Service Animal FAQs

United States Department of Justice FAQs

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) has developed an FAQ document that has 37 different questions and answers, covering a range of topics including service animal definitions, certification requirements, and the exclusion of service animals.

ADA National Network’s FAQs

The ADA National Network’s technical assistance specialists, located around the country in each of the 10 regional ADA centers, have developed the following questions:

What is a service animal?

How can I tell if an animal is really a service animal and not just a pet?

I heard that miniature horses are considered to be service animals by the ADA. Is this true?

What are the laws about services animals that apply to my business?

I have always had a clearly posted "no pets" policy at my business. Do I still have to allow service animals in?

What must I do when an individual with a service animal comes to my business?

Can I exclude an animal that doesn't really seem dangerous but is disruptive to my business?

What if a service animal barks or growls at other people, or otherwise acts out of control?

Can I charge maintenance or cleaning fees for customers who bring service animals into my business?

Am I responsible for the animal while the person with a disability is in my business?

My county health department has told me that only a "guide dog in harness" has to be admitted to my restaurant. If I follow their advice, am I violating the ADA?

I operate a private taxicab and I don't want animals in my taxi; they smell, shed hair and sometimes have "accidents." Am I violating the ADA if I refuse to pick up someone with a service animal?

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