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Assistance Animals in University Housing

Drake University is committed to supporting students with disabilities who require the use of an assistance animal in university housing. The information below will help you understand your options and the steps to request approval.

Animal Definitions

Assistance Animal
An umbrella term for animals that provide disability-related support. This includes both service animals and emotional support animals. Assistance animals are not considered pets.

Service Animal
A dog that is individually trained to perform specific tasks related to a person’s disability.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)
An animal that provides comfort or emotional support to help reduce the effects of a disability. ESAs are not required to have specialized training.

Pet
An animal kept for companionship that is not providing disability-related support.

Policy Overview

  • Service Animals are generally permitted in campus buildings and university housing without prior approval.
  • Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are only permitted in university housing with prior approval through the Office of Access and Success.
  • Pets are not permitted in university housing (unless explicitly allowed by Housing policy).

View the full Assistance Animal Policy. All assistance animals must be under the control of the handler and comply with university expectations related to health, safety, and community living.

Requesting an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

If you are requesting to have an ESA in university housing, follow the steps below:

Step 1: Complete the Request Form

Submit the Disclosure and Request for Disability Accommodations form.

Step 2: Upload Required Documentation

As part of the form, you will need to provide:

  • A letter on official letterhead from a licensed medical or mental health provider supporting your need for an ESA in housing
  • Your animal’s most recent vaccination records
  • A clear photo of your animal

Step 3: Schedule a Meeting

After submitting your form and documentation, schedule an appointment with the Office of Access and Success to complete the review process.

What Happens Next?

  • Your request will be reviewed by the Office of Access and Success.
  • You may be contacted if additional information is needed.
  • Once approved, you will receive guidance on next steps and expectations for living with an ESA in university housing.

Questions?

If you’re unsure whether your animal qualifies or have questions about the process, please email access.success@drake.edu. We’re here to help guide you through each step.