Service dogs play a vital role in the lives of individuals with disabilities, providing them with essential support and companionship. When it comes to accessing hotels, service dogs and their handlers are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, some hotels may still infringe on these rights. In this article, we will provide you with an overview of service dogs and hotels, addressing common questions and concerns.
Can Hotels Charge for a Service Dog?
The simple answer is no. According to the ADA, hotels cannot charge an extra fee for accommodating a service dog, unlike clients with pets. This means that you and your service dog are entitled to access all public areas of the hotel, as well as rooms and floors that are typically off-limits to those traveling with pets.
What to Expect from Hotels and Service Dogs
When traveling with a service dog, hotel staff are only allowed to ask you two verification questions:
- Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
- What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?
If the task is evident, such as in the case of a seeing-eye dog or a wheelchair-related service dog, the staff has no right to inquire further about the service dog or your disability. However, it’s important to remember that under the ADA, hotel staff cannot insist on seeing any documents as a condition of entry.
It’s worth carrying your service dog’s certification and identification card as they may help alleviate tension when dealing with uninformed staff members. Keep in mind that hotel staff should also follow general rules of conduct when it comes to interacting with service dogs. These rules include refraining from petting, speaking to, teasing, or distracting the dog, as well as not interfering with its work. Additionally, hotel staff are not required to assist you in tasks related to your service dog’s care.
Following the Rules of the Hotel
While individuals with disabilities have various rights under the ADA, it’s essential to respect the rules set forth by the hotel for all its guests. This means that your service dog must be under your control at all times, whether through a leash, hand gestures, or voice commands. It’s crucial to ensure that your dog remains well-behaved and doesn’t cause any damage to the hotel room or property. As the handler, you are responsible for any costs associated with damages caused by your service dog.
Staying at an Airbnb with Your Service Dog
With Airbnb becoming a popular alternative to traditional hotels, it’s important to consider how the ADA applies in these situations. In the United States, Airbnb hosts who rent out their entire home or apartment are required to allow service animals. Airbnb’s nondiscrimination policy mandates that hosts must welcome all service animals into their homes. Before booking an Airbnb accommodation, make sure to research and confirm that your specific destination allows service dogs.
The History of Service Dogs Under the ADA
Established in 1990, the ADA was designed to prevent discrimination against individuals with physical or mental disabilities. Over time, the definition of “companion” expanded to include animals. However, to prevent abuse of the policy, amendments were made to specify that only dogs are considered service animals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can hotels charge an extra fee for a service dog?
No, under the ADA, hotels cannot charge an additional fee for accommodating a service dog.What questions can hotel staff ask about the service dog?
According to the ADA, hotel staff are only allowed to ask whether the dog is a service animal required due to a disability and what tasks the dog has been trained to perform.Do I need to provide documentation for my service dog?
While it’s not required under the ADA, carrying your service dog’s certification and identification card may help smooth interactions with uninformed hotel staff.What rules should hotel staff follow when interacting with service dogs?
Hotel staff should refrain from petting, speaking to, teasing, or distracting the service dog. They should also avoid interfering with the dog’s work.What are my responsibilities as a handler when staying at a hotel?
As a handler, you are expected to ensure that your service dog remains under your control at all times. You are also liable for any damages caused by your dog.
Conclusion
Service dogs have the right to accompany their handlers in hotels under the ADA. While hotels cannot charge extra fees for service dogs, it’s important for both handlers and hotel staff to understand the rights and responsibilities involved. By following the guidelines set by the ADA and respecting hotel rules, individuals with disabilities can enjoy the support and companionship of their service dogs during their travels.
For more information about service dogs and their rights, visit the official Pawsoha website.