FAQs

Question: Do service dogs need to wear a vest or any identification?
No, service dogs do not legally have to wear a vest or any form of identification.

Question: Are service dogs required to wear a leash in public?
No, service dogs are not required to be wearing a leash in public if it impedes on their ability to do their job. The only requirement is that the dog must be under control, including having the ability to respond properly to verbal and hand cues.

Question: Are service dogs legally allowed to bark in public?
Service dogs are legally allowed to bark, although it may be considered impolite in certain contexts.

Question: Is it okay to talk to a service dog while it is working?
No, it is not okay to talk to a service dog while it is working. Distracting them from being a service dog is not a smart idea.

Question: Can service dogs be pet?
Yes, service dogs can be pet, but it is ultimately up to the handler. Ask the handler politely before petting their dog.

Question: What questions from a business are service dog owners required to answer?
The only questions from a company that a service dog owner is obligated to answer are the questions of “is that a service dog?” and “what task does that dog provide?”. Outside of that, a service dog owner is not required to answer any other questions.

Question: Can you be stopped from living somewhere because you have a service dog?
No, owning a service dog can not legally prevent you from living anywhere. Your place of residency can also not charge you a pet fee for owning a service dog.

Question: Can hotels legally charge a pet fee for a service dog?
Hotels can NOT legally charge a pet fee for a service dog. Service dogs can go to any hotel legally, whether the hotel claims to allow pets or not.

Question: What is the difference between an emotional support animal and a service dog?

Emotional support animals are not covered under the ADA law like service dogs are. Emotional support animals are essentially confined to cars and houses. Service dogs, on the other hand, can go anywhere that their human goes.