- A Pennsylvania man has been bringing his 7-year-old alligator, Jinseioshi, to Walmart and restaurants as an emotional support animal.
- After a customer complaint, Walmart clarified only ADA-recognized service animals (dogs and miniature horses) are permitted. Emotional support animals, including gators, do not qualify.
- The Department of Justice reinforced that exotic or dangerous pets cannot be service animals under the ADA.
- Emotional support animals do have protection under the Fair Housing Act—but only in housing situations, not public retail spaces.
- The case highlights the ongoing confusion between ESAs and service animals, and how property owners must carefully navigate compliance.
Investor takeaway:
In Arizona, where pet ownership is high and tenant demand often hinges on pet policies, landlords must understand the difference between ESAs and service animals. Mishandling these requests can open the door to legal liability—a top concern for landlords in industry reports. Professional property management can help screen, document, and enforce these rules without exposing investors to risk.