Question 1

What's the difference between an ESA and a pet?

Accepted Answer

Legal protection. ESAs are prescribed by mental health professionals for therapeutic purposes and have housing rights under the FHA. Pets don't.

Question 2

Can I have more than one ESA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if a mental health professional determines you need multiple animals. However, some landlords may push back on multiple ESAs (especially large dogs). You'll need clear clinical justification.

Question 3

Does my ESA need a vest or ID card?

Accepted Answer

No. These are sold by scam companies. ESAs don't require any identification, vests, or certificates. Just the letter.

Question 4

Are there breed or size restrictions for ESAs?

Accepted Answer

No. The FHA prohibits breed and size restrictions for ESAs. However, if your specific animal (regardless of breed) is aggressive or dangerous, accommodation can be denied.

Question 5

Can I get an ESA letter online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through legitimate telehealth platforms that connect you with licensed mental health professionals. You'll still need a real consultation, just conducted via video or phone instead of in person.

Question 6

How long does it take to get an ESA letter?

Accepted Answer

After your consultation, 24-48 hours for letter delivery. Some services offer same-day letters for urgent situations.

Question 7

Can my current therapist write an ESA letter?

Accepted Answer

Yes, if they're licensed and comfortable doing so. Many therapists will write ESA letters for existing clients. If yours won't, online services like CertaPet are an alternative.

Question 8

Do I need to register my ESA?

Accepted Answer

No, you don't need to register your ESA. There are no federally mandated ESA registries at the national level.

Question 9

What is an ESA certification?

Accepted Answer

ESA certifications do not exist. By law, you do not need to certify your ESA, the only document you need that certifies your ESA as such is a legally compliant ESA letter written by a licensed mental health professional.

Question 10

Can I get an ESA for my child?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The parent/guardian requests accommodation on behalf of the child, and the child's mental health professional provides the letter.

Question 11

Can a landlord deny my ESA?

Accepted Answer

Only for legitimate reasons: expired letter, direct threat from the animal, substantial property damage risk, or if your housing is exempt from FHA. Breed, size, or blanket "no ESA" policies aren't legitimate reasons.

Question 12

Can a landlord charge me a pet deposit for my ESA?

Accepted Answer

No. ESAs aren't legally considered pets under FHA. Landlords cannot charge pet deposits, pet rent, or any fees related to the ESA. However, you're still liable for any damage the animal causes.

Question 13

Can my landlord ask about my disability?

Accepted Answer

No. They can ask if you have a disability-related need for the animal, but they cannot ask about your specific diagnosis or require medical records.

Question 14

Can I take my ESA to work?

Accepted Answer

Typically, no. ESAs aren't protected under ADA Title I (employment). However, you might be able to request reasonable accommodation with your employer, who might make exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

Question 15

Can I take my ESA on a plane?

Accepted Answer

Not as an ESA. Since 2021, airlines treat ESAs as regular pets (with fees). Only trained service dogs (including psychiatric service dogs) have access rights for air travel.

Question 16

Can I take my ESA to restaurants, stores, or other public places?

Accepted Answer

No. ESAs don't have public access rights. Only service animals (trained to perform specific tasks) can accompany you into public spaces. Misrepresenting your ESA as a service animal is illegal in many states. ESAs are allowed in any establishment that already implements pet-friendly policies.

Question 17

Can hotels refuse my ESA?

Accepted Answer

Yes, because hotels aren't covered by FHA, they're subject to ADA. This means that if a hotel already implements pet-friendly policies, ESAs are accepted but they are subject to fees. Hotels are within their rights to refuse ESAs.

Question 18

What if my ESA attacks someone or causes damage?

Accepted Answer

You're liable. ESA protections don't shield you from consequences if your animal harms someone or damages property. Landlords can evict you for lease violations, and you can face legal action from injured parties.

Question 19

Can I be denied housing because of my ESA?

Accepted Answer

Only if there's a legitimate reason (direct threat, substantial damage, expired letter, housing exemption). Denial based on breed, size, or blanket "no ESA" policy violates FHA.

Question 20

What if my ESA causes property damage?

Accepted Answer

You're responsible for repair costs. While landlords can't charge pet deposits upfront, they can deduct from your security deposit or bill you for actual damage after it occurs.

Question 21

What animals can be ESAs?

Accepted Answer

Any domesticated animal. Dogs and cats are most common, but rabbits, guinea pigs, birds, and other domestic animals qualify. Reptiles, farm animals, and wild animals generally don't qualify.

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Emotional Support Animal (ESA): Definition, Laws, Rights & How to Qualify (2025)

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Articles by Prairie Conlon (2 posts)

Emotional Support Animal (ESA): Definition, Laws, Rights & How to Qualify (2025)

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