How to Certify a Dog as Emotional Support
Emotional support animals (ESAs) have become increasingly popular in recent years, providing comfort and companionship to individuals with emotional or mental disabilities. If you have a dog that you believe can serve as an emotional support animal, you may be wondering how to certify it. This article will guide you through the process of certifying your dog as an emotional support animal.
Understanding Emotional Support Animals
Before diving into the certification process, it’s essential to understand what qualifies a dog as an emotional support animal. Unlike service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, emotional support animals provide comfort and companionship to their owners. To be considered an emotional support animal, your dog must meet certain criteria.
Meeting the Criteria for an Emotional Support Animal
To qualify as an emotional support animal, your dog must:
1. Be a domesticated animal, typically a dog or a cat.
2. Have a stable and predictable temperament.
3. Be under the control of its owner at all times.
4. Not pose a threat to the health and safety of others.
Obtaining an Emotional Support Animal Certificate
Once you have determined that your dog meets the criteria for an emotional support animal, you can proceed with obtaining a certificate. Here’s how to do it:
1. Consult with a Mental Health Professional: Schedule an appointment with a licensed mental health professional who can assess your need for an emotional support animal. They will provide you with a letter confirming your diagnosis and the benefits of having an ESA.
2. Choose a Reputable Certification Organization: There are several organizations that offer emotional support animal certification. Look for a reputable organization that has a strong track record and is recognized by airlines, landlords, and other entities that may require proof of your ESA’s status.
3. Complete the Certification Process: Follow the instructions provided by the certification organization. This may include filling out an application, submitting a photo of your dog, and paying a fee.
4. Receive Your Emotional Support Animal Certificate: Once your application is approved, you will receive a certificate that confirms your dog’s status as an emotional support animal. Keep this certificate in a safe place, as you may need to present it to authorities or property managers when required.
Understanding Your Rights
It’s important to understand that while emotional support animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act, they are not considered service animals. This means that your ESA does not have the same rights as service animals, such as access to areas where pets are typically not allowed.
Conclusion
Certifying your dog as an emotional support animal can be a straightforward process when you follow the right steps. By consulting with a mental health professional, choosing a reputable certification organization, and understanding your rights, you can ensure that your dog can provide the comfort and companionship you both need.
