Service Animals and Assistive Devices

Service animals

• Must be allowed wherever the public may go.
• Staff may ask only if the animal is needed because of a disability, and what task it performs.
• Must not be asked for papers, proof of the disability, or a fee.
• Can be removed only if out of control and the handler does not take action, or if the animal is not housebroken.

Assistive devices

Officers and officials must not take, move or damage a person's assistive device unless there is a clear safety reason, such as a search incident to arrest. The device must be returned as soon as possible, and the person helped meanwhile.

Interference

Distracting, harming or interfering with a service animal can be charged under Animal Cruelty, Vandalism or Harassment, depending on the act.