Service Dog, Emotional Support Dog, Therapy Dog What’s the Difference?

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Written by K9 Partners for Patriots

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Articles | News

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November 16, 2022

Discover why flea markets may not be the best environment for service dogs.

Learn about risks, distractions, and considerations for handlers.

1. Crowded Environment: Flea markets are often bustling with crowds, which can be overwhelming for a service dog. The dog may become stressed or anxious in such a busy atmosphere.

2. Distractions: Flea markets are filled with various sights, sounds, and smells that can distract a service dog from its duties. This could potentially compromise its ability to assist its handler effectively.

3. Unpredictable Behavior of Other Animals: Other visitors to the flea market may bring their pets along, which can lead to encounters with unfamiliar animals. This may pose a risk to the safety and focus of the service dog.

4. Risk of Injury: With so many people moving around and browsing items, there’s an increased risk of accidental tripping or stepping on the service dog, which could lead to injury.

5. Exposure to Unsanitary Conditions: Flea markets may not always maintain the cleanest environment, and the service dog may come into contact with unsanitary surfaces or substances.

6. Lack of Accommodation for the Dog: Flea markets may not be equipped to handle service dogs properly, such as providing suitable resting areas, water, or relief spots for the dog.

7. Potential Stress for the Dog: A flea market’s constant stimulation and unfamiliar surroundings could cause stress or discomfort for the service dog, which may affect its overall well-being and ability to perform its tasks.

Given these factors, it’s important for service dog handlers to carefully consider whether taking their dog to a flea market is truly necessary and in the best interest of the dog’s welfare and effectiveness in assisting its handler.

Service Dog | Emotional Support Dog | Therapy Dog

What’s the Difference?

Studies have shown that dogs provide health benefits, and can increase fitness, lower stress, and improve happiness. Service dogs encompass all of these abilities and training to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. Service dogs perform an amazing variety of tasks to assist disabled individuals.

Regardless of breed or mix, the best service dogs are handler-focused, desensitized to distractions, and highly trained to reliably perform specific tasks. They are not easily diverted from their tasks at home or in public and remain attentive and responsive to their owners while working.

Service Dogs

Are covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and afforded rights to enter public establishments.
Are trained to assist a single person.
May live with owners regardless of pet policies under the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
May fly with their disabled owner in the cabin of an aircraft as part of the federal Air Carrier Access Act.

Emotional Support Dogs

Provide emotional support through companionship.
May live with owners regardless of pet policies under the Fair Housing Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
As of January 11, 2021, under new regulations passed by the U.S. Department of Transportation regarding the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), an emotional support animal is no longer considered to be a service animal. The allowance of Emotional Support Animals onboard flights is at the airline’s discretion. Most major airlines have banned ESAs.
Are not considered a service animal under the law and is not covered by or afforded rights through the ADA.

Therapy Dogs

Provide comfort to a number of different people in various settings (e.g., visiting hospital patients, comforting witnesses during court testimony, or offering support to trauma survivors).
Are not considered a service animal under the law and are not covered by or afforded rights through the ADA.