DSS will consider the following factors when determining if the presence of the ESA is deemed reasonable, when reviewing ESA requests, and/or in determining housing assignments for students with an ESA:
- The size of the animal is too large for available assigned housing space (generally limited to 60 pounds)
- The animal's presence would force another individual from individual housing (e.g. serious allergies)
- The animal's presence otherwise violates individuals' right to peace and quiet enjoyment
- The animal is not housebroken or is unable to live with others in a reasonable manner
- The animal's vaccinations are not up-to-date
- The animal poses or has posed in the past a direct threat to the safety or health of the individual or others such as aggressive behavior towards or injuring the individual or others, potential transmission of zoonotic diseases
- The animal causes or has caused excessive damage to housing beyond reasonable wear and tear
- There is already an approved ESA in your assigned housing space/room (generally only one approved ESA per housing space will be permitted and generally only one ESA per student will be permitted - DSS will review this policy on a case by case basis to determine if a second ESA can be permitted - dependent upon type and size of ESA - some requests for a second ESA cannot be approved and will be determined by DSS)
CTC takes the stance that campus housing is not an appropriate setting to raise a young puppy/kitten. Generally, dogs must be at least 12 months of age and cats six months of age. Proof of rabies vaccination and other vaccinations as needed are required for dogs. Appropriate vaccinations also required for cats. Proof of an up-to-date exam for the animal from a licensed veterinarian that attests to the absence of communicable diseases and parasites to show that the animal does not pose a notable risk of zoonosis and is in good health may also be required for other types of animals. A picture of the animal must also be provided. Size/weight of ESA and crate must be able to reasonably and safely fit in dorm room for approval. Only one ESA per student will be permitted with approval from DSS in order to fulfill the intent of the FHA requirements of providing support to a student with a mental health disability.