Surprise service animals and cleaning fees

[Mindy Nicol]

Service animal question for the group.....I have a guest staying who I noticed has large 2 dogs. There were no pets disclosed in the booking and I was surprised to see them. I called Airbnb to see if they are service animals. It turns out they are and the guest requires them to remind her to take medical treatments. I understand they are not considered pets. Questions for the group:

Are we allowed to charge a cleaning fee or not? I do accept 1 dog with an extra cleaning fee but not two. Airbnb has told me if there is an issue when they leave I have to fill out their form to see if I can get reimbursed. Airbnb told me guests can have up to 3 service animals, they do not have to disclose them at booking, and they can be dogs or miniature horses.

• Do you ask up front if they are bringing a service animal? If we can't then how can we provide extra things like dog bowls, water etc if we do not know?
• Does anyone charge an extra service animal cleaning fee or is this a no no?  How do you recoup the cleaning costs?
• Can we see the proof they are in fact service animals?
• Is there any law in Florida that protects the rights of the property owner for rentals relating to animals on property?

I thought maybe someone in the group has come across this. I want to do the right thing but I also want to know in advance which animals are on property and to be able to recoup cleaning fees. Thanks in advance! Mindy

[John Underwood]

If Airbnb has confirmed these are Service Animals I wouldn't make any waves and see if there are any issues after they check out.