Smcc

The ADA defines a service animal as “any animal trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including, but not limited to, guiding individuals with impaired vision, alerting individuals who are hearing impaired to intruders or sounds, pulling a wheelchair for a person, or fetching dropped items for a person with limited mobility”. When an animal meets this definition, it is considered a service animal regardless of whether or not it has been certified by a training program. The college will not insist on proof of state certification before permitting the service animal to accompany the person with a disability. Questions regarding service animals should be directed to the SMCC Disabilities Services office (207-741-5505).

Therapy or Companion Animals:

While therapists and other credentialed professionals will sometimes recommend the use of animals as a tool in the therapeutic process, therapy and companion animals have generally not been trained to do work or perform tasks and do not accompany the person at all times. Such animals are considered to be pets, are not covered under the ADA, and are addressed by the college’s policy on pets.

Requirements of Service Animals and Their Partners/Handlers:

1. The handler/partner shall be in full control of the service animal at all times.
2. The animal must be on a leash at all times while on college property.
3. Dogs shall be licensed and wear a vaccination tag; other animals must have current vaccinations appropriate for that type of animal. The college has the right to ask for proof of current licensure and/or vaccination.
4. If a service animal’s behavior is disruptive to college programs, activities or services; poses a direct threat to the health and/or safety of others; or displays threatening behavior, the college will require that the service animal be removed from the grounds of the college.
5. Complaints under this policy may be made using the college’s ADA grievance procedure.