Frequently Asked Questions

Facts You Should Know About Service Dogs

Q. What is a Service Dog?

A. Any dog individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability.

Q. What is a disability?

A. Any physical or mental condition which substantially limits a major life activity such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning or working.

Q. Are all disabilities visible?

A. No. Many disabilities are hidden, such as epilepsy, heart disease, vision and hearing impairments, lung disease and those of psychological or emotional origin.

Q. Can a business owner or employee ask if a person is disabled or demand to know details about their disability?

A. No.

Q. Can a person be required to show proof that their dog is a Service Dog?

A. No. While some dogs receive "certification papers," others do not. There is currently no national standard for testing any type or Service Dog including guide dogs.

Q. What does a Service Dog look like?

A.  A Service Dog can be any breed, size or color. It might wear specialized equipment such as a backpack or harness or a distinctive collar or leash.

Q. How do I know if a dog is a Service Dog?

A. Ask the person holding the leash. You might ask, "Is this a service dog?" This is non-confrontational and permits the person to identify their dog in a dignified manner. You should always ask permission of the owner before petting or distracting any dog, particularly a Service Dog.

Q. Where are Service Dogs allowed to go?

A. Service dogs are allowed anywhere the general public is allowed. A public accommodation must modify its policies to permit the use of a Service Dog by an individual with a disability, unless doing so would result in a fundamental alteration or jeopardize the safe operation of the public accommodation.
While service dogs might not be found riding on a roller coaster or being admitted into a sterile surgical area, Service Dogs may accompany their owners in taxis, on planes, trains and buses, to the doctor's office, grocery store or restaurant, in hotels, motels, businesses and particularly every other place the general public is welcome.

Q. Who is responsible for the behavior of the Service Dog?

A.  The person at the other end of the leash. Service Dogs must obey leash laws and be under the control of their handlers at all times. Their behavior should be neither disruptive nor destructive.

Q. What laws apply specifically to Service Dogs?

A. Department of Transportation Air Carrier Access Act (1986), Fair Housing Amendments Act (1988), Rehabilitation Act (1973), Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) also referred to as ADA. In addition, most states have laws pertaining to Service Dogs. When State and Federal law conflict, the law that is less restrictive to the person with the disability prevails.