By Amber Carlton
About Service Animals
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines a service animal as one that has been individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability.
- Only dogs and miniature horses qualify. So no cats, birds, snakes, or squirrels!
- A service animal doesn’t have to wear a vest, ID tag, or specific harness.
- Proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal is not required.
- If a service animal is out of control or not housebroken, access may be legally denied.
About Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
- ESAs are often used as part of medical treatment for anxiety and phobias.
- ESAs provide comfort but are not specially trained.
- Unlike service animals, ESAs are not protected under the ADA.
- Access for ESAs is up to the discretion of the business or property owner.
- Falsely representing an ESA as a service animal can result in a fine and harms those who depend on trained service animals.