ADA

Service Dogs Guidance

Properly certified Service Dogs are the only pets permitted on the Boardwalk at any time. Those with Service dogs accompanying them will be asked for proof of service dog credentials as permitted by the ADA. Borough Staff are equipped and trained to determine the difference between certified service dogs and those portrayed as such. If you are found with a pet that does not follow the guidelines for Service Dog behavior you will be asked for credentials. If not given you will be politely asked to leave the Boardwalk. We do this to ensure safety and protection for those in need of Service Dogs to make sure that their companions can safely execute their jobs for their owners without possible issues from other pets.

Three important points:  
1) emotional support dogs are not service animals under the ADA.
2) there are no Federal or official NJ service dog registries; and
3) bona fide service dogs are working dogs – they must be working while they accompany their handler. Behavior that indicates a dog is not working: licking hands, eating, urinating, leash pulling, no leash, transported in a cart or baby carrier, excessive barking, misbehaving, excessive sniffing, stealing food, nervous behavior, dog is young, dog whining in absence of handler emergency.