There is no requirement under the law for an assistance animal to wear any identifying gear such as vests, harnesses, tags, or other gear.
These are not legally required, and probably never will be, in order to allow disabled people to move freely in public without stigma or feeling labeled. However, even though not required, gear is sometimes desired by an owner in situations where it will short-cut conversations or help prevent misunderstandings in public spaces.
For example, if a dog is wearing a shirt which states “Medical Alert Service Animal,” then the disabled owner/handler might avoid having to explain his or her animal’s status when visiting public spaces such as restaurants.
Although gear can shortcut uncomfortable conversations with landlords, employers, airlines, and business owners, it does not give the animal its status.
Are you an owner of an assistance animal?
The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.
Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals.
Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the text or image below.
