You are the Office Manager of a consulting firm, which occupies a four story building in a suburban office park. One day Steve, who is in charge of photocopying, comes to you to tell you about a problem. He has had a diagnosed history of Anxiety NOS. He has recently seen his therapist, who recommended that he make use of a service dog to pet and comfort him during his anxiety attacks. These attacks often occur during the work day and are caused by the stress of deadlines. He owns a teacup Chihuahua, named Poochie Pie. She will be used as the service animal to assist him when these attacks occur. He promises that Poochie Pie is a good dog, will be kept in her carry cage during the day and will be walked at appropriate times. His shop is on the ground floor in the rear of the building.
Carla, who is an admin on the top floor of the building, hears that Steve will be bringing Poochie Pie to work. As a three year old, she was bitten by a dog and ever since then has a morbid fear of dogs. She has begun posting negative comments about Steve and Poochie Pie on the Internet and on her Facebook page. You have never read such but several other employees have told you about her comments.
How do you deal with these issues?