Therapy Dog vs Service Dog: What Is The Difference?
There is a lot of confusion surrounding therapy dogs vs service dogs, with people often using these terms interchangeably. However, there are more differences than similarities when it comes to training, legalities, costs, and more. While both provide support to humans, it's important to understand where these roles deviate. This guide will help you distinguish between service dogs and therapy dogs and the key roles that these animals play.
What is a service dog?
According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), dogs are the only species that can be a service animal. The official definition says that a service dog is,
"Any guide dog, signal dog, or other dog that has been trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability."
In other words, it is not simply a pet that provides comfort to its owner. It's also not just a well behaved, well-trained dog that is polite in public. A service dog has been trained to a high standard to perform specific skills. Such skills allow people with mental or physical disabilities to live more independent lives. There are many different types of service dogs, and each must undergo special training in accordance with the handler's disability.
These dogs are not considered to be pets. In fact, they are considered to be durable medical equipment. Service dogs are allowed ready access to all public spaces, without question, including work spaces, restaurants, hotels, grocery stores and everywhere in between. Furthermore, individuals with a service dog cannot be denied housing due to their service dog. Even if housing is declared to be “pet free” or “no pets allowed”, they have the right to be there.
What is a therapy dog?
Conversely, therapy dogs are companion animals whose person has decided to engage in comforting activities with others. Therapy dogs are generally calm in temperament, enjoy being around people and have demonstrated good basic obedience and public manners. Many businesses (i.e. schools, hospitals, nursing homes, airports, courthouses) utilize therapy dogs to provide comfort for residents, students, or others participating in activities at those locations.
Entities that have therapy dog programs will set their own standards for qualification. There are some national therapy dog organizations, such as Therapy Dogs United, which can certify therapy teams (dog and handler) and then match them with appropriate participating facilities.
Under the ADA guidelines, therapy dogs are considered pet dogs. They are not allowed the same general public access as service dogs. Instead, they need permission to be at the facility where they are providing support. Furthermore, because they are considered pets, therapy dogs do not earn a waiver for ‘pet free' housing access.
Therapy Dog vs Service Dog
Training and Certification
Service dog training is extremely intensive and will vary with the owner's disability. Depending on the owner's needs, the service dog may be trained to aid with physical or mental disabilities, such as those with visual impairments, mobility challenges, hearing impairments, or even psychiatric conditions. Therapy dog training isn't as specialized, mainly focusing on good manners and social skills.
Neither therapy dogs nor service dogs need formal certifications. However, owners can become certified dog trainers. The Academy of Pet Careers' Specialized Dog Trainer Program teaches students how to become service dog trainers.
Legal Status and Access Rights
Under ADA, service dogs have full public access rights. This means they must be allowed entry into any buildings, offices, restaurants, transportation, workplaces, hotels or outdoor public spaces. Therapy dogs do not get these same access rights and can be denied entry into various places.
Working Relationship and Handling
Service dogs are trained to work with one specific individual with a disability, while therapy dogs work with multiple people in various settings. Service dogs work independently with their handlers, while therapy dogs work for others under the supervision of their handlers.
How are service animals and therapy animals different from emotional support animals?
Emotional Support Animals (ESA) are another form of support animal that cause confusion. ESA provide affection and comfort to their owners, and they are not trained to perform specific tasks or to work in facilities. While service animals must be dogs, any pet can be considered an ESA by their owner, including emotional support dogs. "Emotional Support Animal" is not a regulated title.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the difference between service dogs and therapy dogs is essential for recognizing the unique roles these animals play. Both types of dogs enrich lives in distinct ways, showcasing the powerful bond between humans and working animals. If becoming a service dog trainer is your goal, The Academy of Pet Careers' dog training school provides everything you need to start your service dog training journey.