You may have an amazing dog that currently provides you with emotional support. Specifically, it calms you down when you feel anxious. Now, you’re wondering if your dog can be labeled as a service animal.

Here’s what you need to know…

Answer: According to the ADA, service animals that provide mere emotional support or comfort alone do not qualify as Service Animals, unless the animal’s assistance consists of a task it is trained to perform or work it physically does. For example, if the dog has been trained to sense an anxiety attack and takes a specific action to lessen its impact. Again, training is the key requirement.