Let's Go Over the (Dog) Ground Rules

Friday, October 20, 2017

You may have noticed some four-legged friends hanging out around campus. Some are personal pets while others have serious jobs here.

While we thoroughly enjoy seeing our furry friends, it is important to remember that not all of them are allowed inside campus buildings.

Bummer, we know. 

We don't want to get technical but Oklahoma State University has this policy…

“...only dogs specifically recognized by Pete’s Pet Posse and dogs identified as service animals as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act are allowed in campus buildings. Approved emotional support animals are restricted to residential housing. Other than in the case of these limited exceptions, pets and emotional support animals are not to be in campus buildings.”

What's Pete's Pet Posse?

Pete's Pet Posse is OSU's Pet Therapy Program, which allows campus community members’ pets to become therapy animals trained to provide affection and comfort to people.

HINT: Look for them in #AmericasBrightestOrange vests. You can also stay up to date with their schedules and follow them on social media.

How are service animals defined?

A service animal is any dog individually trained to work or perform tasks to help an individual with a disability. These animals should not be touched while they are working, as to not distract them from their important jobs.

TIP: Because of these differences, you should always ask before touching an animal. Regardless of if they are wearing a vest.

It is important to note, the policy applies to campus shelters. The best thing to do is to plan ahead when severe weather is coming for alternate shelters for your furry friend.

So, what about the rest of the dogs? Fret not! They are still allowed outside on campus.

Here are some tips to make sure our furry friends and two-legged companions are safe and comfortable.

Leashes: Can't go without them.

Keeping your dog on a leash protects them from running away and potentially getting hurt or lost.

ATTENTION: Stillwater actually has a leash law. It requires that dogs must be under restraint by a fence, chain or hand-held leash both on and off the owner's property.

What's that smell?

Dogs are wonderful... until their 💩 [poo]  is stuck to the bottom of your shoes. Make sure to always be prepared to clean up after your pets when they make a mess. Waste baggies are your best friend.

Playtime

Stillwaggin' Dog Park is a partnership between OSU, the City of Stillwater and Rotary Clubs of Stillwater. Bring some balls to fetch or a frisbee to throw, and you're all set.

If you are more into relaxing, grab a blanket and Fido's leash and hang out on Library Lawn.

Let’s go over what we learned here:

• Pete’s Pet Posse and service animals are the only dogs allowed in campus buildings.
• All other animals are allowed only outside.
• Stillwater has a leash law.
• Waste baggies for the win.
• Stillwaggin’ Dog Park is the place to be.

Show off your best friend using #dogsofokstate and #iamokstate on social media! Until next time, Go Pokes!