Assistance Dog Laws
Can Do Canines is not a legal resource, but we are
fami
liar with the laws that concern assistance dogs. We advocate for our clients and graduates in every way possible in order to gain equal access for them under all the laws that may benefit them.
Understanding the laws and what they mean can be confusing. It is important to first remember that assistance dogs do not have rights under the law. However, people with disabilities do have rights and some of those concern their assistance dogs.
- Some laws allow an assistance dog team to have access to public places, like restaurants and stores. Some laws support the right of a person with a disability to have their assistance dog accompany them to work.
- Some laws ensure that a person with a disability who has an assistance dog can live in a rental unit, even if that facility does not permit pets. Some laws allow trainers to take assistance dog trainees into public places.
- Some of these laws are state and local and are enforceable by the police and the city attorney.
- Some laws are federal and require a lawsuit for enforcement. Sometimes there are state and federal laws that address the same issue, and they may not agree with each other!
Here are some helpful sites for those with particular questions about assistance dogs and the law. For more info visit Internaltional Association of Assistance Dog Partners
United States: Federal Legislation Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Resources:
- ADA Home Page
- ADA Documents Center
- ADA Technical Assistance Program
- DOJ Speaks Out - Service Animals in Places of Business
- DOJ/NAAG Disability Rights Task Force - Attorney Generals from 24 states contributed
- Guide to Federal Disability Rights Laws
Note: this site provides a good comprehensive summary of following laws:
- Fair Housing ActAir Carrier Access ActCivil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act
- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
- Rehabilitation Act
- Architectural Barriers Act
For a general resource, Assistance Dogs International sells a small pocket-sized book with summaries of the various laws, both federal and by state, including information about access in foreign countries as well.
One of the best resources for Assistance Dog information, including legal and access issues, is the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners
Minnesota Law
As most of our graduates live in Minnesota, we will also share particular information on Minnesota state laws that concern Assistance Dogs. You may access Minnesota law on the web.
Minnesota Statues, chapter 256C.02, 256C.025, 363A.19 concern access and housing.
Minnesota Statues, chapter 343.21, subdivision 8a concerns injury to the dog.
Minnesota Statues, chapter256C.05 concerns penalties.
Minnesota Statues, chapter 609.226, subdivision 4 concerns injury to a service animal by a loose dog.