A therapy animal is a trained animal that provides comfort and support to individuals in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. These animals, often dogs or cats, help reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of loneliness, promoting emotional well-being. Therapy animals are different from service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Instead, therapy animals offer companionship and emotional support, often working alongside a handler or therapist to enhance the therapeutic experience for those in need.