Montclair State University (MSU) has welcomed a new member to its campus community – Pebbles, an emotional support dog for the students. This addition reflects a growing trend in recent years, where more pet owners have been bringing their animals into public places that were previously off-limits. While this has led to some conflicts between customers and managers, the presence of emotional support animals like Pebbles has been a source of comfort and support for many individuals.
Service animals, on the other hand, have long been allowed in establishments to assist their disabled owners, thanks to federal law. However, a recent case in New Jersey highlighted the importance of ensuring that all individuals have equal access to services, including those with disabilities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Newark intervened when a doctor at one of the state’s largest health care networks refused to allow a service animal into a medical office, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The ADA recognizes only dogs and miniature horses as service animals, which are trained to assist individuals with various disabilities such as blindness, hearing impairment, and seizures. While service animals are generally allowed in hospitals and doctor’s offices, there are exceptions where their presence may pose a health and safety risk to patients, such as in operating rooms.
In response to the case involving the OB/GYN in Monmouth County, Hackensack Meridian Health has agreed to pay the patient and make policy modifications to ensure that service animals are allowed in all doctor’s offices. This commitment to inclusivity and accessibility reflects the network’s dedication to providing a welcoming environment for all patients.
It is important to distinguish between service animals, emotional support animals, and pets. While service animals have specific rights under the ADA and are trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities, emotional support animals are not necessarily trained but may be certified by a clinician. Despite not having the same rights as service animals, emotional support animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act, allowing them to live with their owners in dormitories and other housing accommodations.
In conclusion, the presence of Pebbles, the emotional support dog at MSU, serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for all individuals, including those with disabilities. By recognizing and respecting the rights of service animals and emotional support animals, we can create a more welcoming and supportive environment for everyone in our communities.
