I inadvertently deleted my post concerning my encounter with the gentleman who was clearly (pulling at the leash & barking at everybody) misrepresenting his dog as a Service Animal. So I thought I would provide a bit of information from ADI & ADA. Identification, harness (Guide Dog); blaze orange leash and collar, cape (Hearing Dog); blaze orange leash and collar or backpack (Service Dog); ID card required. Misrepresentation, “A person, except a person who is deaf, audibly impaired, or otherwise physically limited shall not use or be in possession of a dog that is wearing a blaze orange leash and collar or harness in any public place.” Penalties, misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for not more than 90 days or a fine not more than $500.00, or both. assistancedogsinternational.org/access-and-laws/adi-guide-to-assistance-dog-laws/ Also, concerning my inquiry as to the legitimacy of said Service dog. When it is not obvious what service an animal provides, only limited inquiries are allowed. Staff may ask two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform. Staff cannot ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task. ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
Posted on: Fri, 30 May 2014 12:22:33 +0000