Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) is committed to providing an open, inclusive, and accessible environment for all members of the campus community. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and applicable state and federal laws, GPTC welcomes the use of service animals by individuals with disabilities.

Service Animals

A service animal is a dog or, in limited circumstances, a miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform specific tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. The work or task performed must be directly related to the individual’s disability. The individual assisted by the service animal is referred to as the animal’s handler.

Service animals must remain under the handler’s control at all times, whether by harness, leash, tether, or effective voice or signal control. Service animals must also comply with all applicable state and local licensing, registration, and vaccination requirements. The handler is responsible for ensuring compliance with all current requirements.

Pets and other animals are generally not permitted in instructional spaces, work areas, or campus residential environments unless they are approved in advance as a service animal or assistance animal through Student Accessibility Services (SAS).

Exclusion of Service Animals

GPTC may exclude a service animal from a specific area under the following circumstances:

• If the presence of the service animal would fundamentally alter the nature of a program, service, or activity.
• If the service animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others.
• If the service animal is not housebroken.
• If the service animal is not under the handler’s control.

When exclusion is necessary, GPTC will work with the individual to ensure continued access to programs and services to the greatest extent possible.

Assistance Animals (Emotional Support Animals)

Assistance animals, sometimes referred to as emotional support animals, are not considered service animals under the ADA. Individuals with questions about assistance animals or the approval process should contact SAS for guidance.

References

• U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Disability Rights Section. Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA (2016).
• U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division, Disability Rights Section. Revised ADA Requirements: Service Animals (2016).

Contact Information

For additional information or questions regarding service or assistance animals at GPTC, please contact:

Student Accessibility Services (SAS)
Email: accessibility@gptc.edu