We strive to welcome guests who travel with assistance animals or service dogs and are committed to supporting an inclusive and respectful environment. This policy outlines how we accommodate assistance animals, service dogs, and emotional support animals (ESAs), in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA), while maintaining the comfort of all our guests.

Assistance Animals & Service Dogs

Definition
Assistance animals (including service dogs) are trained to perform specific tasks to support individuals experiencing physical, sensory, or mental health disabilities.

Access
Assistance animals are permitted in all public areas of Krishna Village in accordance with the DDA.

Requirements

• The animal must wear a working vest or be on a suitable harness or lead while in communal areas.
• We may request documentation confirming the dog’s status as a trained assistance animal (such as a council permit, training certificate, or official ID).

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Definition
ESAs offer comfort through their presence but are not trained to perform specific disability-related tasks.

Access
Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not granted automatic access under the DDA. Their presence is subject to approval and considered on a case-by-case basis.

Requirements

• ESAs must be on a leash or harness in all shared spaces.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animal both in the room, and in shared spaces, and we ask you to be mindful of disposing of waste appropriately.
• Requests to bring an ESA must be made in advance and approved prior to arrival.

General Guidelines for All Animals

• All animals must remain under the owner's control at all times.
• A $100 bond is required at the time of booking. This will be refunded after your stay, once housekeeping confirms the room is left in good condition.
• Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. Any damage or additional cleaning may result in extra charges.

Bookings and Notifications

If you are planning to bring a service dog or ESA, please contact our reception directly by phone or email to make your booking. Online bookings are not available for these reservations due to the special arrangements required.

When contacting us, please let us know:

• Whether you're bringing a service dog or ESA
• Any specific needs related to your animal
• If you will be accompanied by a carer or support person (recommended, see below)

Guests Experiencing Disabilities

We are committed to supporting guests with physical, sensory, or mental health-related needs and want to ensure a safe, comfortable stay for all.

Support Recommendations
We strongly recommend that individuals experiencing disabilities or mental health challenges be accompanied by a carer or trusted support person. This helps ensure that any personal, medical, or mobility-related needs are managed effectively.

The role of a carer or support person includes:

• Assisting with personal care and specific accommodations
• Being prepared to respond to emergencies
• Helping to ensure a safe and smooth experience for the guest and the wider community

Activity and Sound Levels

Krishna Village is a vibrant retreat environment that includes yoga classes, workshops, kirtan, and other group events. These may involve sound and movement.

While we do our best to create peaceful spaces, we cannot guarantee a quiet environment at all times. Guests with sensory sensitivities or support animals affected by sound should consider this when booking.