Side by side
| Service dog | Therapy dog | Emotional support animal | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Performs trained tasks for one person with a disability | Visits others to provide comfort | Provides comfort through presence |
| Training required | Task training + public behavior | Temperament + obedience; often a registry evaluation | None required by law |
| Public access (ADA) | Yes, most public places | No automatic rights; by invitation | No |
| Housing (Fair Housing Act) | Yes, as an assistance animal | No special rights | Often yes, with proper documentation |
| Air travel | Recognized with DOT forms | Treated as a pet | Treated as a pet |
| Species | Dogs (ADA) | Usually dogs; other animals possible | Various |
Which applies to me?
- I need a dog that performs tasks for my disability → service dog.
- I want to volunteer with my friendly dog → therapy dog.
- My dog's presence helps my mental health but doesn't perform trained tasks → possibly an ESA (relevant mainly in housing).
A psychiatric service dog is a service dog: it is trained to do tasks (for example, interrupting a panic attack or providing deep pressure). Comfort alone doesn't qualify.
Next steps
Read the ADA guide or the owner-training roadmap.
Need a hand?
Request a free service dog trainer referral.
Tell us about you and your dog. If you'd like, we'll pass your request to independent trainers and programs serving the Lehigh Valley who may be able to help. It's free, and there's no obligation to hire anyone.
- Free to request, no obligation
- Independent trainers, not affiliated with this site
- Covers owner-training coaching, public access and task training
- We never charge you for a referral