What can a business owner ask regarding service animals?

A business owner is permitted to ask whether an animal is a service animal and what specific tasks it has been trained to perform. This is in line with the guidelines established under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which governs the use of service animals in public accommodations.

Service animals are defined as dogs that have been individually trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. The types of questions a business owner can ask are narrowly focused to ensure both legal compliance and the privacy of the individual. The ability to inquire specifically about the nature of the animal's training ensures that the business can ascertain whether it is indeed a service animal and what accommodations may be necessary for the individual’s needs.

Inquiries about the animal being a pet, possession of a license, or completion of training certification do not align with the ADA requirements. These questions could infringe on the rights of individuals with disabilities and detract from the focus on the service animal’s training and its role in assisting the person with a disability. Thus, option C stands out as the correct response by focusing on relevant and permissible inquiries within the context of the law.