Montclair State University has recently welcomed a new member to its campus community – Pebbles, an emotional support dog for the students. This addition comes at a time when the role of animals in public spaces is a topic of discussion and debate. In recent years, more pet owners have been bringing their dogs and other animals into places like restaurants and supermarkets, causing conflicts with managers and customers. However, one group of animals – service animals – have long been allowed in establishments to assist their disabled owners, thanks to federal law.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark recently brought attention to a case where a doctor in New Jersey violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by refusing to allow a service animal into a medical office. This incident involved an OB/GYN in Monmouth County who did not permit a patient with a disability to bring their service animal to an appointment. The ADA only recognizes dogs and miniature horses as service animals, which are trained to assist individuals with various disabilities.
As a result of this case, Hackensack Meridian Health, the healthcare network involved, has agreed to pay the patient and make policy modifications to ensure that service animals are allowed in all doctor’s offices. This includes providing training to employees on the federal law and implementing a service animal policy to create a more inclusive environment for all patients.
It is important to distinguish between service animals, emotional support animals, and pets in these situations. While service animals have the right to accompany their owners almost everywhere under the ADA, emotional support animals are not necessarily trained but may have some special rights if certified by a clinician. Pets, on the other hand, are generally prohibited from hospitals and doctor’s offices to maintain a sterile environment.
Overall, the case involving Hackensack Meridian Health highlights the importance of ensuring equal access for individuals with disabilities and their service animals in public spaces. Pebbles, the emotional support dog at Montclair State University, serves as a reminder of the positive impact that animals can have on individuals‘ well-being and mental health. As discussions around the role of animals in public spaces continue, it is crucial to uphold the rights of individuals with disabilities and their service animals.