Knowing the Difference between Service Animals, ESAs, and Pets

We love our pets, but sometimes a pet is more than just your companion. They may be a “working” animal and subject to different rules and policies than others. Pet policies can be confusing and animal policies sometimes do not openly provide the difference in the types of animals that may or may not be allowed in your home. Here are some clear ways to define the difference between a Service Animal, an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), and a pet.

1. Service Animal

• Definition: A Service Animal is a dog (or in some cases, a miniature horse) trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability, such as guiding the visually impaired, detecting seizures, or assisting with mobility

• Legal Protections: Covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Service Animals are allowed in public places and housing, regardless of pet policies

• Key Role: Provides direct assistance related to a disability

2. Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

• Definition: An ESA provides comfort or emotional support to individuals with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. Unlike Service Animals, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks

• Legal Protections: Covered under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) for housing, allowing ESAs to live in properties even when they have a "no pets" policy. However, they are not allowed in public places under the ADA

• Key Role: Offers emotional support and therapeutic benefits

3. Pet

• Definition: A pet is a domesticated animal kept for companionship or enjoyment without any special training or legal designation

• Legal Protections: Pets are subject to property rules, including pet deposits, fees, and breed restrictions, as defined by the landlord

• Key Role: Provides general companionship without specific disability-related support

See the table below for quick reference to the differences: