Updated 10/2022
Introduction
Service animals are defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as any animal “trained to
do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability. Trained service animals
can often help people with disabilities gain independence, increase one’s ability to participate in
activities, and even provide invaluable emotional support.
Specifically, for people with limb loss or limb difference, service dogs can be trained to retrieve or hold
items, turn light switches on and off, aid with dressing, and much more. They can also increase
mobility independence by opening doors, pulling a wheelchair or by acting as a balance or brace for
transfers. Unlike traditional adaptive equipment, dogs are extremely sociable animals who love to be
with people. They can provide much-needed companionship, unconditional love and support, vastly
reducing loneliness.
Resources on Legal Right Regarding the Use of Service Animals
ADA Revised Requirements: Service Animals
ada.gov/service_animals_2010.htm
Frequently Asked Questions About Service Animals and the ADA
ada.gov/regs2010/service_animal_qa.html
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals: Where Are They Allowed, and Under What Conditions?
adata.org/publication/service-animals-booklet
Service Dog Programs and Organizations
Assistance Dogs International
assistancedogsinternational.org/members/programs-search
Canine Companions for Independence
cci.org
Canine Partners for Life
k94life.org/programs/servicedog
Freedom Service Dogs of America
freedomservicedogs.org
Genesis Assistance Dogs, Inc. (Florida residents only)
https://genesisassistancedogsinc.org/blog/how-to-get-a-service-dog-in-florida/
Little Angels Service Dogs
littleangelsservicedogs.org
Pet Partners
petpartners.org
International Association of Assistance Dog Partners
iaadp.org
New England Assistance Dog Services (NEADS)
neads.org
Operation Overwatch
operationoverwatch.org/service-dog-training-program
Service Dogs for America
servicedogsforamerica.org/programs
Smoky Mountain Service Dogs
smokymountainservicedogs.org
Additional Resources
How to Keep Your Pets Safe While Driving
https://www.carcovers.com/carresources/how-to-keep-your-pets-safe-while-driving/
United States Department of Transportation-Service Animals
https://www.transportation.gov/individuals/aviation-consumer-protection/service-animals
It is not the intention of the Amputee Coalition to provide specific medical or legal advice but rather to provide consumers with information to better understand their health and healthcare issues. The Amputee Coalition does not endorse any specific treatment, technology, company, service or device. Consumers are urged to consult with their healthcare providers for specific medical advice or before making any purchasing decisions involving their care.
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