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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 Massachusetts can help.
Not all training packages may be available at our Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts trains dogs to serve individuals with autism, diabetes and PTSD.
Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts has you covered.
The professional dog trainers of Dog Training Elite Central Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts 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!
Marcus was great! Training was something I had debated doing for a long time, especially since my dog was 4 but I’m so glad I did and so glad I chose Dog Training Elite. From the beginning, there was no judgement and they were flexible and accommodating. My dog has come a long way and I have so much more trust in him than I did before. I also appreciate being able to email questions and notes and get feedback that way (outside of our sessions). Overall, I’m very happy with the service provided and would highly recommend!— Brianna LaGuardia
Posted September 17th 2024
Dog Training Elite Marcus came today and explained everything to us! We have a Parson Jack Russell who is out of control they will help us get Maggie trained and be a better dog.. we can’t wait for training to begin.. They showed us another dog who was trained it was a real treat to watch Duncan. We are hoping Maggie will do as well as Duncan ( there’s hope)— Kathy Friberg
Posted September 9th 2024
Our experience with this company has been truly exceptional, and I cannot recommend their services highly enough. Matt Fennell, in particular, was an outstanding trainer and exceeded all of our expectations. It's important to note that the trainers focus on equipping you with the skills to effectively train your dog, and Matt excelled in this regard. As someone who has always had a deep connection with dogs and grown up with them, this was my first time seeking professional training. The results have been so amazing, and the bond I now share with my dog is stronger and more rewarding than ever before. If you are committed to following the guidance provided by Matt or any of the trainers, and are willing to put in the effort both during and outside of the training sessions, you will notice the same results I did. Such a great experience!— Michael Shannon
Posted September 6th 2024
Marcus and Patrick were amazing. They helped us train our lab puppy. She had a lot of energy and was a bit of a challenge compared to our last pups. The trainers are very knowledgeable and helpful. If we had questions in between sessions we could just reach out and they would guide us on whatever challenges we were having. They accommodated my work schedule which was a huge help. We feel it was definitely worth the money and highly recommend them!— Courtney Tompkins
Posted September 4th 2024
I have been very happy with the services both Marcus and Matt have provided me and my family while working with my 6-year-old German Shepherd, Whiskey. She is so smart but very high strung and constantly in overdrive and they are committed to leading my partner and me in navigating her training while helping her to meet her full potential! I’m excited to continue with them!— Nichole McIvor
Posted September 4th 2024
DTE and especially Marcus are THE BEST. No one I’ve ever met knows and works with dogs like Marcus at dog training elite. We call him the “dog whisperer” but in truth mostly he has to train me, the handler, as much as my dog Wally. He has a really clear and consistent way of communicating which has transformed Wally from a nippy jumping puppy into a dog who is about to pass his public access test for service dog work. The company in general is excellent and all the staff and trainers are really responsive and work with me and Wally to make the best training sessions around my schedule, meeting at our house or public places to practice his service work. I would absolutely recommend Dog training elite and Marcus to anyone who wants to properly and seriously train and develop their relationship with their dog and is willing to put in the time and energy! Wally is learning so much so fast and is doing great. Thank you!! Update: Wally just passed his public access test!! Thanks so much Marcus for everything you’ve taught us both!!!— Sarah Geller
Posted July 31st 2024
Patrick was friendly and knowledgeable, great experience so far!— Christine Fuller
Posted September 4th 2024
You guys are amazing! We are learning so much, we’re making a lot of progress I’m so thankful.!!— This is Life
Posted July 29th 2024
Matt is very knowledgeable and completely honest about training our dog. I am grateful and hope to be able to Train myself and my husband to train our dog and help him to live a healthy happy life.— Lisa Dipadua
Posted August 30th 2024
My reactive dog, Shelby (6) and I were paired with Matt as our trainer and he changed our lives! I will admit I was intimidated at first hearing all the expectations but I wouldn’t trust anyone else but Matt with Shelby. I can’t even find the words to express how thankful I am for his help and guidance. He was encouraging and always thorough in his explanation. Most importantly he made me more confident with Shelby. Shelby is now able to be around other dogs and strangers. A month ago she would bark, growl, lunge at them. Now she is able to do group training since we are done with private training and I was so proud of how well she did around others. The only regret I have is not doing this sooner! Shelby has been in two other training programs and never did this well. If you’re reading this and on the fence, do it! It is the best money I ever spent. Thank you so much Matt for changing our lives! Also thank you Michaela for helping me in the decision process and not making me feel pressured to buy the most expensive plan and to do what works for me. I have already recommended DTE to 3 people!— Amy B
Posted August 29th 2024
Patrick was very polite and knowledgeable. Great with meeting our dogs!— erin morvan
Posted August 28th 2024
Always gives such good advice to help me and my service dog grow!— Megan Burgess
Posted August 21st 2024
I want to give a huge thank you to all of the trainers that helped Marlo and I. Before the training sessions we were experiencing trouble on basic commands, dog on dog aggression, and pulling on walks. It was so bad that my partner and I were almost at our breaking point due to the safety of others. Most people looked at him as just a typical Pitbull who was “aggressive” and could not be saved. But The trainers always came with a positive mindset, gave him a lot of love and praise, and showed me how this statement was untrue. As a whole everyone was very hands on with Marlo. They even set a great example for Marlo by introducing their dogs to him and helped teach him how to behave properly. Overall, I learned how to be more confident with Marlo which helped reflect on his behavior. We now have a happy behaved pup ready to take on this world stress free!— tamea smith
Posted August 9th 2024
Love it! Matt handled my aggressive dog so well. I’m glad that I reached out to them.— soo wang
Posted August 2nd 2024
Barbara is an excellent trainer. She explains things clearly, demonstrates and then has me do it. I am so excited seeing the progress my dog is showing.— Susan Purcell
Posted July 29th 2024
Barbara was the trainer that came to my home. She was a wealth of experience and knowledge. She had the patience of a saint. She really got my 10-month-old Rottie to blossom. He had a lot of fear issues which she helped him to over come and got him to listen to commands. She was very prompt in arriving to my home and gave me the full hour I paid for.— Sharon Lindsay
Posted August 8th 2024
Really enjoyed working with Barbara. She catered our training sessions to the needs of our dog. Dog training elite was very responsive when I reached out asking for additional training advice. Would highly recommend.— Esther Hering
Posted August 1st 2024