By Kathrine C: For Complete Post, Click Here…
The importance of the bond between humans and animals is undeniable. Many studies have shown the value of that bond in the form of mental, physical and even social health, but some of our animal friends are talented and caring enough to be capable of taking on the responsibility of becoming service animals.
Service animals, as defined by the ADA, are dogs specially trained to perform very specific tasks that could otherwise be difficult or even impossible for people with disabilities to perform independently, and as such, their training must be directly related to the person’s disability.
Although there has been great success with horses/miniature horses and even pigs providing care, by the ADA definition, they are not considered service animals. This is not to diminish the anxiety reducing skill and relief that emotional support animals provide their humans, regardless of type, but they are not considered service animals, as they are not specifically trained to perform a specific task related to a disability. They are therefore not eligible to the same privileges ensured to service animals and their humans. If you want to deep dive on some of the more commonly asked questions, you can visit the Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA webpage at ADA.gov.
