Many University of Northern Iowa students have pets. Some students bring their pets into the dorms, some keep them in their apartments or homes, and some leave their pets with their parents. Some students feel that the cost of owning a pet is high, and students feel that they are busier than usual. UNI students are permitted to keep pets on campus with approval through the appropriate channels.
A survey conducted among UNI students revealed that 97% of participants felt more alone without their pets. There are many reasons why students may not be able to bring their pets with them. In some cases, problems arise simply because of lack of funds or space. One respondent wrote, “My dog has to stay with my in-laws because my landlord doesn’t allow dogs.”
The University’s policy states that “Service Animals (as defined by the federal Americans with Disabilities Act), Service Animals (as defined by the federal Fair Housing Act), and Working Animals (as defined in this Policy) are permitted in accordance with the provisions of the law, and is a policy.
48% of survey respondents were unaware of any laws or policies that allow pets on campus. The ADA was updated on March 15, 2011, and Titles II and III of the ADA only recognize dogs as service animals. These titles allow service animals to accompany their handlers. The FHA exists to prevent discrimination against homeowners. If you need to bring a service or service animal with you, but your rental agreement does not allow it, FHA requires landlords to make reasonable accommodations to allow you to keep the animal.
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My dog has to stay with my in-laws because my landlord doesn’t allow dogs.
— Survey respondents
An example of a service animal is a guide dog for someone who is visually impaired. Service animals work alongside their handlers and provide assistance. Assistance or emotional support animals are permitted with approval from Student Accessibility Services. Students with assistance animals must register the animal with the ESA, and the professional will provide the student with a letter granting permission. Pet owners can easily register their animals as ESAs through designated online websites. UNI also accepts working animals for educational and research purposes. Pets are allowed in designated pet communities and subject to housing and dining approval. Companion animals are kept solely for leisure purposes and fun.
“Companion animals that have a valid license, are vaccinated, are properly restrained (e.g., on a leash), and are accompanied by their owners are permitted on campus; Entry to facilities (e.g., administrative and academic buildings, residential facilities, housing and dining departments) is prohibited, as well as athletic and recreational areas on campus. from.”
If a student chooses to bring a pet to campus, the Department of Housing and Dining will provide written ownership requirements. “Provide appropriate restraint, control, and supervision for animals at all times. Provide animals with appropriate care, including food, water, shelter, health care, and humane treatment. Remove all animal waste (indoor and outdoor). Clean and dispose of animals in a timely and effective manner; Do not leave animals unattended in University-owned housing for more than 6 consecutive hours in any 24-hour period; We do not tolerate odor, noise, damage, or other behavior that disturbs others or damages University grounds, facilities, or property. Animals should wear personal identification tags if applicable.
88% of students feel their pets have improved their academic performance, but 22% of respondents believe they don’t have enough time to care for their pets. Class schedules and school organization can affect the amount of time students spend with their furry friends.
Cedar Falls and UNI have similar regulations regarding pet ownership. Owners must ensure that their pets do not become a nuisance, and owners are responsible for providing appropriate care for their pets. Cedar Falls requires pet owners to license their pets. Sect. 6-44 of the Cedar Falls City Ordinance states, “Any owner of a dog or cat that requires a permit shall, by January 1 of each year, submit a permit to a city employee or designee for each dog or cat he owns. You must apply.” cat. ”
There are certain exceptions to pet permits, and according to Article 2, Cedar Falls City Ordinance 6-51 states, “The requirements of this article for licensing dogs, cats, and poultry shall “Does not apply to dogs, cats, or poultry that are being transported or will be adopted.” Displayed or displayed to non-residents of the City if staying in the State for less than 30 days or assigned to a research institution or similar facility. ”
67% of respondents were unaware of the rules and regulations regarding keeping pets within Cedar Falls. On September 5, 2024, the Cedar Falls Animal Control Task Force met to discuss new portions of the Animal Control Ordinance. Cedar Falls Police Chief Mark Howard said, “We have proposed hiring two part-time, fully trained animal control staff to respond to calls during high call times. ‘s primary role is to work with CBHS and train other public safety staff with the option to assist with other duties as needed.
As the number of pets in Iowa grows, pet ownership ordinances are constantly updated and changed.
