Can Pets That Aren't Cats Or Dogs Become Therapy Animals?

Dogs are the most common service animals, with over 50,000 in the U.S. as of 2025. This makes sense, considering that dogs have a long-standing history as service animals and a well-established system for training and placement. At the same time, cats are increasingly recognized as exceptional therapy animals due to their gentle and calming nature. While cats and dogs are the primary candidates for the role of therapy animal, the responsibility is not theirs alone.

All pets can serve as therapy animals, as a significant part of their role involves helping to ease people's minds and interacting with them politely and respectfully; a snake can be a therapy animal for someone who lets one slither into their heart. What pet parents already know is also supported by science. A study published in Perspectives on Integrated Medicine in 2024 demonstrated that therapy animals can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as more severe afflictions like schizophrenia.

Whether scaled, furry, or feathered, any animal that helps the mind to be present and relaxed serves as a form of therapy. Dogs receive much of the attention, as they are skilled learners capable of taking on more specialized tasks. However, numerous examples demonstrate that many of Earth's creatures thrive as therapy pets.

Many people may think that therapy animals start with dogs and cats and that their popularity declines from there. However, horses are the second most common therapy animals in use. The Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International has locations throughout the United States that provide and train therapy horses. These friendly equines offer a unique set of skills in the mental health field, helping to build confidence, trust, empathy, and social skills through riding.

This demonstrates that when it comes to emotional support, any animal can take on the role. Wally the alligator and his owner, Joie Henney, proved that even creatures often perceived as scary can serve as uplifting companions. The viral emotional support alligator gained attention during an episode of "Beast Buddies." Henney told of his federally licensed pet, "He's far from a typical alligator, he loves cuddling and he loves giving kisses."

@wallythealligator ♬ Coastline – Hollow Coves

There is a wide range of therapy animals to fit different needs. From dolphins used for both mental health and physical therapy to emotional support pets like the cutest little pigs or the fluffiest bunnies, which perfectly fit their owners' personalities to help them cope with life's stressors. If your pets brings you joy and comfort, regardless of shape or size, then they are their own little therapists and personal cheerleaders worth celebrating.

If you live with a mental illness and may benefit from an emotional support animal, speak with a licensed mental health professional to discuss incorporating an ESA into your treatment plan. For mental health resources, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.