A service dog is a specially trained animal that assists individuals with disabilities. These dogs perform tasks that help their handlers manage daily activities, such as guiding those who are visually impaired or alerting individuals with hearing loss to important sounds. Service dogs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows them to accompany their handlers in public places. Unlike emotional support animals, service dogs undergo rigorous training to perform specific tasks related to their handler's disability, ensuring they can provide effective assistance.