What you need to know before getting an emotional support animal

Pets

Choosing to bring an emotional support animal (ESA) into your life is more than adopting a pet – it’s a proactive step toward supporting your mental health. 

Many people find comfort in the consistent companionship that an ESA can provide, especially if they’ve been managing anxiety, depression, PTSD, or another condition.

Interest in emotional support animals has surged in recent years, especially among those exploring alternatives to traditional therapy or medication. 

However, before you welcome one into your home, it’s important to understand the legal ESA requirements, daily responsibilities, and emotional readiness involved with ownership. 

This guide will help you make an informed, confident decision about getting an emotional support animal.

What qualifies as an emotional support animal?

One of the most common misconceptions is that only dogs can be ESAs. In reality, any domesticated animal can potentially be an ESA, including:

  • Cats
  • Rabbits
  • Birds
  • Guinea pigs
  • Miniature horses

There are no breed or species restrictions. The defining trait of an emotional support animal lies not in its behavior or training, but in its emotional bond with the owner. 

If an animal helps reduce symptoms of a diagnosed mental or emotional health condition through comfort, companionship, and routine, it may qualify as an ESA.

Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training to perform tasks. Their purpose is to offer consistent emotional support in daily life.

How to legally qualify for an ESA

To legally qualify for an ESA, you must meet two key criteria:

  1. You have a diagnosed mental or emotional health condition, such as generalized anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, or panic disorder.
  2. A licensed mental health professional (LMHP)—such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist—has determined that having an ESA would help alleviate symptoms of your condition.

The ESA letter process typically includes a consultation or assessment, during which the provider evaluates your condition and emotional needs. If appropriate, they will issue a legally compliant ESA letter stating that the animal is part of your therapeutic treatment.

Important Warning: Be cautious of online “ESA registries” or sites selling certificates or ID cards. These documents hold no legal value. The only legitimate documentation you need is a valid letter from a licensed professional. 

Learn more about the process with Pettable’s ESA letter service.

Legal rights and limitations of ESA ownership

Understanding the legal rights and limitations is a top priority when considering getting an ESA. ESAs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which means:

  • Landlords must allow your ESA, even in properties with a “no pets” policy
  • You cannot be charged pet rent or pet deposits for your ESA
  • You cannot be denied housing because of your ESA unless the animal poses a direct threat or causes undue hardship

However, ESAs are not service animals and are not granted access to all public spaces. This includes restaurants, stores, or public transportation. 

Additionally, since the U.S. Department of Transportation revised its guidelines in 2021, airlines are no longer required to accept ESAs onboard—though some still do under pet travel rules.

Be aware that some states, like California, have added further regulations—such as requiring a 30-day client-provider relationship before an ESA letter can be issued. Always check your local laws for updates.

Responsibilities of ESA ownership

Getting an ESA is a commitment—not just emotionally, but practically. 

You’ll need to be prepared to:

  • Provide daily care (feeding, grooming, exercise, cleaning, or arrange for pet care services if you’re unavailable)
  • Cover financial costs (vet visits, pet food, grooming supplies, emergency care)
  • Manage behavior (your ESA should be well-behaved and non-aggressive)
  • Respect shared spaces (keep your ESA clean, quiet, and under control)

Your emotional support animal may help you feel more grounded, but they’ll also need consistency and care from you. 

Make sure you have the time and energy to meet their needs, especially if you live with others or in a small space.

Emotional readiness: Are you the right fit for an ESA?

While the idea of having a loving companion sounds appealing, it’s important to check in with yourself first. Ask:

  • Do I have the time and stability to care for a pet every day?
  • Am I ready to manage the responsibilities of pet ownership?
  • Can I maintain routines like feeding, exercise, and veterinary care?

An ESA can be a powerful support tool – but they are not a quick fix. In many cases, the most successful ESA relationships are built when the owner is emotionally ready to give as much as they receive.

Choosing the right animal for your needs

Each animal brings something different to the table. Here are some common ESA choices and what they offer:

  • Dogs – Highly social and interactive; ideal for people who want an active, engaging companion.
  • Cats – Independent but affectionate; great for apartment dwellers or people seeking a quieter presence.
  • Birds or rabbits – Require less space and can be calming to observe; good for people with sensory sensitivities or smaller homes.

Your lifestyle, environment, and emotional needs should guide your decision. 

For example, a large dog may not suit a studio apartment, and a bird may not be right if you’re sensitive to noise.

Common misconceptions about getting emotional support animals

There’s a lot of misinformation out there – so let’s clear up a few myths:

Myth: An ESA is the same as a service animal.

Truth: Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks; ESAs provide emotional comfort but are not task-trained.

Myth: I can take my ESA anywhere I go.

Truth: ESAs are not granted public access rights. Only housing is federally protected.

Myth: Any pet automatically qualifies as an ESA.

Truth: You need a licensed professional’s evaluation and a formal ESA letter.

Being clear on these facts will help you avoid misunderstandings with landlords, airlines, or the general public.

Preparedness brings the most benefit

Getting an emotional support animal can be life-changing when approached with care and awareness. The comfort, companionship, and emotional grounding an ESA provides can support your overall well-being and daily functioning.

But to truly benefit from this bond, you need to do it the right way – by getting proper documentation, choosing an animal that fits your lifestyle, and making sure you’re ready for the responsibility.

Talk to a licensed professional before taking the next step. And if you’re looking for a reliable way to get started, Pettable’s team is here to help with the ESA letter process. 

FAQs

Q: How do I know if I qualify for an ESA?

A: You must be evaluated by a licensed mental health professional who determines whether an ESA can support your mental or emotional health condition.

Q: Do I need to register my ESA?

A: No. Registration sites are not legally recognized. All you need is an ESA letter from a qualified provider.

Q: Can I have more than one ESA?

A: Yes, but your ESA letter must explain why each animal is necessary for your emotional support.

Q: Will I be allowed to fly with my ESA?

A: Since 2021, airlines are not required to allow ESAs. Some may permit them as pets, subject to fees and restrictions.

Q: Can landlords or coworking spaces deny my ESA?

A: Only under specific circumstances, such as safety concerns or excessive hardship. Otherwise, your ESA is protected under the Fair Housing Act (for housing) or may be allowed in coworking spaces at the discretion of management.