Part 1 of 5:
In this 5 part series you will learn the difference between an Emotional Support Animal, A Psychiatric Service Dog and a Therapy Dog. Then we will examine the Federal Laws that apply to each.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) have gotten a significant amount of attention in our society . News outlets continuously show stories focusing on the increasing number of animals claimed as ESAs, the impact of this growth on society and the various types of animals described as “certified.”
The most common type of emotional support animal is an emotional support dog. There are many popular dog breeds commonly used for their natural talent for providing emotional comfort, but there are no federal regulations stating that only dogs are permitted to provide this service. The animal simply needs to be able to provide emotional support to an individual in order to be recognized as an ESA. However, there may be local ordinances that can prevent animals other than dogs and cats as emotional support animals. It is important to know your local laws and regulations.
An emotional support animal is an animal that helps mitigate the symptoms of mental or emotional disabilities such as anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsions, post traumatic stress and other types of mental disorders which can be found in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual. Patients receive a “prescription letter” from a licensed mental health professional and can be part of their treatment plan.
This prescription is an official document called an emotional support animal letter, or ESA Letter. This document confirms that an individual has a legitimate need for the support that their companion animal provides and entitles them to certain rights under federal law. This letter does not “certify” or “register” your furry friend as an emotional support animal.
An ESA prescription letter is NOT the same as a Psychiatric Service Dog Letter (PSD). An Emotional Support Animal is not a service animal. An ESA and PSD have different requirements and are protected under two different federal laws. It is important to understand the difference. There is no minimum age requirements for an ESA. ESAs aren’t individually trained to perform specific tasks. As a result, their rights are limited when it comes to certain types of public access and, in some cases, air travel.
Do You Have To Register An Emotional Support Animal?
No, ESAs don’t require registration. If you pay a fee for registration, your dog will be a registered ESA and will be listed in a database somewhere. However, this registration database doesn’t hold much real value since there is no universal database and landlords can still require a letter from your medical provider showing your need for one.
These days, there are so many scams when it comes to fraudulent ESA websites and fake ESA letters. It is important to understand what a legitimate ESA letter contains so you are not scammed by many of these services promising on thing and they don’t comply with federal and state regulations.
At a minimum legitimate ESA prescription letter will be printed on the licensed professional’s letterhead and include their licensing information. The ESA prescription letter will clearly state the patient has a disability and that an emotional support animal provides them with needed support.
If you suffer from a mental disability (depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.) that significantly impacts your ability to perform normal daily functions, you could qualify for an emotional support animal (ESA). If you’re living with a mental illness, getting an emotional support animal could really help your recovery. These loving animals could ease your symptoms and help you live a happier, fuller life.
Contact us today with any questions about the process. And to request an ESA or PSD evaluation or letter, please click the link.
