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

I heard that miniature horses are considered to be service animals by the ADA. Is this true? [1]

The miniature horse is not included in the definition of service animal, which is limited to dogs. However, the new ADA regulations contain a specific provision which covers miniature horses.  Businesses must make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures to permit the use of a miniature horse by an individual with a disability if the miniature horse has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the individual with a disability.  

Factors to assist in determining whether miniature horses can be accommodated are whether:

  • the miniature horse is housebroken
  • the miniature horse is under the owner’s control
  • the facility can accommodate the miniature horse’s type, size, and weight
  • the miniature horse’s presence will not compromise legitimate safety requirements necessary for the safe operation of the facility

For additional information, take a look at the following resources:

Service Animal Basics [2]

Service Animals, Small Business, and Other Public Accommodations [3]

Service Animal Misconceptions [4]


Source URL: https://adata.org/faq/i-heard-miniature-horses-are-considered-be-service-animals-ada-true

Links
[1] https://adata.org/faq/i-heard-miniature-horses-are-considered-be-service-animals-ada-true
[2] https://adata.org/service-animal-resource-hub/basics
[3] https://adata.org/service-animal-resource-hub/small-business
[4] https://adata.org/service-animal-resource-hub/misconceptions