Dogs play an incredible role in so many lives. They offer so much love, companionship, and even assistance when we need it most. The three most common types of “working” dogs are known as service, therapy, and emotional support dogs. All of these dogs have a specific purpose with very different levels of training and levels of public access. Understanding the differences between service, therapy, and emotional support dogs is essential for respecting their roles and the laws surrounding them.

Service Dogs are Highly Trained Helpers

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that assist their disabled handler. These tasks can range from guiding a visually impaired person, alerting a handler to an impending seizure, retrieving objects, or helping with mobility. Because of their critical role, service dogs are legally permitted to accompany their handlers into public places under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

However, it’s important to note that while service dogs have extensive access rights, those rights come with responsibilities. If a service dog displays aggressive behavior or causes disruptions, businesses can legally ask the handler to remove the dog from the premises. This ensures that the public and others remain safe and that the environment stays welcoming for all.

Another crucial point is that there is no official certification or registration for service dogs in the United States. Websites or individuals claiming to sell “service dog certifications” are fraudulent. There is currently no national registration for service animals.

Therapy Dogs Spread Comfort and Joy

Therapy dogs provide comfort, emotional support, and companionship to people in various settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and even disaster areas. Certified through organizations like Pet Partners, these dogs undergo thorough temperament testing and training to ensure they can handle new environments, stay calm, and interact positively with people of all ages.

Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs do not have public access rights under the ADA. Their presence in facilities is limited to where they are invited and approved, typically through established programs. Therapy dogs are there to provide emotional upliftment to groups of people rather than assist a specific individual with a disability.

If you’re interested in having your dog become a therapy dog, we can help! Where Sit Happens can help prepare your pet for the necessary certification process.

Emotional Support Dogs are Companions for Mental Health

Emotional support dogs (ESDs) provide comfort and ease stress, anxiety, or phobias for their owners. While their presence can be incredibly beneficial, ESDs do not perform specific tasks related to a disability, meaning they do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.

Because of this, emotional support dogs do not have the right to public access. They are prohibited in places like restaurants, stores, or airplanes (as of recent airline policy changes). Their role is strictly for the comfort of their owner within private spaces, such as homes.

Like service dogs, there is no certification process for emotional support dogs. Any website claiming to provide “official ESD registration” is fraudulent. Owners should be wary of these offers and rely on legitimate documentation from licensed mental health professionals.

The Importance of Responsible Pet Ownership

For those who do not rely on a service dog or participate in therapy dog programs, it’s crucial to respect the boundaries in place for these working animals. Bringing a non-service dog into public places under false pretenses can create significant challenges for individuals who depend on their service dogs to function safely. It may also distract or disrupt service animals from performing their duties, causing potential harm to their humans and dogs.

Preparing Your Dog for Service or Therapy Work

By understanding the distinctions between service dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support dogs, we can create a more inclusive and respectful environment for everyone—human and dog alike. Respect the roles these dogs play and the laws that protect them, and always strive to ensure your actions support those who genuinely rely on these incredible animals.

If you’re considering training your dog for service or therapy work, starting with a professional trainer experienced in this field is essential. At Where Sit Happens, we can help prepare your dog for therapy certification and service roles. From obedience training to prepping your pup for public access, we can ensure you and your dog are set up for success.