Service Dog Laws create an accepting, safe and fair
environment for people with disabilities to bring their service dogs with them
in public. Several federal agencies have developed service dog laws to protect
disabled individuals when in public, traveling or seeing housing. We’ve listed
out some of the top resources, and what they help define in regards to service
dog laws:
ADA: Americans with
Disabilities Act.
This is a civil rights law that outlines laws about allowing
public access to disabled individuals with a Service Animal.
The ADA includes sections regarding Service Dog Laws
outlines rules that businesses and equally, the handler must follow:
What are the Service Dog Laws
for Businesses?
Service Dogs are protected under
the ADA. According to these service dog laws, no public establishment may deny
a person and their service dog entry into their business. This applies to
restaurants, shops and any other place where the general public is permitted.
Businesses may not ask specifics
about a disability but may ask if the animal is required because of a
disability and what task the dog has been trained to perform. Businesses also
may not ask for documentation about whether the animal is a certified, licensed
or trained service animal. Although businesses may not charge an extra amount
to accommodate the dog, they may charge for any damage done on the property by
the dog.
What are the Service Dog Laws
for Owners?
Service dogs must be under
control at all times. This is usually achieved using a leash or harness,
however in the case that the handler is unable to hold a leash due to a
disability, the dog may be under voice control.
If a service dog disrupts the
public, the owner and the dog may be asked to leave the premises. This includes
excessive barking, jumping or running around. If the dog poses a threat to
people, such as by growling, you may also be asked to leave.
FHAA: Fair Housing
Amendments Act
This is a civil rights law amendment that extends ADA
protection to disabled individuals with a Service Animal who are seeking
housing in the public sector.
Service dog laws also cover housing. According to the Fair
Housing Act, a person with a disability may not be denied housing based on that
disability. A landlord or homeowner's association must provide reasonable
accommodations to people with a disability, which includes waiving a no-pets
rule and deposit.
ACAA: Air Carrier
Access Act
The Air Carrier Access Act of 1986 states that air carriers
may not discriminate against anyone with a disability. This includes allowing
service animals to accompany their owners in the cabin on flights with no
additional charge.
Service Dog Laws Make Everything Better
These service dog laws help to protect everyone, from the
person with a disability to the general public. If you have questions about
service dog laws, check the ADA.
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