The types of animals that qualify as assistance animals are categorized based on their specific roles and functions. For information regarding the different types of assistance animals, please see these definitions.
Service Animals: According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are limited to dogs and, in some cases, miniature horses. These animals are individually trained to perform tasks or do work for individuals with disabilities, directly related to the individual’s disability.
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): emotional support animals can encompass a broader range of species. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines specify that ESAs may include, but are not limited to, dogs, cats, small birds, rabbits, hamsters, gerbils, other rodents, fish, turtles, or other small, domesticated animals. These animals are traditionally kept in the home for pleasure rather than for commercial purposes. The primary role of ESAs is to provide therapeutic benefits through companionship and emotional support to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities.
It is important to note that while service animals have specific training to assist with disabilities, ESAs do not require specialized training but must be prescribed by a licensed health professional based on a disability-related need.
For more information regarding HUD’s criteria for assistance animals head here or contact our support team at support@ourpetpolicy.com.