Pets on Campus

Summary of Policy

A policy dictating, which pets are allowed and not allowed on Dartmouth's campus. Any rights afforded under the Dartmouth College Assistance Animals Policy supersede this policy. Animal owners who live in non-dormitory, Dartmouth-controlled residences must abide by their lease agreements.

Reason for Policy

Dartmouth wishes to uphold all laws and regulations; ensure the health and safety of its community; prevent disruption to student and employees, preserve the integrity of its grounds, buildings, and other property; and support a healthful educational environment that respects the rights of all individuals.

Affected Parties

All Groups

Policy Statement

Pets, other than dogs, are not permitted on campus, except in situations specifically exempted by this policy.

Note:  This policy may be superseded by the Dartmouth College Assistance Animal Policy where an animal is on campus pursuant to that Policy and by relevant lease agreements for non-dormitory, College-owned or -leased residences. 

Dogs are allowed on the grounds of Dartmouth College provided they are not aggressive, or perceived by others as aggressive, do not interfere with the use of the grounds by others, and are under the control and custody of the owner or the owner's designee at all times, preferably on a leash.  Dogs are generally not allowed in Dartmouth buildings, except as provided below.

Dartmouth College discourages employees from bringing dogs to their workplace because dogs can cause problems for others. Employees are allowed to bring dogs to work in limited situations if the following provisions are met:

  • Approved by your department or division head
  • Under control and in custody of the owner or owners' designee at all times
  • Does not act in a manner that could appear aggressive to others
  • Does not interfere with the academic, research, and work experience of others, particularly students
  • Is properly licensed
  • Does not, in the supervisor's view, interfere with the owner's ability to perform their work duties.

Please note: Supervisors should not ask any subordinates or students to care for their animals.

Dogs may urinate or defecate only in dirt and grass areas – paying special attention not to soil areas where members of the community may walk or congregate. Pets may not defecate on any sidewalks, walking paths, or paved areas. The dog owner or designee is required to properly dispose of solid waste by bagging it and placing it in an appropriate trash receptacle.

The College reserves the right to revoke or revise this policy at any time.

This policy is not subject to the basic grievance policy that is described in the Dartmouth College Employment Policies and Procedures Manual.

Exclusions & Exceptions

Any rights afforded under the Dartmouth College Assistance Animals Policy supersede this policy.

Animal owners who live in non-dormitory, Dartmouth-controlled residences must abide by their lease agreements.

Ramifications

Owners are expected to immediately control a pet who acts aggressively on campus. Failure to do so could lead to loss of privilege to keep a pet on campus. 

If the department of Safety & Security becomes aware of an unrestrained or unattended dog on campus, they will make an attempt to reunite a dog with its owner. Repeated escapes could lead to loss of privilege to keep a pet on campus. If attempts to find the animal's owner are unsuccessful, the Hanover Police will be contacted.

Dartmouth may seek restitution for any animal-related damage to College-controlled property, facilities or grounds, or for costs related to the disposal of an animal's solid waste. The repair or replacement cost of damaged property is the sole responsibility of the owner of the animal that caused the damage. Failure to pay may result in disciplinary actions. 

Contact(s)

Facilities Operations and Management (FO&M)Student Accessibility Services (SAS)

Policy ID

005-0001

Effective Date

July 1, 2016

Division

Campus Services

Office of Primary Responsibility

Campus Services Division

Last Reviewed Date

March 14, 2024

Next Review Date

2025