PawPADs - Assistance Dogs and The Law

Assistance Dogs and the Law

"One woman very courteously approached me in a grocery store, saying, "Excuse me, but I must ask why you've brought your dog into the store." I told her that Grace is a service dog.... A few minutes later, she returned. "Excuse me, but you told me that your dog is allowed in the store because she's a service dog. Is she Army or Navy?"
-Terry Thistlewaite - Author

A Service Dog is NOT a pet.

There are Federal and State laws which provide access rights for certain persons with service dogs.

Below are some useful links to learn about these rights and responsibilities.

The information on these links is intended for general information purposes only, and is not legal advice. Legal advice depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each individual's situation.

The U.S. Department of Justice provides information about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) through a toll-free ADA Information Line 800 - 514 - 0301 (Voice) 800 - 514 - 0383 (TTY)

These links are to other websites, including Government, non-profits and other organizations. PawPADs does not guarantee that the information on these websites is accurate, up-to-date, or relevant to your situation.

ADA Information Line:

The U.S. Department of Justice provides information about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) through a toll-free ADA Information Line. This service permits businesses, State and local governments, or others to call and ask questions about general or specific ADA requirements including questions about the ADA Standards for Accessible Design. ADA specialists are available Monday through Friday from 9:30 AM until 5:30 PM (eastern time) except on Thursday when the hours are 12:30 PM until 5:30 PM. Spanish language service is also available.

For general ADA information, answers to specific technical questions, free ADA materials, or information about filing a complaint, call:

800 - 514 - 0301 (Voice)
800 - 514 - 0383 (TTY)



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