Emotional Support Animal vs Service Animal
An emotional support animal (ESA) provides comfort and does not count as a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Service animals are individually trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability.
Legal Definitions and Access Rights
Under the ADA, service animals are limited to dogs and, in some cases, miniature horses. ESAs are not granted the same public access rights. For details, see the ADA National Network overview at https://adata.org/factsheet/emotional-support-animals.
Where Each Animal Is Allowed
Service animals may enter most public places, including stores and restaurants. ESAs are primarily protected in housing under the Fair Housing Act and in air travel under specific rules. Airlines and landlords may require documentation for ESAs.
