Emotional Support Animals
Oklahoma State University recognizes the importance of “Assistance Animals” under the Fair Housing Act, which are animals that provide comfort and/or emotional support to individuals with disabilities. Assistance Animals are NOT Service Animals. OSU is also committed to providing individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to use and enjoy University Housing. Emotional Support Animals (ESA) may NOT be kept in university housing at any time prior to the individual receiving approval from Residential Life.
SAS’s role is to verify documentation of need for an ESA and to send verification to Residential Life, who handles the remainder of the process. Please be advised: the ESA process from the initial request to actually bringing the animal into housing may take up to 30 days.
ESA Approval Process:
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Complete the “New Student Application” through our AIM portal. If you are currently registered with SAS, do not complete a new application. Instead, start with Step 2.
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Submit to SAS signed documentation on professional letter head from a qualified professional who is currently treating you. The documentation may either be faxed to 405-744-1143 or emailed to accessibility@okstate.edu.
The letter must:-
identify a nexus (connection) between your treatment plan and ESA
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make the professional recommendation for an ESA
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Once the correct documentation has been received, SAS will email Residential Life confirming the appropriate documentation is on file. SAS will also send an email to the student outlining the next steps they must complete with Residential Life.
ESAs are to be well behaved (no loud noises, biting, etc.) You are allowed only ONE ESA. If the ESA is a dog or a cat, the animal must be spayed/neutered and have all vaccinations before it is allowed on campus.
Please be advised: If you bring your ESA to your residence before you have received approval from Residential Life, you will be subject to fines and/or removal of the animal.
Only Emotional Support Animals (ESA) that are approved by Residential Life are allowed in residential housing.
Your ESA is NOT allowed in other campus buildings.