WOODBRIDGE, NJ — A man shopping in a New Jersey supermarket with his registered service animal—a miniature horse—has drawn attention and controversy, with the owner threatening legal action against those making comments about stealing the animal.
The man, who asked to remain anonymous, says the horse assists with his mobility issues and is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows miniature horses to be recognized as service animals.
Man spotted in a New Jersey supermarket with his registered "service animal," a miniature horse.
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) November 16, 2024
The man says the horse helps with his mobility issue and is threatening legal action against those who want to steal it.
"People have been commenting they are going to steal the… pic.twitter.com/0G1UyiW1Qt
“People have been commenting they are going to steal the horse. I am going to have to take legal action,” the man told Patch.
Woodbridge police confirmed the man’s right to have the horse in the store, emphasizing that the ADA permits miniature horses as service animals under specific conditions. “It is a miniature horse and by Americans with Disabilities Act regulations, they can be service animals,” said Police Director Robert Hubner.
The incident has sparked debate over the use of unconventional service animals in public spaces.