Assistance animals are specially trained animals that help individuals with disabilities. These animals can perform tasks that aid their handlers, such as guiding people who are visually impaired or alerting those who are deaf. Common types of assistance animals include service dogs, emotional support animals, and therapy animals. Unlike pets, assistance animals are recognized under specific laws, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States. This legislation allows individuals with disabilities to have their assistance animals accompany them in public places, providing essential support and companionship in daily life.