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At Care Resource, we are committed to maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all. As part of this commitment, it is important to understand the guidelines regarding service animals in the Health Center.
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Service Animals Only: In alignment with Care Resource Policy No. 7007.003, only service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed in our facilities. Emotional support animals, pets, or any other non-service animals are not permitted.
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Identifying Service Animals: When encountering a client with an animal, staff may ask the following two questions:
- Is the animal required because of a disability?
- What work or task has the animal been trained to perform? Please note that you are not permitted to ask for documentation, inquire about the nature of the person’s disability, or request the animal to demonstrate its task.
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Behavior Expectations: Service animals must be under control at all times and should not pose any health or safety risks to others. If a service animal is not under control or causes a disruption, staff should:
- Address the handler respectfully and inform them of the need to manage the animal’s behavior.
- Provide clear communication about the health center’s expectations and the potential need for the client to leave the facility if the situation is unresolved.
- Contact security or follow emergency protocols if the animal poses an immediate threat.
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Incident Reporting: If a service animal incident occurs, staff are required to submit an incident report as soon as possible. This report should include details about the incident, actions taken, and any outcomes. Please ensure that the report is submitted to safetyrisk@careresource.org.
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Policy Access: Care Resource Policy No. 7007.003, which outlines these guidelines in detail, can be found in the Forms Drive – Policy Manual - 7000 Clinical Folder for your reference. Please ensure you are familiar with this policy.
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Our Commitment to Respect and Safety: We are committed to treating all clients with respect and ensuring a safe environment for everyone. If a service animal incident occurs, staff are expected to manage the situation calmly and professionally, prioritizing the safety and comfort of all involved.
Together, we can ensure that our health centers remain a welcoming and supportive place for all clients, including those who rely on service animals.
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