There are two types of animals that may be allowed in specific non-pet friendly spaces due to a disability.
Service dogs
- A service dog is defined as a dog that has been trained to perform specific task(s) for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person's disability.
- A service dog, as defined by NYS and Federal ADA Law is not an emotional support animal (ESA) and not covered in this accommodation process. A service dog does not have to be approved or registered with SSD.
- NOTE: While a service dog does not have to be approved by SSD, we ask students with a service dog living in the University residence halls to communicate the animal's presence with SSD. They will notify the proper staff to help avoid any questions and grant awareness of the dog in case of an emergency.
Emotional support animals (ESA)
- An ESA is an animal that provides emotional support, comfort, well-being and companionship to alleviate the symptoms of a disability.
- An ESA may be considered a reasonable housing accommodation.
- Contact SSD for information on the process of requesting an ESA as an accommodation.