If you own a service dog in Georgia, you need to know the rules so that you can protect your rights and enjoy all of the fun activities and events that Georgia has to offer to its residents.
In Georgia, disabled residents can have a service dog. If you’re blind, deaf, or have another physical disability, you can get a service dog for assistance and support. Depending on where you live in Georgia, you may have to register your dog with the county. Beyond that, there are a few rules service dogs in Georgia have to follow. While they certainly can’t be a public nuisance, they can accompany you to any public accommodation throughout the state.
At Critter Sitters, we know how important your service dog is to your daily life. That’s why we’re here to offer assistance whenever you need us. To learn more about the Atlanta dog walkers and sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.
Who Can Have a Service Dog Under Georgia Law?
At Critter Sitters, we believe in the importance of Georgians having access to service animals to aid them. That’s why we want you to know about the specific qualifications for residents to have a service dog in Georgia. For the most part, disabled Georgians can have a service dog and take it with them wherever they go throughout the state.
In Georgia, many eligible individuals can own a service dog to help them throughout their day-to-day lives. Georgians who are blind (or have visual impairments) or deaf can have a service dog. In addition, anyone with a physical disability can also have a service pet in Georgia.
It’s important to note that Georgia defines service animals as dogs, specifically, that have been specially trained to assist their owners. Generally, Georgians cannot have a service dog for mental health reasons. While you can have an emotional support animal, it may not be afforded the same privileges as service dogs.
Speak to your doctor to better understand whether or not you can have a service dog to offer comfort and support. That’s the best way to embark upon your journey of getting a service dog in Georgia.
Does Georgia Have Rules About Registering a Service Dog?
While you don’t need to register your dog specifically as a service dog in Georgia, you may need to report owning a canine. Certain counties in Georgia have rules that require owners to register their dogs, whether they’re service dogs or not.
In some Georgia counties, dog owners need to register their pups. That’s the case whether your dog is a service animal or not. Generally, the process is fairly simple. Depending on your Georgia county, you may even be able to register your furry friend online.
The primary goal is to ensure that your dog is up to date on its rabies shots. Depending on where you live, you may have to renew your registration periodically in Georgia.
Are there Rules About Places Service Dogs Can Go in Georgia?
If you rely on your service dog throughout your day, you need to know whether or not there are restrictions for places it can go in Georgia. Luckily, service dogs are allowed virtually everywhere throughout the state, as accessibility and equity are top priorities.
In Georgia, individuals with service dogs are can bring their animals to any public accommodation. That means any private business that provides services to the public. The following are simply a few examples of places you can bring your service dog in Georgia:
- Restaurants
- Stores
- Hotels
- Museums
- Trains
- Airlines
- Gyms
- Schools
When you rely on your service dog for support and assistance, you should be able to take it anywhere. Georgia’s laws and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recognize that fact and allow Georgians with service dogs to take them to all public accommodations.
Furthermore, staff can’t ask to see your service dog’s registration or papers. That’s considered discrimination under the ADA and is a no-go in Georgia.
Do Some Rules Prevent You from Using a Service Dog in Georgia?
While Georgians with service dogs have the right to bring them wherever they go, there are some rules to follow. If your service dog causes damage to a business or threatens other customers, you may be asked to leave.
While Georgia is a safe space for service dogs, there are some rules to follow. In the rare case that your service dog causes damage to a public accommodation, you may be charged for its actions. Also, if a service dog is growling or nipping at other customers, you may be asked to leave the business you’re patronizing.
That being said, service dogs receive specialized training. Through their rigorous training, they’re taught to be polite and obedient. If you have a service dog, chances are it won’t cause a scene while you’re out and about in Georgia.
What Are Georgia’s Laws about Service Dogs and Housing?
If you’re worried that you’ll be turned away from leasing your dream apartment because you have a service dog, don’t be. In Georgia, individuals with service dogs can’t be denied housing because of their helpful pet.
Even if an apartment complex has a no-pets rule, they can’t deny you based on having a service dog in Georgia. That’s considered discrimination under the Fair Housing Act and is simply not allowed.
If, when you move to the great State of Georgia, you need help caring for your service dog from time to time, Critter Sitters is there. Because of your physical disability, it may be difficult for you to complete all of the tasks relating to having a pet. Although these animals are trained and certainly capable, they still need to be fed and looked after. If you need a day off or a helping hand, the Rosewell dog walkers and sitters at Critter Sitters are here to offer support.
Call Our Georgia Dog Walkers and Sitters Today
Our team of caring dog walkers and sitters are ready to help you take care of your service dog. To learn more about the Smyrna dog walkers and sitters at Critter Sitters, call us today at (404) 793-6178.
