Which of the following is listed as a task for psychiatric service dogs?

• A. Non protective boundary control
• B. DPT
• C. About Face
• D. Alert

Answer: (C)

Psychiatric service dogs are trained to perform tasks that interrupt distress and help the handler regulate emotions. About Face fits into this by providing a concrete, physical interruption that changes the handler’s immediate environment. When the dog performs About Face, it pivots to change its orientation—often turning so the handler is visually redirected and the stimulus causing anxiety becomes less prominent. This redirection creates a moment for the handler to reset, regain focus, and reduce emotional arousal. It’s a task built around providing structure and a calming, controlled interaction at a moment of overwhelm.

Deep Pressure Therapy is a well-known soothing technique the dog can apply, which is why that option is commonly listed. Alert is also a core function for signaling a change in emotional state. Non protective boundary control describes guarding or boundary behaviors rather than a psychiatric-focused interruption or grounding technique, so it isn’t typically listed as a psychiatric task.