Q: What is the difference between a therapy dog, a service dog, and a support animal?
Therapy Dogs
A therapy dog is a public servant who offers psychological and physiological support to individuals other than their owner. Entering public facilities is acceptable on a case-by-case basis and they need to be given permission before volunteering at the premises. They have very easy going and playful personalities and are trained to be well mannered around many new people or environments.
Service DogS
A service dog is trained to perform specific tasks for their owner in order to ease the challenges of their disability. The trust in this relationship is incredibly strong and allows the handler to be able to go through life with constant physical or psychological support. In order to qualify for a service dog, the individual must have a condition that significantly limits or does not allow for them to engage in daily life activities.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals with Service Dogs and grants them access into almost all public facilities or events without having to obtain permission. The only two questions the public may ask are (1) is that a service dog? and (2) what task do they perform for you? No documentation or demonstrations are required, however, the dog may not be a nuisance or threat to the public.
ESA (Emotional Support Animal)
ESAs offer comfort to their owners who struggle with stress, anxiety or depression. They have not been trained to provide a specific task, therefore, are not given the same rights as service dogs. Their access is significantly limited, however, with permission they may live in housing that does not allow animals or fly in airplanes according to the Fair Housing Act and Air Carrier Access Act.
Q: How can I donate?
Donations can be made directly through this website, or with the assistance of Amy Francis at 616-902-0205 or afrancis@rmtdogs.org.