For those who don't know the difference SERVICE dogs ARE protected under the ADA, (as they should be) and are trained to perform a medical task or specific task to help with someone with their disabilities. For example, a guide dog for the blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling a wheel chair and many more. While Emotional Support Animals (Therapy Animals) are often used as part of medical treatment plans, they are not considered services animals under the ADA. Under the ADA therapy animals are provide people with therapeutic contact to improve their physical, social, emotional and or cognitive functioning. STILL there are differences between a pet and an ESA but in order to protect them further, changes must be made to ensure this privilege is being used to its best ability. These are just some examples of the changes I believe should be made:
- **PROTECTION UNDER THE ADA** (This is the most important goal, without this, no changes can be made in rules or regulations, we can't make It more strict and can no longer protect this privilege)
- Required training (Does not have to be as intricate as Service Dog Training)
- Must be able to perform a task. (Again nothing as intricate as Service but a task or function that shows your dog is doing a job, soothing you, distracting you, alerting you and so on)
- Required Certification & Documentation (Proof of a LEGIT ESA)
- Maybe take it as far as fining those who try to fake documentation or certification of Service/Emotional Support Dogs
Feel free to reach out to me with anymore ideas or tips that you think would help change and protect ESA's.
Thank you all again so much! Every name gives me serotonin on another level. Please share this link so as many friends and family members as you can. We can do this!