Policy Summary:
In accordance with the Fair Housing Act, Cleary University is committed to providing those with a disability a fair and equal opportunity to use and enjoy Cleary University housing. This policy outlines the guidelines and requirements for Emotional Support Animals (ESA) within Cleary University housing.
Scope:
The policy applies to all current and prospective residents of Cleary University housing.
Definitions: Disability is defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such impairment or being regarded as having such an impairment. Emotional Support Animal: A prescribed animal that aids in the comfort or therapy of an individual within their living environment only. ESA’s are not service animals and are not covered by ADA but are an accommodation under the Fair Housing Act. Emotional Support Animal Treating Professional Documentation Form: Informational form to be completed by a medical or mental health professional outlining the need for an ESA within the student’s living environment. Emotional Support Animal Student Agreement: Agreement between the student and Cleary University outlining expectations for behavior, care, and handling of the student’s ESA. This agreement is signed by the student and the student’s parent or guardian if they are under 18.
Policy Statement:
ESA’s may be permitted for individuals who qualify as a person with a disability (i.e., has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities); and that support animal may be necessary to afford the person with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy Cleary University housing (i.e. that the
ESA would provide emotional support or other assistance that would ameliorate one or more symptoms or effects of the disability) Residents must document this disability by providing a completed Emotional Support Animal Treating Professional Documentation form to the College. ESA’s may not be brought into Cleary University Housing without expressed written approval of the University. Each student will be permitted only one ESA with appropriate approval. Regular inspections of the student’s residence and surrounding area will be done by housing professional staff. Cleanliness and behavioral expectations are outlined in the Emotional Support Animal Student Agreement. Once approved for an ESA, students do not have to re-apply. However, all veterinary care documentation must be submitted annually to the Director of Housing to be attached to the Emotional Support Animal Student Agreement. An agreement to have a specific animal may be rescinded if the student violates the policy or provisions outlined in the Emotional Support Animal Student Agreement. A student must complete paperwork on a new ESA should there be a need to replace or bring a different animal to campus.
Change Log:
| Date of Change | Description of Change | Responsible Party |
| 9/1/2020 | Initial Release | J. Cassell |
