Emotional support animals offer relief to people in anxiety-provoking situations, help alleviate the symptoms of depression, bring comfort to those who are grieving, and offer companionship to people who are feeling lonely.

An emotional support animal is part of the therapeutic process recognized under the law (the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Air Carrier Access Act) to help people with psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic attacks, etc.

To qualify for an ESA, you need to obtain an ESA letter from a certified health professional that grants you specific rights. For example, emotional support animals are allowed on flights in-cabin and at no additional charge. Your housing landlord cannot refuse to accommodate you as an ESA owner due to a “no pets” policy, as ESA are not considered pets.