Can Hotels Charge for a Service Dog?

Understanding the rights of service dog handlers and the responsibilities of hotels is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. The question of whether hotels can charge for a service dog is a common one, and the answer is generally no. This is due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities.

Understanding the ADA and Service Dogs

The ADA defines a service dog as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. This includes physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disabilities. The tasks performed by the service dog must be directly related to the handler’s disability. Examples include guiding individuals with visual impairments, alerting individuals with hearing impairments to sounds, pulling a wheelchair, assisting with balance and mobility, retrieving dropped items, alerting and protecting a person who is having a seizure, reminding a person with mental illness to take prescribed medications, calming a person with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) during an anxiety attack, or performing other duties. Emotional support animals, comfort animals, and therapy dogs are not considered service animals under the ADA.

Key Differences: Service Animals vs. Pets

It’s important to distinguish between service animals and pets. Hotels can generally charge fees for pets, as they are not covered by the ADA. These fees cover potential extra cleaning or damages. However, service animals are working animals, not pets, and are not subject to these charges. The ADA requires hotels to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including allowing service dogs to accompany their handlers in all areas of the hotel where guests are normally allowed to go.

What Hotels Can and Cannot Ask

Hotels are permitted to ask two specific questions regarding service dogs: (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? Hotels cannot ask about the nature or extent of a person’s disability or require documentation, such as proof that the dog has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal. They also cannot require the dog to wear a vest, ID tag, or specific harness.

Dealing with Potential Issues

If a hotel attempts to charge for a service dog, politely explain your rights under the ADA. If the issue persists, you can file a complaint with the Department of Justice. Knowing your rights and responsibilities can ensure a positive travel experience with your service dog.

Conclusion

Hotels cannot charge for service dogs due to the protections provided by the ADA. Understanding the distinction between service animals and pets is crucial for both handlers and hotel staff. By knowing your rights and communicating effectively, you can ensure a comfortable and accessible stay. Remember, service dogs are vital partners for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to live full and independent lives.

FAQ

What if my service dog causes damage to the hotel room? You are responsible for any damage caused by your service dog, just as you would be responsible for any damage you caused yourself.
Can a hotel ask me to remove my service dog if it is disruptive? Yes, if the dog is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or if the dog is not housebroken.
Can a hotel restrict my service dog to certain areas of the hotel? No, service dogs are allowed in all areas where guests are normally allowed to go.
Do I need to provide documentation for my service dog? No, hotels cannot require documentation for service dogs.
What is the difference between a service dog and an emotional support animal? A service dog is trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability, while an emotional support animal provides comfort and companionship. The ADA only covers service dogs.
Can I bring my service dog into restaurants and stores? Yes, service dogs are generally allowed in public places.
Where can I find more information about the ADA and service dogs? The ADA National Network (ADANN) website is a great resource.

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