Could a Service or Therapy Dog be Right for Your Child? — Part 1

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You sometimes see them in the store, at the mall or walking down the street. They’re the dogs with the blue harnesses. These are service dogs. 

Service dogs are often used by people who are blind or visually impaired. But they are also used to assist people with:

• Deafness or hearing impairments
• Diabetes
• Autism spectrum disorder
• Seizure disorder
• Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders
• Mobility issues

These amazing animals can bring more comfort, stability and love to the children and adults they assist. 

Imagine a child with epilepsy no longer caught off guard by a seizure. Some service dogs can detect and warn a child or caregiver about an oncoming seizure. These dogs can also guide children to a safe place before the seizure begins.

Families who have children with autism sometimes need extra supervision and care for their child with special needs. Service dogs can be a constant companion, tracking wandering children when necessary. 

Children with autism may also find it hard to communicate or participate in daily activities. Service dogs can help these children come out of their shells to find joy and calmness.

For children who use wheelchairs or have limited mobility, service dogs can be trained to open doors and cabinets, retrieve objects, assist during a fall, or even call for help.

The Difference between Service Dogs, Therapy Dogs and Companion Dogs

Service Dogs

Service dogs must pass a rigorous training program to be called service animals. By law, service animals are allowed in public facilities and common transportation carriers. They provide a service to owners who require the constant assistance of the animal. 

A Seeing-Eye Dog is one example. Take a look at the Texas Disability Law – Service Dogs webpage for more information about Texas laws.

Therapy Dogs

Therapy dogs are trained to provide therapeutic aid to an owner or a group of people. Many hospitals participate in animal therapy programs by letting patients pet dogs from their hospital beds. Petting a dog during a stressful time (such as getting shots or chemotherapy) can help to lower stress and pain. Families who don’t qualify for a service dog may find a therapy dog provides the companionship and “therapy” their child needs. 

But therapy dogs don’t have the same legal privileges as certified service animals. For more information, read the federal requirements for service animals on the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division website.

Companion Dogs

Companion, or emotional support, dogs can be friends and cherished members of the family. They can also provide constant friendship and joy for your child. These dogs are often untrained animals that connect with your child emotionally. 

Our Find Services, Groups and Events webpage also includes a number of resources related to this topic.

In Part 2 of this article, we’ll offer more guidance to help you decide whether a service, therapy or companion dog is right for your child.