DEFINITION OF TERMS

Service Animals – Defined as dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.

Therapy and Companion Animals (Pet) – Animals that provide comfort, but have no special training.

PROCEDURES

Students requesting the use of a service animal as an accommodation for a disability must register with the Office of Adaptive Services and respond to the following queries regarding the service animal.

1. Is the dog required because of a disability?
2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

All information presented will be used in the review of the request, including consultation with the necessary departments. The student will be notified in writing of the decision.

Current laws do not provide for individuals to be accompanied by therapy and companion animals (pets) in places of public accommodation. Therefore, approval for requests for therapy and companion pets fall within the authority of the University regarding accommodations related to a disability. Students requesting the use of a therapy or companion animal must follow the requirements for service animals through the Office of Adaptive Services.