Missouri Western State University policy prohibits pets in our residence halls. However, exemptions from this policy may be available if you have a diagnosed and documented disability. This exemption is only available to students with diagnoses that rise to the level of being considered a disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. There are several steps involved in this process and you are not allowed to bring your animal to campus until you have successfully completed all of these steps and received an approval letter from the Accessibility Resource Center.
Please be informed that an animal is considered a pet until it has been approved as an emotional support animal by the University. Upon a successful review of all submitted documentation, you will receive an accommodation letter from the ARC. The Director of Housing and Residence Life will also receive a copy of your accommodation letter stating that you have been granted an exemption from University pet policy and that you will have an emotional support animal living with you in your place of residence on campus.
If you have any questions about these procedures, please contact the Accessibility Resource Center by emailing arc@missouriwestern.edu.
How to request an ESA Accommodation
- Read the ESA Regulations (this link opens a new page).
- Submit your request for an ESA Accommodation (this link opens a new page) no later than July 15 each year for timely consideration. Approvals only last one academic year (August through July) so you will need to re-submit your request each year before returning to campus.
- Submit documentation within the form confirming that there is an ongoing need for the ESA and that all of the animal’s records (vaccinations, city license, clean bill of health, etc.) are up to date.
- Share the detailed information from within the form with your health care provider.