Over 300 Service Dogs Practice Riding OC Buses

OCTA hosts training to prepare working animals for real-world transit conditions

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:03pm

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A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen illustration of a service dog in a harness, repeated in a grid pattern with bold neon colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the accessibility of public transportation for those who rely on working animals.OCTA's service animal training program helps ensure public transit remains accessible and welcoming for riders with disabilities and their working companions.Anaheim Today

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) hosted a Service Animal Training event on Saturday, April 11 in Anaheim, California. More than 300 service dogs participated in the training, which aimed to prepare working animals for the realities of riding public transportation.

Why it matters

Many people with disabilities rely on service animals to assist them in their daily lives, including when using public transit. This training helps ensure these working dogs are comfortable and capable of navigating the bus system, improving accessibility and independence for those who need it most.

The details

The training event allowed service dogs and their handlers to practice boarding, riding, and exiting OCTA buses. Organizers simulated real-world conditions like crowds, noises, and bus movements to help the animals become accustomed to the transit environment.

  • The training event took place on Saturday, April 11, 2026.
  • OCTA holds these service animal training sessions periodically to keep working dogs prepared.

The players

OCTA

The Orange County Transportation Authority, the public transit agency serving Orange County, California.

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What’s next

OCTA plans to continue hosting these service animal training events to ensure public transit remains accessible and comfortable for riders with disabilities and their working companions.

The takeaway

This training program demonstrates OCTA's commitment to making its bus system welcoming and usable for all members of the community, including those who rely on service animals to navigate daily life.