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The University is seeking input from faculty and staff on a proposed
policy that would limit pets on campus.
At its August meeting, CWRU's Staff Advisory Council discussed
a draft of an "Animals on Campus" policy at the request of the
human resources department. The Faculty Senate expects to review
the draft at its September 23 meeting.
The proposed policy is in response to employee concerns involving
allergies and phobias, as well as complaints about pets soiling
the grounds, according to discussion at the meeting. In addition,
animals on campus are a liability issue for the University.
According to the draft, the policy aims "to assist the University
in upholding state and local laws and regulations; to ensure the
health and safety of the University community; to preserve the
integrity of its grounds, buildings and other property; and to
support a healthy educational and working environment that respects
the rights of all members of the University community."
During the SAC meeting, several council members said employees
they have spoken with are mostly in favor of a policy that would
limit animals on campus. Many staff members also endorse a transition
period to allow pet owners to make other arrangements for care
and give their animals time to become accustomed to new routines.
Staff members who do not believe a policy is necessary say pets
contribute to the quality of life on campus and are a selling
point to prospective students, faculty and staff. They suggest
some campus areas be designated for pets.
As drafted, the policy prohibits dogs, cats, birds and other
pets or animals from all University-controlled buildings, including
offices, classrooms, hallways and residence halls. Animals that
are officially part of the University's teaching, research or
clinical programs and fish in containers of ten gallons or less
would be permitted on campus.
Service animals, such as guide dogs, would be exempt. The proposed
policy calls for an owner to give advance notice of the need for
a service animal and provide annual documentation that the animal
is in good health, has appropriate shots and is trained to perform
specific services. An owner also must take full responsibility
for the behavior of the service animal and clean up after it,
according to the draft.
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