Service Animals
Over 12,000 people with disabilities use the aid
of service animals. Although the most familiar
types of service animals are guide dogs used by
people who are blind, service animals are
assisting persons who have other disabilities as
well. Many disabling conditions are invisible.
Therefore, every person who is accompanied by a
service animal may or may not "look" disabled. A
service animal is NOT required to have any
special certification.
What is a Service Animal? A service animal is
NOT a pet!
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act
of 1990 (ADA) A service animal is any animal
that has been individually trained to provide
assistance or perform tasks for the benefit of a
person with a physical or mental disability
which substantially limits one or more major
life functions.
Service Animal Access
The civil rights of persons with disabilities to
be accompanied by their service animals in all
places of public and housing accommodations is
protected by the following Federal laws:
· Americans with Disabilities Act, ADA (1990)
· Air Carrier Access Act (1986)
· Fair Housing Amendments Act (1988)
· Rehabilitation Act (1973)
Service Dog Etiquette
· Do not touch the Service Animal, or the person
it assists, without permission.
· Do not make noises at the Service Animal, it
may distract the animal from doing its job.
· Do not feed the Service Animal; it may disrupt
his/her schedule.
· Do not be offended if the person does not feel
like discussing his/her disability or the
assistance the Service Animal provides. Not
everyone wants to be a walking-talking "show and
tell" exhibit.