Service Dog Laws: Global Application And Access

Service dog laws vary from country to country. In the United States, for example, federal law provides protection and access for service dogs, and each state determines its own service dog laws. In Canada, service dogs are allowed anywhere the general public is allowed as long as the owner is in control of them. In Japan, regulations outline standards of training and certification for service animals, and only certified assistance dogs are accommodated. In the European Union, each country has its own laws and regulations, but there are also EU-wide rules that make it easier to travel to and between member countries with a service dog. Given the variation in laws across jurisdictions, it is important to research the relevant legislation before travelling with a service dog.

Service dog laws in Canada

In Canada, service dog laws vary across provinces. While federal law provides protections for well-behaved service dogs accompanying individuals with disabilities, each province has its own regulations regarding service dogs and their access rights.

In Alberta, the Service Dogs Act ensures that no person shall deny accommodation, services, or facilities to a disabled person accompanied by a service dog. The Act defines a "disabled person" as an individual with any degree of disability except blindness or visual impairment, who relies on a service dog. It also prohibits discrimination against those with service dogs in accessing public spaces. The Act provides for identification cards for disabled persons and their service dogs, issued by the Minister or a designated representative.

In Ontario, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Ontario Human Rights Code govern service animal laws. Under these laws, service animals, including emotional support animals, are recognised and protected. However, unlike some other provinces, Ontario does not require certification or identity cards for service dogs. Instead, the animal's vest or harness may serve as identification, or the owner may provide documentation from a regulated health professional confirming the need for a service animal.

The laws in Canada also apply when travelling with a service dog. The Accessible Transportation for Persons with Disabilities Regulations (ATPDR) outline the rights and responsibilities of service dog owners and transportation service providers. This includes accepting service dogs for transportation, providing appropriate seating, and allowing access to relief areas. When travelling by air within Canada, additional fares or charges for accommodating a service dog are not permitted. However, additional charges may apply when travelling between Canada and a foreign country.

It is important to note that service dog laws can vary across municipalities within a province, and there may be specific bylaws governing access rights. Therefore, it is recommended to check the local laws of the province or municipality when travelling with a service dog in Canada.

Service dog laws in the European Union

Service dog laws vary across the world, and it is important to research the specific laws of your intended destination country. Here is an overview of the service dog laws in the European Union (EU).

EU Animal Travel Requirements

To travel with a service dog within the EU or from a non-EU country to the EU, your dog must meet certain requirements. These include:

• Having an ISO microchip. ISO microchips are international standard chips with a 15-digit number, whereas the United States typically uses 10-digit microchips.
• A current rabies vaccination given at least four months prior to travel to the EU. Additionally, a rabies titer test showing rabies immunity at least six months before the date of entry to the EU.
• Other routine vaccinations, such as DHPP, must be up to date.
• Treatment for tapeworms no more than ten days before entering the EU. This is only required if your destination is free from the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, including Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, and Northern Ireland.
• An EU animal health certificate, issued by a veterinarian in the country of departure no more than 10 days before arrival. This certificate is valid for travel between EU countries for four months or until the rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first.

Airline Requirements

Service dogs are typically allowed on flights, but you must notify the airline in advance and complete any necessary documentation. For example, when travelling from the United States, you will need to fill out the DOT's Service Animal Air Transportation Form. Each airline has its own procedures for accommodating service dogs, so it is essential to check the latest rules before your departure.

Jurisdiction-Specific Requirements

While most EU countries have laws prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including those with service dogs, specific service dog rules vary across jurisdictions. For instance, France's accessibility law requires two documents: a state card (carte mobilité inclusion) indicating a handicap and a certificate verifying that your dog has received proper assistance dog training.

To avoid any issues, it is recommended to carry an official letter in the local language, detailing your dog's purpose and why it is needed. Additionally, ensure your dog is well-groomed, presentable, and wearing recognisable gear. Rambunctious behaviour from dogs is generally frowned upon in Europe, so it is crucial to maintain control of your dog at all times and ensure it remains calm and quiet when in public.

Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 provides important rights for guide dog and assistance dog owners. This legislation ensures that disabled individuals have the same right to services supplied by shops, banks, hotels, libraries, pubs, taxis, and restaurants as everyone else.

Service dog laws in Japan

Service dog laws vary from country to country, and it's important to be aware of the specific regulations in your destination country before travelling with a service dog. Here is an overview of the service dog laws in Japan:

Japan has specific laws and requirements for service dogs, which are outlined in the Act on Assistance Dogs for Physically Disabled Persons, enacted in 2002. This legislation aims to facilitate the use of public facilities for individuals with physical disabilities and promote their independence and social participation. The law defines "assistance dogs" as guide dogs, mobility service dogs, and hearing dogs that are trained to assist people with visual, mobility, and hearing impairments, respectively.

To be recognised as an assistance dog in Japan, the dog must be certified in accordance with the Act. The certification process involves several steps:

• The dog must be trained by a member of the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) or an accredited member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI), depending on the type of assistance dog.
• The dog owner must submit an import notification to the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) in Japan at least 40 days before their arrival.
• The owner must fill out an application form with their assistance dog's training organisation and submit it to a registered Japanese certifying organisation.
• If the certifying organisation deems the dog legally acceptable, a "Temporary Certificate for Foreign Assistance Dog Users" will be issued before departure.
• Upon arrival in Japan, the dog must undergo an import quarantine inspection by the AQS. If the dog meets the requirements, the officer will sign or stamp the certificate.

It is important to note that Japan's assistance dog law does not apply to overseas assistance dogs and their users. Foreign assistance dog users must obtain the "Temporary Certificate for Foreign Assistance Dog Users" to ensure equal rights during their stay in Japan. Additionally, only guide dogs, mobility service dogs, and hearing dogs are recognised under Japanese law. Service dogs for mental disorders, autism, emotional disorders, and epileptic disorders are not certified as assistance dogs in Japan.

Japan has strict requirements for importing animals, including service dogs. All dogs entering the country must meet the import requirements of the Rabies Prevention Law, and it is recommended to prepare at least 7 months in advance for travelling to Japan with a dog. Service dogs entering Japan must have an ISO microchip or the owner must bring their own scanner. Additionally, rabies vaccinations and a rabies blood titer test are required, and the dog must be treated for internal and external parasites.

Service dog laws in Mexico

Service dogs are allowed in Mexico, but there are specific requirements to be allowed entry into the country. Firstly, your service dog must have proof of a rabies vaccination at least 15 days prior to entry. A 3-year rabies vaccination is also accepted if entering from the US or Canada. Secondly, you must provide proof of treatment for internal and external parasites within the last 6 months. Finally, you must have a health certificate from your veterinarian. This can be printed on their letterhead, or a USDA-accredited vet can issue the APHIS form 7001. If travelling from Canada, the Canada Export Tri-Lingual Veterinary Certificate can be used. Although not required, it is strongly recommended that your service dog is microchipped.

In Mexico City, an ordinance was signed in 2015 by Mayor Miguel Angel Mancera, which allows service dogs used by disabled people to have full access to all public spaces in the capital. The ordinance reforms the Animal Protection Law and the Mercantile Establishments Law, which previously had "deficiencies in their language" regarding discrimination and the treatment of service dogs. The Mexico City government plans to issue ID cards to disabled people and their service dogs, and a service dog registry will be created.

Service dog laws in Australia

Service dogs, also known as assistance dogs, are highly trained animals that support people with disabilities. In Australia, the laws surrounding service dogs are covered by the Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and state and territory accreditation and regulation.

The DDA guarantees that all assistance dogs that are appropriately trained, certified, and meet acceptable hygiene and behaviour standards are allowed access to all public places in Australia. This includes, but is not limited to, public footpaths, banks, hotels, educational institutions, parks, theatres, shops, and cafes.

The DDA also protects the rights of assistance dog owners to access housing and accommodation, whether public or private. However, it is important to note that the Civil Aviation Act 1988 (CAA) contains an exception, allowing airlines to refuse to carry an assistance dog if there is a genuine concern about the dog's size posing a danger during the flight.

In addition to the DDA, each state and territory in Australia has its own legislation regarding assistance dogs:

• SA Dog and Cat Management Act 1995
• ACT Domestic Animals Act 2000
• NT Local Government Act 2008
• TAS Dog Control Act 2000
• QLD - The Queensland Guide Hearing and Assistance Dog Act
• NSW Companion Animals Act 1998
• VIC Domestic Animals Act 1994

To become an assistance dog in Australia, the dog must undergo specialised training. This training can be provided by an assistance dog organisation or privately by the owner. Common breeds used as assistance dogs in Australia include Labradors and Golden Retrievers due to their intelligence and temperament.

Owners of assistance dogs in Australia have certain responsibilities, such as ensuring their dog wears a vest or special harness and providing evidence of the dog's certification when requested. It is also important to note that assistance dogs should not be patted or called without the owner's permission, as they are working animals.

Overall, the laws in Australia regarding service dogs aim to ensure that people with disabilities have the support they need to participate fully in public life and personal activities.

Frequently asked questions