Therapy dog
Their responsibility is to provide psychological or physiological therapy to individuals other than their handler who are often their owners. They usually visit several institutions such as hospitals, schools, health centers, etc. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are more encouraged to socialize and interact with a variety of people while on duty. Owners or handlers of therapy dogs do not have the same rights as service dogs in places where dogs are not allowed.

Emotional support dog
The dog’s primary function is to provide emotional support by accompanying his handler. An emotional support dog can benefit a person psychologically, with a disability or not. The accompaniment and the affection can be the therapy to counter certain conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Service dog

Service dogs receive much more training. By working in a team with their beneficiary, they can achieve a level of security and independence that their beneficiary would otherwise be deprived of. The Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects a service dog from walking in public places. During their training, the Asista Foundation aims for the following objectives for service dogs, thus differentiating them from other roles:

• High adaptability to different places, people and situations;

• Taste and habit of following the beneficiary in daily activities;

• Perform unique and specific tasks related to the condition of the beneficiary in order to

  improve his well-being through everyday life;

• Periods reserved for their well-being in order to keep a balance allowing them to

  accomplish their work. These periods include: physical activity, games, rest, etc.