Getting to Know Service Animals
Here is some basic information on ADA law and service animals.
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What is the legal definition of a service animal?
Therapy Animals are not legally defined by federal law but there is a legal definition for service animals in the Americans With Disabilities Act. Service animals are specifically trained to help the disability-related needs of their handlers and are not considered 'pets'
Is using a service animal protected in public places?
Federal laws protect the rights of individuals with disabilities who are accompanied by their service animals in public places.
Does a guide dog have to be certified by the State to be an “official” guide dog?
No. Any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability.
Can a business owner insist on proof of state certification before letting a service animal into the business?
No. Certificates, licenses or other physical proof that a dog qualifies as a service animal.
What can a business owner ask the service dog handler? If the dog’s function is not apparent, then the ADA permits only two kinds of questions. The business owner can ask, “Is this dog required because of a disability?" and “What specific assistive task or tasks has the dog been trained to perform?”
Under what conditions can a service animal be excluded from a facility?
Under ADA law, an animal can be excluded if it is a direct threat to the health or safety of other people or will disrupt the regular operation of the business. Handlers of service animals must obey local leash and vaccine laws and must have their dogs under control at all times. An example of an animal being a direct threat to public safety would be if the service animal was eating at tables or sitting on chairs meant for patrons.
Can businesses hold service animal owners responsible for damage done by the animal?
Yes. Service-dog handlers are responsible for property damage just like other patrons.
Can businesses require the owners of service animals to pay “pet fees” or segregate them into “animal-friendly” areas? Because service dogs are not pets, the U.S. Justice Department, which is the ADA’s primary enforcement authority, businesses cannot subject them to “pet fees” or segregation in “animal-friendly” areas.
Does an animal have to be able to do anything to be a service animal?
Yes. A dog must be able to perform specific tasks that relate to a person’s disability.
Are therapy animals protected in the same way? Therapy, emotional-support, and companion animals are considered pets and do not fall under the regulations provided by the ADA.