Buying the Best Vest for Your Service Dog

If you have a service dog, you know how important it is to have the proper identification on him or her so people can easily recognize they’re a working service dog and not just an ordinary dog that they can approach and pet. The best way a service dog can be easily and quickly identified is with a vest. The law doesn’t require service dogs to wear them but getting them one is a safer route to take when venturing out in public.

Some people are critical these days about whether a service dog, really is a service dog or one that owners are trying to pass off as one just to be able to have their dog with them. It’s best to avoid critical eyes and potential hassles.

There are many places you can buy vests, but because they get a lot of use and are often in inclement weather, you should do a little homework to ensure you’re getting the best service dog vest you can. These tips can help you with that.

Finding a Place That Sells Vests

There are many places online where you could purchase a vest and the other things that go along with it, such as patches, a leash, etc. You may want to purchase your dog’s vest and other related supplies from a seller that is recognized for its service animal-related products. Check to see if they are endorsed or recommended by a national or international service dog organization. In fact, if you went to one of those organization’s websites, they may offer a link to a seller of such merchandise.

Tips for Buying a Vest

• Before ordering any vest, make sure to measure your dog’s chest size so you order the proper size. Also, if your dog is smaller, or you can lift 50 to 75 pounds or more you may want to consider a vest or harness that has a built-in handle so you can lift your dog as needed. Here are some other tips you may want to use in deciding on the right vest to buy:
• Make sure it can easily be wiped off in the event it gets dirty or stained. It should be a high-quality, durable material, but also something that it lightweight if you live in a warm climate.
• As mentioned earlier, there will be plenty of times you and your service dog is in inclement weather. In the event the vest gets wet in rain, snow, or because of something else, you’ll want to make sure it is water-repellant and will dry quickly.
• The vest you buy should be resistant to abrasion, fading, mildew and rot.
• Finally, make sure the vest comes with a good warranty; a lifetime one is the best. And make sure you ask and understand the company’s exchange or return policy in the event, it doesn’t fit, or you’re not satisfied with it for one reason or another.

Doing a little research can help ensure you’re buying the best service dog vest and from the best company possible.