3341-6-60 Animals on Campus

1. Policy Statement and Purpose

   The purpose of this policy is to provide for the health and safety of students, faculty, staff, and guests, along with the protection of the University’s property and assets, by regulating the presence of pets and other animals on campus. The presence of pets and other animals can be disruptive to daily operations, create sanitary problems and property damage, and cause allergen and other medical concerns.

2. Policy Scope

   This policy applies in and to all university buildings, university grounds, and university vehicles.

3. Policy

   1. Buildings, Outdoor Areas with Restricted Access, and Vehicles

      Pets and other animals are not permitted in university buildings, outdoor areas with restricted access (such as athletic facilities), or university vehicles.

   2. Exceptions

      This prohibition does not apply to any of the following:

      1. Animals used in current teaching, research, or clinical activities;
      2. Service animals and assistance animals as permitted by Policy 3341-2-42, Service Animal and Assistance Animal Policy;
      3. Fish kept as pets in aquariums not exceeding 20 gallons;
      4. Pets in staff apartments as permitted by an Office of Student Engagement and Residence Life Pet Agreement;
      5. Animals used by law enforcement (e.g. patrol dogs accompanying police); or
      6. Therapy dogs and other therapy animals participating by written authorization in an official university service or program.

   3. Outdoor Areas with Unrestricted Access

      Dogs and other pets are allowed in unrestricted-access outdoor areas (such as the Bowen-Thompson Quadrangle or Carillon Park) but must be kept on a leash and under the absolute physical control of the owner or handler in accordance with state and local leash laws.

      Leashed animals must not be left unattended or tied to trees, railings, or other stationary objects.

      The owner or handler of a pet is responsible for removing and properly disposing of all feces deposited by their pet.

      Anyone bringing a dog or other pet onto campus bears full responsibility for the behavior of their animal and any damage it may cause.

Registered Date: March 17, 2023
Amended Date: December 20, 2023