An email sent to the UP community affirms policies regarding animals on campus
(Photo Courtesy of George Gray)
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Toto, I've a feeling we're not in UP anymore, at least not in university buildings.
Returning students may recall a handful of professors would occasionally bring their pets to class.
However, due to allergies to dogs, the University is stepping up enforcement of its pet policy.
On Aug. 18, Harold Burke-Sivers, the director of Public Safety, sent out a mass email affirming the Campus Animal and Leash Policy to UP faculty and staff.
"We request that you comply with University policy that requires your dogs to be on a leash at all times while on campus and not allow them in University buildings," Burke-Sivers said in the email.
According to the Chair of Committee on Health and Safety Jeff Rook, the policy was reviewed due to allergy concerns and other complaints over the years.
"We needed to refresh the policy for new faculty and staff, and so people have a general understanding of the University policies," Rook said.
The policy also states the first violation will result in a written warning, and a second offense will result in a citation.
Further violations by members of the University community will result in a $20 citation, and non-members will be trespassed from UP property.
Service animals are allowed in university facilities as part of the Americans with Disabilities Act, but must remain on a leash at all times.
Professor Jeff Gauthier, of the philosophy department, has brought his dog to class in the past. He believes the University should have consulted and discussed the policy with all of those affected by it.
"While I agree that there is a need for regulations on dogs in the workplace, to ban them entirely from campus buildings seems extreme and counterproductive," Gauthier said. "There is evidence that dogs help reduce stress and make people more at ease at work."
Allie Teel, a sophomore at UP, is severely allergic to dogs and recalls her experience with a class pet.
"I had a class in high school where a dog would come to class, and I would be wiping my nose," Teel said. "But I'm not against dogs being in the classroom, as long as I'm not sitting by it."
Fr. George Gray, a professor in the theology department, is known for bringing his Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chauncie, to the workplace.
"Chauncie's been sort of the canine version of getting comfort food or listening to some favorite old music or wearing a beloved old hoodie," Gray said. "Never has there been any indication that he would not be welcome."
After asking his students about allergies or any other issues of which he should be aware, Gray would bring Chauncie to class about once every other week
Gray said he understands the University must be sensitive to the well-being of the community and follow the implemented safety policies.
"Nonetheless, either before or after my classes, he might take a walk around campus, on leash, of course," Gray said. "Then at least he could see some of his old Theology 101 and 205 buddies from semesters past."
(Photo Courtesy of George Gray)
