By: Hayley Piazza, Staff Writer
The most common pet to have in the residence halls is a fish. Actually, this is one of the only pets allowed. However, other animals are now permitted under certain conditions.
“The University has a policy that distinguishes between service animals, assistance animals and pets,” said Ronda Purdy, director of disability services.
A pet is an animal kept for ordinary purposes of companionship.
Service animals, according to the Department of Justice, are “dogs that are individually trained to do work or perform tasks for people with disabilities.”
This can also include miniature horses in some cases.
A service animal, according to the university’s policy, is allowed in the classroom, all public spaces on campus and in the residence halls.
Assistance animals, or emotional support animals, serve the purpose of assisting someone with a mental or psychiatric disability. These animals must be prescribed by a mental health professional. Assistance animals, however, are allowed only in the resident’s room and surrounding common areas. This does not include the animal attending classes.
“Even if a lease says ‘No pets’ or restricts pets, landlords are required to make what is called a ‘reasonable accommodation’ to allow pets who serve as assistance animals, which includes animals who provide emotional support,” according to The Humane Society of the United States on the Fair Housing Act (FHA).
Bellarmine abides by this act, making accommodations for the students in need of such animals.
“In this case, the assistance animal may reduce the student’s stress, loneliness, depression and/or anxiety,” Purdy said. “When these symptoms are reduced, the student has a greater opportunity for success in and out of the classroom.”
This is an important opportunity for many students who may suffer from mental or physical health disabilities.
A freshman, who asked to remain anonymous, said: “My dog has helped me through anxiety attacks, depressive episodes, and general loneliness. I’m a bit nervous that animals will feel trapped inside a little dorm room, but I’m excited for the opportunity to have access to another level of support.”
With these accommodations come restrictions as well.
“Since the animal is restricted to a small space (generally the owner’s room) the committee takes into account the size and type of animal, along with requirements for proper care,” Purdy said.
Although certain animals can affect some positively, the disability services office recognizes that they can also affect others negatively due to allergies or other health conditions. This is something they are aware of and all students will be considered before an animal is placed in a room and room changes made when necessary.