Emotional Service Animal

An ESA is an animal companion that offers some type of benefit to an individual with some form of disability. The animal is intended to provide companionships and support that will help alleviate at least one aspect of the disability.

Benefits of an ESA

Less anxiety for the client. Even petting an animal can help to relieve stress.
Trauma support: an ESA can help provide comfort with difficulties including trauma.
Some improved physical health has been noted.
Fewer feelings of loneliness.
Reciprocal care and love.

ESA Evaluation/Letter

An ESA evaluation can also be called a Prescription Letter. This certificate shows your animal is necessary for your treatment.

A valid letter can help to prevent specific regulations from keeping your ESA from traveling with you.
The letter can also help with federal laws or housing regulations that prevent pets in rented accommodations.
You will receive such a letter from a licensed mental health professional or physician. It needs to include the professional’s contact information and the address of their practice. There should also be confirmation that you are under their care.
- Proof you suffer from a mental health condition listed in the DSM 5.
- Confirm that this keeps you from engaging in a normal day to day life such as working or socializing. It is crucial to receive a legitimate letter from a professional, and not an online site. There are fraudulent sites which can lead to legal issues in the future.

ESA Laws – Florida

Chapter 760 of the Florida Statutes protects residents of Florida who need an ESA while penalizing providers of fake online certificates that are designed to claim that an animal is an ESA.
Chapter 760.27 prohibited discrimination in housing provided to persons with a disability or disability – related need for emotional support (Florida Senate, 2020).

Federal Travel Laws

Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) explains that airlines are not able to discriminate against people with disabilities. This can be applied to ESAs.
It is important to note that a flight/airline can hinder travel if:
- The animal is too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin.
- The animal poses a health or safety threat to others.
- Cause a significant disruption of cabin services.
- The animal is prohibited from entering a foreign country.
Airlines are never required to accept snakes, reptiles, ferrets, rodents, sugar gliders and spiders.
Airlines can determine if the animal meets these requirements: behavior, proper documentation, physical indicators (harness, leash, etc.), and verbal confirmation by the owner.

You may be asked about your ESA:

One thing to consider and prepare for is being asked about your ESA. These questions can be quite personal as they do regard your emotional health and medical information.
If you choose to talk about this information, what you share is up to you. If you do not wish to share this information, that is fine too.
You can decide how you want to discuss your ESA with people outside of the medical or mental health fields.
You will have to discuss this information with airlines or housing officials to determine if your ESA can be accommodated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Please reach us at infoservices@psychedsolutions.com if you cannot find an answer to your question.

What are the laws about ESA?

The Federal law for ESA is in regards to travel. The ESA can travel with the client. This law falls under the ACAA which prohibits the discrimination against those with disabilities.
State laws regarding ESAs can vary. In Florida Chapter 760.27 explains that housing offices cannot discriminate against those with an ESA. This law also punishes those who provide false ESA letters.

What do I need for my ESA?

You will need the appropriate documentation: an ESA letter with all necessary information.
You will need appropriate designators of an ESA such as a vest/harness that states the animal is for emotional support.

How do I get an ESA Letter/Evaluation?

You must have an ESA Letter/Evaluation provided to you by a mental health professional. This letter/evaluation is considered a prescription, meaning you need an appropriate professional to provide such information.

What pets can be considered for ESA?

An ESA can be a variety of animals; however, the most common ESAs are cats and dogs.
It is important to understand that not all animals can be considered for ESAs, such as snakes, reptiles, rodents, etc. These animals can hinder travel.

Will an ESA be allowed in my apartment?

Yes. Chapter 760.27 prevents renting accommodations from discriminating against those with disabilities that can require the aid of an ESA.

Can I travel with my ESA?

Yes. Under the ACAA the client is able to travel with the ESA. This Federal law prevents airlines from discriminating against individuals with disabilities that require the aid of their ESA, as long as the proper documentation is provided, and the animal is deemed appropriate for cabin travel.

What will I do if someone asks me about my ESA in public?

If the person is not someone who requires medical information such as an airline or housing office, then you can determine what type of information you would like to share.
You do not have to disclose any information to a stranger if you do not wish to. An ESA is a private matter and you may choose how you share your experiences.

Do I have to tell people why I have an ESA?

You only need to discuss why you have an ESA if you are traveling and the airline requires such information, or if you are determining if your housing arrangements can accommodate an ESA. Otherwise, you are not required to share such information with others.