Lots of people enjoy the company of pets. But very few still know how much an animal companion’s presence can help alleviate stress and anxiety, more so in individuals with emotional disabilities. Have you ever heard of an ESA? If so, then you probably have an idea of what the term refers to, but if not, don’t worry. Here is a complete guide to the love bond between ESA pets and their owner.

What is an ESA?

The acronym stands for emotional support animals. The animal can be a dog, monkey, peacock, ferret, or a cat (any domestic animal you can keep as a pet). But sometimes, you can have more than one emotional support animal. 

These animal companions offer support, and most owners believe ESAs can reduce at least one aspect of their disability. An ESA can also give you the confidence and support you need to deal with whatever life throws at you.

An emotionally distressed individual or a mentally ill person can live a more productive and standard life with an ESA’s companionship. That is why these emotional support animals can live in a no-pet apartment with you and even get on a flight with you (charge-free).

How do you get an ESA?

Although ESAs are not your ordinary pet (in terms of service they provide), you can get one from a shelter or a rescue center. Most people go for a dog, but cats are also pretty popular. However, what matters is how the animal makes you feel.

According to the law, landlords with no-pet policies need to make exceptions for people with disabilities who need emotional support animals. However, the landlord can ask for an ESA verification letter confirming that you have an emotional disability and you need an ESA to provide relief or help.

You can reach out to a therapist or psychologist to help you determine if you need one. If you have an emotional disability and an ESA can help you deal with the condition, then a mental health professional will certify you by providing a formal ESA letter.

You can submit the letter to your airline and landlord. Even so, public spaces and a business can refuse your request to admit your ESA because the law does not cover them; service animals are a different case, though. 

Note; ESA letters need an annual renewal from the date of issue. That means that you should visit your therapist for reevaluation to know if you still need an emotional support animal.

Why ESAs are beneficial

Possibly, you can attest to how stressful the world can be. And all these can get a little overwhelming at times. Here are some of the many benefits of having an ESA.

  • Providing a sense of purpose – emotional support animals (and pets in general) need you to show them love and care for them just as they do you. To need and be needed can be an emotionally rewarding experience.
  • Support and comfort post-trauma – experiencing any strenuous or traumatic situation can leave you depressed. An emotional support pet can help comfort you during these times.
  • Better physical health – according to various researches, emotional support animals can help improve your ability to deal with pain, lower your perspiration rates and blood pressure.
  • Companionship – animal companions are typically the cure for loneliness(or at least ease it), more so if you live alone or are prone to feeling anxious and depressed.
  • Reducing stress and anxiety – if you own a pet, you know how relaxing the simple task of petting your furry friend can be. Emotional support animals can provide the same response and even help lift your moods.

Who can get an ESA?

Many people assume that they can get an ESA certification for their pets online with no underlying condition. They are mistaken. You need to have an emotional disability or a mental illness to get an ESA certification. These include;

  • Autism
  • Panic attacks
  • Bipolar
  • Depression
  • PTSD
  • Generalized anxiety disorder
  • Phobias
  • Social disorders

If you cannot make a physical visit to a therapist, you can get an ESA letter online from a licensed professional. In most cases, you complete a questionnaire before a licensed online therapist connects with you to evaluate your emotional disability and whether you need an ESA. If you qualify, you will get the ESA certification letter via email.

Are ESAs different from other support animals and ordinary pets?

Emotional support animals provide exceptional companionship and support for people with emotional disorders. They are different from support animals because you do not need special training to have one. 

And, ESAs’ protection is fewer than those of service animals. That can explain why your ESA was not allowed in the restaurant and some grocery shops. They also differ from ordinary pets because they can assist you in dealing with your mental and emotional illness to treat your disorder. 

Get the love you need

Emotional support animals are essential in assisting you to deal with your disability and live a productive life. With an ESA certification, you can stay with your support animal and share the love your bond creates.