Therapy Dogs Provide Comfort to Others

Elizabeth’s training is focused on Therapy dogs. However, all dogs need training, and initial therapy dog training can be an excellent starting point for emotional support and service dogs.

Therapy Dogs are trained to provide affection and comfort in institutions like hospitals, schools, and nursing homes. They have no legal right to enter public spaces, though they often do so with permission. They are typically certified through organizations like St. John Ambulance or Therapeutic Paws of Canada. Typically, they do not wear a vest.

Emotional Support Dogs provide comfort through companionship, not specific tasks, to a single individual. Generally, they are not recognized by Canadian law, meaning they lack public access rights and often are treated as pets by airlines (Air Canada's policy requires them to be in carriers).

Service Dogs & Psychiatric Service Dogs are specially trained to perform specific tasks to assist with a disability. They are recognized under provincial human rights laws and federal transportation regulations, allowing access to public spaces. Some provinces require government certification, while others (like Ontario) focus on documentation of professional training. They typically wear a vest. Canadian Association of Professional Dog Trainers.