I started this petition grounded in my own personal experience; I am the living testament of the invaluable support provided by assistance dogs. I share my life with two disabled dogs who serve as both therapy and assistance animals for my everyday life. They are not just pets, they are my lifelines. However, we constantly face cruel verbal abuse due to ignorance and prejudice.

This is a widespread issue, not limited to me. Protection for all dogs used as assistance animals, and their handlers, needs to be made a legislative priority; not just for the medically recognized set of breeds. All dogs have the potential to be important companions and helpers for those of us with various needs.

From a study by the University of California, it is clear that the therapeutic effects of pets, specifically dogs, are significant in promoting the improvement of mental health symptoms and even daily functioning among their handlers (ScienceDaily, 2018). This is an untapped resource for those with physical and psychological disabilities.

Moreover, actions with an intent to abuse or cause harm to others, especially the vulnerable, must not go unpunished. Too many times, those who choose to harm and verbally abuse others go unpunished, creating an environment of fear and hostility.

It's time for change. It's time to expand our understanding and implications of assistance animals, and it's time to take a stand against cruel abuse. This petition aims to push for the legalization of all dogs as assistance dogs, and to enforce punishment for anyone targeting cruelty towards people. Please sign the petition, and join the fight for justice not just for me, but for all handlers and their faithful companions.