Service Dog - Potentially Labeled as Dangerous! What can I do?

[Jessica Mayo]

I was doing work on my rental property over the weekend, and the gate was mistakenly left open and my tenants service dog ran away today. The tenant told me:

"He has been found. He killed someone's chicken and we may be fined and him labeled a dangerous dog. Devastating for our dog business. [He's a dog trainer.....] I just need for you to understand the seriousness of the situation.Also criminal charges , ugh let's hope it blows over" 

Because it's a service dog I couldn't get them to sign the pet addendum or anything to protect myself from the actions of this dog. Is there anything I can do to protect myself in this situation? 

Signed, 

Terrified New Landlord Jess

[Kent Clawson]

I am not a lawyer, but it seems it would only be a service dog if the tenant actually has a disability that requires it and no offense a dog that runs off is not a service animal. 

This web page "Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals Where are they allowed and under what conditions?" seems like it has some strategies for you to employ and at minimum, states "If a service animal behaves in an unacceptable way and the person with a disability does not control the animal, a business or other entity does not have to allow the animal onto its premises. Uncontrolled barking, jumping on other people, or running away from the handler are examples of unacceptable behavior for a service animal."

That is just my opinion, but I am sure you will actually get some feedback that is based on more than gut check and web page. 

Good luck.