Rate This Resource:
Companion animals are not defined in regulations, but their use is defined by case law and administrative guidance – and is more broad than the definition of “service animal”.
Also referred to as “assistance animals” or “therapy animals,” their primary purpose is to provide comfort or support – legally termed “ameliorating the effects of a person’s mental or emotional disabilities”. Different from service animals, companion animals are not necessarily individually trained or certified.
This fact sheet outlines what a companion animal is, how they should be treated in the context of housing, and what your responsibilties are as the owner of a companion animal.
To learn more, download the fact sheet.
Related Issues:
