Trained work that supports independence

What makes a service animal different

Under the ADA, a service dog is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. The task must be directly related to that disability.

• Guiding a person who is blind or has low vision.
• Alerting to sounds, seizures, or medical changes.
• Assisting with mobility, balance, or retrieving objects.
• Interrupting dangerous behavior or reminding the handler to take necessary action.

Public access

A service animal can generally accompany its handler in places open to the public. It must remain under control and may be excluded if it is out of control or not housebroken.

• No federal vest, card, or certificate is required.
• A pet fee may not be charged.
• The handler remains responsible for damage caused by the animal.

The two permitted questions

When the need is not obvious, staff may ask whether the dog is required because of a disability and what work or task it has been trained to perform. Staff may not demand medical details or a demonstration.