There are members of the NEIU community that use service animals. In some instances a person’s disability is visible, and it is apparent what function the animal is performing. There are also people with invisible disabilities that use service animals. 

Service Animals:

The amendments to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) state that a service animal is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The work or tasks performed by a service animal must be directly related to the handler's disability. Service animals can accompany the person in the classroom and public spaces.

Emotional Support  Animals:

The right of people with disabilities to keep emotional support animals is stated in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988, and Title II of the American with Disabilities Act. This refers to on-campus housing, not the classroom. You should contact the director of The Nest .

We should be mindful of what we can, and cannot ask, or say to someone with a service animal, or emotional support animal.

You can ask:

  • Is this a service animal required because of a disability?
  • What function does the animal perform?

You should not ask or say:

  • What is your disability?
  • Where is your medical documentation for this animal?
  • Ask that the service animal demonstrate the functions that assist the person.
  • Ask the person to leave the premises, especially if the animal is under control, leashed by the owner, and poses no threat.

When a service animal is in your presence:

  • Allow the service animal to accompany the person to all areas of campus, unless an area poses a threat to the animal and/or the person (e.g.some labs, mechanical rooms).
  • Do not pet, or feed a service animal. This distracts the animal from performing its function.

In the classroom:

  • Students registered with SDS are strongly encouraged to meet with their instructors before the semester begins, to familiarize themselves with the environment they will be using during the semester. 
  • Instructors should designate priority seating in the classroom for a student with a service animal, to optimize accessibility, and prevent potential obstructions.

If you have any concerns or questions, regarding service animals please call, (773) 442-4595, or email us at, sds@neiu.edu.