How to Make a Dog an Emotional Support Dog
Emotional support dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing comfort and companionship to individuals with various emotional and mental health conditions. If you have a dog that you believe could serve as an emotional support animal, there are several steps you can take to help make it an official emotional support dog. In this article, we will discuss how to make a dog an emotional support dog, including the necessary qualifications, training, and documentation.
1. Assess Your Dog’s Temperament
The first step in making your dog an emotional support dog is to assess its temperament. Emotional support dogs should be calm, gentle, and well-behaved in public settings. They should be able to handle various situations without becoming aggressive or overly anxious. Consider your dog’s personality and history to determine if it is a suitable candidate for this role.
2. Consult with a Mental Health Professional
To become an official emotional support dog, your dog must be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional. This professional should evaluate your need for an emotional support animal and confirm that your dog will provide the necessary support. Obtain a letter from the mental health professional that states your diagnosis and the role your dog will play in your treatment.
3. Obtain an Emotional Support Animal Certificate
After receiving the letter from your mental health professional, you will need to obtain an emotional support animal certificate. This certificate is typically issued by a third-party organization that specializes in emotional support animals. The certificate will serve as proof that your dog is an emotional support animal and will allow you to bring it with you to certain places, such as housing, airplanes, and restaurants, even if they have a no-pet policy.
4. Train Your Dog
Training your dog is an essential step in making it an effective emotional support animal. Focus on basic obedience training, such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Additionally, teach your dog to remain calm and relaxed in various situations, as this will be crucial in providing emotional support. Consider enrolling your dog in a therapy dog training program or working with a professional dog trainer to ensure it is well-prepared for its role.
5. Maintain Your Dog’s Health and Hygiene
To be an effective emotional support dog, your dog must be in good health and well-groomed. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and dental care are essential. Additionally, ensure your dog is well-behaved and clean, as this will help your dog gain the trust and respect of others.
6. Educate Others About Emotional Support Dogs
As an emotional support dog owner, it is important to educate others about the role your dog plays in your life. This will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure that your dog is treated with respect and understanding in public settings.
In conclusion, making a dog an emotional support dog involves a combination of temperament assessment, professional evaluation, training, and proper documentation. By following these steps, you can help your dog become an effective and valuable emotional support animal.
