ShareThisBy THELMA DOMENICI
Dear Thelma: I have a neuromuscular disease and use a wheelchair and a service dog. I also live in a small town. No matter how many times I say it, people can't seem to understand that petting the dog and talking to him when he's in harness _ without the handler's permission _ is not "being friendly." It is a very unwelcome distraction.
It is never appropriate to interfere with an assistance animal, and most states have laws on their books regarding such interference. The dog needs permission every time to interact with someone else. If people can't resist, they can ask first, but they shouldn't be disappointed if they are told, "Not right now, the dog is working."
If people truly respect and admire these working dogs and the wonderful tasks they do, then folks can be quiet, keep their hands off and let the dogs do their job. Could you please help me make your readers aware of this?
Answer: Thank you for writing so clearly on the subject of service dogs and allowing me to spread the word.
Assistance dogs include guide dogs for people who are blind and visually impaired, hearing dogs for those who are deaf and hard of hearing, and service dogs for people with disabilities. Some assistance dogs may be identified by a cape placed around their midsection or a special harness. Never touch, pet, feed or talk to dogs that are in service to a person.
While it's very tempting to interact with these intelligent and beautiful dogs, it is proper to remember that they have an important job to do and allow them to do it without distraction.
Dear Thelma: We are staying at a hotel that charges $38 a day for parking and only has valet parking. Are we supposed to tip the valet every time he brings the car up? We are in and out several times a day.
Answer: Some people equate a daily charge for parking at a hotel with a monthly garage rental, in which it is not necessary to tip the attendant each time your car is brought to you.
However, I feel it important to reward a hotel parking attendant for good service with a tip and would offer $1 to $2 when the car is delivered.
Unless the establishment posts a sign saying tips are not necessary, tips may be an important part of the attendant's wages and an important way to show appreciation for a personal service.
Merited tips and good manners never go out of style.
(Have a question about everyday etiquette? Send it to askthelma(at)thelmadomenici.com.)
