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Service Dog Etiquette

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Learn about Service Dog Etiquette

 

What is a service animal?

Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.

 

The dog must be trained to take a specific action when needed to assist the person with a disability. Examples include, but not are not limited to: A person with diabetes may have a dog that is trained to alert them when their blood sugar reaches high or low levels. A person with depression may have a dog that is trained to remind to take their medication. A person who has epilepsy may have a dog that is trained to detect the onset of a seizure and then help them remain safe during the seizure.

In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

 

Businesses may:

  1. Ask if the service dog is required because of a disability.
  2. Ask what work or tasks the dog is trained to perform.

 

Businesses may not:

  1. Ask for special identification for the dog.
  2. Ask about the handler’s disability. (the disability may not be obvious)
  3. Charge additional fees because of the dog.
  4. Refuse admittance, isolate, segregate, or treat the person less favorably than other patrons.

 

Establishments that sell or prepare food must allow service dogs in public areas even if state or local health codes prohibit dogs on the premises.

 

Refusal to provide equal access to people with disabilities accompanied by their service dog is a federal civil rights violation as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.

 

Violators can be required to pay for damages and penalties.

 

Questions?

 

Call the official ADA information line of the U.S. Department of Justice

800-514-0301

 

or visit

ADA Requirements: Service Animals | ADA.gov