What is a common misconception about service animals?

A common misconception about service animals is that they are exclusively dogs trained for specific tasks. While it is true that dogs are the most widely recognized and commonly used service animals, the definition of a service animal under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) actually only includes dogs specifically trained to perform tasks directly related to a person's disability. There are other types of animals that may provide emotional support or companionship, often referred to as emotional support animals, but these do not fall under the same legal protections as service animals.

Additionally, service animals can, in some cases, be miniature horses. This flexibility emphasizes that while dogs are the primary animal associated with service roles, it is not accurate to say that service animals are exclusively dogs. This clarification underscores the importance of understanding the legal definitions and scope of what constitutes a service animal, which may help in recognizing the rights and protections afforded to various types of assistance animals in different contexts.