What are Emotional Support Animals?

What is an emotional support animal?

An emotional support animal is a type of animal that provides comfort to help relieve a symptom or effect of a person's disability. Legally emotional support animals are not pets, and it is not restricted to any species. An emotional support animal is not a service animal. This is because emotional support animals are not trained to perform any tasks. The simple act of being present brings comfort and support to a person, alleviating their symptoms.

Who can prescribe an Emotional Support Animal?

ESA or emotional support animals must legally be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional.

Restrictions on ESA's

There are restrictions to ESA's as mentioned before since the are not service animals. It varies amongst states. Some states allow ESA's to accompany their person around. ESA's must be registered and according to your home state. It is important to repeat again that ESA's are not service animals and do not have the same legal accommodations. For more information about legal restrictions on ESA's follow the link.

What are the main differences between ESA's and Service Animals?

• ESA's do not need to be formally trained to perform any tasks. Their main role is to provide comfort, affection, and companionship.

• ESA's have a calming presence
• ESA's do not have access to all public areas unlike Service animals.
• ESA's must be able to present a letter from a physician if an airline request one before flying.

For more information about the services Embracia Health Clinic offers, follow the link.