Wichita State University allows certain animals on campus; however, requirements vary depending on the type of animal. This guide provides a clear overview of what is permitted and where.
Overview of Animal Types
Animals on campus are grouped into the following categories:
- Service Animals
- Professional Therapy Dogs
- Assistance Animals (Emotional Support Animals)
- Pets
- Animals used for research, academic programs, or special events
Each category has specific guidelines that must be followed.
Getting your University Animal approved
- Fill out the New Student Application Form
- Meet with OSAT Coordinator
- Recommendation from OSAT Coordinator is provided to HRL Coordinator
- HRL Coordinator reaches out to set up meeting and requests animal records
- The animal's health records are required before meeting with the HRL Coordinator to allow time to look over information and confirm they are in good standing. ESA will be denied if the requirements are not met (see below).
- HRL Coordinator and resident meet
- Agreement is sent electronically to be signed
- Animal is allowed in the dorms 48 hours after the meeting with HRL Coordinator, provided the agreement has been signed
Documentation Requirements for Animals in Campus Housing
- Completed recommendation from OSAT
- Updated vaccination records
- Dogs: Bordetella/Kennel Cough, Rabies, and recommended Combination Vaccine (ex: DAPP/DHPP)
- Cats: Feline Leukemia Vaccine or a Negative test result, Rabies and recommended Combination Vaccine (ex: FVRCP)
- Other animals: Veterinarian recommendations
- If your Veterinarian does not recommend the required vaccinations, please have this documented or have them reach out to us to clarify
- All animals must be at least 6 months old upon move in for medical and behavior purposes
Service Animals
Definition:
Service animals are dogs (and in some cases miniature horses) that are individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability.
Examples of tasks include:
- Guiding individuals with visual impairments
- Alerting individuals to sounds or medical conditions
- Providing mobility or physical support
Where they are allowed
Service animals are permitted in all campus buildings and University premises.
Requirements
- Must be under control at all times (leash, harness, or effective voice control)
- Must be housebroken and well-behaved
Note
Documentation or certification is not required. However, University staff may ask whether the animal is required due to a disability and what task it performs.
Professional Therapy Dogs
Definition:
Professional therapy dogs are trained animals that work with a qualified handler as part of a professional role, providing therapeutic services.
Where they are allowed
Permitted in all campus areas, similar to service animals.
Requirements
- Must meet the same behavior and control standards as service animals
- Handler may be required to provide verification of their professional role
Assistance Animals (Emotional Support Animals)
Definition:
Assistance animals provide emotional or mental health support to individuals with disabilities. They do not require specialized training.
Where they are allowed
- Inside University residence halls only, with prior approval
- In outdoor campus areas (except certain restricted spaces such as athletic events)
- Not permitted in most other campus buildings
Requirements
- Approval through the Office of Student Accommodations and Testing (OSAT)
- Documentation from a licensed medical or mental health provider
Additional guidelines
- Must be leashed or under control when outdoors
- Must not pose a safety risk or cause property damage
Pets
Definition:
Pets are animals commonly kept for companionship.
Where they are allowed
- Outdoors on campus, if properly controlled
- In residence halls only if permitted by Housing policies
Restrictions
- Pets are generally not allowed inside campus buildings, unless they also qualify under another category (e.g., service animal)
Important considerations
- Pets must be leashed or restrained outdoors
- The University may require removal of pets that do not comply with policy
Animals for Research, Academic Programs, or Events
Animals may be permitted on campus when they are part of:
- Approved research projects
- Academic programs
- Authorized events
All such uses require prior University approval.
Animals Not Permitted
Animals that do not fall into one of the approved categories are not allowed on University premises.
Responsibilities of Animal Handlers
All individuals bringing animals to campus are responsible for:
- Maintaining control of the animal at all times
- Cleaning up and properly disposing of waste immediately
- Ensuring the animal is not left unattended
- Complying with all applicable laws (e.g., vaccination, licensing, leash laws)
- Covering any damages caused by the animal
Removal of Animals
An animal may be removed from campus if it:
- Is not housebroken
- Is out of control and not properly managed
- Poses a threat to health or safety
- Disrupts University operations
Contact Information
Emergencies or immediate concerns
University Police Department
(316) 978-3450
Student questions about service or assistance animals
Office of Student Accommodations and Testing (OSAT)
(316) 978-3309
Housing-related questions
Housing and Residence Life
(316) 978-3693
Policy concerns or complaints
Office of Civil Rights, Title IX & ADA Compliance
(316) 978-3186
WSU Policy on animals on University Premises
WSU Policies and Procedures: 11.23 / Animals On University Premises