Frequently Asked Questions
This FAQ page aims to provide general information about animal-assisted therapy, service dogs, psychiatric service dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support dogs. Interested in learning more? Schedule a complimentary 15-minute introduction meeting or book a consultation to review our training offerings to explore how our services can benefit you and your organization.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)
Q: What is Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)?
A: Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) involves the inclusion of animals in a therapeutic setting to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, social, or cognitive well-being. It is conducted by a trained therapist or professional. Pawsitive Pathways Inc. specializes in this treatment modality. Schedule an appointment to learn more.
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Q: What types of animals are used in Animal-Assisted Therapy?
A: While dogs are commonly used, other animals like cats, horses, birds, and even dolphins can be used based on the therapy program and individual needs. At Pawsitive Pathways Inc. we primarily work with dogs.
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Q: What conditions can benefit from Animal-Assisted Therapy?
A: AAT can benefit various conditions such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism, and other mental health issues. It can also aid in physical rehabilitation.
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Service Dogs
Q: What is a Service Dog?
A: A service dog is trained to assist individuals with disabilities and perform specific tasks to mitigate their handler's disability. These tasks can include guiding the blind, alerting the deaf, pulling a wheelchair, detecting severe food allergies and more. Pawsitive Pathways Inc. partners with other organizations that train and provide service dogs for hearing and mobile impaired individuals.
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Q: What disabilities qualify for a Service Dog?
A: Disabilities that may qualify for a service dog include but are not limited to visual impairment, hearing impairment, mobility issues, diabetes, epilepsy, and PTSD.
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Q: Where are Service Dogs allowed?
A: Service dogs have legal access to public places such as restaurants, stores, hospitals, and transportation, as mandated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
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Psychiatric Service Dogs
Q: What is a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)?
A: A Psychiatric Service Dog is specifically trained to assist individuals with psychiatric disabilities. They can help with tasks like reminding the handler to take medication, providing grounding during panic attacks, and interrupting harmful behaviors.
Q: How do I qualify for a Psychiatric Service Dog?
A: To qualify for a PSD, you must have a diagnosed psychiatric disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Q: Are Psychiatric Service Dogs allowed in all public spaces?
A: Yes, PSDs have the same legal rights as other service dogs and are permitted in public areas under the ADA.
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Therapy Dogs
Q: What is a Therapy Dog?
A: A therapy dog is trained to provide comfort, affection, and emotional support to people other than their handler. They typically visit hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and disaster areas to provide therapeutic interactions.
Q: Can anyone get a Therapy Dog?
A: Therapy dogs are owned by individuals who volunteer their time to bring the dog to various facilities or events to provide comfort. They do not have the same legal access rights as service dogs.
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Q: How can I get my dog certified as a Therapy Dog?
A: Certification requirements vary but generally involve specific training and temperament evaluations. Organizations like Therapy Dogs International (TDI) or the Alliance of Therapy Dogs offer certification programs.
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Emotional Support Dogs
Q: What is an Emotional Support Dog (ESD)?
A: An Emotional Support Dog provides companionship and comfort to individuals with mental health challenges. They do not have specialized training for specific tasks but offer emotional support through their presence.
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Q: Do Emotional Support Dogs have the same rights as Service Dogs?
A: No, Emotional Support Dogs do not have the same legal access rights as Service Dogs. They are granted certain housing and air travel accommodations under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) respectively.
Q: How can I get an Emotional Support Dog?
A: To qualify for an Emotional Support Dog, a licensed mental health professional must provide a recommendation letter stating that the presence of the animal is necessary for the person's mental health. Schedule an appointment with us to begin this process.
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Please note that regulations, requirements, and definitions may vary based on location and governing laws. Always consult relevant authorities or organizations for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Breed Restrictions for Service Dogs
Q: Are there any breed restrictions for Service Dogs?
A: No, according to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), there are no breed restrictions for Service Dogs. The ADA specifically states that Service Dogs can be of any breed or size as long as they are individually trained to perform tasks or do work that directly assists a person with a disability.
Q: Can any breed of dog become a Service Dog?
A: Yes, any breed of dog can potentially become a Service Dog if they undergo the necessary training to assist individuals with disabilities. The ADA does not limit Service Dogs based on breed, allowing individuals to select a dog that best suits their needs and abilities.
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Q: Are there specific requirements for Service Dog breeds?
A: There are no specific breed requirements set by the ADA for Service Dogs. The focus is on the dog's ability to perform tasks that mitigate their handler's disability rather than their breed.
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Q: Are there situations where establishments or housing may impose breed restrictions despite the ADA?
A: Some housing or establishments may have their own policies regarding breeds, but these policies should not override the ADA regulations for Service Dogs. The ADA supersedes local or housing authority policies when it comes to Service Dogs, allowing access regardless of breed.
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Q: Do Pawsitive Pathways Inc. co-therapists represent certain breeds?
A: Yes, our co-therapists at Pawsitive Pathways Inc. are considered "pitbull" or "bully" type breeds. We actively raise awareness and educate the public on behalf of the breed, engaging in rescue, rehabilitation, and training initiatives to promote adoption and responsible ownership.
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Understanding that the ADA does not impose breed restrictions, Pawsitive Pathways Inc. ensures that individuals with disabilities have the right to partner with a Service Dog of their choice, regardless of the breed, as long as the dog is trained to perform specific tasks related to the handler's disability.
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These links can provide more detailed information, resources, and guidelines for each topic.
Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT)
Service Dogs
Psychiatric Service Dogs
Therapy Dogs
Emotional Support Dogs
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