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Over the past decade there has been a rise in the number of people with Emotional Support Animals. This has caused some confusion around what it means to have a service, emotional support or therapy animal . Here, we explain briefly the differences between each of these animals, the training required for each different type, and debunk some common myths. Read on to learn the differences between each type of animal, which one might be right for you or your loved one, and how Dog Training Elite Central Nashville can help.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Central Nashville location, please reference our pricing page for complete information on services offered.
ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals: What's the Difference?
Service Animals
Service animals are animals that have been trained to assist individuals with tasks specific to their needs.
- Redirecting attention when an individual is beginning to feel overstimulated
- Reminding owners to take medication
- Waking someone who is having a nightmare
Service dogs are valued in the mental health, health care and disability community and are protected under ADA laws which allow owners to take their service dog with them everywhere they go. Dog Training Elite Central Nashville trains dogs to serve individuals with autism, diabetes and PTSD.
Dog Training Elite Central Nashville trains autism service dogs to benefit and assist children with autism. Autism service dogs can be trained to track their child in case of wandering and redirect a child’s behavior when they are starting to become overwhelmed.
PTSD service dogs help ground owners to reality, especially in public settings. These service dogs can also be trained to recognize signs of a panic attack and regulate emotional responses through pressure.
Diabetic service dogs can alert their owners to their low blood sugar and provide stability, safety and support.
Visit our individual web pages to understand more about the differences and benefits of autism service dogs, PTSD services dogs and diabetic service dogs.
Emotional Support Animals
Although all dog owners may feel the emotional benefits of owning a dog, the dog needs to be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to a person with a disabling mental illness such as anxiety or depression to legally be considered an ESA. Emotional Support dogs can be of any age and any breed whereas service dogs usually begin training as puppies.
In addition to being prescribed by a mental health professional, owners may wish for their dog to undergo more specific training. If you are looking for emotional support dog training in your local area, Dog Training Elite Central Nashville has you covered.
The professional dog trainers of Dog Training Elite Central Nashville are experienced with training various types of therapy animals. Trainers work with a dog’s natural temperament to ensure a strong, loving bond between dog and owner. Training can be personalized to fit the needs of the owner.
It is important to note that Emotional Support Animals are meant for just that - emotional support. Dogs trained to assist with specific tasks that may be associated with a disability are service animals. Training a dog to be an Emotional Support Animal or a therapy dog is less intensive than training to be a service animal.
Therapy Animals
Therapy Animals are very similar to Emotional Support Animals, except that they are often used to bolster the mental health and wellbeing of a community, as opposed to just an individual. Therapy dogs are often seen serving in hospitals, rehabilitation or care centers with their owners.
Owners who feel their dog may be a good fit for this kind of community service can have them receive top-notch training from Dog Training Elite Central Nashville.
The most important thing to note as a difference between Emotional Support Animals, Therapy and Service dogs, is service animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act which states service animals must be able to accompany their owners wherever they go. Emotional Support and Therapy animals do not have the same protections and public establishments may have their own rules about ESA and therapy dogs.
Whether you’re ready to get a new lease on life with the help of a service dog, or strengthen the existing bond with your dog, Dog Training Elite Central Nashville has the experience and resources you need.
Our Balanced Theory
We base our training around the "Classical Conditioning" model (a.k.a. "Pavlovian" or "respondent conditioning"). This includes developing conditioned or automatic reflexes to commands. In its simplest form (after proper conditioning), when the owner says "sit," the dog automatically sits without thinking about it. Our unique techniques ensure our program is a success no matter what behavior we encounter.
Empowering Owners
We empower owners to train so their dog knows who to obey at all times.
Personalized
We deal with problem behaviors on a personal basis.
Environment Specific
We train wherever issues tend to arise (i.e. jogging, park, home).
Supportive
We support owners in the off-hours (when training is "not in session").
Involved
We work with all members of the household.
Simplified & Customized
We plan training around the owner's schedule and require only 20 min/day follow-up practice.
Continued Training
Additional programs / group sessions offered after in-home training.
Lifetime Investment
We follow up & are invested in the owner's success long-term.
Satisfaction Ratings
Our high client satisfaction rating sets us apart from competitors.
clas·si·cal con·di·tion·ing PSYCHOLOGY noun A learning process that occurs when two stimuli are repeatedly paired; a response that is at first elicited by the second stimulus and is eventually elicited by the first stimulus alone.
We help your dog become a valued companion and beloved member of the family. Read what our customers have to say and then give us a call!
Our two Great Pyrenees mix pups were getting too difficult to train on our own. When Reina arrived for the assessment she knew what we needed- and we have learned so much! She loves dogs, is easy to work with, and responds quickly when there are any questions, issues, or schedule changes. Highly recommend!— Mollie Woltmann
Posted September 25th 2024
I am so glad that I called Dog Training Elite! They have provided me so much peace of mind! I can now take my dog to dog friendly places and feel confident that my dog will act appropriately!— Natalee Wells
Posted September 13th 2024
Reina is a pro. My dog was super stubborn, and she stayed firm, waiting her out until she listened to the command. I couldn't be happier with my experience.— Melvin Alvares
Posted July 17th 2024
Reina did great with Max! He absolutely loved his time with her ❤️— Rachel Baudendistel
Posted July 20th 2024
Riena did an amazing job training my dog! Highly recommend she is a very patient person :)— Karol Olvera
Posted July 18th 2024
I trust Reina with any dog of mine, she is the absolute best!! 🥰 This little guy really needed some training and now he is thriving! I cannot recommend her enough! 🙌🏻— Estrella Mendoza
Posted July 16th 2024
Reina did a great job on our dog! We’d definitely use her again!— Elaine Armstrong
Posted July 13th 2024
I would highly recommend Reina of Dog Training Elite to anyone! Sending my dog Quincy through the obedience program at home was truly life changing for my wife and I, and has allowed Quincy and us to enjoy much better and less stressful lives. With Dog Traing Elite, Reina provided us with the proper tools and knowledge to keep up with our dog's training regimen long term. This has been incredibly helpful as we are now able to work with Quincy at home on our own. I am so thankful for Reina's professional attitude and dedication, and truly cannot say enough good things about her and Dog Training Elite.— Mark Brittelli
Posted July 11th 2024
Reina Wasmund did great job training my dog she loves her a lot and always looking forward to seeing her.— Sanel Husnic
Posted July 11th 2024
Best training that’s out there! Make sure to ask for Reina!! She worked wonders for my pup (3 year old Shepherd lol) turns out you still teach an old dog new tricks. He was a trouble pup but now with he’s an angel.— Bob Marley
Posted July 10th 2024
10/10, Would recommend! Reina trained my dog and she is an absolute gem when it comes to dog training! I brought my energetic pup to her hoping for some improvement in basic obedience, and I was beyond satisfied with the results. Her approach is not only effective but also compassionate towards the dogs she works with. She formed an amazing bond with my dog and within just a few sessions, my dog showed remarkable progress. She took the time to understand my dog's personality and worked hard to fit her needs perfectly. I couldn't recommend her enough to anyone looking for professional and caring dog training services.— Jayleen Rogel
Posted July 10th 2024
Reina was amazing and so friendly. She really put me at ease and gave me confidence I choose the right place to help with training Kitt.— Michelene English
Posted July 10th 2024
Highly recommend Dog Training Elite. Our trainer Reina was amazing!— Selena Sanchez
Posted July 9th 2024
Reina is an excellent trainer! We couldn’t be happier with the results. Brady’s behavior and social skills have improved so much. We can take him anywhere now!— Lindsey Kloes
Posted July 9th 2024
I've had a great experience working with Reina. I haven't had much luck training my stubborn Schnauzer until she stepped in to help! She has knowledge, patience, and professionalism that put both me and my dog at ease. I cannot recommend her services enough!— Payton Berry
Posted July 9th 2024
Great experience with a trainer named Reina. 100% recommend. 10 out of 10. She absolutely is one of the best people I've ever met. Thank you so much for everything!— Kristina Kelso
Posted July 9th 2024
Reina is an exceptional dog trainer, especially for German Shepherds. She's been incredible with mine! She quickly understood my dog's needs and tailored her training perfectly. With Reina's guidance, my Shepherd has made significant progress in obedience and behavior. Her methods are effective and compassionate, emphasizing positive reinforcement Reina's passion for dogs shines through in every session. She's not just a trainer; she's dedicated partner in my dog's development. If you're looking for a skilled and caring trainer who gets results, Reina is the one. Highly recommend!— Hector Rogel Jr.
Posted July 9th 2024
Reina did a great job with my Dog Keilo. She was super sweet and gentle with him but also worked hard to ensure that he was also training as well.— Kmonnie
Posted June 23rd 2024