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What is an Emotional Support Dog

What Is An Emotional Support Dog

Estimated reading time: 17 minutes

Dogs have been known to be man’s best friend and for good reason.

Who cant ignore the lovely smile? the unconditional love!

They are loyal, affectionate, and protective. However, for some people, dogs provide more than just companionship, they provide emotional support. In this article, we’ll be discussing what emotional support dogs are and how they differ from other types of service dogs, and basic things you need to know before getting an emotional support dog and ESA letter.

What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a pet that provides emotional support to its owner. ESAs are not considered service animals or therapy animals, but they are still protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Act (FHA). Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require any specialized training. They are often prescribed by a mental health professional to people suffering from mental or emotional disabilities.

What is an Emotional Support Dog?

An Emotional Support Dog With His Owner Girl
An Emotional Support Dog With His Owner Girl

An emotional support dog is a type of emotional support animal that provides comfort and emotional support to individuals who suffer from mental or emotional disabilities its owner through companionship and affection.

They are often recommended to people who suffer from depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

Emotional support dogs are not trained to perform specific tasks like service dogs, but they do offer comfort and companionship to their owners.

How does an Emotional Support Dog help you?

Emotional support dogs provide comfort and companionship to their owners. They help to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. They offer unconditional love and affection, and although having a dog by your side is always a plus, here are the benefits of owning a dog that can help to ease feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Emotional support dogs also encourage their owners to be more active and engage in activities that they may have avoided in the past.

Federal Laws for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

As more and more people recognize the benefits of having emotional support animals (ESAs), the need for clear federal laws governing their use has become increasingly important.

While ESAs are not the same as service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, ESAs provide important emotional support to those who suffer from mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.

To ensure that individuals with ESAs are protected under federal law, several laws have been enacted to provide clear guidelines for their use.

These laws include the Air Carrier Access Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Air Carrier Access Act

The Air Carrier Access Act provides clear guidelines for individuals who wish to travel with their ESAs. Under this law, airlines are required to allow individuals with ESAs to bring their animals on board with them.

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) covers ESA and service dogs airline regulations. The regulations were updated, effective May 13, 2009, and clarify what animals are considered service animals and delineate how each type of animal should be treated.

As of Jan 2021: latest policy by the Department of Transportation (DOT), emotional support animals can no longer fly in airplane cabins free of charge. Nevertheless, psychiatric service animals remain eligible for air travel.

However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order for an animal to be considered an ESA. These requirements include:

  • The animal must be well-behaved and not pose a threat to other passengers
  • The animal must be able to fit on the individual’s lap or on the floor in front of them
  • The individual must provide documentation from a mental health professional stating that they require the animal for emotional support

ACAA Complaints

These may be submitted to the Department of Transportation’s Aviation Consumer Protection Division. Air travelers who experience disability-related air travel service
problems may call the hotline at 1-800-778-4838 (voice) or 1-800-455-9880 (TTY) to obtain assistance.

Air travelers who would like the Department of Transportation (DOT) to investigate a complaint about a disability issue must submit their complaint in writing or via e-mail to:

Aviation Consumer Protection Division

Attn: C-75-D
U.S. Department of Transportation
1200 New Jersey Ave, SE
Washington, DC 20590

For additional information and questions about your rights under any of these laws, contact your regional ADA center at 1-800-949-4232 (voice/TTY)

Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act provides important protections for individuals with ESAs who are looking for housing. Under this law, landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including those who require an ESA.

This means that landlords cannot discriminate against individuals with ESAs, and must allow them to live in their housing, even if the landlord has a no-pet policy.

However, individuals with ESAs must still comply with other rules and regulations, such as keeping the animal under control and cleaning up after it.

How does the Fair Housing Act protect Emotional Support Animal dog owners?

Landlords cannot impose breed or weight restrictions on ESAs, nor can they require tenants to provide certification or identification for their ESAs.

However, landlords may require tenants with ESAs to provide documentation from a healthcare provider that verifies their disability and the need for an ESA. This documentation must come from a licensed healthcare professional and should include information about the tenant’s disability, how the ESA will assist with managing the disability, and the provider’s contact information.

The FHA also protects tenants with ESAs from eviction based solely on their use of an ESA. If a landlord attempts to evict a tenant because they have an ESA, the tenant may file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or take legal action against the landlord.

It is important to note that the FHA does not protect individuals who misrepresent their pets as ESAs. This can include individuals who claim to have an ESA in order to avoid paying pet fees or to bring their pet into a rental property that does not allow pets. Landlords may require tenants to provide documentation from a healthcare provider in order to verify the need for an ESA and prevent misuse of the law.

Here are the rights of ESA dog owners under the Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) provides individuals with disabilities, including those who require an emotional support animal (ESA), with important rights when it comes to housing. ESA owners have the right to request reasonable accommodations from their landlords or property managers, who are required to make such accommodations under the law.

Under the FHA, landlords cannot refuse to rent to individuals with ESAs or charge them additional fees or deposits. They also cannot impose breed or weight restrictions on ESAs or require tenants to provide certification or identification for their ESAs. Landlords can, however, require documentation from a licensed healthcare professional verifying the tenant’s disability and the need for an ESA.

This documentation should include information about the tenant’s disability, how the ESA will assist with managing the disability, and the healthcare provider’s contact information. Landlords cannot require tenants to provide specific types of documentation, such as detailed medical records, and cannot charge tenants for the cost of verifying their need for an ESA.

In addition to these protections, the FHA also prohibits landlords from evicting tenants based solely on their use of an ESA. If a landlord attempts to evict a tenant because of their ESA, the tenant may file a complaint with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) or take legal action against the landlord.

It is important to note that the FHA does not protect individuals who misrepresent their pets as ESAs. Landlords may require tenants to provide documentation from a healthcare provider in order to verify the need for an ESA and prevent misuse of the law.

What kinds of housing situations are protected under the Fair Housing Act, for ESA dog owners?

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects individuals with disabilities who require an emotional support animal (ESA) in a variety of housing situations. This includes traditional rental properties, such as apartments or houses, as well as other types of housing arrangements.

For example, the FHA protects individuals with ESAs who live in public housing or receive Section 8 vouchers. It also protects individuals with ESAs who live in privately owned single-family homes, townhouses, or condos, as long as the landlord owns more than three properties or is in the business of renting or selling properties.

The FHA also applies to housing advertisements and marketing materials, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against when seeking housing. Landlords and property managers are prohibited from using discriminatory language or advertising practices that would discourage individuals with disabilities from applying for housing.

In addition, the FHA extends to common areas of housing complexes or communities, such as sidewalks, parking lots, and recreational areas. This means that individuals with ESAs are allowed to use these areas with their animals, and landlords or property managers cannot impose additional restrictions or fees for their use.

States with specific ESA laws for dog owners

Despite the federal protections provided by the Fair Housing Act (FHA), several states have specific laws that address emotional support animals (ESAs) in housing and other settings. Here are some examples:

  1. Florida: Florida’s ESA law allows individuals with ESAs to live in housing without being charged extra fees or deposits. The law also allows individuals with ESAs to bring their animals to work if their disability requires it. Landlords are allowed to request documentation verifying the need for an ESA, and tenants must provide this documentation within 10 days of receiving the request.
  2. California: California’s ESA law provides similar protections to the FHA, but also allows individuals with ESAs to bring their animals to school or other public places. The law requires that landlords make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs, and prohibits landlords from charging extra fees or deposits for ESAs. Landlords are allowed to request documentation verifying the need for an ESA, but cannot require specific types of documentation or charge tenants for the cost of verifying their need for an ESA.
  3. New York: New York’s ESA law provides protections for individuals with ESAs in housing, employment, and public accommodations. The law requires that landlords make reasonable accommodations for tenants with ESAs, and prohibits landlords from charging extra fees or deposits for ESAs. Landlords are allowed to request documentation verifying the need for an ESA, but cannot require specific types of documentation or charge tenants for the cost of verifying their need for an ESA.
  4. Illinois: Illinois’s ESA law allows individuals with ESAs to live in housing without being charged extra fees or deposits. The law also allows individuals with ESAs to bring their animals to work if their disability requires it. Landlords are allowed to request documentation verifying the need for an ESA, and tenants must provide this documentation within 15 days of receiving the request.

It is important to note that ESA laws can vary widely by state, and individuals with ESAs should consult with local resources or legal professionals to understand their rights and responsibilities under the law.

Complaints – Housing complaints may be filed with the

Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/online-complaint

800-669-9777 (voice)
800-927-9275 (TTY)

Additionally, individuals with ESAs may be protected by other laws or regulations, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or state-specific disability rights laws.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

While ESAs are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), individuals with disabilities who use ESAs are still protected under this law.

This means that individuals with ESAs are entitled to the same protections as individuals with service animals, including the right to bring their animals with them into public places.

However, unlike service animals, ESAs are not allowed in all public places, and businesses may have the right to exclude them in certain situations.

ADA Complaints

Workers with disabilities must file a charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of an alleged violation of the ADA. This deadline may be extended to 300 days if there is a state or local fair employment practices agency that also has jurisdiction over this matter.

Complaints may be filed in person, by mail, or by telephone by contacting the nearest EEOC office.

This number is listed in most telephone directories under “U.S. Government.” For more information:
http://www.eeoc.gov/contact/index.cfm

800-669-4000 (voice)
800-669-6820 (TTY)

How to Qualify for an Emotional Support Dog?

To qualify for an emotional support dog, you must have a mental or emotional disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

You must also have a prescription from a licensed mental health professional. Know how to qualify and the procedure to get one here.

The prescription must include the mental health professional’s letterhead and signature, as well as information about the disability and how the emotional support dog will help.

How to Train an Emotional Support Dog?

Emotional support dogs do not require any specialized training. However, they do need to be well-behaved and obedient.

They should be trained to respond to basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leave it. They should also be socialized with people and other animals to prevent aggressive behavior.

Here is an excellent free training workshop video on how your dog can become as obedient as a service dog.

Emotional support dogs should be housebroken and able to behave appropriately in public places.

How are Emotional Support Dogs different from service dogs?

Emotional Support Dog offer mental support to its owner
Emotional Support Dog offer mental support to its owner

Emotional support dogs differ from service dogs in many ways.

Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for their owners, such as guiding the blind or detecting seizures.

They are protected by the ADA and are allowed to accompany their owners in all public places. Emotional support dogs, on the other hand, are not trained to perform specific tasks and are not protected by the ADA in the same way. They are only allowed in certain places, such as housing units and airplanes.

The legal status of Emotional Support Dogs

Emotional support dogs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). These laws require landlords and airlines to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with emotional support dogs, allowing them to keep their animals with them in housing and travel situations.

However, emotional support dogs do not have the same legal rights as service dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities and are allowed to enter public places where dogs are typically prohibited.

What are the benefits of having an Emotional Support Dog?

Emotional support dogs reduce anxiety stress and depression
Emotional support dogs reduce anxiety stress and depression

Emotional support dogs provide many benefits to their owners. They help to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.

They offer unconditional love and affection, which can help to ease feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Emotional support dogs also encourage their owners to be more active and engage in activities that they may have avoided in the past. They can also help to improve social skills and provide a sense of security and protection.

Here are some of the top benefits of having an emotional support dog:

  • Reducing Anxiety and Depression – Studies have shown that spending time with a dog can lower cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, and increase oxytocin, the hormone associated with happiness and bonding.
  • Providing Companionship – Emotional support dogs provide constant companionship, which can help individuals feel less lonely and isolated.
  • Increasing Physical Activity – Owning a dog requires regular exercise, which can help individuals stay physically active and improve their overall health.
  • Encouraging Social Interaction – Emotional support dogs can encourage individuals to engage in social activities, such as going for walks or attending dog-related events.

Obtaining an Emotional Support Dog

To obtain an emotional support dog, you will need to get a recommendation letter from a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist. The letter should state that you have a mental or emotional disability and that an emotional support dog would provide emotional support to alleviate symptoms of the disability.

Adopt a Dog and improve your mental and physical health
Adopt a Dog and improve your mental and physical health

Once you have a recommendation letter, you can search for a suitable emotional support dog. Any breed of dog can be an emotional support dog, if you own a dog you can get the ESA letter for your existing dog as long as they have a good temperament and are well-behaved.

Some popular emotional support dog breeds include Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Poodles.

Responsibilities of Owning an Emotional Support Dog

Owning an emotional support dog comes with a great deal of responsibility.

Owning an emotional support dog comes with responsibility
Owning an emotional support dog comes with a responsibility

As a dog owner, you will be responsible for your dog’s health, safety, and behavior.

Here are some of the responsibilities that come with owning an emotional support dog:

Registering your dog

The first and most important responsibility of owning an emotional support dog is to register it. The registration process involves obtaining a letter from a licensed mental health professional, stating that you need an emotional support animal.

This letter will allow you to keep your dog with you in housing that otherwise does not allow pets and travel on planes without paying any additional fees.

It is essential to note that the registration process is not the same as the certification process, which is not required by law.

Providing adequate training

Another responsibility that comes with owning an emotional support dog is providing adequate training. Training is crucial to ensure that your dog behaves appropriately in public and at home.

You should train your dog to be well-behaved around other people and animals, follow basic commands, and not cause any damage to property.

Dogs that are not adequately trained can cause problems, which may result in legal consequences.

Watch this free training workshop video on how your dog can become as obedient as a service dog.

Providing proper care for your ESA dog

Providing proper care for your emotional support dog is crucial for its well-being. You must ensure that your dog receives regular check-ups, vaccinations, and proper nutrition.

Regular exercise is also essential for your dog’s physical and mental health.

You should also make sure that your dog is groomed regularly, including bathing, brushing, and nail clipping.

Neglecting your dog’s care can result in health problems and may affect its emotional support abilities.

Understanding Your Dog’s Behavior

As a responsible emotional support dog owner, you must understand your dog’s behavior. This includes recognizing when your dog is stressed, anxious, or uncomfortable.

You should be aware of your dog’s body language, vocalizations, and other signs of distress. This knowledge will help you prevent or manage any behavioral problems that may arise.

Respecting others

Respecting others is another essential responsibility of owning an emotional support dog. You should be considerate of others, especially those who may have allergies or fears of dogs.

You should keep your dog on a leash in public areas and avoid letting it approach strangers without their consent. Additionally, you should ensure that your dog does not cause any damage to other people’s property.

Knowing your rights and responsibilities

As an emotional support dog owner, you have certain rights and responsibilities. It is your responsibility to know the laws regarding emotional support animals in your state or country.

You should also understand your rights when it comes to housing, traveling, and other public accommodations.

Familiarizing yourself with these laws will help you avoid any legal problems.

Frequently asked questions

Can any breed of dog be an emotional support animal?

Yes, any breed of dog can be an emotional support animal, provided it meets the necessary criteria.

Is it mandatory to register an emotional support dog?

No, registration is not mandatory, but it is recommended to avoid any legal problems.

Can an emotional support dog be taken to any public place?

Emotional support dogs are allowed in most public places, but there are exceptions. It is your responsibility to know the laws in your state or country.

Can an emotional support dog be trained as a service dog?

Yes, an emotional support dog can be trained as a service dog. However, it is important to understand the differences between the two types of dogs and the different laws that apply to them.

If an emotional support dog is able to perform tasks that mitigate their owner’s disability, they can be trained to become a service dog. However, it is important to note that the process of training a service dog is rigorous and time-consuming, and not all dogs are suitable for the job.
In addition, the laws that apply to emotional support dogs and service dogs are different.

Emotional support dogs are protected under the Fair Housing Act, which allows them to live with their owners in housing that may otherwise prohibit pets. Service dogs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which allows them to accompany their owners in public places such as restaurants and stores.

Can emotional support dogs travel with their owners on airplanes?

Yes, emotional support dogs are allowed to travel with their owners on airplanes, provided they have a legitimate ESA letter and behave appropriately.

Written by Your Dog Advisor

It's me Divya, hope you got some new information today. I am the executive editor for Petting My Dog. I and my team provide the most accurate and in-depth tips and advice on dog care, dog food, and training from industry experts, dog trainers, veterinarians, groomers, and animal scientists. We help dog owners effortlessly choose the best dog supplies on the market. We buy, test, review, and rank dog products to help you avoid the bad products and purchase only what's best for you and your dog. Come join us in this movement to keep your pet Dog actively happy. Read more about our editorial process here. Veterinary Review by: Dr. Alexandra Hukill, DVM. Stay updated and subscribe to our newsletter.

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