Definition
For the purposes of this policy, a service animal meets the following criteria:
dog or miniature horse (height 24-36 inches measured to horse’s shoulders), individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit an individual with a disability (including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability).
For purposes of this policy, the term handler refers to the patron who requires the service animal for his/her disability.
The following are NOT considered to be service animals:
- Animals that are not a dog/miniature horse.
- Therapy animals; comfort pets; companion animals; and “social/therapy” animals.
Boundaries
Service animals will be allowed in all areas of the facility where people are allowed unless the animal poses a direct threat, a fundamental alteration, is not housebroken or is not under the control of the person with the disability. A service animal creates a fundamental alteration if it interferes with the performance/event beyond what is tolerated of the general audience. For example, a fundamental alteration would occur if during a performance the service animal is barking, whining, running around, etc. A service animal can be considered a direct threat to the health or safety of others if it is snapping, growling, biting, urinating, defecating, blocking egress, etc.
A service animal must have a harness, leash, or other tether and be under the control of the handler at all times. Exception: If the handler is unable to use such devices because of his or her disability or those items would interfere with the service animal’s safe, effective performance of work or tasks, the service animal must be under the handler’s control by the use of voice control, signals, or other effective means. The service animal should be responsive to voice commands and should be under control and near the handler at all times.
The service animal must be vaccinated and licensed in accordance with local and state ordinances.
Relief areas should be limited to grass areas away from entrances to buildings and exhibits. Any cleaning necessary due to the presence of the service animal is the responsibility of the handler. Feces must be cleaned immediately and disposed of properly.