Service dog

[Chris Pelletier]

Got a question and need some input. My wife was just talking to one of our tenants who has an autistic son. She mentioned that the "Needs" program, whatever that is, has a service dog for them. We don't allow pets in the house. If the kid really needs the dog, then I don't want to say no, but I also really don't want a dog (collie) in the house. Am I legally obligated to allow this dog in the house? They have lived there for over a year and haven't needed this dog until now. I just get the feeling she is trying to get one over on me. Any suggestions???????

[Brian Levredge]

You would be discriminating by not allowing the service dog. Keep in mind, they are generally highly trained animals and don't pose the same nuisance as other dogs would. Typically, these animals come from a program that should be very easy for you to verify. If you have further questions or issues, you should check with your local housing authority. You may be able to charge more for deposit, but I don't know in this type of situation.