The United States Department of Justice defines a Service Animal through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 as any guide dog, signal dog, or other animal trained to provide assistance to an individual with a disability. If an animal meets this definition, it is considered a Service Animal regardless of whether they have been licensed or certified by a state or local government. However, we do recommend programs that voluntarily certify dogs. We support the Delta Society and the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners. They are both excellent sources of information.