HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- In response to a recent Straight Talk question submitted, I’d like to clarify the policy regarding pets in an office environment here.
The question asked: “What is the policy for bringing dogs to the office that are not support animals?”
While we understand the positive impact pets can have on morale and well-being, pets are generally not allowed within federal facilities. There are certain exceptions, such as housing units on Department of the Air Force installations as well as employees who need a service animal pursuant to a reasonable accommodation.
This guidance is reinforced by Air Force Instruction 36-2710, which defines service animals trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with a disability. These are considered working animals, not pets, and their role must directly support the individual’s disability. Animals whose sole function is to provide “comfort or emotional support” do not meet the criteria for service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Emotional support animals may be considered for workplace accommodation on a case-by-case basis through the appropriate channels. This process involves coordination with the Equal Opportunity office, medical providers, and the employee’s leadership chain.
Absent approved accommodations, pets of any kind are not permitted in offices or workspaces on Hanscom AFB. This helps to ensure safety, hygiene, and accessibility for all personnel working in federal facilities. Furthermore, we want to foster a professional work environment across the installation with minimum distractions.
I encourage all personnel and supervisors to remain familiar with these policies and to work closely with their teams when questions or concerns arise.
For individuals who believe an accommodation is necessary, work with your chain of command and the disability program manager in the Equal Opportunity office to initiate the process.
As always, thank you for your continued professionalism and commitment to maintaining a respectful, mission-ready environment.
If you have a question or concern you’d like addressed in a future Straight Talk, call 781-225-1380 or email Hanscom.straightalk@us.af.mil.