Types of Assistance Animals
Assistance animals are categorized into three main types: service animals, emotional support animals, and therapy animals. Service animals, typically dogs, are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, such as guiding those who are visually impaired. Emotional support animals provide comfort and support to individuals with mental health conditions but do not have specialized training.
Therapy animals, which can include various species like dogs and cats, are used in therapeutic settings to help improve the emotional and psychological well-being of individuals. They often visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to provide companionship and reduce stress. Each type of assistance animal serves a unique purpose in enhancing the quality of life for those in need.