What Is An Emotional Support Animal?

What Is An Emotional Support Animal?

An emotional support animal (ESA) is a type of assistance animal that provides emotional support and companionship to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. These animals are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) but may be protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).

ESAs can be any type of animal, but most commonly, they are dogs or cats. They are not trained to perform specific tasks, but they are trained to be well-behaved and not cause disruptions. The primary function of an ESA is to provide emotional support and companionship to their owner.

To qualify for an ESA, an individual must have a letter from a licensed mental health professional (such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist) stating that the individual has a mental or emotional disability and that the emotional support animal is necessary for the individual’s mental well-being.

It’s important to note that not all landlords are required to allow emotional support animals. However, under the FHA, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including allowing emotional support animals. However, some landlords may have a “no pet” policy. In that case, the tenant will have to provide them with a letter from the licensed professional.

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