Under Ohio Revised Code § 955.43, handlers of service animals (dogs) in training are afforded the same rights as the handlers of fully-trained service dogs. This means that service dogs in training may attend class, accompany trainers to dining facilities, and take part in other campus activities. Service dogs in training must be affiliated with a nonprofit training organization and covered under that organization’s liability insurance. There are a number of organizations that train service dogs, such as Paws for a Cause, Freedom Paws, and Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Most service dogs in training will wear a vest identifying them as service dogs in training, but identification is not required.
Handlers of service dogs in training are required to register with Kent State University Division of Student Life using this form and provide documentation of the dog’s liability insurance policy. Individuals training dogs that are not associated with a training organization or without insurance do not have public access rights until the dog is able to meet the criteria of a service dog.