I have a Service Dog that I self-trained for his tasks. He’s got CGC, Advanced, and Urban certifications, plus a Therapy Cert for proof of his temperament and behavior. I got him as a rescue when he was older, and he has the perfect temperament. He’s not crate trained because he’s with me at all times. I recently started a new job, and they’re saying he isn’t under my control. I work as an IT Manager, and once I even spent an evening cleaning the floor on my hands and knees. I carry my dog in a bag, and he listens to my heartbeat as a task. While I was on the floor, I let him out of the bag to roam. He would check on me, get a drink, check the perimeter, and go back to his place. Now, HR says he can’t leave my office, and he has to be crated when I’m not in there. Because of his tasks, this means I can’t leave the office, not even for the restroom or food. Does this seem like a reasonable accommodation? HR consulted legal but doesn’t seem to understand the rules. They’ve also been circulating rumors that he’s not a real service dog. Just to clarify, he’s a 10lb Chihuahua. Any advice or similar experiences with service dog accommodations? I’d really appreciate any input!
That sounds so frustrating! From what I know, service dogs should be allowed to do their tasks, but they also can’t be a disruption. Have they had any issues with him leaving your office or causing any trouble?
@Sully
Yeah, exactly. If he’s not being disruptive or aggressive, I don’t get why they’d restrict him. Maybe HR just doesn’t understand service dog rights fully?
NILAH said:
@Sully
Yeah, exactly. If he’s not being disruptive or aggressive, I don’t get why they’d restrict him. Maybe HR just doesn’t understand service dog rights fully?
That could be it. Hopefully, they come around. If not, maybe look into getting more documentation of his certifications? I think sometimes people just need to see the paperwork.
It sounds like your dog is trained well and doing his job. Honestly, I’ve read that service dogs shouldn’t roam around, but as long as he’s not causing chaos, it feels a bit overboard. Have you tried explaining his tasks more clearly to HR?
@Ethan
I’ve tried, but they won’t let me into the meetings to explain. They just keep saying he’s not under control. He’s a pretty chill dog, though.
I’ve heard similar stories where companies didn’t really know the rules. They might just be worried about liability. If your dog is under control and performing his tasks, they should be more understanding. Have you considered reaching out to a lawyer specializing in service dog laws?
I’m in a similar situation. My service dog was once told to stay in my office all day because they were worried he’d disrupt meetings. But he has tasks to do, so being with me is part of that. Seems like HR just needs a bit more education.
@WilliamMia
Exactly! I think they don’t realize how crucial his presence is for my tasks. It’s not about being a distraction, he’s doing his job.
I think if he’s not being disruptive, HR should relax a bit. Have you tried putting more focus on his certifications and the tasks he’s trained to do? That might help clarify things. It’s weird they’ve been circulating rumors about him not being a real service dog…
@Lucas
I’ve explained everything, but they’re not listening. It’s a bit discouraging, especially with them making those rumors. Hopefully, this gets sorted soon!