Service Animals In The Workplace California
Perez April 29 2016.
Service animals in the workplace california. The service animal must be harnessed leashed or tethered while in public places unless these devices interfere with the service animals work or the persons disability prevents use of these devices. On the other hand federal law defines an emotional support animal by exclusion. The concept of a support dog or other animal as a possible accommodation is unique to California.
In that case the person must use voice signal or other effective means to maintain control of the animal. Animals which meet this definition are considered service animals whether or not they have been licensed or certified by a state or local government. The ADA defines a service animal as any dog or in some cases miniature horses that are.
As for documentation for service animals in the workplace the ADA does allow for an employer to request medical documentation for the need for the disabled person to need this accommodation. Advancements in animal training and alternative medical treatments mean that animals today can be much more than just pets. It also allows for the employer to request proof from the employee that the service animal is appropriately trained to assist them and that it is trained to not disrupt the workplace under.
Service animals in todays society can provide medical assistance for many types of human disabilities and medical conditions. For additional information see JANs Just-In-Time Training Module. The ADA provides that service dogs can be in the workplace as a reasonable accommodation.
Perez By Andrea L. The animal must be free from offensive orders and display habits that are conducive to a professional workplaceeg it cannot urinate or defecate everywhere. Fellion and Patti C.
The work or task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the persons disability. Under the employment part of the ADA title I there are no specific guidelines for employers to follow when an individual with a disability wants to use a service animal in the workplace. Arrow Benefits Group 1465 N.