This standard applies to dogs kept as domestic companions. It does not define, replace, or limit the legal rights of assistance dogs, service dogs, or emotional support animals under applicable law. Where a jurisdiction grants access rights to assistance or service dogs independently of a provider's pet policy, those rights exist outside the scope of this standard.
RDFRG-02 · Defined Term 19
Assistance and Service Dogs
This standard covers companion dogs only. Legal rights of assistance dogs and service animals exist outside its scope.
Definition
This standard covers companion dogs only. Legal rights of assistance dogs and service animals exist outside its scope.
Part of the Roch Dog Standard (RDFS-02) · Published by Roch Dog
Assistance and Service Dogs
Roch Interpretation
RDFS-02 does not cover assistance dogs and service animals. Their rights are set by the law in the relevant jurisdiction and exist entirely independently of whether a property is Roch Dog certified or not.
Examples
Compliant
A hotel with a published no dogs policy makes clear on its website that assistance dogs are accepted in accordance with applicable law, correctly separating the two categories.
Not compliant
A hotel attempts to apply its stated dog fee to a guest travelling with a registered guide dog, treating the assistance animal as a companion dog under the property's pet policy.
Published by Roch Dog
RDFRG-02 · Last updated 17 March 2026