3 FAQs Regarding Service Dogs In Your HOA
Posted on: 8 November 2017
If you live in a homeowners association, there may be limits on the type of pets you can and cannot have within the community. In some cases, they may even prohibit dogs in general. If you have a service animal, and you're afraid you may have to give up your ally to keep your home, you need to check out these three frequently asked questions regarding service dogs in your HOA.
Can Your HOA Prohibit Service Dogs?
As long as the vote passes, HOAs can set guidelines regarding animals in the community. Whether you live in a condo or neighborhood of detached single-unit homes, the HOA may demand dogs are not allowed. Luckily, thanks to the Fair Housing Act, service animals are not considered pets. Therefore, they don't fall under the same rules as pets in regards to limiting the types of service animals you can have. The HOA cannot put regulations on the type of service animal, weight, etc. They can only insist they follow other rules as pets, such as being leashed.
Are Companion Animals Protected?
Service animals usually undergo special training to be service dogs. This is because they may need to perform a variety of tasks. For example, a blind individual may have a service dog who understands traffic lights. A companion animal, however, doesn't really perform a task. They are designed to help people with mental disorders, such as anxiety and depression. Basically, any animal can be a companion animal, and they are also protected under the Fair Housing Act, so you don't have to choose between your furry companion or your home.
Do You Need to Register Your Service Dog?
A service dog should be registered, and it is simple to do. There are many places you can find service dog registration kits. You simply complete the paperwork, send it in and find out if your animal qualifies. Getting your service dog makes it much easier to prove they can stay in the HOA because they have all the proof they need to show they are a working animal and not a pet. Companion animals, however, do not need to be registered, but you still need some kind of proof you need the companion animal. This can be as easy as obtaining a note from your doctor that explains the animal helps with your condition.
Just because you live in an HOA, you don't have to have limits on the type of service animal you can have. Your service animal may be assisting you, but they are also part of your family. For more information regarding getting your service animal registered, contact a service dog registration kit provider.
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