Service dogs play a vital role in the lives of individuals with disabilities, providing essential assistance and support. Understanding the laws surrounding service dogs and accommodation is crucial, especially when traveling. So, can hotels charge for service dogs? The short answer is no. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits hotels from charging extra fees for service animals.
Understanding the ADA and Service Animals
The ADA defines a service animal as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability. This includes tasks such as guiding individuals with visual impairments, alerting individuals with hearing impairments to sounds, pulling a wheelchair, 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. The ADA does not require service animals to be professionally trained or certified.
What Hotels Can and Cannot Ask About Your Service Dog
Hotels are allowed to ask two specific 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 cannot inquire about the nature or extent of a person’s disability. They also cannot require documentation, such as certification or identification cards for the service animal.
Responsibilities of Service Dog Handlers in Hotels
While hotels cannot charge extra for service dogs, handlers are responsible for the dog’s behavior. Any damage caused by the service animal is the responsibility of the handler, just as it would be for any other guest. Handlers are also expected to keep their service animals under control at all times.
Service Dogs vs. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
It’s important to distinguish between service dogs and emotional support animals (ESAs). While ESAs provide comfort and companionship, they do not perform specific tasks directly related to a disability. The ADA only covers service dogs. Hotels have more leeway regarding ESAs and may charge pet fees or even refuse them altogether.
What to Do if a Hotel Tries to Charge You for Your Service Dog
If a hotel attempts to charge you extra for your service dog, politely explain your rights under the ADA. Refer to the hotel’s policy on service animals, which should be readily available. If the issue persists, contact the Department of Justice for assistance.
Conclusion
Hotels in the United States cannot legally charge for service dogs under the ADA. Understanding your rights and responsibilities as a service dog handler is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Remember that clear communication with hotel staff is often the key to resolving any potential misunderstandings.
FAQ
- Can a hotel ask for proof that my dog is a service dog? No, hotels cannot ask for proof or certification.
- What if my service dog damages the hotel room? You are responsible for any damages caused by your service dog.
- Are ESAs covered under the ADA? No, the ADA only covers service dogs, not ESAs.
- Who can I contact if a hotel violates my rights under the ADA? You can contact the Department of Justice.
- Can a hotel deny me a room because I have a service dog? No, a hotel cannot deny you a room solely because you have a service dog.
- Can a hotel charge a cleaning fee for a service dog? No, not unless the service dog causes damage beyond normal wear and tear.
- Can a hotel restrict where my service dog can go on the property? Generally, no, except for areas where the presence of a dog would compromise sanitation, such as in a swimming pool or spa.
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