The other night someone mocked me behind my back about using a service dog, saying "...anyone could buy a cane and pretend to have a disability". Granted, I don't have an obvious physical disability. But here is a letter by Attorney Michael Blank I had laminated at a photocopy shop...

To Whom it may Concern: October 6, 2004

Re: Bruce Deile

Bruce Deile is a client of this law firm. Mr. Deile has a disability that is recognized under the Americans With Disabilities Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act.

Mr. Deile is accompanied by a dog, Polenka, a white Husky-Shepherd mix. Polenka assists Mr. Deile with his disability. Therefore, she is a service animal as defined by the ADA and the FHA.

Would you please grant Mr. Deile a reasonable accomodation as defined by the ADA, and allow him access to a public accomodation with his service animal.

Sincerely Yours,

California Rural Legal Assistance

Michael C. Blank

BTW, I'm in Bellingham, don't know why this forum shows Seattle under my name. That's happened often. Months ago it even listed me from Louisiana. Never been there; don't intend to go.