Service Animals
Service Animal Guidelines
I. Purpose
Minnesota State University, Mankato is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to persons with disabilities and fulfilling its responsibilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA). Service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are generally permitted in all University facilities and programs, except in limited circumstances described below. When appropriate, the University may ask only:
- If the animal is required because of a disability, and
- What work or task the animal has been trained to perform.
The University cannot require documentation, certification, or identification (such as a vest) to verify that an animal is a service animal.
II. Definition
A service animal is a dog individually trained to perform work or tasks for a person with a disability. In specific cases, a housebroken miniature horse may also qualify. Other animals, whether trained or untrained, are not considered service animals under the ADA. Tasks must be directly related to the handler’s disability. Emotional support, comfort, or companionship do not qualify as service animal work.
Examples of work or tasks include, but are not limited to:
- Guiding individuals who are blind or have low vision
- Alerting individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing
- Providing non‑violent protection or rescue assistance
- Pulling a wheelchair
- Assisting during a seizure
- Retrieving items
- Providing physical support for balance or mobility
- Intervening to prevent or interrupt impulsive or harmful behaviors
III. Use and Requirements on Campus
Service animals are permitted in all public areas of the University except where prohibited for safety, health, or research integrity reasons.
Licensure & Vaccination
Service animals must comply with state and local licensing and vaccination requirements, including wearing current tags.
Leash Requirement
Service animals must be leashed at all times unless the handler’s disability makes this impossible or impractical.
Control
Handlers must maintain full control of their service animal at all times. Animals that are disruptive or pose a direct threat to health or safety may be removed if the handler does not take effective corrective action. Handlers are financially responsible for any property damage.
Clean-Up
Handlers are responsible for feeding, care, and waste removal. Designated toileting areas may be assigned. Individuals unable to pick up waste must arrange daily assistance.
These guidelines are derived from the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008 (P.L. 110-325) and its Revised Final Title II Rule (effective March 15, 2011).
