disabilities by preventing or interrupting impulsive or destructive behaviors. Other animals, whether wild or domestic, do not qualify as service animals. Dogs that are trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a disability, including dogs that are used purely for emotional support, are not service animals nor shall it be considered a guide dog or service dog if its sole function is to provide emotional support, comfort, therapy, companionship, or therapeutic benefits. Provision of emotional support, well-being, comfort, or companionship does not constitute work or tasks performed. If an individual with a disability or an authorized trainer seeks to bring a service animal other than a guide dog, signal dog, or service dog, as defined in Civil Code section 54.1, on school property or to a school-sponsored program or activity, the site administrator or designee shall make the determination as to whether the individual may bring the service animal on a case-by-case basis using the guidelines specified herein. Written Notification to Parents Before an individual may bring a guide dog, signal dog, or service dog into the classroom, the site administrator or designee shall provide written notification to all parents/guardians of students in the affected class and/or LEA program, asking them to verify whether their child has any known allergies, asthma, or other health conditions that may be affected by the animal’s presence. Special consideration shall be given to any student who has allergies to certain animals, except that all reasonable accommodations shall be made for service animals used by individuals with disabilities. All animals brought to school must be: • In good physical condition; • Vaccinated against transmittable diseases; • In clean, safe and suitable cages or containers, or otherwise appropriately controlled at all times; and • Must be housebroken. Any guide dog, signal dog, or service dog brought to school by an individual with a disability shall be taken home the same day. The site administrator or designee should be familiar with the needs and behaviors of a given species prior to its introduction into the classroom. Students should be instructed on proper animal care and handling before having direct contact with the animal. The LEA assumes no liability and shall not be responsible for the provision of a guide dog, signal dog, or service dog. The user of the dog is responsible for its care and conduct at all times. Right to Use of Facilities and Services A user has the right to be accompanied, in or on county office property/facilities or at school- sponsored programs or activities, by a guide dog, signal dog, or service dog specially trained for an individual with a disability. However, prior to receiving permission from the site administrator
Chapter 5 – Supports and Services, Desert/Mountain SELPA As of 10/18/19 D/M SELPA Steering Committee Approval
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