Service Animals

The following information can also be found at ADA.gov. 

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines Service Animals as any dog that is individually trained to perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.

Service Dogs do not have to wear any special gear while working. Colorful dye and creative grooms are permitted

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Who qualifies for a Service Dog?

A: Anyone with a disability as defined by the ADA

Q: What breed is a Service Dog?

A: Service Dogs come in all shapes and sizes! There is no “official” breed.

Q: What kind of certification do Service Dogs need?

A: Service Dogs are not required to have any sort of license, certification or “papers” to prove their validity.

Public and Private entities may ask the handler two questions to confirm the validity of the Service Dog.

• Is this a Service Dog required because of a disability?
• What work or task is this dog trained to perform?

Q: Where can I report service dog discrimination?

A: If you experience discrimination in a City of Boston owned building, from a City of Boston employee, or at a City of Boston run program, you can contact our office to file a grievance. If you experience discrimination at a private business like a restaurant, cafe, movie theater, book store, etc. you can report the experience to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination. If you aren’t sure where to report your experience, feel free to contact our office at 617-635-3682 or disability@boston.gov for help finding the correct office.