No. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA. However, this definition does not affect or limit the broader definition of “assistance animal” under the Fair Housing Act or the broader definition of “service animal” under the Air Carrier Access Act.
Some State and local laws also define service animal more broadly than the ADA does. Information about such laws can be obtained from the State Attorney General’s office. The use of service dogs for psychiatric and neurological disabilities is explicitly protected under the ADA. The crime deterrent effects of an animal’s presence do not qualify that animal as a service animal and an animal individually trained to provide aggressive protection, such as an attack dog, is notconsidered to be a service animal.
Recent Posts
Police Have Qualified Immunity for K-9 Dog Bites
Learn why police have qualified immunity for K-9 dog bites in this educational article. If [...]
New York Animal Rescue Malicious Prosecution Case Dismissed
After one of her rescue dogs gave birth to nine puppies, which resulted in fifteen [...]
Are Miniature Horses Permitted In Facilities?
Yes. In addition to the ADA provisions about service dogs, there are separate provisions about [...]
Can Disabled People With Service Animals Be Isolated From Other Patrons, Treated Less Favorably Than Other Patrons, Or Charged Fees That Are Not Charged To Other Patrons Without Animals?
No and in addition, if a business requires a deposit or fee to be paid [...]
When Can A Person With A Disability Be Asked To Remove His Or Her Service Animal?
If the dog is out of control and the handler does not take effective action [...]
Can I Deny Access Of Service Animals For Fear of Allergies From Dogs?
No. Allergies and fear of dogs are not valid reasons for denying access or refusing [...]
What Questions May Be Asked Of A Person With A Service Animal?
When it is not obvious what service an animal provides, only limited inquiries are allowed. [...]
How Must Service Animals Be Controlled?
Service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service [...]