes off dragging the dog. Dogs have been seriously hurt because of the child turning their anger at not being able to run on the dog. It's downright cruel to use tether dogs. SD Handler and Advocate. Owner training takes LONGER because you're not a pro. Typically at least 3 years. Programs that have decades old breeding programs for service dogs still have tons of wash outs, not every dog has the temperament and not every dog makes it through training. SDs for kids is super controversial in the community. The purpose of a SD is independence. Disabled adult can go out alone, doesn't need to be with someone for help. Kids don't need independence. Studies have found service dogs placed with kids can prevent the kid from learning age appropriate healthy coping mechanisms. They only know how to function with assistance, the opposite of setting up for an independent adult. Training and handling a SD is an incredible amount of work. Parents often think this will lighten their load, in fact it worsens it. All dogs are essentially toddlers, would you put a toddler in charge of your child? Service dogs are trained to work for ONE handler typically. It's considered by some unethical to expect the dog to be handled and take commands from the parent, but work for the child. Leads to confusion and excessive workload.