Are you wondering if you can register your dog as a psychiatric service animal? Can any breed of dog be a psychiatric service dog? In this blog, you will find all the answers to your questions about psychiatric service animals.
What is a Psychiatric Service Dog?
A psychiatric service dog is defined as a dog who is trained to do specific tasks in relation to their owner’s mental health or disability. They are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as necessary medical equipment. They differ from emotional support animals in that they are trained to do certain tasks, while emotional support animals simply provide comfort through their presence. Emotional support animals also cannot travel with you or go in public with you the way a psychiatric service dog can, because they are only protected by the Fair Housing Act. They also differ from traditional service animals who are trained to do tasks for those with physical disabilities or illnesses.
What Do Psychiatric Service Dogs Do?
Psychiatric service dogs can be trained to do a variety of tasks in relation to your mental illness. These tasks can include reminding you to take your medication at the correct time, waking you up from nightmares, stopping self-harming or OCD behaviors, interrupting PTSD flashbacks, standing on top of you to hit certain pressure points when you are having a panic attack, and more. These dogs must also be trained to be calm and well behaved, even in chaotic and loud environments, such as airports.
How Do You Qualify for a Psychiatric Service Dog?
In order to qualify for a psychiatric service dog, you must be officially diagnosed with a mental illness or disability by a certified mental health or medical professional. This professional must then evaluate your condition and need for a service animal and write you a service animal letter of certification. This letter verifies your diagnosis and your need for a service animal. You qualify for a psychiatric service dog with any level of anxiety, or other mental illness if it is limiting your ability to live your life day to day.
Can Any Breed of Dog be a Psychiatric Service Dog?
Any breed of dog can be a psychiatric service dog. The dog must be appropriately trained to perform tasks for their owner, and be well behaved in all environments, including loud and chaotic places. Some of the most recommended dog breeds for this position include the standard Poodle, Labrador Retriever, Havanese, Miniature Schnauzer, and German Shepherd.
In conclusion, a psychiatric service dog is a dog that performs specific tasks in relation to their owners mental illness or disabilities. In order to qualify for one you must be diagnosed by and have a letter from a medical or mental health professional. Any breed of dog can be a psychiatric service dog. Some breeds are easier to train for the position than others. You can get one by talking to our experts at United Support Animal today at 800-918-3151 or by taking our pre-screening test.
