Important Information Regarding Service Dogs in Classrooms

Hello students and faculty,

This email to provide information regarding Service Animals on campus and in the class room.

Under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability.  The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability. Under the ADA, State and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations that serve the public generally must allow service animals to accompany people with disabilities in all areas of the facility where the public is allowed to go. Emotional Support Animals ARE NOT service animals and should not be taken into public areas on campus or classrooms. Emotional Support Animals are limited to Campus Housing only.

When it is not obvious what service an animal provides, only limited inquiries are allowed. Staff may ask two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform. Staff  or other students cannot ask about the person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task.

Proper Etiquette Around Service Dogs:

• Always be respectful of the privacy of the handler and their service dog. You may be tempted to approach the person and ask about them or what their service dog is for, but please give them space so that they can remain safe and the service dog can perform its task safely.
• Please do not touch, feed, or distract the service dog. Even asking for permission to pet a service dog can be distracting.
• Speak to the handler, not the dog. If the handler does not allow you to address or touch the dog, do not be offended. The service dog is providing a vital service to its handler and needs to be focused.
• Service dogs and their handler should always be given the right of way on campus.
• Never attempt to touch or steer a person who is being guided by a service dog. If you feel the handler needs assistance, always ask them first.
• Please keep your dog/pet away from service dogs as they are working to provide a service for the health and well-being of their handler and should not be distracted.
• If a service dog is approaching you and trying to engage with you, speak to the handler and let them know, do not address the dog.  

If you have any questions regarding Service Animals on campus, please feel free to call our office at 575-646-6840. You can also find answers to Frequently Asked Questions about Services Dogs and the ADA.  

Thank you.

Aaron Salas

Director- Disability Access Services

New Mexico State University

Corbett Center Student Union Rm 204  |  P.O. Box 30001  |  MSC 4149

Las Cruces, NM 88003

Main: 575-646-6840

Direct: 575-646-5497

Fax: 575-646-5222

aasalas@nmsu.edu