FAQ's
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ESA Common Questions
What is an emotional support animal?
An emotional support animal (ESA) is a companion that helps alleviate symptoms of emotional or psychological conditions by simply being present. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specific training to perform tasks, and therefore do not have the same access rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). However, some state and local regulations may permit ESAs in certain public spaces. Check with your local government to understand specific rules.
How do I know if I qualify for an emotional support animal?
If you experience an emotional or psychological condition, such as anxiety or depression, and find comfort from your pet’s presence, you may qualify for an ESA. Consult with our licensed mental health professional for an evaluation.
How can I get an emotional support animal?
To obtain an ESA, speak with a licensed mental health provider who can assess whether you qualify. Any type or breed of animal can be considered as long as it offers the necessary emotional support. Many mental health providers do not have experience or knowledge of these ADA protections. Consult with one of our experts.
What are the benefits of having an emotional support animal?
Emotional support animals provide companionship that can help alleviate symptoms of conditions like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, panic disorders, and other emotional and psychological challenges.
Do I need a letter from a licensed mental health professional for an emotional support animal?
Yes, if you wish to live with your ESA in housing that typically does not allow pets, landlords may legally require a letter from a licensed mental health professional that states your need for an ESA.
Can any pet qualify as an emotional support animal?
Yes, any pet can qualify as an ESA if it provides support for an emotional condition. Be aware that some exotic animals may have additional legal restrictions, so check with authorities like Fish and Wildlife to ensure your pet can legally reside in your home.
Does my emotional support animal need special identification, like a vest or tag?
No specific identification such as vests, leashes, or tags is required for ESAs. However, these items can help identify your animal as an ESA, reducing questions from others.
What is the Fair Housing Act (FHA)?
The Fair Housing Act protects the rights of people with disabilities by requiring housing providers to make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities, including allowing emotional support animals, even in buildings that have “no pets” policies.
Can I have an emotional support animal if my landlord doesn’t allow pets?
Yes, if your pet qualifies as an ESA and you have the appropriate documentation from a licensed professional, your landlord must accommodate your ESA, even if there is a “no pets” policy in place.
Service Animals Common Questions
How do I know if I qualify for a service dog?
You may qualify for a service dog if you have a disability that significantly impacts one or more major life activities. Service dogs are specially trained to perform tasks that assist with these disabilities. No one can ask you to disclose your disability, provide medical documentation, or demonstrate the dog’s tasks.
Can my dog become a service animal?
According to the ADA, a service animal must be a dog specifically trained to perform tasks related to a person’s disability. The ADA does not restrict specific breeds; the requirement is that the dog is trained to assist with specific needs of its handler.
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?
The ADA is a federal law requiring that state and local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities to ensure they have equal access to goods and services.
Can I bring my service dog anywhere?
Service dogs are generally allowed in public places where their handlers go, but if the presence of a service animal fundamentally alters the nature of the goods or services provided, or if it poses a safety concern, they may be restricted. Additionally, service dogs that are not under control or not housebroken can be excluded.
Can I be asked to leave if my service dog misbehaves?
Yes, if your service dog is disruptive and you do not take appropriate action to control it, or if it is not housebroken, you may be asked to remove the animal from the premises.
Do service dogs need to be on a leash or harness?
Service dogs must be leashed, harnessed, or tethered in public unless these devices interfere with the dog’s work or the handler’s disability prevents using these devices.
Can businesses ask questions about my service dog?
If it is not apparent that a dog is a service animal, staff may only ask two questions: (1) Is the dog required because of a disability? (2) What task has the dog been trained to perform? They cannot ask for documentation, require the dog to demonstrate tasks, or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability.
General Questions
What information is included on the Animal ID Card and Registration Certificate?
The Animal ID Card typically includes a photo, the animal’s name, registration number, date of birth, breed, registration date, and the owner’s name and location. The back contains legal details about ESAs or service animals. The Certificate of Registration confirms these details in our online database.
What are the advantages of registering your emotional support animal with Texas Service Animals?
By registering with Texas Service Animals, you receive high-quality kits, inclusion in a national database, and an Animal ID and Certificate that serves as excellent documentation. We stand out with our dedicated legal support and customer service.
What is your return policy?
Our return policy allows for returns within 45 days, no questions asked, for all products except ESA Letters, which must be processed through our Legal Team.
How long does it take to receive my products?
Printed materials generally arrive within 7 to 10 business days, with vests and accessories typically arriving sooner. Digital copies of registration documents are sent almost immediately via email.
Are all mental health professionals you work with certified?
Yes, every mental health professional we work with is licensed and certified in Texas.
Have a Unique Situation? We’re Here to Help.
If you’d like to speak with someone about your specific needs, our service team is ready to assist. We’re here to answer any questions you may have—just reach out, and we’ll be happy to help
ESA Pet Support: Online service providing ESA letters for emotional well-being. Licensed professionals. Nationwide accessibility. Fast, reliable, and compassionate assistance.
