Therapy Dog vs. Service Dog: Understanding the Difference & How You Can Get Involved
Dogs have an incredible ability to bring comfort, support, and assistance to people in need. But not all working dogs serve the same purpose. Therapy dogs and service dogs are often confused, but they play very different roles in helping people.
If you love the idea of making a difference in people’s lives alongside your dog, becoming a therapy dog handler might be the perfect opportunity! Let’s explore the key differences between therapy dogs and service dogs and how you can get involved with USA Therapy Dogs, Inc.
What is a Therapy Dog?
A therapy dog is trained to provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship to people in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and rehabilitation centers. These dogs work alongside their handlers to spread joy, reduce stress, and improve well-being in individuals facing challenges.
Key Characteristics of Therapy Dogs:
✔ Friendly and well-behaved around strangers
✔ Calm and adaptable in different environments
✔ Enjoys interaction with people of all ages
✔ Trained to remain composed in stressful or emotional situations
Therapy Dogs DO NOT:
🚫 Have public access rights under the ADA (they can only enter approved facilities)
🚫 Assist one specific person with a disability
🚫 Provide medical alerts or specialized assistance
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to volunteer and share your dog’s love with others, becoming a therapy dog handler is a great way to give back to your community!
What is a Service Dog?
A service dog is specifically trained to assist a person with a disability by performing life-changing tasks that help them navigate daily life. These dogs are highly skilled and legally protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), granting them full public access rights to accompany their handler anywhere.
Key Characteristics of Service Dogs:
✔ Trained to perform specific tasks for their handler’s disability
✔ Works exclusively for one person
✔ Has full public access rights under the ADA
✔ Must remain focused on assisting their handler at all times
Service Dogs DO:
✅ Guide individuals who are visually impaired
✅ Alert individuals to seizures or medical conditions
✅ Assist with mobility or PTSD-related challenges
Unlike therapy dogs, service dogs are not meant to interact with the public—they are trained to focus solely on their handler’s needs.
Why Become a Therapy Dog Handler?
If you and your dog love interacting with people, becoming a certified therapy dog team is a rewarding way to make a difference! At USA Therapy Dogs, Inc., we train and certify therapy dog teams to visit hospitals, schools, and care facilities, spreading joy and comfort to those who need it most.
What You’ll Get from Our Program:
✔ 12-week training program led by AKC-certified evaluators
✔ Hands-on fieldwork in real therapy settings
✔ Official Canine Good Citizen (CGC) & CGCA certification
✔ Membership in a supportive community of therapy dog teams
Get Started Today!
If your dog has a gentle temperament, loves people, and is well-behaved, you’re the perfect candidate for our therapy dog training program!
📢 Sign up for our Spring 2025 Training Program today and start making a difference!
Join USA Therapy Dogs, Inc. and experience the joy of bringing smiles, comfort, and companionship to those in need—one wag at a time! 🐶❤️
