Service Dogs
Purpose: Trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability (e.g., guiding the visually impaired, alerting to medical issues, or providing mobility assistance).
Legal Protections: Covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Allowed to accompany their handler in public spaces (restaurants, stores, airplanes, etc.).
Training: Must undergo extensive, individualized training to perform specific tasks related to the person’s disability.
Access Rights: Full public access rights under federal law.
Therapy Dogs
Purpose: Provide comfort, affection, and emotional support to many people in settings like schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and therapy sessions.
Legal Protections: Not covered under the ADA. They do not have public access rights unless invited into a facility.
Training: Must be well-mannered, calm, and reliable in a variety of environments. Often certified through recognized therapy dog programs.
Access Rights: Only permitted in facilities where they are invited or scheduled for visits.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Purpose: Provide emotional comfort and companionship to their owner, often as part of a mental health treatment plan.
Legal Protections: Not covered under the ADA. They do not have public access rights.
Training: No specific task training is required, but they should be well-behaved in the home.
Access Rights: May be allowed in housing under the Fair Housing Act, but not in public places like stores, schools, or restaurants.