Who can apply for an Emotional Support Animal?

An ESA is a companion that gives some sort of benefit to a person who is experiencing a mental and emotional disability. The pet is intended to provide company and encouragement that will help to alleviate at least one aspect of the disability. Dogs are the most commonly used animals for emotional support, but cats are also quite popular. Many other types of animals may also function as ESAs, such as miniature horses.

A psychiatrist, therapist, nurse or any licensed or qualified mental health provider must certify you as being mentally challenged. The certificate should be a written and formal ESA document that is adequately formatted.

Some doctors may also provide you with an ESA Letter for Housing that allows you to live with an animal of emotional support even in restrained housing for pets. Other laws also enable you to fly on commercial airlines with your ESA without paying any extra charges.  Similarly, individuals can also take their ESAs at workplaces and educational institutions. 

A support animal provides its owners with emotional support as long as they need it. Therefore, they should be well behaved to provide comfort and companionship to the disabled person. 

Following individuals can apply for an Emotional Support Animal.

• Currently, a mentally disabled patient
• Get prescribed for the professional’s care for the disability
• Unable to participate in life’s major activities
• Having an updated Emotional Support Letter written by a mental health professional

What disorders qualify you as an Emotional Support Animal Owner

Below mentioned disorders can help you qualify as an ESA Owner.

• Learning issues
• Gender or sexual disorders
• Psychological problems
• Bipolar disorder
• Cognitive disorders
• Drugs addiction

The long-term effects of animal support in improving an individual’s mental health are still not recognized but it proved to be supportive in the existing treatment plan.