An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can provide comfort and emotional support to individuals with mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. While there’s no official “certification” process for an ESA, there are steps you can take to legally qualify your dog as an emotional support animal. Here's a guide on how to get your dog ESA certified:
1. Consult with a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP)
To have your dog officially recognized as an ESA, you must have a legitimate mental or emotional health condition. The first step is to consult with a licensed therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or another qualified mental health professional. They will assess your condition and determine if an ESA would benefit you.
2. Obtain an ESA Letter
If the licensed professional determines that an ESA would help with your mental health condition, they will write an Emotional Support Animal letter. This letter is the key document for ESA certification and must include the following details:
- The professional's credentials (license number and issuing state)
- Confirmation that you have a mental health condition
- Statement that the animal provides therapeutic benefits to your emotional well-being
- The professional's contact information
The ESA letter must be signed and dated by the healthcare provider. Ensure that the letter is on official letterhead and includes all necessary information.
3. No Need for Training or Registration
Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not required to undergo any specific training or registration with an official organization. However, the dog must be well-behaved in public settings, especially in situations where it might interact with other people or animals. While your dog doesn’t need official certification or registration, many people opt to have their dogs listed in voluntary databases for ease of travel or housing situations.
4. Understand ESA Rights and Regulations
Once you have your ESA letter, your dog is legally recognized as an Emotional Support Animal under specific laws. However, be aware of the following:
- Housing: The Fair Housing Act (FHA) protects individuals with ESAs from being denied housing based on their pet. This includes rental properties, condos, and apartments, even if they have a “no pets” policy. Your ESA letter must be provided to landlords as proof of the need for the animal.
- Air Travel: The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) previously allowed ESAs to travel in the cabin of an airplane free of charge, but the rules for air travel with ESAs have changed. As of 2021, airlines are no longer required to allow ESAs to travel for free. However, they may still allow your dog to fly with you as a pet, subject to their specific pet policies.
5. Train Your Dog for Public Behavior
While formal training is not required for an ESA, your dog should be well-behaved in public spaces. They should not display aggressive behavior, excessive barking, or issues that could disrupt others in public places like restaurants, stores, or transportation. Basic obedience training and socialization will help ensure that your dog is a good companion.
6. Renew Your ESA Letter as Needed
Most ESA letters are valid for about one year. Be sure to check with your healthcare provider and renew your letter when it expires. You will need to have an up-to-date letter to maintain your ESA rights, especially for housing and travel purposes.
7. Beware of ESA Scams
Be cautious when seeking out ESA services. Many websites or companies claim to offer ESA registration or certification, but these are not legally recognized. There is no official registry or certification for ESAs. Always obtain your ESA letter directly from a licensed mental health professional.
Conclusion
Getting your dog ESA certified involves working with a licensed mental health professional who can evaluate your condition and write a valid ESA letter. Your dog does not need special training or registration, but it must be well-behaved. Once you have the ESA letter, your dog will be legally recognized as an emotional support animal, which grants you specific rights under housing and air travel laws. Be sure to keep your ESA letter current and understand your rights and responsibilities as an ESA owner.