In this First Person account, Rachel Lyons from Ottawa shares her experience living with her service dog, Geneva. To explore more of CBC’s First Person stories, please refer to theFAQ section.
Each time I step into the supermarket, the glaring lights, bustling aisles, and the rush to escape the overwhelming environment hit me hard. My disabilities, triggering panic attacks and dizziness, make it a daunting place for me to navigate.
Accompanied by my service dog, Geneva, donning his mobility harness with clear labels of “service dog” and “do not distract,” I find solace in his presence while I go through my shopping list.
Rachel Lyons expresses how her service dog, Geneva, has transformed her life.
Oftentimes, individuals approach us wanting to pet Geneva. I politely request, “Please refrain from petting him; he is on duty,” and continue my shopping, aided by my noise-canceling headphones that make the environment more manageable.
However, not all encounters go smoothly.
During a past visit to a grocery store, I politely declined a stranger’s attempt to pet Geneva. Later, upon standing up from picking an item, I was startled to find the same person right behind me, visibly upset.
Feeling perplexed, I took off my headphones. The person, in an irate tone, accused me of being disrespectful and unjust toward a dog lover.
Being confronted by an angry stranger in a grocery store aisle was a frightening experience. I repeated “goodbye” and “walk away” until she left me alone.
Once the person left, I realized I was trembling. My legs felt weak, and I struggled to breathe.
Seeking a quiet spot, I sat on the floor with Geneva, who laid across my lap, aiding me through a panic attack—a skill he’s trained to provide by applying pressure and calming my nerves.
It took half an hour before I could stand steadily again, and I remained apprehensive about encountering the woman for the rest of my shopping trip.
</