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Understanding the Difference: Assistance Dogs vs. Facility Dogs
Discover how these two vital types of dogs serve unique roles in enhancing well-being and support for individuals and communities.

facility dogs (also called therapy dogs)
facility dogs share many similarities with assistance dogs, as both go through the same training programs. However, facility dogs are not obligated to perform specific tasks like assistance dogs do. Instead of assisting a single handler, therapy dogs are trained to offer affection, comfort, and support to a wide range of individuals in various settings.
facility dogs are trained to work in a variety of settings such as;
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Hospitals
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Dental surgeries
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Retirement homes
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Airports
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Schools
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Psychiatrists, Psychologists
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Speech therapists, Occupational therapists … and much more

assistance or service dogs
Assistance or service dogs are trained working animals that support individuals with disabilities in performing daily tasks and activities, promoting greater independence.
While many people recognize guide dogs that help those with visual impairments navigate their surroundings safely, there are various other types of assistance dogs that can be trained for specific needs, such as autism or ptsd.