What is a Service Dog?

A service dog is a dog individually trained to perform tasks that mitigate the effects of a person's disability. Service dogs are protected under the American’s Disability Act (ADA) and have rights to public access to all places except food preparation and sterilized environments.

Businesses are allowed to ask 2 questions to handlers:
-Is that a service dog?
-What tasks does the dog provide?

What is a task?

A task is a behavior the service dog performs to mitigate someone’s disability. For example, picking items up, altering to medical episodes, interrupting behaviors (like self-harm or picking at skin), and many more.

What is a disability?

A disability is a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities that impacts daily life.

How do I get a service dog?

First, you must qualify for a disability as accordance to the Americans Disability Act as being disabled. A message from a doctor is required stating that you will benefit from a service dog.

What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

An ESA is any kind of animal (dog, cat, bird, reptile, and more) that provides comfort and support to individuals with mental health conditions. They require a letter written by a doctor that “prescribes” them this animal. ESAs are not required to be trained and do not have the same legal rights as service animals. ESAs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and may live in non-pet-friendly housing only.

What is a Therapy Animal?

A therapy animal is a pet trained to provide emotional support and comfort to people in various settings like hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. They can be trained and registered through the American Red Cross and Pet Partners.