University of Pennsylvania Emotional Support Animal Policy

University of Pennsylvania Main Takeaways:

  • Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are allowed in on-campus housing with approval from the Office of Disability Services.
  • ESAs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), ensuring equal access to university housing for students with emotional or mental health needs.
  • The university works with students and roommates to ensure a comfortable living arrangement for all when an ESA is involved.
  • ESAs must be kept in their owner’s room, properly cared for, and must comply with Pennsylvania’s vaccination and licensing laws.
  • ESAs are not permitted in common areas like dining halls, academic buildings, or lounges—residence-only access is granted.
  • Students are responsible for ensuring their ESA poses no threat or disruption to others, or risk removal from housing.
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The University of Pennsylvania is committed to ensuring a supportive environment for all students, including those who require the assistance of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs). ESAs provide therapeutic benefits to students with mental or emotional disabilities, helping them navigate the challenges of campus life. To maintain a balanced living environment for all, the university follows federal laws and has established clear guidelines for students who wish to have an ESA in their residence.

ESA Policy Overview

At the University of Pennsylvania, students may request an ESA in their on-campus housing to accommodate their emotional or mental health needs. The Office of Disability Services must approve the ESA request to ensure that the student meets the legal requirements for an ESA. Once approved, students can have one ESA in their assigned residence.

While ESAs provide comfort, they differ from service animals. Unlike service animals, which are trained to assist individuals with specific tasks related to their disabilities, ESAs do not perform tasks but rather offer emotional support. ESAs are permitted in residential spaces but not in other university areas like classrooms or dining halls.

Legal Framework

The University of Pennsylvania adheres to federal laws, including the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which mandates reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities, allowing ESAs in on-campus housing. However, the rights granted under the FHA apply only to residential spaces, and ESAs are not allowed in other areas of campus unless the student receives specific permission.

  • Housing Protections: Under the FHA, students with an ESA are entitled to live with their animal in university housing, even if pets are not typically permitted. However, students must follow university policies to ensure that the ESA does not create a disturbance or pose a threat to others in the community.
  • State and Local Laws: Besides federal laws, ESAs must comply with all applicable state and local regulations regarding licensing, vaccinations, and animal welfare.

ESA Guidelines and Responsibilities

Students approved to have an ESA must comply with the following university guidelines:

  • ESA Location: ESAs are permitted only in the owner’s assigned room and cannot access shared spaces such as lounges, bathrooms, or kitchens. They must remain in the residence unless being taken outside for walks or to visit the veterinarian.
  • Roommate Considerations: If a roommate does not agree to the presence of an ESA, the university’s Housing Assignments Office will work to relocate the ESA owner or their roommate.
  • Containment: If the student is not in their room, the ESA must be kept in a crate or enclosed space to ensure safe entry for university staff performing maintenance or safety checks.

ESA Care and Conduct

Students are responsible for the care, behavior, and cleanliness of their ESA at all times. The ESA must be house-trained and must not disrupt or harm other residents. Specific care responsibilities include:

  • Cleanliness: All waste must be promptly cleaned and disposed of in outdoor trash receptacles. Litter boxes and crates should be maintained daily to prevent odors and cleanliness issues.
  • Animal Health: ESAs must be vaccinated and licensed according to Pennsylvania state laws. Students must submit updated vaccination records and licenses to the Housing Assignments Office before moving in with their ESA.
  • Supervision: ESAs must be under the owner’s control at all times when outside the room, and they must be leashed or placed in a carrier. The ESA should not be left unattended for more than a few hours and never for longer than 24 hours. If students are away overnight or for an extended period, they must make off-campus arrangements for their ESA.

Removal of an ESA

In some cases, an ESA may be removed from the residence if the animal:

  • Poses a health or safety threat to others.
  • Creates significant disturbances in the community.
  • Causes damage to university property.
  • Is found unattended for extended periods, such as during university breaks or overnight absences.

If the university determines that an ESA must be removed, the student will be responsible for arranging alternative off-campus boarding.

The University of Pennsylvania strives to balance the needs of students requiring ESAs with the needs of the wider campus community. The ESA policy reflects the university’s commitment to providing reasonable accommodations while ensuring that all students can enjoy their living environment. If you are considering bringing an ESA to campus, be sure to follow all university and legal guidelines to ensure a smooth and supportive experience.