Service dogs and emotional support dogs have different privileges in Arizona. While both support their humans, only service dogs are allowed to accompany them in all spaces. For instance, only service dogs can enter places like grocery stores and restaurants. Emotional support animals are not allowed.
What’s the difference between service dogs and emotional support dogs?
Service animals are dogs (or sometimes miniature horses) that are trained for specific tasks that aid people with disabilities. Service dogs can be any shape, size, or breed, but they need to go through rigorous training from the time they are puppies. Each one is trained for specific tasks that are directly related to a person’s disability.
For instance, service dogs can be trained to do things like:
- Guide the blind
- Fetch items for someone in a wheelchair
- Guard a child with autism
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are animals that provide comfort, companionship, and emotional stability to a person who has trouble with their mental health. While recognized under some laws as a medical aid, they are not granted the same legal rights or access as service animals.
Only Service Dogs Have Legal Protections in Arizona
The Americans with Disabilities Act includes specific definitions for a service animal and gives them a special legal standing. Service dogs and their handlers may not be refused entrance to any establishment, even places with a “no pets” policy. Except for zoos and wild animal parks, service dogs are allowed to go pretty much anywhere their person goes—that means rideshares, stores, and even hospitals.
Since emotional support animals are not the same as service dogs, they do not get the same protections. In fact, misrepresenting an ESA as a service animal or a service animal in training is a crime. If you bring your ESA somewhere they’re not allowed, you could be fined up to $250 for each violation.
Service Dogs and Emotional Support Pets Are Always Welcome at East Valley Animal Hospital
Here at East Valley Animal Hospital, we know how important caring for your animal is, especially when they are your lifeline. Routine exams, vaccinations, and a veterinarian that you trust are important factors in ensuring your furry friend lives a long and healthy life. If your pet is due for a checkup or you recently moved to Gilbert and you’re looking for a local vet, give us a call to make an appointment.
Photo by Andy Luo on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 7/7/26.