Animal assisted therapies have become more and more popular in recent years. From therapeutic horseback riding to dogs visiting children’s hospitals many experts tout the healing power of animals. If you are a new (or experienced ) pet owner, you may be curious about how to get your dog certified as a therapy dog or confused about what therapy dogs can and can’t do. We put together this comprehensive guide so you will be ready to rock your certification exams!
First thing’s first, a therapy dog is a pet that does volunteer work with their handler in settings like schools, nursing homes, hospitals and even office buildings. These dogs have some training and certification but it is not the same as an emotional support dog or service dogs. They provide comfort, support, and stress relief. They, like a pet dog are only allowed to go places they are invited into.
Like therapy dogs, emotional support dogs are also pets. These dogs provide emotional support for their handlers who have been diagnosed with a mental health condition. This different from a therapy dog who works with their handler to provide emotional support for folks they are visiting.
Service dogs, sometimes called guide dogs when they work with blind handlers, have the most training and are protected under the ADA. These dogs are actually considered medical equipment and are allowed anywhere their handler goes (with a very few exceptions). Service dogs do not have to be in a harness or leash. If a service…
