Mar 18 2009
Pet or guide dog?
I understand an owner can choose if they want to rent to pet owners or not, but what about an guide dog? Can a landlord not rent to a person with a handicap and/or a dog?
This is hard to answer in brief, but guide dogs and assistance animals should be accepted in rental housing as they are not considered pets. The landlord can ask for verification and explanation as to the role of the service animal to verify that it is not a pet. When looking for a rental property it's wise if the applicant is up front and explains their situation and that they have an assistance animal. The landlord should be aware that there is an animal on the premises so they can relay the information to neighbors, service personnel, and HOA representatives as necessary.
Remember that there are a variety of service animals–not just guide dogs for the blind. There are service and animals for people with mobility limitations, hearing disabilities, diabetic conditions, and so forth. And, usually they are dogs, but not always. (There are miniature horses being trained as "guide dogs" for the blind! Click here if you don't believe me!)
