Arkansas service dog laws
Arkansas law, Ark. Code 20-14-304, ties its definition of a service dog to the ADA and gives handlers the right to bring a trained dog into public places and housing accommodations with no extra charge. Because the state borrows the federal definition, a psychiatric service dog that performs trained tasks is treated the same way here as anywhere else.
- Ark. Code 20-14-308 lets a trainer who is actively training a guide, signal or service dog into hotels, restaurants, schools, transit and other public places without extra fees.
- Falsely presenting an animal as a service animal or service animal in training to a public accommodation carries a civil penalty of up to $250 per violation (Ark. Code 20-14-310).
- Deliberately killing or injuring a service animal without just cause is a Class D felony, and the offender must pay restitution.
- Housing accommodations are named in the access statute itself, and handlers stay responsible for any damage their dog causes.
Source: Ark. Code 20-14-304
How a PSD letter differs from an ESA letter
Psychiatric service dog
Trained to perform specific tasks. Can go into stores, restaurants and the airplane cabin with you.
Emotional support animal
Helps through companionship, with no task training. Covered for housing only. See the Arkansas ESA letter.
How to get a PSD letter in Arkansas
Book a time
Choose a phone or video slot and tell us about your dog and the tasks it performs.
Talk with a clinician
A licensed clinician reviews your symptoms and how the dog's training helps you.
Your signed letter arrives
If approved, your signed letter is emailed as a PDF. If not, you are not charged.
Arkansas PSD letter cost
| Letter | Covers | Price |
|---|---|---|
| PSD letter | One or two dogs | $149 |
| PSD letter | 3 dogs | $229 |
Booking is free and you're charged only if your letter is approved.
Service dog housing rights in Arkansas
If a landlord refuses a service dog, ask for the decision in writing, then contact the Arkansas Fair Housing Commission or file a complaint with HUD.
