Service animals have always been a part of the Arisia community. They are welcome in all convention and hotel spaces, following the guidance of the ADA (https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm). Per the ADA:
...service animals must be harnessed, leashed, or tethered, unless these devices interfere with the service animal's work or the individual's disability prevents using these devices. In that case, the individual must maintain control of the animal through voice, signal, or other effective controls.
The Westin hotel says:
We welcome four-legged guests to wind down in the Seaport District. Additional fee applies and includes use of Westin's signature dog bed, please call the hotel directly for more details."
- Westin: Contact info
Arisia is a loud, active, and dynamic convention that has become more crowded as we have grown. Both people and animals can find that kind of environment stressful. Even well-trained animals may find the convention a challenge, which may cause them to act out and behave in unpredictable ways. This, as well as their dander and other allergens, present a serious risk to many of our attendees. Although the hotel has provisions for pets, we ask that our attendees consider these risks when deciding whether or not to bring pets with them to the convention this year.
