How To Certify An Emotional Support Dog - A complete Guide

If you suffer from a mental health disability such as anxiety or depression, an Emotional Support Dog may provide you with comfort, support, and companionship. However, many people are confused about how to certify an emotional support dog. In reality, there is no such thing as "certification" for ESAs under the law. Instead, the process involves obtaining an Emotional Support Animal letter from a licensed mental health professional.

Here's a complete guide on how to obtain an ESA letter for your emotional support dog:

Step 1: Determine if you have a qualifying mental health disability The first step is to determine if you have a mental health disability that qualifies for an ESA. Qualifying disabilities include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many others.

Step 2: Find a licensed mental health professional To obtain an ESA letter, you need to get in touch with a licensed mental health professional. This can be a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. You can either visit them in person or use an online service to get your ESA letter.

Step 3: Request an ESA letter Once you have found a licensed mental health professional, you need to request an ESA letter. This letter will state that you have a qualifying mental health disability and that an emotional support dog is necessary for your emotional well-being.

Step 4: Provide the necessary documentation Your mental health professional may require you to provide documentation of your disability or your treatment. This may include medical records or a letter from your treating physician.

Step 5: Receive your ESA letter Once your mental health professional has reviewed your information, they will provide you with an ESA letter. This letter should state that you have a mental health disability and that your emotional support dog is necessary for your emotional well-being.

Step 6: Enjoy the benefits of having an Emotional Support Dog Once you have your ESA letter, you can enjoy the benefits of having an emotional support dog. This includes being able to bring your dog with you on flights and living in pet-friendly housing.

In conclusion, certifying an Emotional Support Dog is a simple process that involves obtaining an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that your emotional support dog is recognized as a legitimate source of emotional support and companionship.