Service Animal Policies
Service Animal Policies
For detailed information on ADA service animal laws, visit https://www.ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html.
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) recognizes only dogs (and sometimes miniature horses) as service animals since March 15, 2011. These animals must be individually trained to perform tasks related to a person's disability. Emotional support animals are not considered service animals.
The ADA only allows two questions regarding service animals:
- Is the animal necessary for the person's disability?
- What work and/or task is the animal trained to perform?
According to ADA laws, service animals are allowed on campus wherever students and the public are normally permitted. Access cannot be denied based on allergies or fear of dogs. There is no requirement for vests, ID tags, or specific harnesses for service animals. Students with disabilities requiring service animals may voluntarily complete the Service Animal Registration E-form. Questions can be directed to Disability Support Services at DSS@ctcd.edu or 254-526-1195.
Responsibilities of Service Animal Owner:
- Make sure the service animal has all required vaccinations and wears a visible tag (proof may be needed).
- Ensure the service animal is licensed in the city or state where it's registered.
- Take responsibility for any damage or harm caused by the service animal on campus or to others during college events.
- Care for, control, and supervise the service animal; it must be clean and leashed on campus.
- Use harnesses, leashes, or tethers unless they interfere with the service animal's work or the individual's disability.
- Ensure the dog is housebroken, clean up litter immediately, and dispose of it properly.
- Remove the service animal from the premises if it exhibits unacceptable behavior that cannot be controlled.
- Understand that violating these responsibilities may lead to disciplinary action.
Service Animals in Training:
An individual training a service animal can bring it to campus if:
- Accompanied by an approved trainer from a reputable organization.
- The individual provides proof to DSS that they are an approved trainer