Who Let the Dogs Out? Animals in the Workplace and Beyond-What Lawyers Should Know

In recent years, requests to bring emotional support animals into the workplace have grown significantly, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many individuals view these animals as an important source of comfort, helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. As a result, employers are increasingly faced with questions about whether emotional support animals belong in the workplace. While some organizations have adopted pet-friendly office policies without distinguishing between emotional support animals and household pets, others continue to grapple with whether—and under what circumstances—such animals should be permitted at work.

This webinar will explore the legal distinctions between emotional support animals and service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the New York State and City Human Rights Laws. Panelists will discuss employers' obligations when evaluating requests for reasonable accommodations involving animals, identify key considerations in the interactive process, and share best practices for developing and implementing workplace pet policies. The program will also address related legal issues involving animals in housing and public accommodations, as well as recent developments in this evolving area of the law.

Panel Leader:

Iyana Titus, Labor and Employment Law Section Chair

Assistant Commissioner for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging

NYC Parks & Recreation

New York, New York

Panelists:

Kate Hancock, MBA, SPHR

Director of Human Resources

Saint Elizabeth Community

Warwick, Rhode Island

Christopher Collins

Partner

Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP

New York, New York