Therapy, ESA, or Service Dog?

There's a lot of confusion on the differences between Therapy, Emotional Support, and Service dogs! We're here to clear that up! Wren is currently in training to be a Therapy Dog!

Therapy Dog

Wren is a future therapy dog and is working hard on her skills! So what is a therapy dog you say? A therapy dog is trained to provide support, affection, and comfort to people in all kinds of settings. Such as to people in schools, airports, nursing homes, hospitals, court rooms, etc! These dogs volunteer with their Therapy Dog Handler to uplift and make others days brighter :). Therapy dogs do not have any legal protection, but according to the AKC it has been proven that being a therapy dog enhances the life of the dog as well! Learn more here.

Emotional Support Dog

An emotional support dog is prescribed by a doctor or therapist to provide, just that, emotional support. Such as comfort, stress relief, or companionship. This is typically prescribed for a psychological diagnosis, not a physical or mental disability. An ESA does not have the same protections or rights as a service animal. However, most places allow for an ESA to travel or attend specifics places with their handler based on their prescription.

Service Dog

A service dog is trained to aid and complete specific tasks for someone with a physical and/or mental disability. For example, assist someone who is blind or identify and alert for help if someone needs assistance. A service animal is protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is allowed to go everywhere with their handler.

For more information on the differences between a therapy, emotional support, or service dog - visit the experts here.

🐾 Wren

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