As part of Brock’s ongoing commitment to fostering a culture of accessibility, the University is introducing a new policy to help guide those who wish to be accompanied by a service animal on campus.

Effective Friday, Aug. 30, the Animals on Campus Policy both clarifies and strengthens Brock’s procedures for service animals, outlining the process for students, employees and visitors. Service animals are permitted anywhere on Brock property that is open to the public. Permission for non-public areas may also be granted through the accommodations process.

The policy, created in accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disability Act and the Ontario Human Rights Code, aims to ensure all Brock community members are provided a safe and healthy environment to both work and learn in. It applies to all staff, faculty, professional librarians, students, contractors and visitors who seek to bring an animal into any indoor space.

“Development of this policy is one way in which Brock is working to make campus a more accessible and inclusive space for all,” says Jennifer Guarasci, Interim Vice-President, Administration. “As we usher in the new school year, it’s critical that we ensure the proper supports are in place to set students and employees up for success, both today and into the future.”

Students can register with Student Accessibility Services, which will review service animal requests while developing an accommodation plan that suits each individual’s needs.

Employee accommodation requests can be sent to employeehealth@brocku.ca, with more information available on the Medical Accommodations Sharepoint site (login required).

For more information on the Animals on Campus Policy. Including frequently asked questions, visit the Student Accessibility Services website and Health, Safety and Wellness Sharepoint page.