An ESA letter is a document that validates an individual's need for an emotional support animal as part of treatment for a qualifying mental health condition. These letters are personalized for each person and grant the right to keep an emotional support animal in a residence under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), regardless of landlord policies or housing rules.
A valid ESA letter also exempts the holder from paying pet rent or pet deposits. To be legitimate, an ESA letter must be issued by a licensed mental health professional and include the patient's name, date of birth, and confirmation of a qualifying mental health condition. Rest assured, your specific diagnosis will not be disclosed.
It's important to note that an ESA letter does not provide protections for traveling with your pet or assistance animal; for worry-free travel, your animal must be recognized as a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD). If you require a PSD, Doctor Paw has licensed psychiatrists who specialize in PSD care and can provide the necessary evaluation and documentation.
An emotional support animal (ESA) provides comfort and assistance to individuals with mental or emotional disabilities. ESAs help alleviate symptoms and aid in daily tasks.
They have housing rights under state and federal laws, allowing them in all housing and rental units without species, breed, or weight restrictions.
However, ESAs may face restrictions in public spaces and on flights, and no specific training is required.
Psychiatric service dogs (PSDs) are specially trained to respond to their handler's physical and emotional needs, performing tasks to help manage symptoms of a mental or psychiatric disability. PSDs have legal rights to access housing, public spaces, and travel, including airlines, under state and federal laws. These dogs are permitted in any public space, housing, hotels, and stores. PSDs are restricted to dogs only, require specific training, and can fly with their handler, subject to training, rules, and paperwork.
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