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Emotional Support Animal

Emotional Support Animal Letter

What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?

Emotional support animals (ESAs) offer comfort and support to those with disabilities and mental health conditions through their companionship. Unlike service animals, ESAs primarily provide a calming presence and help ease feelings of loneliness, depression, or anxiety, without needing specific task training

Do You qualify?

  • See if you qualify for an Emotional Support Animal now! Take our quick pre-screening and get instant results. If eligible, connect with a licensed professional for your ESA letter!
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What animals can be considered Emotional Support Animals?

  • A variety of animals can be ESAs.
  • Common ESAs include dogs and cats.
  • Other potential ESAs: rabbits, ferrets, rats, mice, hedgehogs, miniature ponies, pigs.

Benefits of having an Emotional Support Pet?

  • ESAs improve well-being by offering emotional support
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Aid mental health
  • Increasing activity
  • Enhance social interactions
  • Provide security
  • Offer non-judgmental companionship
  • Establishing Routine
  • Assist with emotional regulation
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Can you Adopt a Pet for Emotional Support?

Yes, you can adopt a dog for emotional support, but it needs to qualify as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). This requires an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional confirming the dog alleviates symptoms of your mental or emotional condition.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

  • ESAs/support pets offer comfort for emotional issues; no specific task training needed.
  • ESAs help with conditions like anxiety.
  • ESAs help with conditions like depression through companionship.
  • ESAs are mainly protected under the Fair Housing Act.
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Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)

  • Service Animals are specially trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities.
  • Service Animals assist with mobility, retrieving, alerting, etc.
  • Service Animals have more legal protections (public access, travel).
  • ESAs are mainly protected under the Fair Housing Act.
Get Your PSD Letter

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

  • ESAs/support pets offer comfort for emotional issues; no specific task training needed.
  • ESAs help with conditions like anxiety and depression through companionship.
  • ESAs are mainly protected under the Fair Housing Act.
Get Your ESA Letter

Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)

  • Service Animals are specially trained to perform tasks for people with disabilities.
  • Service Animals assist with mobility, retrieving, alerting, etc.
  • Service Animals have more legal protections (public access, travel).
  • ESAs are mainly protected under the Fair Housing Act.
Get Your PSD Letter

Getting your ESA Letter

To get an ESA, you need an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) after an evaluation. This involves:

  • ESAs are written by only a licensed mental health professionals.
  • Requires a mental health diagnosis (e.g., anxiety, depression).
  • Often involves a pre-screening
  • The professional determines if an ESA is beneficial and you'll receive an ESA letter.

What Rights Does an ESA Letter Grant?

An ESA letter ensures your right to live with your support animal, even in buildings with “no pets” policies. While public access for ESAs isn’t as extensive as for service animals, this letter offers crucial protection for your housing needs and acknowledges the therapeutic role of your ESA.

Why Do You Need an ESA Letter?

An ESA letter, the key document for ESA owners, leverages federal law to prevent housing discrimination against those with disabilities. It allows you to live with your assistance animal, even in no-pet housing, and prohibits landlords from denying your animal or charging extra fees, as long as it’s domesticated, under your control, and not a threat to the community.
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Your Rights as an ESA or Service Animal Owner

Three federal laws—the Fair Housing Act (FHA), Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)—offer anti-discrimination protection for individuals with mental health conditions. These laws cover service animals or emotional support animals in different contexts, including housing, air travel, and public life. Notably, ESAs are protected solely under the FHA, while service dogs receive broader protection under all three laws.

The Fair Housing Act
(FHA)

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects the right of disabled individuals to live with their assistance animals in any housing situation, waiving pet fees and deposits for ESAs. This law covers various domesticated animals. However, landlords can deny or evict if the ESA damages property or threatens others.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 provides broad protection for individuals with disabilities, including the right to be accompanied by their service dogs in public places like restaurants, stores, government buildings, and public transit. Because service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for their owners' mental health conditions, they have this public access. However, the ADA does not extend the same public access rights to Emotional Support Animals, which are viewed as pets under this law.

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) ensures service dogs can fly in the cabin with their owners (size permitting). While the ACAA doesn't automatically grant the same right to ESAs (often treated as regular pets), some airlines may allow them in the cabin with a valid ESA letter.

Housing Rights for ESA Owners

The Fair Housing Act (FHA) generally allows individuals with ESAs to live anywhere, as assistance animals provide support for disabilities. Landlords can only deny ESAs in limited situations (owner-occupied with few tenants, single-family rentals by owner, or housing by private/religious groups). Otherwise, with a valid ESA letter, landlords can’t deny housing unless the letter is illegitimate or the animal is a threat.

Traveling with Your ESA: What You Need to Know

Unlike service animals protected by the ACAA, airlines aren’t obligated to transport ESAs. Each airline sets its own rules for allowing emotional support animals on flights. Given that most major US airlines no longer accommodate ESAs in the cabin, traveling with one often means they’ll be treated as regular pets, subject to applicable fees and potentially travel in cargo. A few international carriers or those with specific routes might still offer in-cabin ESA travel, typically requiring a valid ESA letter. It’s crucial to contact the specific airline well in advance of your travel dates to understand their current policies, any required documentation, and associated costs to ensure a smooth journey for you and your emotional support animal.

Traveling with an ESA can be especially challenging for those who rely on their support animal daily. To ease the process:

  • Obtain a valid ESA letter from CertifyESA and keep a copy with you.
  • Research and choose travel companies (airlines, etc.) that accommodate ESAs.
  • Inform transportation providers about your ESA in advance.
  • Ensure your ESA is healthy and well-behaved.
Get Your ESA Letter Today

ESA and Hotel Stays: What to Expect

Hotels, as public accommodations, aren’t legally obligated by the ADA to accept ESAs like they are service animals. While many pet-friendly hotels exist, those with “no pet” policies aren’t required to make exceptions for ESAs. Some hotels might choose to allow ESAs, potentially with extra fees depending on local regulations, whereas service animals must be accommodated without charge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have more than one emotional support animal?
Yes, you can have multiple ESAs, but you’ll need a separate, valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) for each animal, confirming your need for more than one.
A legitimate ESA letter must be from an LMHP licensed in your state, written on their official letterhead with their license number, professional contact information, and their official signature.
With a valid ESA letter, your landlord is legally required to allow your ESA to live with you, regardless of their usual pet policy. They also cannot charge you extra rent, fees, or deposits because of your ESA.
Generally, ESAs don’t have size or breed restrictions, and most safe, domesticated animals can qualify. However, if you have an unusual animal or a breed that might be restricted in your state, it’s wise to check local regulations before getting your ESA letter.
No, ESAs do not have the same public access rights as service animals. However, psychiatric service dogs are permitted in public accommodations like restaurants, hotels, and stores.
You can only bring an ESA on a flight if you make specific arrangements with the airline beforehand. Otherwise, ESAs are typically required to fly as pets.
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Need-to-Know Facts About Emotional Support Animals

1. Emotional Support Animals Provide Comfort — Not Task Work

ESAs help individuals simply through companionship, emotional support, and presence. Unlike service animals, they are not required to perform specific tasks.

2. ESAs Are Protected by Federal Housing Law

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with an ESA letter cannot be denied housing or charged pet fees — even in “no pets” properties.

3. Emotional Support Animals Are Not Limited to Dogs

While dogs are the most common ESAs, cats, rabbits, birds, and even miniature horses can qualify — as long as they provide emotional support.

4. Airlines Have Changed Their ESA Policies

Due to 2021 DOT rule updates, airlines are no longer required to recognize ESAs as service animals. Some airlines still allow ESAs, but many now treat them as regular pets. Always check airline policies before traveling

5. No National Registry for ESAs Exists

You do not need to “register” your emotional support animal in any national database. Only a legitimate ESA letter matters — from a licensed provider like those through certifyESA.

6. There Are No Specific Training Requirements

Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not required to complete specialized training programs. However, they must behave appropriately in public and at home (e.g., not be aggressive or destructive).

7. You Can Have More Than One ESA

In some cases, individuals may have more than one ESA if a licensed professional determines it is necessary for their emotional or mental health needs.

8. You Have the Right to Reasonable Accommodation

Housing providers must provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with ESAs. However, landlords can deny an ESA if:

    • The animal is a danger to others
    • The animal would cause significant property damage
    • The request causes “undue financial hardship” on the landlord

9. Breed and Weight Restrictions Cannot Be Applied to ESAs.

based on breed, size, or weight restrictions that apply to regular pets. An emotional support animal is viewed legally as a medical necessity, not just a pet.

10. You Need to Renew Your ESA Letter Annually (for Some Situations)

While your ESA letter for housing does not technically expire, many landlords or airlines (where applicable) request a letter dated within the past year to ensure current medical necessity.

11. Landlords May Request to See Your ESA Letter

Property owners can ask for a copy of your ESA letter for verification, but they cannot require detailed medical records or charge extra pet rent/deposits for your ESA.

12. Certification Scams Are Common — Protect Yourself

Be wary of websites offering “instant” ESA certifications, IDs, vests, or registrations without connecting you to a licensed mental health provider. A real ESA letter requires a professional evaluation, like those provided by certifyESA.

At certifyESA, we’re here to make it simple, safe, and legitimate — connecting you with licensed professionals who understand your needs and helping you protect your rights.

Take the first step toward a more supported, peaceful life today.

Get Your ESA Letter Today

Voices of Trust: What Our Clients Say

"Thanks to CertifyESA, I was able to keep my dog in my new apartment without paying any extra pet fees. Their letter was accepted immediately by my landlord. Best decision ever!"
— Megan., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"CertifyESA made the process so easy. I was nervous about finding a legitimate service, but their team guided me through everything. My ESA has been life-changing — thank you!"

— Jessica., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"My apartment complex asked for additional verification, and CertifyESA handled it right away. They even helped fill out the landlord’s accommodation form. Smooth and stress-free!"
— Carla., Oklahoma ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"CertifyESA made sure my PSD certification was airline-compliant and made sure I reach out to complete airline required DOT form.. I flew international with my psychiatric service dog for the first time, and it was a life-changing experience."
— Daniella., Oregon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Flying with my psychiatric service dog used to scare me because of complicated rules. CertifyESA explained everything clearly, and their documents made the process so simple. No extra fees, no stress!"
— Olivia., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Professional, quick, and kind. I received my letter in less than 48 hours, and their customer service team was incredibly supportive when I had questions about my landlord."

— David., Oklahoma⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I cannot recommend CertifyESA enough. They truly care about their clients and helped me get a psychiatric service dog evaluation that changed my daily life. I feel like I have my freedom back."

— Lily., Iowa⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Everything about the experience was smooth and professional. It's refreshing to work with a company that actually understands mental health and the laws around support animals."
— Tina., Iowa ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I was skeptical at first, but CertifyESA made everything stress-free. The letter was accepted by my landlord without any issues. 10/10 service!"

— Marcus., Oregon ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Fast, compassionate, and reliable. I needed help quickly before a flight, and CertifyESA got me the paperwork I needed in record time."

— Erin., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"CertifyESA actually took the time to listen to my needs. They connected me with a licensed therapist who was kind and understanding. I highly recommend them!"
— Kyle ., Oregon⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Super professional and legitimate. I had been scammed before by other sites — CertifyESA was a total game-changer for me and my emotional support cat, Luna."

— Amanda., Montana ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Getting a psychiatric service dog was the best decision I ever made, and CertifyESA made it easy. Their team is knowledgeable and truly supportive."

— Rachel., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I felt heard and supported every step of the way. The CertifyESA staff went above and beyond to make sure my documentation was perfect for my needs."

— Jon., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Thanks to CertifyESA, I was able to bring my ESA with me to college housing without a hitch. Their support and guidance were priceless!"

— Samantha., Missouri⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Thanks to CertifyESA, I was able to bring my ESA with me to college housing without a hitch. Their support and guidance were priceless!"

— Samantha., Missouri⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"CertifyESA is the real deal. Professional evaluations, real licensed providers, and no games. They made what felt overwhelming into something manageable."

— Brian., Oregon⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I love how CertifyESA educates you about your rights — it's not just about getting a letter; it's about feeling empowered. Thank you for everything!"

— Nina., Missouri⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"The entire process was so smooth. I was treated with kindness, not judgment, and my psychiatric service dog has changed my life."

— Trevor., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"My apartment complex had very strict policies. CertifyESA helped with every form and even talked directly to my leasing office when they needed extra confirmation. Incredible service!"
— Ryan., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"I can't express how grateful I am. My ESA has helped me through panic attacks, and CertifyESA made it all possible. The process was respectful and quick."

— Sophia., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Highly professional and super responsive! I got my documents faster than expected and had full support when dealing with my airline. Thank you, CertifyESA!"

— Carlos., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"This was my first time getting an ESA letter, and I was nervous. CertifyESA walked me through everything with kindness and patience. Incredible team!"

— Emily., Montana⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"As a veteran, finding a service that understands PTSD was huge for me. CertifyESA made me feel seen and respected. Outstanding experience."

— Jake., Iowa⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"The CertifyESA team worked directly with my property manager when they requested a verification call. I didn’t have to stress or explain everything myself — they handled it professionally."
— Omar., Iowa⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"When my landlord needed a special form signed, CertifyESA helped me submit it quickly and correctly. Their support made the difference between approval and denial. I am beyond grateful."

— Dominic., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I was impressed by how easy it was to book a consultation with a licensed therapist. They made sure everything was personalized to my needs."

— Olivia., Missouri⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Unlike other sites, CertifyESA truly cares. Real professionals, real evaluations — not just quick paperwork. I recommend them to anyone who needs support."

— Nathan., Oklahoma ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I needed a psychiatric service animal for my anxiety disorder, and CertifyESA handled it perfectly. They gave me peace of mind during a stressful time."

— Allie., Oregon⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"When my building asked for extra verification, I was worried. CertifyESA not only provided my ESA letter but also helped with all the paperwork the landlord needed. No extra charges, just genuine support."

— Jessica., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"The team at CertifyESA answered all my questions honestly — no hidden fees, no pressure. I felt empowered and informed every step of the way."

— Hannah., Michigan ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Other companies made me feel like just a number. CertifyESA treated me with compassion and care. You can tell they are in this for the right reasons."

— Zach., Montana⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"Thanks to CertifyESA, I’m able to live independently with my psychiatric service dog. Their support has truly changed my life for the better."

— Chris., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I thought getting my ESA approved by my landlord would be a nightmare, but CertifyESA made it so easy. They helped fill out the reasonable accommodation request form and answered all my landlord’s questions."

— Nina., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I was about to pay a huge pet deposit, but after submitting my ESA letter from CertifyESA, the fee was waived. Saved me hundreds of dollars — and lots of stress!"

— Josh., Oregon⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I used my CertifyESA letter to move into a no-pets-allowed condo with no issues at all. The management company approved my ESA instantly, no extra fees or paperwork."

— Sierra., Iowa⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"The CertifyESA team contacted my housing provider directly when verification was requested. It made everything so much less stressful and my ESA was approved with no pet fees!"
— Lily., Montana⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"My ESA letter was accepted by my university housing department without question. No pet fees, no pet deposits — and I’m finally living on campus with my emotional support dog!"

— Jasmine., Montana⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"CertifyESA was amazing — my landlord needed a special form completed and they got it done within 24 hours. I felt so supported during the whole housing approval process."

— Kevin., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I wasn’t sure how the 30-day therapist relationship rule worked in my state, but CertifyESA made it super easy. They guided me to a licensed provider who verified my need for an ESA quickly. I felt fully supported throughout the entire process!"
— Chris., Montana⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I avoided a $500 non-refundable pet fee thanks to my CertifyESA letter. My dog means the world to me, and now he can live with me in my apartment legally and safely."

— Erik., Michigan⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

"I needed an PSD letter quickly before a flight, and CertifyESA delivered. I traveled with my dog stress-free, no extra airline fees, no problems at check-in."

— Andrea., Illinois⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Our landlord didn’t allow pets, but after showing our ESA letter from CertifyESA, they had to legally accommodate us. No pet rent, no issues. So grateful!"

— Victor and Emma., Oklahoma ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I live in a building that charges $50 a month for pets. Thanks to CertifyESA, my support cat stays with me — and I’m saving $600 a year. Absolutely worth it."

— Kelly ., Missouri ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I got my psychiatric service dog evaluation through CertifyESA. Their documentation made it easy to navigate my rights at work and at home. No extra fees, no discrimination."

— Jason M., Oregon⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

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