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How to Know the Difference Between Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Are you searching for more information on service animals versus emotional support animals?

These two types of animals serve different functions and are recognized differently under the law. Understanding the differences between them is not just important—it's urgent. It equips you with the knowledge needed to navigate public access rights and housing accommodations with confidence.

 

Service Animals

 

Service animals, such as dogs, are not just pets but highly trained individuals with awe-inspiring abilities. They can guide the visually impaired, alert those with hearing impairments, pull a wheelchair, or even detect the onset of medical conditions like seizures or low blood sugar levels. Their extensive training and remarkable skills grant them public access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing them to accompany their handlers into almost any public place, including restaurants, stores, and public transportation.

Emotional Support Animals

 

Unlike service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs) do not require specialized training to perform specific tasks. Their primary role is to offer emotional comfort through their presence. Therefore, ESAs are not covered under the ADA and do not have the same public access rights as service animals.

Key Differences

The primary differences between service animals and ESAs lie in their training, roles, and legal rights. Understanding these distinctions helps in respecting the roles these animals play and ensures compliance with legal standards.

 

Contact GoldenWest Management

 

At GoldenWest Management, we save busy property owners the time and hassle of managing their properties, especially when it comes to understanding the difference between emotional support animals and service animals.

 

Learn more about the services we can offer you by calling us at (866) 545-5303 or clicking here to connect with us online.