Are there standards for support animal training?

GySgt Kenneth Pepper — Thu, 30 May 2019 13:49:22 -0400

We are seeing cases of veterans with support animals getting in hairy situations. Is there any criteria for required training for these animals? Being in any crowded area certainly puts me on edge, but an untrained animal has a tremendous potential for something bad to happen. Not opposed to the idea anything to help with PTSD, but are these animals properly trained to cope with airports, crowds, noises, etc.,?

Response by SGT Nicholas M. made May 30 at 2019 2:09 PM

SGT Nicholas M. — Thu, 30 May 2019 14:09:36 -0400

Check out this link. It will explain the difference between Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals. https://www.ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm

ADA 2010 Revised Requirements: Service Animals

The ADA Home Page provides access to Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations for businesses and State and local governments, technical assistance materials, ADA Standards for Accessible Design, links to Federal agencies with ADA responsibilities and information, updates on new ADA requirements, streaming video, information about Department of Justice ADA settlement agreements, consent decrees, and enforcement activities and access to...

Response by Maj John Bell made May 30 at 2019 8:28 PM

Maj John Bell — Thu, 30 May 2019 20:28:30 -0400

Emotional Support Animals (ESA's) are not Service Animals and there is no certification for the animal. However there must be a mental health professional who verifies the person's need for an ESA.