[Flagdu] My Mistake: DOJ redefines service animal -- dogs only

[Marion Gwizdala]

Dear All,
    In a previous post to the NAGDU list, I mistakenly asserted that the new rule included only dogs as service animals. I based this assertion on the information I had received; however, I also received a message from another source that states,

The rule permits the use of trained miniature horses as alternatives to dogs, subject to certain limitations. To allow flexibility in situations where using a horse would not be appropriate, the final rule does not include miniature horses in the definition of "service animal."  See http://www.ada.gov/reg 

I apologize for the misinformation I disseminated. As more information is made available to clarify this ruling, it will be shared with the list. The entire message I received concerning this new rule is pasted below.

Fraternally yours,
Marion Gwizdala, President
National Association of Guide Dog Users
National Federation of the Blind
813-626-2789
President at NAGDU.ORG
HTTP://NAGDU.ORG





Service Animals. The rule defines "service animal" as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The rule states that other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as service animals. Dogs that are not trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a disability, including dogs that are used purely for emotional support, are not service animals. The final rule also clarifies that individuals with mental disabilities who use service animals that are trained to perform a specific task are protected by the ADA. The rule permits the use of trained miniature horses as alternatives to dogs, subject to certain limitations. To allow flexibility in situations where using a horse would not be appropriate, the final rule does not include miniature horses in the definition of "service animal."  See http://www.ada.gov/regs2010/factsheets/title2_factsheet.html