Therapy animals visit hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, schools, and other places where people may be facing health challenges or stressors to provide an emotional or mental health benefit by their presence. They may also be used to assist physical and occupational therapists. Therapy animals are generally registered, trained, and screened, but are not covered by laws as are service animals.

Animals that provide emotional or therapeutic support to PERSONS WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES or disorders. The designation emotional support animal requires a recommendation letter from a licensed psychologist or therapist, and provides some legal protections for the animal to live and travel with its owner.