How to Get a Pet Certified as Emotional Support
Emotional support animals (ESAs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more people seek companionship and comfort from their pets. If you have a pet that you believe could provide emotional support to you or someone you know, you might be wondering how to get your pet certified as an emotional support animal. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
1. Understand the Difference Between ESAs and Service Animals
Before you begin the certification process, it’s important to understand the difference between emotional support animals and service animals. While both types of animals provide comfort and support, service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, while ESAs do not require any formal training.
2. Assess Your Need for an Emotional Support Animal
The first step in getting your pet certified as an emotional support animal is to determine if you or someone you know could benefit from having one. Emotional support animals can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. If you have a legitimate need for an ESA, you can proceed with the certification process.
3. Obtain a Letter from a Mental Health Professional
To officially certify your pet as an emotional support animal, you will need a letter from a licensed mental health professional. This letter should state that you have a diagnosed mental health condition and that an emotional support animal would be beneficial for your treatment. The letter should also include the professional’s license number and contact information.
4. Find a Certified Emotional Support Animal Evaluation Service
There are several online services that offer certification for emotional support animals. These services typically provide an evaluation for your pet and help you obtain the necessary documentation. Make sure to choose a reputable service that is recognized by landlords, airlines, and other organizations that may require proof of your pet’s ESA status.
5. Complete the Evaluation Process
Once you have found a certified emotional support animal evaluation service, you will need to complete the evaluation process. This may involve submitting photos and medical documentation of your pet, as well as filling out an application. The evaluation service will review your application and determine if your pet qualifies as an emotional support animal.
6. Obtain Your Emotional Support Animal Certification
If your pet passes the evaluation, you will receive an emotional support animal certification. This certification will typically include your pet’s name, your name, the mental health professional’s information, and a description of your mental health condition. This document can be used to prove your pet’s ESA status to landlords, airlines, and other organizations.
7. Keep Your Certification Updated
It’s important to keep your emotional support animal certification updated, especially if your mental health condition changes. If you need to renew your certification, you will need to obtain a new letter from your mental health professional and follow the same process as before.
In conclusion, getting your pet certified as an emotional support animal involves several steps, including understanding the difference between ESAs and service animals, assessing your need for an ESA, obtaining a letter from a mental health professional, and completing an evaluation process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pet is officially recognized as an emotional support animal and can provide the comfort and support you need.
