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May 17, 2021August 21, 2023

What Can a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) Help With?

Just the physical connection with a dog can create calm in chaos and reduce anxiety and stress. Although that’s true for any beloved pup, a Psychiatric Service Dog is so much more than just a cute pet!

A PSD helps individuals with anxiety, depression and other mental health conditions by performing specific tasks. A service dog must have completed specialized training that is legally defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Remember that support and comfort animals, although just as valuable to the people they help, don’t require that level of training or certification.

The training of a PSD is extensive and usually takes a year to two years to complete. A Psychiatric Service Dog must be housebroken, under the control of the handler at all times and vaccinated according to state and local laws. Although your current family dog or cat can become an Emotional Support Animal, it’s not advisable to try to train your existing furry friend to become a PSD; you should adopt a new dog and train it to serve as a PSD from the beginning or adopt a dog who is already trained.

These service dogs are trained and equipped to provide profound support to those they accompany in a number of ways. Check out some of the benefits that a PSD provides to a person’s mental and physical health.

Grounding

A PSD can be a great aid in reducing anxiety for the person they accompany through the practice of tactile stimulation (grounding). Grounding is a dog-to-human connection such as the touch of a paw, brushing against the person’s side, sitting on the person’s feet, laying on or beside the person, or licking their face.

The best method of grounding depends on the individual service dog and the person they are supporting. The individual experiencing anxiety or stress may find certain methods of grounding more soothing than others. Similarly, each service dog may instinctively find different ways of grounding that are effective for the person they accompany. A PSD has the training and instincts to figure out what method works best for their person.

Tasks

Another great benefit to having a PSD is their ability to help with tasks. Among other things, a service dog can be trained to retrieve medication, find a phone, or get another person to assist in a medical emergency. So the PSD provides peace of mind to the companion and their friends and family as a reliable resource.

Safety

A service dog may also perform safety checks in a room or turn on a light for someone suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or anxiety. With their ability to identify danger and help lessen the risk of it, Psychiatric Service Dogs provide both safety and security to their human companions.

Exercise

Since both dogs and people thrive on enjoying some time outside, a service dog becomes a wonderful incentive to get out in nature, exercise, and enjoy some fresh air, all of which can improve some symptoms of depression and anxiety. It also offers great bonding time!

Companionship

A service dog offers the much needed companionship that can reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation by providing company to its human, along with grounding, motivation to exercise, and a source of security. A 2005 study showed that patients in long-term care facilities reduced their feelings of loneliness by visiting with dogs. The effect was stronger when dogs could visit them one on one, instead of in group settings, probably since people had more intense interactions with the dogs. Animal visits alone were enough to reduce feelings of loneliness.

Mood Boosters

Here’s the bottom line: it’s hard not to love them! In addition to their ability to perform much needed tasks, service dogs come in a cute, furry, affectionate, playful, lovable package! That contributes to their abilities to reduce stress and anxiety and to boost mood. It is easy to smile and be comforted when these furry companions go in for cuddles. Additionally, the security they provide allows the indoor people to feel relief, to let go of anxiety.

Lower Blood Pressure and Improve Heart Health

Service dogs have even been shown to improve heart health while reducing blood pressure and regulating heart rate. A study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) demonstrates a PSD’s effectiveness in lowering blood pressure in individuals. Blood pressure was lower when the dog was present during the entire time than when the animal was just introduced during the second half of the observation time. Another study compared the effect of stroking a dog versus resting, chatting, or reading in undergraduate students. Blood pressures were significantly lower when stroking a dog than when chatting or reading; however, it was lowest during rest. A positive attitude toward companion animals was associated with lower blood pressure overall.

People who are managing a variety of psychological challenges might benefit from the aid of a Psychiatric Service Dog. When taking into consideration all the benefits listed above that a Psychiatric Service Dog provides, it is no surprise to learn that the aid of a PSD can promote an improvement in overall health.

In fact, another review from the NCBI showed that a PSD can help with the following: reduce depression, improve mood, encourage more positive interactions with other people, a decrease in cortisol levels, lower heart rate and blood pressure, and a reduction of reported fear and anxiety. The presence of a PSD collectively provides this incredible secondary ability of improving the overall health of the person they accompany. Anyone in search of a meaningful and impactful means of managing their psychological health and symptoms could benefit from a Psychiatric Service Dog.

May 6, 2021May 6, 2021

7 Ways to Relax with Your Pet

Pets are so good for us! Just having a pet in your home can make you less stressed and bring both joy and unconditional love to your household. It can also help you relax and reduce stress!

In today’s world, stress is a big problem for most people. US employers lose billions of dollars each year due to stress and stress-related illnesses. Stress can cause people to have a lack of energy and focus, reduced creativity and more. For people suffering from stress, bringing a pet into their lives can make a huge difference.

Some studies have also shown that:

People with pets have lower blood pressure when stressed than those who don’t and adopting a pet can even help reduce blood pressure.
Playing with a pet raises levels of dopamine and serotonin, both of which are calming, relaxing chemicals.
People who own pets have lower indicators of heart disease.
People who’ve had heart attacks survive longer if they have a pet.
Older pet owners visit the doctor 30% less.
Pet parents are less likely to suffer from depression.

Scientists believe that oxytocin, the same chemical responsible for romantic bonds and parent-child bonding, is responsible for our human connection to pets, a connection that is boosted through touch. When we interact with animals, especially dogs, oxytocin is boosted in both us and the animal. This may be part of why dogs are man’s best friend. Dogs boost our oxytocin levels just by making eye contact, the same way that babies do with their parents. They are able to calm us just by being there, which is why they make such wonderful emotional support animals! Although the simple presence of a pet in your home can bring many of these health benefits, it’s important to be proactive – and active – in relaxing with your pet to make the most of the connections. What are some great ways to do that?

1. Take a walk!

Your dog needs exercise, and so do you. Having a dog, especially if you don’t have a yard, means taking them out regularly for walks. Dog owners are far more likely to get their daily steps in and be more fit than people without dogs. Physical exercise helps humans reduce stress and lower blood pressure as well.

Making sure your dog gets enough exercise helps keep them calm and relaxed when inside too. Burning off all that excess energy, especially in puppies and young dogs, is as good for your furniture and shoes as it is for the two of you! You might even make new connections with your neighbors as you stroll around the block.

2. Visit the dog park.

If you have a dog park nearby, it’s a wonderful way to let your pooch run with other dogs. Dog parks are fenced, so they’re safe, and most dog owners who bring their dogs make sure their pets are well-socialized and friendly before doing so. Hanging out and chatting with other pet parents while your dogs run and play in a secure environment is very relaxing. Bonus points if the dog park is a walkable distance away!

3. Set aside time for playing.

Whether you have a cat, dog or other pet, most love to play! Invest in some good toys that allow you to interact with your pet. Maybe your dog loves to play tug-of-war, or your kitty loves to try to catch a bird on a “fishing pole.” Laser pointers can be fun for both cats and dogs to chase. And of course, almost every dog loves to play catch and fetch.

Consider taking your pet to the “toy store” and see what they gravitate toward. All of these activities help your pet burn energy and allow your bonds with them to deepen, ultimately boosting all those lovely chemicals mentioned above. They also see you as a source of fun and good times, which also increases that bond.

4. Pet them.

The importance of petting your cat or dog regularly cannot be overstated. Humans need touch, and so do our pets. Just petting a cat or dog is shown to reduce heart rate and blood pressure as all those good hormones and chemicals flood our brains and bodies. A good snuggle session makes even bad days better and makes good days awesome!

If you like to watch TV and movies to relax, turn that into cuddle time with your cat or dog. If that turns into “Netflix and napping,” so much the better. Any time you’re sitting with your hands free can become time to pet your pet.

5. Wrestle with them.

Many dogs, especially bigger breeds, love to wrestle with their people. It offers connection and play time that they enjoy. Some dogs seem to like being “tickled” in the process. They almost laugh when their bellies are scratched in just the right spot.

6. Sing to them.

No one loves the sound of your voice more than your pets! Find some great music YOU love and let out your inner rock star. When we sing, we breathe more deeply, which instantly reduces stress and blood pressure.

7. Try dog yoga.

Dog yoga, or doga, has been around for about 20 years. It’s based on the idea that many yoga poses and the ways that dogs stretch are very similar. (The pose is called downward dog for a reason!) Practitioners of doga believe that practicing yoga together deepens the bond between dogs and their humans. Dogs get many of the same benefits from doga that humans get from yoga: improved circulation, soothing, relaxation and stress relief, gentle exercise, mobility, discipline and impulse control. For dogs that are older or recovering from an injury, doga can provide a way to get some physical activity without damage to joints. YouTube has tons of videos that can help you build a doga workout at home. You may also be able to find in-person doga classes in your community, which may help build connections for you too!

Pets are great for helping us relax and making us healthy. Taking an active role in making that happen can only boost the benefits that they bring to us, both physically and emotionally.

April 23, 2021August 21, 2023

Emotional Support Animals versus Psychiatric Service Dogs: What You Need to Know

We all know what pets are. They’re part of the family and bring us unconditional love and joy every day! Technically, pets are “animals that are kept for company or entertainment rather than being working animals, laboratory animals or livestock.” That dry definition doesn’t come close to describing the wealth of benefits we get from having pets in our lives!

But it’s important to know exactly what defines a pet and separates it from both Emotional Support Animals (ESA) and Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSD), as well as what separates those two categories from each other.

What is an Official ESA®?

Emotional support animals are a gift to people suffering from a range of disorders. They provide support and can calm people in the middle of a panic attack, suffering from depression or managing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). ESAs don’t require special training or perform special tasks. For someone to have an ESA, a doctor must prescribe that to them based on a diagnosed mental or emotional condition that requires additional emotional support.

Although ESAs are protected from pet restrictions and fees by the Federal Housing Act, private businesses can choose whether or not to allow ESAs on the premises. Most businesses accept well-behaved Emotional Support Animals, including public transportation, ride shares, shops and restaurants. More employers than ever are open to the presence of well-behaved ESAs in the office as well, if conditions are safe for both employees and the ESA.

Although the majority of ESAs are dogs, with cats second, they can be anything: rabbits, hedgehogs, even birds, and more!

What is a Psychiatric Service Dog?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) carefully defines service animals. Service animals must be trained to perform specific tasks and perform services to their owners. Seeing-eye dogs for the visually impaired are probably the type of service dog that most people are familiar with. But service animals can perform a variety of tasks for people with a range of conditions, including deafness, mobility issues, multiple sclerosis, cancer and epilepsy. That includes mental and emotional illnesses as well, which is where Psychiatric Support Dogs (PSDs) come in.

Many of the same conditions that emotional support animals can help their owners with can be helped by psychiatric service dogs as well. Those include depression, anxiety, PTSD, learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders (ADHD), phobias, anxiety, depression, bi-polar disorder, autism and obsessive compulsive disorder.

Why do we say Psychiatric Service DOG? The ADA is strict that service animals, unlike ESAs, must be dogs, and in very specific circumstances, horses. So to simplify, we talk about Psychiatric Service Dogs rather than Psychiatric Service Animals.

Just like any other service dog, PSDs must perform specific tasks for their owners and be trained to do so. Those tasks may include:

Retrieving medications
Reacting and alerting the owner to specific sounds like fire alarms
Grounding and reorienting people having an anxiety or panic attack
Assisting with balance for people who are unsteady walking due to medications or other issues
Locating people or places in a crowd
Interrupting and redirecting people exhibiting OCD or self-destructive behaviors
Navigating a person through a stressful environment such as a crowd and buffering them from people in that crowd
Searching the room for people with PTSD
Maintaining healthy routines through task reminders
Performing tactile stimulation and pressure therapy when their owner is in distress

It’s important for owners of PSDs to understand that no one is allowed to ask your PSD to demonstrate the tasks that it is trained to perform. They may ask IF you have a condition that requires the assistance of a PSD, but not what that condition is nor how severe it is. That’s part of your right to privacy under the ADA.

Like all service animals, PSDs have the same rights to be in any place that serves the public. While businesses may elect not to all ESAs inside, they must allow PSDs in. That includes all housing and lodging, including apartments and hotels; public transit and airplanes; and all public spaces including offices, university campuses, restaurants, bars, stores, supermarkets and more.

What’s the difference between a PSD and an ESA?

The difference in the two types of animals is primarily about the tasks they are trained to perform and the type of animal. No bird or rabbit, no matter how supportive they are to a person in need, can be a PSD, but they can be ESAs. At the same time, if a dog is not trained to perform a specific task, it cannot be a PSD, but it can still qualify as an ESA. The difference rests in the type of animal and its training.

How Do I Know If I Need an ESA or a PSD?

It’s important to understand that the difference between an ESA and a PSD does not depend on the severity of a mental or emotional condition. The best way to find out if you need a PSD is to work with a licensed doctor who will ask you to describe your symptoms and assess your situation to determine the need for a PSD or an ESA. If a doctor concludes that you can benefit from a psychiatric support dog, that’s the way to go.

Can My Pet Become an ESA or a PSD?

Absolutely! Any dog or cat can be an Official ESA^®, regardless of training. If a doctor confirms that your pet provides you with necessary emotional support, then your pet qualifies as an ESA. It’s a little trickier to turn a pet into a PSD, but it’s still possible. Remember, a PSD can only be a dog, so you can’t turn your cat into a PSD. However, if your doctor determines that you need a PSD and you already have a dog, your dog can become a PSD with some training.

How Can My Pet Become an ESA?

A medical professional licensed in your state must prescribe that you need an Emotional Support Animal to help you get through a mental or emotional illness. A simple questionnaire is the start to getting your pet certified as an Official ESA^®! We work with licensed physicians in every state to provide access to ESAs to people in need of that support. We understand that ESAs perform a valuable service – not the same as PSDs but just as important and necessary. To get your pet certified as an Official ESA^®, contact us today so we can help you

April 19, 2021May 6, 2021

Bring on the Green: Houseplants That Are Safe for Pets

Houseplants are good for us! They help keep our indoor air clean and bringing nature inside can change the entire dynamic and feel of a home. Many people feel more connected to the Earth when they are able to put their hands in soil and work with living plants, especially those who live in high-rises or town homes without yards. But as much as we enjoy them, some houseplants and cut flowers may not be so great for our furry roommates.

Did you know that some common houseplants can make your pet sick? Pets, especially cats, are often drawn to the leaves and eat parts of houseplants. And often, we keep those beautifully tempting houseplants at their level, especially larger ones with substantial pots. (Many a holiday has been disrupted by taking sick kitties to the vet after they’ve gotten into a lovely Christmas poinsettia!) It’s important to protect your pets from the detrimental effects of poisonous houseplants.

Plants to Avoid

Besides poinsettias, some of the most common toxic houseplants include many varieties of lilies, including Easter lilies and Lily of the Valley, daffodils, tulips, azaleas, aloe vera, some kinds of ivy, elephant ears, some ferns, cyclamen, desert roses, asparagus ferns and jade plants. Eucalyptus is so irritating to dogs that even the smell of it in your home can trigger a bad mood or lethargy in your pooch!

The symptoms of toxic poisoning can be painful and distressing for both pet and owner. Different toxins can affect different parts of your pet’s body and the intensity of their reaction can be affected by things like their size and weight, as well as how much of the plant they ingested. Common signs of poisoning are:

Plants to Embrace

So how can your pets and plants co-exist safely and happily? Avoid the risk of a sick cat or dog by making sure that your houseplants are non-toxic. Beautiful options abound that will be safe for your furry friends and bring the joy of living plants to your home. Besides the ones listed here, you can always ask your local nursery about a plant before you buy it or check with your vets office as you’re planning to shop.

- Green Plants: Many types of common, easy-to-care-for houseplants are safe for your cats and dogs.
- Non-flowering Colorful Plants: Although these don’t flower, they have colorful, festive leaves that brighten any space!
- Flowering Plants: Although there are fewer flowering plants that are safe for your pets, but the ones that make the grade are gorgeous!
- Edible Plants: If they’re safe for humans, they’re more likely to be safe for your pets.

It’s important to know that even plants that aren’t poisonous or toxic can cause digestive upset if your dog or cat eats them, or enough of them. Try to keep plants where your pets can’t be tempted by them, such as in hanging planters, on shelves out of their reach or in spaces they don’t visit frequently.

With a little research and planning, it’s easy to keep your home beautiful and your pets safe with lovely and safe plants that you can enjoy no matter the season.

NOTE: If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant or any other kind of poison and you can’t get to the vet right away, contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately, anytime of the day or night, if your pet displays symptoms or if you suspect exposure to or ingestion of a toxin. Both organizations charge a small fee for their assistance.

February 11, 2020April 19, 2021

The Must Know Health & Wellness Tips for 2020

The new year means a fresh start on health and fitness goals for the whole family – including your pup! While exercise and diet are important, one of the best (and overlooked) ways to keep your dog healthy and happy is with a customized nutrition plan. These plans are specifically designed by nutritionists, giving you the assurance that your dog is on track to reaching their goals.

The following are some of the most common reasons your furry friend may require special attention and care:

Your dog has anxiety

Does your pup get nervous when traveling or trying new things? If you’re noticing these symptoms often, it may mean your dog has a high level of anxiety:

- Excessive panting
- Restlessness
- Pacing
- Destructive behavior
- Aggression

If you believe your dog has anxiety, there are many ways to help them feel more at peace. First, it’s important to check their diet. Are they getting the nutrients they need to feel their best? Next, be sure to get them regular exercise as many of the above symptoms can also be a sign of pent up energy.

Your dog is overweight

When it comes to weight, there are certain breeds that are more susceptible to packing on the pounds than others. Whether it’s driven by breed, lack of exercise, or over-eating, extra weight is not only risky for the long-term health of your friend, it’s also a cause of discomfort.

As with humans, regular exercise and a balanced diet are key for weight loss. A nutrition plan developed specifically for your dog’s breed, behavior and age is the best way to improve your friend’s fitness.

Your dog has trouble gaining weight

Similar to overweight dogs, having an underweight dog is often due in-part to breed type. If you have an especially active pup, this could also be a reason why they have trouble putting on weight.

To help your friend get some more meat on their bones, don’t make the mistake of solely focusing on feeding them more calories. While it may seem like a simple solution, it is more important to make sure what you are feeding them is packed with quality nutrients they need.

It is also recommended to try feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to aid digestion.

Your dog is older

It’s never easy watching your furry friend age. With older age comes a higher risk of infections, joint pain and stiffness, weight changes and loss of senses. During this time, it’s important to take preventative steps so that your dog ages gracefully and can still enjoy their favorite activities.

The most important way to stay on top of an elderly dog’s health is to pay close attention to the changes they are experiencing and respond to those in the best way you can. This may mean changing how they exercise, more frequent vet check-ups and finding the right food for their lifestage.

There is no quick fix when it comes to improving your dog’s health. A customized nutrition plan considers all of your pup’s unique details, resulting in a straightforward and achievable strategy. We hope these tips give your furry family member a head start on their health for the new year!

July 29, 2019July 29, 2019

The Difference Between an Emotional Support Animal VS. Service Animal

One important thing service dogs and emotional support animals have in common is their ability to change the lives of their owners, enabling their human companions to successfully navigate everyday life. However, there are far more differences when it comes to discussing the idea of an emotional support animal vs. a service animal.

Here’s everything you need to know about understanding the difference between an emotional support dog and service dog, including legal regulations, how to qualify, and the role each one fulfills.

What is the purpose of an emotional support animal?

As you may have guessed from the name, an emotional support animal, or ESA, provides its owner with emotional support. This support may come in the form of affection, relief of stress or anxiety, companionship, and friendship. ESA’s help the owners feel comforted and reassured through the animal’s presence. An emotional support animal can be a dog, cat, rabbit, hamster, snake, or nearly any other type of animal, depending on the owner’s specific needs and relationship with the animal.

Unlike a typical pet, an emotional support animal is specifically suited to improving the day-to-day functionality and happiness of an owner with particular mental and/or emotional needs. Many ESA owners find that caring for an animal and making responsibility and routine a part of their daily lives also helps them reduce difficult symptoms associated with a diagnosed mental, emotional, or psychological condition.

Why would you need an emotional support animal?

If you have emotional, mental, or psychological challenges that impair your ability to successfully manage everyday life, you may be able to benefit from an emotional support animal. Because ESAs can help their owners in a variety of ways, including reduction of stress and anxiety, you may discover that your unique needs can be supported by an emotional support animal well-suited to you.

What qualifies you for an emotional support animal?

One of the most common obstacles that holds people back from getting an ESA is the question, “Do I qualify for an emotional support animal?” You may be surprised to learn that it’s easier than you think to receive approval for an emotional support animal, including obtaining the necessary documents to allow you to travel and live with your ESA.

Qualifying for an emotional support animal requires a person to have a diagnosed emotional, mental, or psychological condition, the symptoms of which can be effectively reduced by an ESA. There is a wide range of conditions that can receive doctors’ recommendations for an emotional support animal, with some of the most well-known including the following:

Anxiety disorders
Stress
Panic disorders
Depression
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Mood disorders
Phobias

Ultimately, only a licensed professional can provide you with an official “prescription” for an emotional support animal. Talking to a doctor about your symptoms, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not, is the first step in receiving the help that an emotional support animal can provide.

Are emotional support dogs considered service dogs?

One of the most common sources of confusion surrounding ESAs is the topic of ESA vs. therapy dog vs. service dog. While it is true that all three types provide their human companions with the assistance and the support they need to achieve a higher quality of life, each one serves its own unique purpose.

Emotional Support Animal

An emotional support animal gives affection, companionship, and comfort to an owner suffering from a diagnosed mental, emotional, or psychological condition. An ESA does not perform specific tasks, but instead simply serves as a support system in both everyday life and challenging situations. Through their companionship, they can help their owners live happier, healthier lives and overcome the challenges of their specific condition.

Service Animal

A service animal may be paired with a person with visual impairment, seizure disorder, hearing loss, mobility challenges, diabetes, and other conditions. Service dogs participate in strict training that enables them to help their owners function on a daily basis, including completing tasks and alerting them to potential oncoming emotional or physical episodes. In order to be considered a service animal, training and certification must be achieved.

Therapy Dog

A therapy dog gives comfort and joy, much like an emotional support animal. However, therapy dogs generally work with large groups of people rather than a specific owner, visiting facilities such as hospitals, schools, and elderly care facilities under the care of a handler.

What training is required for a service animal vs. emotional support animal?

Another important difference between service animals and emotional support animals is the type of training required. A service animal advances through a series of intense training tasks and courses, receiving certification upon their successful completion. This training ensures that they are able to serve the medical needs of their owner, as well as handle unique tasks (such as opening doors or turning on lights) on a consistent basis.

In contrast, an emotional support animal does not have to undergo specific training or receive an official certification that verifies their abilities. While an ESA owner is typically asked to possess a doctor-provided ESA letter as documentation, the animal itself does not need any particular paperwork to be considered an ESA. It’s important that an emotional support animal be able to behave appropriately in both private and public environments so that they can sufficiently comfort their owner and avoid problematic behavioral issues. However, standard training (whether at home or via a professional) is typically enough to build these foundational skills and positive habits.

Are emotional support dogs covered by the ADA?

The ADA, or Americans with Disabilities Act, is a law that prevents any form of discrimination against disabled persons in various aspects of public life, including education, transportation, employment, and housing. The ADA does make provisions for service animals, granting them access to public places. However, because emotional support animals are categorized separately from service animals, they are not granted the same level of coverage.

It’s important to understand that emotional support animals do not necessarily have the same rights as service animals. For example, your ESA can be refused access to a public space. Despite this, you do have certain legal protections when it comes to being an emotional support animal owner.

The Fair Housing Act details the concept of reasonable accommodation in housing, requiring property owners and landlords to make a fair attempt to allow ESAs, regardless of “no pet” policies. The Fair Housing Act can also protect you from pet rent and other additional housing charges because the law makes a clear distinction from regular “pets” and emotional support animals. Another legal protection for ESA owners is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which outlines the expectations and rights provided to disabled persons traveling by airplane. The ACAA allows emotional support animals to travel in the main cabin of an airplane, instead of being confined to the cargo hold where they are unable to provide the comfort their owner may need.

Ultimately, while emotional support animals are not provided the same protections as service animals under the ADA, there are still laws that safeguard your ESA rights.

Are emotional support dogs allowed everywhere?

No. Unlike service animals, which are granted legal access to public spaces, emotional support dogs do not necessarily have the same rights. A business owner or employee can legally ask you to remove your ESA from the building, but many are willing to make accommodations if possible. If you are planning to bring your emotional support dog into a specific business, it may be a good idea to call ahead and inform the management of the situation.

Emotional support dogs do have rights when it comes to housing and air travel, as long as you are in possession of a proper ESA letter. In these cases, your ESA documentation can ensure that you can live and travel with your emotional support animal without facing the discrimination often brought about by misinformation.

Can my pet become an emotional support animal?

While service dogs are required to complete intensive training facilitated by an experienced handler, any pet can be an emotional support animal. For many ESA owners, their chosen ESA is a pet they already owned before receiving their ESA letter. Perhaps you already have a dog, cat, or other pet that helps you cope with the emotional or mental challenges of your condition. If so, your existing pet may be an ideal choice for your emotional support pet.

How do I choose an emotional support animal?

If you don’t yet own a pet that may be a good candidate for an ESA, you can choose to adopt one. Again, there are no specific requirements for the type of animal that can be an ESA, so you are free to choose one that suits your personality, lifestyle, and personal preference. The emotional connection is the key element in your relationship with your ESA, and it is something you can establish after building a relationship with your new pet.

Keep in mind that certain animals, such as spiders and reptiles, can be refused access to airplane cabins – so if you’re hoping to travel with your ESA, take this into consideration. Additionally, avoid animals with a history of aggression or behavioral problems, and this can lead to increased stress and their inability to successfully function as an ESA.

Learn More about How to Get an Emotional Support Animal from Support Pets

If you’re wondering whether an emotional support animal may be able to improve your quality of life, Support Pets is here to help. Using our stress-free, online system, you can get the ESA approval documents you need to move forward in the process. In addition to online ESA approval, we also provide a variety of helpful resources about emotional support pets, helping you learn more about important topics such as how to talk to your doctor about getting an ESA, ESA laws, and how to know if you qualify for an ESA.

When you need an ESA letter from a licensed physician and fast, easy approval, you can trust Support Pets. Take our short quiz to find out if you qualify in just seconds and take your first steps towards benefitting from the specialized care and compassion only an emotional support animal can provide.

May 15, 2019July 29, 2019

3 Surprising Ways an Emotional Support Animal Could Improve Your Life Overnight

Over the last five years, demand for Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) has boomed by the millions—and that’s no surprise …

Practically any pet owner can tell you about the positive effect their animals have on their mental health and stability, providing critical companionship and affection that can help you get through life’s toughest challenges and make your best days even better.

But most Americans don’t yet realize that there’s actually a scientific basis for these benefits … that the assistance provided by an ESA has been studied and measured in the laboratory. The results have been tested and proven. And for tens of millions of Americans, an Emotional Support Animal could provide the exact type of help they’re looking for …

ESA Benefit #1: A Practical Answer to the America’s Anxiety & Depression Epidemic

According to a recent study from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), some 80 million households in the USA alone are wrestling with the effects of anxiety and depression. That’s approximately two-thirds of all households in the country struggling with major mental health issues.

While doctors are often eager to solve the problem with prescription medications (many of which come with a laundry list of side effects), some folks would prefer a simpler and more effective solution … which is where Emotional Support Animals come in …

ESA Benefit #2: Boosting Mental Health for You (and Your Family)

The ADAA conducted another study, this time interviewing pet owners all across America, and found that a whopping 74% of pet owners reported mental health improvements from pet ownership, with another 75% saying that pet ownership helped improve the mental health of their family members.

This means that even those people not responsible for purchasing Emotional Support Animals (including practically anyone in your household) could benefit from having one around.

ESA Benefit #3: Living Longer, Stronger & Happier

Another study—this one conducted over 12 years and published in Scientific Reports by Swedish scientists—concluded that dog owners have a “lower risk of cardiovascular disease” and even live longer than the average person who doesn’t own pets. According to the Senior Researcher and the study’s author, it can be “a very efficient lifestyle intervention to get a dog.”

Lock in Your Pet’s ESA Verification Before it’s Too Late!

With so many scientifically proven benefits, it’s practically a “no-brainer.” ESA certification can vastly improve convenience and quality of life for both you and your pet, which is why it’s becoming increasingly popular all across America.

With ESA certification, you and your pet can travel freely and live practically anywhere without harassment, stress or unnecessary costs.

But lawmakers and enforcement agencies are now taking steps to make ESA certification MORE expensive and MORE difficult to obtain. Which means the time to act is NOW!

So click HERE to lock in your pet’s ESA certification today—and start enjoying the proven health benefits of an Emotional Support Animal!

April 5, 2019July 29, 2019

How Can I Avoid Paying Pet Deposit?

It’s Easier than You Think

Our pets are practically family …Always by our side, loyal to a fault and always ready to shower us with affection. But while your pet’s love is free—its room and board can get pretty expensive. Between pet fees, additional deposits and monthly rent, even the average house cat can set you back upwards of $1,000 or more each year. That’s before you even consider the cost of travel. Depending on whether your pet flies in cabin or cargo, you could be looking at additional costs of $200 or more for a one-way trip—regardless of the distance traveled.

For some, this kind of cost can be a nuisance. For others, it can be expensive enough to keep you from owning a pet altogether. That’s more than just a shame too, because new studies indicate that there are SERIOUS mental health benefits to owning a pet.

From easing the pain of anxiety and depression to improving cardiovascular health and even helping you live years longer—there’s scientific proof that a dog or cat can help you live happier and healthier than you otherwise would.

That’s why getting your pet’s Emotional Support Animal (ESA) certification is SO important.

Because with your ESA certification letter, you’re free to fly the friendly skies or live practically anywhere without having to worry about additional costs, harassment or company policy. If your pet is a certified ESA, it’s ILLEGAL for air carriers, landlords or property managers to deny your pet access or charge additional fees. This is truly a game-changer for anyone with a pet—but it might not last forever …

Because lawmakers and enforcement agencies are being pressured to clamp down on new ESA certifications. That means in a few years (maybe even months) it could be far more expensive or more difficult to get your pet’s ESA letter. So it’s crucial to act NOW and lock in your pet’s ESA status before it’s too late!

Just click HERE to get started, and in a few minutes, you could be ready to live a happier, healthier, hassle-free life with your pet.

April 5, 2019July 16, 2019

You (and Your Pet) Have Rights!

Understanding Legal Protection for Emotional Support Animals

Between 2016 and 2017 alone, United Airlines reported a whopping 75% increase in the number of Emotional Support Animals aboard their planes.

Why such a rapid jump in numbers?

Because Americans are finally waking up and realizing that they (and their pets) have rights. Since 1986 in the case of the ACAA, you’ve had the right to travel freely and live practically anywhere you and your pet desire without unnecessary cost or harassment.

And with new scientific studies proving the medical benefits of pet ownership on an almost daily basis, now is a better time than ever to start acting on those rights.

Let’s take a quick look at the laws in question—specifically the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act …

Exhibit A: The Fair Housing Act

Under the FHA (in conjunction with the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act), ownership of an “assistance animal” is legally allowed residence in places with “no pet” policies, or places which require pet deposits based on type of animal, breed or weight.

So what makes an assistance animal according to federal law?

It’s simple. You must be able to answer one of the following questions:

(I) Does the person seeking to use and live with the animal have a disability — i.e., a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities?

(2) Does the person making the request have a disability-related need for an assistance animal? In other words, does the animal work, provide assistance, perform tasks or services for the benefit of a person with a disability, or provide emotional support that alleviates one or more of the identified symptoms or effects of a person’s existing disability?

To avoid further misunderstanding, the FHA makes it explicitly clear that “conditions and restrictions that housing providers apply to pets may not be applied to assistance animals.”

So, if a potential landlord is threatening to:

— Reject an ESA based on their previous experience with a certain breed or animal type

— Reject an ESA based on rules established by management (a corporate “no pet” policy)

— Reject an ESA based on speculation over what damage that animal might cause Gently let them know that these things won’t hold up in court.

Exhibit B: The Air Carrier Access Act

The U.S. Department of Transportation, under the latest ACAA regulations, gives you the right to bring an ESA pet onboard any domestic flight without the usual hassles:

· Charging You Other Hidden Inconvenience Fees
· Not Allowing Your Pet Into The Terminal
· Not Allowing Your Pet In The Cabin Of The Plane
· Charging You Pet Passenger Fees

USDOT even provided a video (watch below!) to explain how to get through the lines and into the plane with your ESA.

NO EXTRA FEES—EVER.

As the video also shows, all airline staff are made aware of the rules in their training and are held accountable to them at all times.

Getting Your ESA Documentation Before it’s TOO LATE

Because emotional disabilities are often not “readily apparent” to airline officials or housing management, the FHA and ACAA proper documentation from a licensed professional regarding your pet’s ESA status.

That’s it. If they ask for anything further, like medical records, also let them know that that is a breach of the FHA and that it’s not in their best interest to make similar demands.

While these laws may change in the near future, you and your pets still have the right to fly the friendly skies or live in any community you choose without undue harassment or added expense.

So get your pet’s ESA certification finished TODAY—so that you can live and travel easier anywhere you like!

September 14, 2018September 14, 2018

Housing

Housing ESA Doctor Approval Order Form

Excellent, because having an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) approved for housing will allow you to live freely in apartments, houses, condos and more. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set. Now just fill out your details below and you’re all set.

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