What is an emotional support dog?

To begin with, there is a special term “emotional support animal” (Emotional Support Animal, ESA), and not only a dog can act as such an animal. But still, most often it is dogs and cats that become such pets, and absolutely any — no special training is required for this.

Unfortunately, in Russia there is no such definition at the legal level yet. Therefore, further we will consider how it works in the USA, where such a status is officially assigned to an animal.

How can a dog get this status?

In order for a pet to be recognized as an emotional support animal, the owner must obtain a certificate from a licensed psychotherapist or psychiatrist that will detail why the person needs such support. That is, serious reasons are needed. The owner must have a diagnosis that suggests the presence of the animal as therapy. Usually dogs help their owners cope with depression, panic attacks or increased anxiety.

A person can only have one emotional support animal. In public places, such animals should appear only with special identification marks. — vests.

What gives this status?

First, emotional support dogs have the right to go with their owner even where normal dogs are not allowed to enter.

Secondly (and this is perhaps the main advantage), such dogs have the right to fly with the owner in the cabin for free, and not like all other animals. — in the luggage compartment and for money.

Thirdly, with such dogs, owners can rent even those apartments in which it is forbidden to live with animals.

August 19 2020

Updated: October 9, 2022