Frequently Asked Questions

An Emotional Support Animal is a pet — most commonly a dog or cat — that provides therapeutic benefit to someone with a mental or emotional disability through companionship and affection. Unlike service animals, ESAs don't need to be trained to perform specific tasks. The comfort and support they provide through the human-animal bond is itself the therapeutic benefit.

Service animals are specifically trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities and have broad public access rights under the ADA (restaurants, stores, airlines, etc.). ESAs provide emotional comfort without task training and are protected specifically in housing situations under the Fair Housing Act. ESAs do not have general public access rights.

Any DSM-recognized mental health condition that substantially limits a major life activity may qualify. Common qualifying conditions include anxiety disorders, major depressive disorder, PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD, panic disorder, eating disorders, and phobias. A licensed mental health professional will evaluate your specific situation.

While dogs and cats are most common, virtually any type of domestic animal can serve as an ESA. The Fair Housing Act does not restrict species for ESA accommodations, though landlords may consider whether the animal poses a threat or is appropriate for the housing type. More unusual animals may face additional scrutiny.

No! Unlike service animals, ESAs do not need any specific task training. The therapeutic benefit of an ESA comes from the companionship and emotional bond between you and your animal. However, your ESA should be well-behaved and not pose a threat to others.