Assemblyman Tom Lackey, R-Antelope Valley, introduced a bill Tuesday that would help protect all guide, signal and service dogs, whether they are on- or off-duty.

Under the current law, service dogs attacked while “on-duty” are protected by the state; however off-duty dogs and their owners receive no such guarantee, according to Lacky.

“These are the animals whose life’s work revolves around protecting us. The least we can do for them is ensuring that both they and their owners are properly cared for in a time of need,” said Lackey.

Under current state law, any dog owner who allows their dog to injure or kill a service dog can be charged with a misdemeanor, but this doesn’t include animals who are off-duty.

AB 169 advocates for the protection of these dogs and their owners and holds the perpetrators accountable with restitution payments, according to the assemblyman.

Animals in public that are off-leash pose a threat to trained service animals that are taught to not react to distractions like other animals, according to officials.

For example, a service dog owner named Nancy experienced an attack while at the park.

Her service dog, Paisley, was attacked in public by two dogs who were not on a leash. She and her guide dog were traumatized, suffering mental and emotional distress from the attack, according to officials.

The owner of the attacking dogs was never held responsible and Nancy had to take care of the bills herself.

Under AB 169, Nancy would be protected under the law because the perpetrators would be held legally accountable with restitution payments.

“Without the support of their guide dog, someone who relies on a dog to accomplish everyday tasks will be rendered helpless,” said Lackey. “A guide dog instills confidence, ensures protection and gives freedom back to someone affected by a disability.”

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