I work at a vet clinic as a receptionist. I have a new colleague that brings her emotional support animal (it is not a service dog) with her to work. The two vets and some technicians occasionally bring their dogs in for the day. But these animals are kept in the office or in runs out back. They’re never up front where they’re in contact with patients.

Well my new colleague (who is also a receptionist) keeps her dog with her at all times as it’s an ESA. I didn’t think this would be an issue at all. But, this dog is not well trained at all. He nips at your heels, barks frequently and is very under foot. He jumps all over the desks (he’s a Chihuahua) and yesterday he jumped over the desk and started an altercation with a patient. I’ve had a couple long term clients mention to me that the dog up front has been upsetting their animals (especially the cats).

Altercations occur occasionally between patients, but these are rare as generally clients are really good at watching their animals and keeping them secure with a lease or carrier. But, my colleague doesn’t want to tie up or crate her dog all day. Apparently, because she’s got a doctors note my boss has to make these accommodations.

The vet that owns the practice is really great and I’m not scared to talk to her. But, I don’t want to say anything and potentially start problems/drama if this girl found out if there’s nothing my boss can do. I’ve been told by someone else that my boss doesn’t have to make these accommodations for an ESA. So I’m unsure. If the dog was trained and actually listened and stayed put it’d be fine. But, because the dog upsets patients and is constantly getting into something I’m not able to do my job properly. I don’t think it’s fair to everyone that this dog gets in the way and upsets patients who are our priority.