Which statement about service animals is accurate?

The statement that service animals are defined by their training is accurate because service animals are specifically trained to perform tasks directly related to an individual's disability. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) outlines that only dogs are recognized as service animals, and they must be trained to assist someone with a disability, whether it's physical, sensory, psychiatric, or mental. This training distinguishes them from ordinary pets or other animals, which do not have the specialized skills necessary to assist individuals with disabilities.

The other statements are incorrect as they misrepresent what qualifies as a service animal. For example, service animals are not considered family pets because they serve a specific function related to a disability and are not there for companionship. Furthermore, not every pet can be classified as a service animal, as they lack the necessary training to perform specific tasks. Finally, service animals cannot be any type of animal; they are limited to dogs (and, in very specific cases, miniature horses) that have received proper training to assist individuals with disabilities. Thus, the training of service animals is a fundamental aspect that sets them apart from regular pets.