Service Dog Certification

Businesses and organizations that serve the public must allow people to bring their service animals into all areas of the facility where customers are normally allowed to go. 

Business are NOT permitted to ask individuals if they have a disability or to remove their service animal from the premises unless:

• The animal is out of control and the animal’s owner does not take effective action to control it, or
• The animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.

Service dogs are allowed in almost all public places as protected under the Disabilities Act. This legislation enables individuals to be accompanied by their service dogs in public areas where pets are typically not allowed. 

Here are some specific places where service dogs are generally allowed:

• Public Transportation: Service dogs are permitted on public transportation such as buses, trains, and subways.
• Housing Facilities: Service dogs are allowed in housing facilities, even those with a no-pet policy.
• Workplaces: Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, which includes allowing service dogs.
• Commercial Facilities and Businesses: Service dogs are allowed in businesses such as stores, hotels & restaurants.
• Parks and Public Areas: Service dogs can accompany their handlers in parks, beaches, and other public areas.

It’s important to note that service dogs must be under control at all times, either via a harness, leash, depending on the handler’s needs. 

It is recommended to have proof that the animal has been registered to help business staff and the general public to recognize that your dog is a support animal. You can provide proof by registering your dog by clicking HERE

Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals are permitted to travel in the cabin with their handler. 

Airlines can determine if an animal is a service animal or pet by:

• Looking for physical indicators such as the presence of a harness or patches;
• Requiring proof or documentation for service dogs registration.

Always check with your airline in advance for specific regulations and requirements. 

Yes, service dogs are allowed in restaurants.

A person who uses a service dog has the right to bring the dog into a restaurant.

It’s important to note that service dogs must be under control at all times, either via a harness, leash, depending on the handler’s needs. 

Businesses cannot legally inquire or ask for the following: 

1. Ask about the person’s disability or if they have any physical disability.
2. Request any medical documentation.
3. Require any proof of training.
4. Ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task.

Certification can provide easier identification of the service dog, leading to reduced inquiries and smoother access to public places. 

In situations such as housing or travel, certification offer a quick way to demonstrate the dog’s role. 

Service dog vests are not legally required. However, many dog handlers choose to use vests or identification patches to signal their dog’s certification status.