The topic of service animals is complex. We’ve created this page to help provide some clarity. It is broken up into nine different sections addressing specific issues related to service animals.
The majority of this information was developed from existing materials, including factsheets and handbooks, published by the ADA National Network on adata.org.
All of the information provided is specific to either the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other federal laws. Some states may have laws the expand the definition of a service animal and the rights of individuals with disabilities. Michigan State University has developed a comprehensive state-by-state guide about different state laws related to service animals.
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Service Animal Basics
Basic information about the definition of a service animal, where they can go, and what questions you can ask a handler.
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Taking a Service Animal to Work
Information about service animals in the workplace.
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Traveling With a Service Animal
Information about traveling with a service animal or emotional support animal.
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Living with a Service Animal
Information about reasonable accommodations for service animals and emotional support animals in housing.
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Taking a Service Animal to School
Information about the complexities of taking a service animal to school, including K-12 schools and post-secondary institutions.
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Service Animals in Emergency Situations
Information about service animals in emergency situations and resources to help you prepare.
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Service Animal or Emotional Support Animal?
Information about the differences of various working animals.
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Service Animals, Small Business, and Other Public Accommodations
Information about service animals for small business owners and other places of public accommodation, their staff, and their customers.
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Service Animal Misconceptions
A list of common misconceptions about service animals.