Procedures for Service Animals on Campus

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with disabilities. A dog meeting this definition is considered a service animal regardless of whether they have been licensed or certified by state or local agencies. Service animals are working animals, not pets. An animal that is used to provide an emotionally supportive therapeutic service for a student does not meet the definition of a service animal. A student is not required to provide an instructor an Academic Accommodation Form from the Disability Services Coordinator to have the service animal in the classroom. The student does assume responsibilities for the care of the service animal.

Responsibilities of Individuals Using Service Animals

• The owner must follow local requirements for pets.
• The service animal is in a harness or on a leash at all times.
• The service animal is under control and behaves properly at all times.
• The supervision of the service animal is the responsibility of its owner.
• Regular bathing of the service animal is expected to avoid odor and shedding.
• The service animal must be toilet trained; the owner is responsible for the cleanup of animal waste.
• The owner must use appropriate toilet areas for the service animal.

Additional information can be obtained from the Disability Services Coordinator.