Illinois ADA Project

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Service Animals & the ADA

Question:

How can I be assured that my dog will be recognized as a service dog in the state of illinois?

Answer:

Thank you for your question regarding Service Animals. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as any guide, signal dog, or other animal individually trained to provide assistance to a person with a disability. An animal fitting this description is considered a service animal under the ADA regardless of whether the animal is licensed or certified by state or local government. Documentation is NOT required as a condition to permit entry of an individual accompanied by a service animal.

Here are links to Fact Sheets regarding Service Animals from the Department of Justice and Illinois Attorney General's Office:

Department of Justice (1)

Department of Justice (2)

Illinois Attorney General

I hope this information helps. Please let me know if you have any further questions.

Sincerely,

Alan M. Goldstein
The Illinois ADA Project at Equip for Equality

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