Service Animal Rejected

A Maryland deaf woman says a mall in Frederick violated ADA law last wee. Denise Portis was told her hearing dog was not welcome and she would have to leave. She says security guards at Francis Scott Key Mall confronted her about Chloe, her certified hearing dog, more than once, even though the vizsla mix was wearing a red vest clearly identifying her as a service dog. Portis was also carrying certification papers at the time. She says the guards intimidated her and she was shaking, nearly in tears. A mall spokesperson says service dogs are welcome and steps will be taken to educate the guards.