Q: As an OT, can I provide documentation to confirm that a person requires a service animal for reasons relating to their disability? 

A: Yes, OTs are one of the regulated health professionals who can provide documentation to confirm that a person requires a service animal for reasons relating to their disability, as outlined in Section 80.47 of the Integrated Accessibility Standards Regulation under the AODA. 

When an OT is providing documentation regarding a service animal, they should be aware of what the documentation should include to substantiate the need for the service animal. For example, if the OT is completing documentation for a service animal who may be travelling with a client, they should consult the Canadian Transportation Agency.

Q: What steps should an OT follow when providing documentation for a person requiring a service animal for reasons relating to their disability?

A: An OT should follow these steps when providing documentation: 

• Determine their own competency to provide the documentation: 
  OTs need to consider their scope of practice and their own competency when determining if it is appropriate to provide documentation regarding the need for a service animal. 

• Conduct an assessment:
  OTs should ensure an appropriate assessment has taken place in accordance with the Standards for Occupational Therapy Assessments and the need for a service animal has been documented.

• Provide documentation of the need: 
  OTs can write a letter outlining the need for the service animal being mindful to only include personal health information necessary for the purpose of the letter. 

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