Communication around assistance dogs

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The need for clear, consistent terminology around assistance dogs has become more critical than ever, especially as individuals with disabilities rely on these essential companions for independence and support in a variety of settings.

Recognising this need, a new standard has been introduced: EVS-EN 17984-1:2024. This standard is a first step toward harmonising understanding and communication around assistance dogs across Europe, setting the foundation for broader support and accessibility.

Vocabulary for assistance dogs

EVS-EN 17984-1 addresses a significant gap by establishing a precise and standardised vocabulary for the world of assistance dogs. It introduces terms that distinguish between different types of assistance dogs, from guide dogs and hearing dogs to autism assistance dogs and clarifies the roles of professionals who work with them.

The vocabulary also includes critical terminology related to health, disabilities, social welfare, and the dog's entire lifespan—ensuring a comprehensive lexicon for this unique sector. 

Additionally, this new standard establishes common language around the conformity assessment process, offering clear definitions to promote consistency in training, certification, and use of assistance dogs.

This effort aims to smooth communication across countries, ensuring that professionals, trainers, and organisations are aligned in how they refer to and assess assistance dogs and their services.

Milestone in the field of assistance dogs

The publication of EVS-EN 17984-1 is a significant milestone. This standard provides an essential reference, helping bridge regional differences and fostering a shared understanding of terms across Europe. 

This new standard builds on the earlier CEN Workshop Agreement CWA 16979:2016, which laid out guidelines for dog training professionals, defining essential knowledge, skills, and competencies. 

If the standard will be widely adopted, it could lead to more consistent, reliable practices across countries, allowing terms like "seizure assistance dog" to hold the same meaning across borders. 

Looking ahead, the EVS-EN 17984-1 series aims to increase awareness of the challenges assistance dog users face, such as traveling between countries, accessing public spaces, and managing the unique needs of their animals. 

The EN 17984 series

The EN 17984 series will continue to be expanded, working to create standardised requirements across all facets of the assistance dog sector.

Future parts of the series will address the proper training, welfare, and certification of assistance dogs, aiming to support the safety and inclusion of people with disabilities - primarily but not only those who are visually impaired.