A therapy dog walking in a park with their owner - contact Dog Training Elite to talk to a professional therapy dog trainer in Tampa, FL!

Therapy Dog Training

Dog Training Elite in Tampa

Request Free Assessment


Request Free Assessment


Our Therapy Dog Training Could Help:

Those managing chronic pain
People looking to increase social interaction
Anyone seeking enhanced motivation and purpose
Individuals in need of emotional comfort
Those experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression
People wanting to boost overall optimism
Anyone feeling lonely or isolated

Therapy Dog Trainer in Tampa, FL

What is a Therapy Dog?

A therapy dog is trained to provide emotional support and comfort to people in need, often visiting hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. These dogs must be friendly with strangers, able to handle high levels of distraction, and understand personal boundaries like not jumping, licking, or mouthing. With proper training, therapy dogs can bring joy and emotional relief to those they interact with, offering companionship in stressful environments.

At Dog Training Elite, we offer programs to help your dog become a certified therapy dog. As a leading therapy dog trainer in Tampa, FL, we focus on developing the right temperament and skills so your dog can confidently provide comfort and support in various settings. With our professional guidance, your dog can become a valuable source of emotional care and connection for individuals in need.

See Training Packages
A therapy dog in training with Dog Training Elite in Tampa's expert handlers.

How Does a Dog Become a Therapy Dog?


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While the companionship your dog brings you may inspire you to share that with others, not every dog is suited to be a therapy animal. Beyond a friendly, loving personality, several important qualifications must be met for a dog to be considered for therapy work:

  • Age: Puppies are typically too energetic and lack the focus to be therapy dogs.
  • Obedience: A therapy dog must follow commands reliably. Dogs that have completed obedience training with Dog Training Elite have the solid foundation needed to begin therapy dog training.
  • Social Skills: Therapy dogs need to naturally enjoy meeting new people and must handle being petted and approached by strangers without anxiety. Their ability to remain calm and friendly, even in unfamiliar situations, ensures they can provide emotional support to those they interact with.

Get Your Free Assessment

You and your canine companion really can have it all. See how easy it can be to become a member of the elite pup society by requesting a free consultation today!

Hear From Our Customers

Learn Why Dog owners choose Dog Training Elite

  • David David
    Mar. 29, 2025
    When i brought home my first Doberman I was working all the time and didn’t really do the training required to unlock all the potential of this breed. Jetta was a great family dog but this time I wanted to do things different. I contacted Dog Training Elite, talked to Tonya and purchased the Puppy Platinum Package. I knew if i was going to start using an E Collar I wanted it done professionally. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive about using the E Collar and it really takes some getting used to. I started training Kara as early as possible and Tonya ensured me that it would make our bond stronger and it did. Kara is a calm, confident girl and she goes everywhere with me and I mean everywhere. She knows when the collar comes out she is in for some off leash fun by the lake, beach, or going for a hike in the woods. We do a 5k and she is by my side (on leash). When we go to restaurants she is by my side. She is currently enrolled in Agility classes and the obedience classes made starting agility so much easier. With the Platinum Package i have unlimited training in the park every other Saturday and i always try to make it. We always learn something new, reinforce the basics, and I get to spend Saturday mornings with some really nice people.
  • Arthur Bochner
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Great team of dog trainers. Incorporate video illustrations to enhance training regiments. Very conscientious and good teachers. They have helped our precious little Dali become a better and more confident dog.
  • lucienne richard
    Mar. 17, 2025
    I needed help with my toy poodle he was always barking and trying to bite people. Now he loves people. Couldn't take him anywhere .now he loves to go to the park and every time we go to a class. We're always learning more if I have any questions.They always answer my question .I'm so glad I found them.I can't say enough about them. They are great.
  • Kelly Creel
    Mar. 8, 2025
    Tonya’s wisdom, experience and patience helped tremendously with training our traumatized rescue pup. There were many times during the initial training phase when I got discouraged and felt like giving up, thinking the little guy might be untrainable; but Tonya never wavered, always focused on the positive changes in his behavior, and gave us practical solutions and tools that we could focus on. We owe a depth of gratitude to Tonya and are so glad we found Elite because we now have a happy, energetic yet peaceful pet family that includes multiple dogs and cats.
  • Bryan Sarmiento
    Mar. 6, 2025
    I am very grateful to have found Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. The sessions have not only helped Bojack and I develop a stronger bond, but they have also made me more confident in him and his capability to learn. He has surprised me with the improvement in his behavior, within such a short time, and the difference from when we started to now is night and day. While there is still more to work towards, I am more confident than ever that he can/will reach every goal we set. Thank you!
  • Susan Hetherton
    May. 13, 2023
    Wow I found this trainer by luck. Now I say it was destiny. There was no mistake. I wanted to get a dog I didn’t own yet trained but I had certain criteria that had to be met. I wanted a service dog for PTSD but the trainer had to be a female. Kim had no hesitation for my request. After about 5 sessions kim asked if she could bring her son as Queso did t want to heal. I have to say I trust Aaron as much as Kim. If you need your dog trained this is the company to go with. A+ service.
  • Pamela Villasmil
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Great Service and Positive Changes! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa! Tonya have done an incredible job helping improve my dog’s obedience and behavior. From the start, Tonya has been professional and attentive. We did experience a minor scheduling issue for our first class, but they were very accommodating. Tonya was able to reschedule the class for later that same day, and as a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience, Tonya kindly offered us an extra session for free. The training sessions have been incredibly helpful, and my dog is showing amazing progress. I’m truly grateful for their dedication and excellent customer service!
  • Gloria George
    Feb. 19, 2025
    Training starts at home on our time with a trainer. Then, group training helps to practice the skills which is a good repetitive training provided by professionals.
  • Emily Gavrian
    Feb. 19, 2025
    My daughter and I adopted Claude (115 lb Cane Corso) a year ago. He was so well behaved at first but about 3 months ago started with some bad manners and behaviors that we couldn't get under control. After working with Tanya for only a few lessons, he's turning back into the boy we remember. He's shown how much he wants to please us and we're learning how to get him to be the best dog ever. He is so worth it and I couldn't be happier with this program!!
  • Cissy Hancock
    Jul. 2, 2023
    Fantastic, Wonderful, Awesome!!!! They came at a crucial time and the training both my puppy and I have received is outstanding. I had never used a create....after 40 years of having Labrador Retrievers...now I see how invaluable they are for both Cracker and me. Scared to use ecollars....best thing that ever happened for Cracker and me. So thankful in many ways. I was truly afraid I would have to give him up...now I know he will be with me forever ♥️. Thank You so much !!!!!!!!!
  • Porter Family
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Awesome experience. Tonya was amazing and gave me and my dog exactly what we were looking for and even exceeded our expectations! Thank you so much for everything!
  • Lisa Trant
    Feb. 7, 2025
    I have been consistently using Dog Training Elite for almost a year. I adopted a 6 yr old pitbull and he was a bit out of control when he got home due to being a street dog. He is extremely predictable and easy to walk since we started and he follows all commands even if the tools are not involved. He still keeps up with what he has learned during the group classes and has even learned a new skill or two. I have recommended them to several people in my neighborhood who have seen the drastic change in my pup and a few even signed up and THEY are having a great experience! Tonya, Luis, and Marissa have been amazing!
  • Sierra Larsen
    Dec. 18, 2024
    Marissa and Tonya are life savers, literally. Our pit mix puppy was really not getting along with our older dog and struggling with guarding, to the point we were afraid we were going to have to surrender him. Being a fearful pit mix, that is rolling the dice and we love him. He’s family. They were able to train them and teach us how to get them to coexist. It’s amazing how supportive and loving they are; both dogs get excited when either of them came… well for pets, compliments, and treats. Their expertise is vast and they even sent follow up videos and articles to further our knowledge. Plus individual and group classes! All around training from every angle including socializing with other dogs and them as distractions. If anyone is looking for a trainer, there is no question, they are the best. Best money we ever spent!
  • Leslie Sanchez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. They have definitely made the process easy and explained everything thorough. Marissa has been a great trainer, and my pup loves her. Marissa has helped me and Hazel build confidence in being in public as we continue on our journey to get my dog as a service dog. I would recommend them to anyone 😊
  • Jeremiah Johnson
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Marissa is great with helping us learn how to manage our high energy dog, Sam. He is scared of new people, bounces off furniture and never settles, especially when nervous. After each in home training session with Marissa, Sam's behavior improved; not a little, but huge improvements. You can tell Sam is happier now as he knows what is expected of him and his anxiety is almost gone. He is still scared meeting new people, but calms down quickly and is their new best friend in a few minutes. He will stay in place when he is told for as long as we ask of him, no more constant pacing. As a 1 year old puppy, Sam is still learning, but with the techniques Marissa taught us; he is well on his way to being a well mannered and happy adult dog. I highly recommend, Marissa and Dog Training Elite. We couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Grant Kinley
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Trained my service dog with this group and had an amazing experience. They tailored training to my type of dog being small and non traditional for service dog but for my PTSD he is perfect. Encouraged both trainer and dog to be consistent. Group classes are great and the program i chose has lifetime support so if he starts a behavior or i need additional training they will be on board. Harley met his training within 1 yr with is astounding. We BOTH focused on each other and the needs he would serve and this training company was amazing to work with.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have a full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Deb Barrett
    Jul. 5, 2023
    Kim, Ryan, and Aaron are the best dog trainers. They are very patient both with my Frenchie and me! If you need a specific area that needs work, they are there for you and your dog. People continually comment on how well behaved my little Frenchie. He will be 3 years old in a couple of weeks. He began his training when he was 9 months old & I take him to group glass to reinforce what he has learned & to keep him on his paws!!! Jackson is a certified service dog and it's all thanks to Dog Training Elite Suncoast.
  • Linda Kelly
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Ryan, Kimberly and Aaron are the absolute best at what they do. I adopted Luna from the humane society and she is a BIG girl; I knew I would need help training her if I ever hoped to be out with her successfully. Kim came to interview us and believed in Luna's potential. She gave us homework and I truly believe she, Ryan, and Aaron trained me as well as Luna. The classes are small, ensuring that each dog gets personalized attention. This is such a key factor in fostering a real bond between you and your dog. Every session felt tailored to Luna’s needs, and the trainers were always available for follow-up questions or advice. The trainers keep the classes engaging with games and activities that help reinforce key skills. Under their excellent tutelage at home, in group sessions, and in public places, Luna achieved her Service Dog certification. I can’t recommend Suncoast Elite enough! Luna is now a happy, well-behaved dog, and our walks are something I look forward to. The experience and dedication of these highly skilled trainers and their training philosophy are unsurpassed in my opinion.
  • David David
    Mar. 29, 2025
    When i brought home my first Doberman I was working all the time and didn’t really do the training required to unlock all the potential of this breed. Jetta was a great family dog but this time I wanted to do things different. I contacted Dog Training Elite, talked to Tonya and purchased the Puppy Platinum Package. I knew if i was going to start using an E Collar I wanted it done professionally. Honestly, I was a little apprehensive about using the E Collar and it really takes some getting used to. I started training Kara as early as possible and Tonya ensured me that it would make our bond stronger and it did. Kara is a calm, confident girl and she goes everywhere with me and I mean everywhere. She knows when the collar comes out she is in for some off leash fun by the lake, beach, or going for a hike in the woods. We do a 5k and she is by my side (on leash). When we go to restaurants she is by my side. She is currently enrolled in Agility classes and the obedience classes made starting agility so much easier. With the Platinum Package i have unlimited training in the park every other Saturday and i always try to make it. We always learn something new, reinforce the basics, and I get to spend Saturday mornings with some really nice people.
  • Arthur Bochner
    Mar. 21, 2025
    Great team of dog trainers. Incorporate video illustrations to enhance training regiments. Very conscientious and good teachers. They have helped our precious little Dali become a better and more confident dog.
  • lucienne richard
    Mar. 17, 2025
    I needed help with my toy poodle he was always barking and trying to bite people. Now he loves people. Couldn't take him anywhere .now he loves to go to the park and every time we go to a class. We're always learning more if I have any questions.They always answer my question .I'm so glad I found them.I can't say enough about them. They are great.
  • Kelly Creel
    Mar. 8, 2025
    Tonya’s wisdom, experience and patience helped tremendously with training our traumatized rescue pup. There were many times during the initial training phase when I got discouraged and felt like giving up, thinking the little guy might be untrainable; but Tonya never wavered, always focused on the positive changes in his behavior, and gave us practical solutions and tools that we could focus on. We owe a depth of gratitude to Tonya and are so glad we found Elite because we now have a happy, energetic yet peaceful pet family that includes multiple dogs and cats.
  • Bryan Sarmiento
    Mar. 6, 2025
    I am very grateful to have found Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa. The sessions have not only helped Bojack and I develop a stronger bond, but they have also made me more confident in him and his capability to learn. He has surprised me with the improvement in his behavior, within such a short time, and the difference from when we started to now is night and day. While there is still more to work towards, I am more confident than ever that he can/will reach every goal we set. Thank you!
  • Susan Hetherton
    May. 13, 2023
    Wow I found this trainer by luck. Now I say it was destiny. There was no mistake. I wanted to get a dog I didn’t own yet trained but I had certain criteria that had to be met. I wanted a service dog for PTSD but the trainer had to be a female. Kim had no hesitation for my request. After about 5 sessions kim asked if she could bring her son as Queso did t want to heal. I have to say I trust Aaron as much as Kim. If you need your dog trained this is the company to go with. A+ service.
  • Pamela Villasmil
    Feb. 28, 2025
    Great Service and Positive Changes! I highly recommend Dog Training Elite Greater Tampa! Tonya have done an incredible job helping improve my dog’s obedience and behavior. From the start, Tonya has been professional and attentive. We did experience a minor scheduling issue for our first class, but they were very accommodating. Tonya was able to reschedule the class for later that same day, and as a gesture of goodwill for the inconvenience, Tonya kindly offered us an extra session for free. The training sessions have been incredibly helpful, and my dog is showing amazing progress. I’m truly grateful for their dedication and excellent customer service!
  • Gloria George
    Feb. 19, 2025
    Training starts at home on our time with a trainer. Then, group training helps to practice the skills which is a good repetitive training provided by professionals.
  • Emily Gavrian
    Feb. 19, 2025
    My daughter and I adopted Claude (115 lb Cane Corso) a year ago. He was so well behaved at first but about 3 months ago started with some bad manners and behaviors that we couldn't get under control. After working with Tanya for only a few lessons, he's turning back into the boy we remember. He's shown how much he wants to please us and we're learning how to get him to be the best dog ever. He is so worth it and I couldn't be happier with this program!!
  • Cissy Hancock
    Jul. 2, 2023
    Fantastic, Wonderful, Awesome!!!! They came at a crucial time and the training both my puppy and I have received is outstanding. I had never used a create....after 40 years of having Labrador Retrievers...now I see how invaluable they are for both Cracker and me. Scared to use ecollars....best thing that ever happened for Cracker and me. So thankful in many ways. I was truly afraid I would have to give him up...now I know he will be with me forever ♥️. Thank You so much !!!!!!!!!
  • Porter Family
    Aug. 20, 2024
    Awesome experience. Tonya was amazing and gave me and my dog exactly what we were looking for and even exceeded our expectations! Thank you so much for everything!
  • Lisa Trant
    Feb. 7, 2025
    I have been consistently using Dog Training Elite for almost a year. I adopted a 6 yr old pitbull and he was a bit out of control when he got home due to being a street dog. He is extremely predictable and easy to walk since we started and he follows all commands even if the tools are not involved. He still keeps up with what he has learned during the group classes and has even learned a new skill or two. I have recommended them to several people in my neighborhood who have seen the drastic change in my pup and a few even signed up and THEY are having a great experience! Tonya, Luis, and Marissa have been amazing!
  • Sierra Larsen
    Dec. 18, 2024
    Marissa and Tonya are life savers, literally. Our pit mix puppy was really not getting along with our older dog and struggling with guarding, to the point we were afraid we were going to have to surrender him. Being a fearful pit mix, that is rolling the dice and we love him. He’s family. They were able to train them and teach us how to get them to coexist. It’s amazing how supportive and loving they are; both dogs get excited when either of them came… well for pets, compliments, and treats. Their expertise is vast and they even sent follow up videos and articles to further our knowledge. Plus individual and group classes! All around training from every angle including socializing with other dogs and them as distractions. If anyone is looking for a trainer, there is no question, they are the best. Best money we ever spent!
  • Leslie Sanchez
    Dec. 17, 2024
    Dog Training Elite has been amazing. They have definitely made the process easy and explained everything thorough. Marissa has been a great trainer, and my pup loves her. Marissa has helped me and Hazel build confidence in being in public as we continue on our journey to get my dog as a service dog. I would recommend them to anyone 😊
  • Jeremiah Johnson
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Marissa is great with helping us learn how to manage our high energy dog, Sam. He is scared of new people, bounces off furniture and never settles, especially when nervous. After each in home training session with Marissa, Sam's behavior improved; not a little, but huge improvements. You can tell Sam is happier now as he knows what is expected of him and his anxiety is almost gone. He is still scared meeting new people, but calms down quickly and is their new best friend in a few minutes. He will stay in place when he is told for as long as we ask of him, no more constant pacing. As a 1 year old puppy, Sam is still learning, but with the techniques Marissa taught us; he is well on his way to being a well mannered and happy adult dog. I highly recommend, Marissa and Dog Training Elite. We couldn't be happier with the results.
  • Grant Kinley
    Dec. 16, 2024
    Trained my service dog with this group and had an amazing experience. They tailored training to my type of dog being small and non traditional for service dog but for my PTSD he is perfect. Encouraged both trainer and dog to be consistent. Group classes are great and the program i chose has lifetime support so if he starts a behavior or i need additional training they will be on board. Harley met his training within 1 yr with is astounding. We BOTH focused on each other and the needs he would serve and this training company was amazing to work with.
  • J C
    May. 28, 2024
    Kim, Jana, and Ryan have been great to work with. They have turned Benny's behavior around and are helping me to get him trained as a service dog. They have been very considerate and helpful with my physical limitations. We look forward to every session with them.
  • Kelly Kelly-Fritz
    Dec. 6, 2024
    DTE are the 2nd dog training co. I've used. The first was for my son's dog - and DTE for my own. I'm so happy with the personalized experience DTE have offered me. Kim, Aaron & Ryan are all excellent folks to work with. My Pepper has learned so much and I look forward to completion of the program so she will have a full-on Service Dog credentials. This has been a great experience.
  • Deb Barrett
    Jul. 5, 2023
    Kim, Ryan, and Aaron are the best dog trainers. They are very patient both with my Frenchie and me! If you need a specific area that needs work, they are there for you and your dog. People continually comment on how well behaved my little Frenchie. He will be 3 years old in a couple of weeks. He began his training when he was 9 months old & I take him to group glass to reinforce what he has learned & to keep him on his paws!!! Jackson is a certified service dog and it's all thanks to Dog Training Elite Suncoast.
  • Linda Kelly
    Dec. 5, 2024
    Ryan, Kimberly and Aaron are the absolute best at what they do. I adopted Luna from the humane society and she is a BIG girl; I knew I would need help training her if I ever hoped to be out with her successfully. Kim came to interview us and believed in Luna's potential. She gave us homework and I truly believe she, Ryan, and Aaron trained me as well as Luna. The classes are small, ensuring that each dog gets personalized attention. This is such a key factor in fostering a real bond between you and your dog. Every session felt tailored to Luna’s needs, and the trainers were always available for follow-up questions or advice. The trainers keep the classes engaging with games and activities that help reinforce key skills. Under their excellent tutelage at home, in group sessions, and in public places, Luna achieved her Service Dog certification. I can’t recommend Suncoast Elite enough! Luna is now a happy, well-behaved dog, and our walks are something I look forward to. The experience and dedication of these highly skilled trainers and their training philosophy are unsurpassed in my opinion.
An obedient dog in a fran_territory_name} emotional support dog training program.

Benefits of Therapy Dogs

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Therapy dogs have a profound impact on individuals’ emotional and physical well-being. Research demonstrates that therapy dogs can improve a patient's mood, reduce stress, and even lower pain levels during hospital stays or medical treatments. Their calming presence provides comfort and relief in challenging moments.

Children, in particular, often respond well to therapy dogs. The companionship and playful interaction of a therapy dog can motivate children to engage more fully in treatments, helping them overcome fear or reluctance. With a therapy dog by their side, children tend to feel more optimistic and less anxious.

Beyond medical settings, therapy dogs also foster social interaction, especially in autism and mental health communities. These dogs offer non-judgmental companionship and serve as a bridge for individuals who may struggle with social connections. By reducing feelings of loneliness and anxiety, therapy dogs offer their owners comfort and companionship that enhances the overall quality of life.

A therapy dog handler with their dog trained by Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

Therapy Dog Handlers

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If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful impact in your community, becoming a therapy dog handler offers a unique opportunity to do so alongside your dog. You can choose where to volunteer based on your interests, such as schools, hospitals, or senior living centers.

Once you’ve decided, therapy dog training is the next step. Dog Training Elite in Tampa’s expert trainers will help your dog master essential behaviors like loose-leash walking, “leave it,” and not jumping on people. After completing training, you can apply for therapy dog certification, but it’s essential to keep up with ongoing training to ensure your dog remains well-behaved and ready to assist.

Additional Training Programs

Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Dog Obedience Training in Tampa, FL. Dog Training Elite
Obedience Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Puppy Training in Tampa, FL. Dog Training Elite
Puppy Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Service Dog Training in Tampa, FL. Dog Training Elite
Service Dog Training
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Anxiety & Aggression Dog Trainer in Tampa, FL
Anxiety & Aggression
Dog Training Elite in Tampa - Group Class Dog Training in Tampa, FL. DTE
Group Training
A fully trained service dog from Dog Training Elite in Tampa.

Tampa Emotional Support Dog Training

Why Choose DTE for Therapy Dog Training?

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At Dog Training Elite in Tampa, our training programs prepare your dog for real-world situations where their presence can provide emotional support and comfort. Beyond just obedience, our training teaches your dog how to handle stressful or highly stimulating environments like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes.

We also place a strong emphasis on socialization and adaptability, making sure your dog can confidently engage with people of all ages and backgrounds. Therapy dog work requires attentiveness and empathy, and our training helps your dog develop these traits. With a foundation of trust, consistency, and patience, your dog will be fully equipped to offer comfort and companionship wherever it’s needed.

A group of dogs being trained by the expert team at Dog Training Elite in Tampa.
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Educate, Empower, Elevate, Elite

Victory Begins With Elite Education

ESA vs. Therapy vs. Service Animals

What's the Difference?

Animals that provide assistance and companionship can be classified into three main groups: service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs), and therapy animals. Each has different responsibilities, training requirements, and legal protections. Knowing the differences can help you choose the right type of support for a disability, emotional needs, or therapy purposes.

Here are the defining features of each type:

Service animals are trained to help individuals by performing tasks that meet their specific needs, such as:

  • 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 highly valued in the mental health and disability community and are protected under ADA laws, allowing them to accompany their owners anywhere. At DTE, we provide specialized training for service dogs that assist individuals with autism, diabetes, and PTSD.

The key difference between ESAs, therapy dogs, and service dogs is that service animals are protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. This means they are allowed to go anywhere their owner goes. ESAs and therapy dogs do not have the same protections as service dogs, and public places can set their own rules about allowing them.

ESAs are prescribed by licensed mental health professionals to help individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. These animals provide emotional support simply by being a comforting presence. Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks related to their owner's condition.

ESAs can be of any breed or age, and while they do not require the same level of training as service dogs, many owners choose to seek additional training. This can help strengthen the bond between the owner and the animal and improve the ESA's ability to provide consistent emotional support in different situations.

Therapy animals provide comfort and emotional support to individuals in need. They are not trained to assist a single person but are instead taught to be well-behaved and sociable around various groups of people. These animals help reduce stress, anxiety, and loneliness for those they visit.

Unlike service animals, therapy animals are not required to perform specific tasks. Their calming presence is what makes them valuable in therapeutic programs.

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