Service animals, not pets, qualify for new patch

By JASMINE WATTS
Capital News Service
LANSING — Miniature horses and dogs working as service animals will have easier access to public places thanks to a recent state law. The changes, sponsored by Sens. David Knezek, D-Dearborn Heights, \Margaret O’Brien, R-Portage, Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Potterville, and Rep. David Rutledge, D-Ypsilanti, makes it easier for businesses to identify dogs and miniature horses that are service animals. A service animal is trained to help someone with a disability. Owners of such animals can apply to the state to receive an identification card and registered service animal patch.