Service Dog Agreement Template

Create a legally-sound service dog agreement that ensures ADA compliance, protects all parties' rights, and clearly defines responsibilities. Start with our professional template.

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Service Dog Agreement

A service dog agreement is a legally binding document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and expectations between a service dog handler and an establishment or housing provider. This essential document ensures compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) while protecting both parties' interests.

What This Template Is For

This template helps create a clear understanding between service dog handlers and property managers, employers, or business owners. It addresses access rights, behavioral expectations, and responsibilities while ensuring compliance with federal disability laws. The agreement helps prevent misunderstandings and provides documentation for both parties' protection.

When To Use This Template

Use this service dog agreement template when:

  • Moving into rental housing with a service dog
  • Bringing a service dog to a workplace
  • Establishing long-term arrangements with businesses or facilities
  • Documenting service dog accommodation requirements
  • Clarifying rights and responsibilities in educational settings

How To Customize It

Follow these steps to customize your service dog agreement:

  1. Insert handler and establishment details in the designated fields
  2. Specify the service dog's information and tasks performed
  3. Review and adjust behavioral expectations and handler responsibilities
  4. Add any specific facility rules or requirements
  5. Include emergency contact information
  6. Review ADA compliance requirements
  7. Add relevant state-specific regulations

Common Use Cases

Service dog agreements are commonly used in:

  • Residential rental properties
  • Corporate offices and workplaces
  • Educational institutions
  • Healthcare facilities
  • Hotels and hospitality venues
  • Public transportation services

Best Practices

  • Keep language clear and straightforward
  • Include specific service dog tasks and functions
  • Reference relevant ADA regulations
  • Clearly state handler responsibilities
  • Define emergency procedures
  • Include vaccination and health requirements
  • Specify liability and insurance expectations

Template Variations

Different versions of this agreement may be needed for:

  • Residential housing agreements
  • Workplace accommodation documents
  • School or university settings
  • Healthcare facility arrangements
  • Transportation service agreements

Success Stories

Our template has helped numerous organizations establish clear service dog policies, including a major university housing department that successfully accommodated 50+ service dog handlers, and a corporate office that implemented a comprehensive service dog policy for multiple locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should be included in a service dog agreement?

A comprehensive service dog agreement should include handler information, dog identification and tasks performed, behavioral expectations, handler responsibilities, establishment obligations, and emergency procedures.

Is a service dog agreement legally required?

While not legally required by the ADA, a service dog agreement helps protect both parties' rights and clarifies expectations and responsibilities.

Can establishments require proof of service dog training?

Under the ADA, establishments cannot require proof of service dog training or certification, but they can ask about the tasks the dog performs.

How is this different from an emotional support animal agreement?

Service dog agreements specifically address trained service animals protected under the ADA, while emotional support animal agreements cover comfort animals with different legal protections.

Can a service dog agreement be terminated?

Yes, if the service dog poses a direct threat to health or safety, or if the handler violates agreed-upon responsibilities.
Customize Your Service Dog Agreement

Adapt this agreement to your specific needs while maintaining ADA compliance