What Animals Can Be Emotional Support Animals? Best Options

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) play an essential role in helping people manage mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. They offer comfort, affection, and a calming presence that helps reduce stress.

So, what animals can serve as emotional support animals? Dogs and cats are the most common choices. However, other animals like rabbits, hamsters, and even birds can qualify as ESAs. The best choice depends on your personal preferences and needs.

In this article, we’ll explore which animals make great ESAs. We will also discuss their legal protections under the Fair Housing Act, making it easier for you to choose the right ESA.

What Are Emotional Support Animals?

An ESA is any domesticated animal that provides emotional comfort and companionship. They provide comfort by simply being present. These animals help individuals cope with mental health conditions. These conditions include anxiety, PTSD, and depression.

It’s important to note that Emotional Support Animals are different from service animals. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. However, ESAs do not need special training.

While service animals are protected under the ADA, with a valid ESA Letter, ESAs have legal protections under the Fair Housing Act. This allows individuals with ESAs to live in housing with pet restrictions.

Most Common Emotional Support Animals

A common question about ESAs is what animals can be emotional support animals. There is no defined rule regarding which animal can be an ESA. In other words, the type of animals doesn’t really affect whether they can be an ESA. 

Any domesticated animal can be an ESA. There is a long list of ESAs that you can choose from. Here’s a list of some of the most common emotional support animals:

	Dogs Dogs are the most common type of ESAs. They provide great companionship and emotional stability with their presence and physical touch. They are easy-going, intelligent, social, and gentle.
	Cats Cats are also a great emotional support animal option. They are known for their calming presence, soothing capabilities, and low-maintenance care. Their presence and companionship can help people build confidence and ease anxiety.
	Rabbits Although not as popular a choice as dogs and cats, rabbits also make good ESAs. They are ideal for small living spaces. Rabbits are gentle, playful, joyful, and calm.
	Birds Birds like parrots, cockatiels, and parakeets offer unique comfort through their soothing chirping. Their vocal capabilities can help with loneliness and depression and enhance social skills. Birds are usually easier and less inexpensive to feed than other animals.

Some people choose less common species like miniature horses, pigs, ferrets, and hedgehogs. These animals can provide the same comfort but may appeal to those with specific needs. However, they often need more specialized care, making them more demanding.

Although these animals are not as commonly used as ESAs, it depends on your preference and needs. Here’s a list of less common but helpful ESA species:

	Miniature Horses Miniature horses provide long-term companionship and support. Their calmness and affection can be a source of relief and comfort for people struggling with mental illness. However, due to their size, miniature horses need large space.
	Small Mammals Small mammals like ferrets and hamsters are low-maintenance emotional support animals. They don’t need much space or upkeep. Their gentle nature and soothing fluffiness can provide joy and comfort.
	Hedgehogs Hedgehogs are great for those looking for a hypoallergenic little buddy. They are low-maintenance and can uplift your mood with their quirky behavior.
	Reptiles and amphibians Reptiles like snakes, lizards, and turtles are also good options. Their quiet presence offers a calming effect.
	Fish Fish may not be conventional ESAs. However, watching them swim can be a source of relief from stress, depression, and anxiety.

Best Dog Breeds for Emotional Support

Some dog breeds are well-suited for emotional support due to their gentle nature and ability to bond with people. These dogs tend to be calm, affectionate, and intuitive. This makes them great companions for those who need comfort and stability.

Since dogs are the most common ESAs, knowing which breeds make for the best ESAs can be helpful. Here’s a list of common emotional support dog breeds known for their calm temperament and affectionate nature:

• Labrador Retriever
• Golden Retriever
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Poodles
• Bulldog
• Cocker Spaniel
• Shih Tzu
• Border Collie
• Bichon Frise
• Great Dane
• Beagle
• Boxer

Legal Protections and Regulations for Emotional Support Animals

ESA owners have rights under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These federal laws protect ESAs. However, these rights are not as broad as those for service animals.

Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), individuals with ESAs can keep their animals in housing, even in “no-pet” buildings. Landlords must make reasonable accommodations and cannot charge extra fees for ESAs.

The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) once allowed ESAs to fly in the cabin for free. However, recent changes now restrict that privilege. Currently, only service dogs can board flights without extra charges. ESAs are no longer given the same access as they are considered pets.

It’s important to note that ESAs do not have the same public access rights as service animals. ESAs are only allowed in places where pets are permitted. However, service animals are granted access to most public areas under the ADA.

Emotional Support Animals for Specific Conditions

Different emotional support animals (ESAs) can help with specific mental health conditions. Dogs or cats are often great choices for people with anxiety. Their calm presence can help ease stress and make you feel more relaxed.

Dogs are helpful for those dealing with depression. They encourage regular activity, which can lift one’s mood. Cats, with their quiet, soothing nature, also offer comfort.

People with PTSD may benefit from dogs, as their loyal and protective nature can make you feel safe. Sometimes, even miniature horses have been used to help people feel more grounded and calm during tough moments.

Best ESAs for Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health condition that can affect any individual. Having an ESA can be an effective way to combat anxiety and get stability and comfort in difficult times. Here are the best emotional support animals for anxiety:

Dogs are the most popular ESAs. Their affection, intelligence, and loyalty make them a top choice for dealing with anxiety. Dogs can sense the emotional needs of those suffering from anxiety and provide distraction. 

The soothing fluffiness and purring of cats have reduced stress and anxiety for many individuals. These feline friends offer unique comfort with their calming presence.  

Best ESAs for Depression

Depression is a widespread mental illness that can affect the quality of life. However, ESAs can serve as strong companions in your fight against depression. Dogs and cats can also help reduce depression. However, some of the best ESAs for depression include rabbits and birds. 

Rabbits offer great companionship with their gentle and calm demeanor. Birds provide a unique vocal interaction through their soothing chirping. These ESAs are great at reducing the feeling of loneliness. They are an effective source of joy and positivity.

Qualifications and Requirements for an ESA

People often confuse ESAs with regular pets, but they are different. You must obtain an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional to legally have an ESA. The process involves an assessment by an LMHP to evaluate whether an ESA would be beneficial.

If the therapist diagnoses a qualifying mental condition, they will issue an ESA letter. This letter is important for protection under the FHA. It allows individuals to live with their ESA even in housing that doesn’t typically allow pets.

Once the individual has the letter, they can choose their preferred ESA based on their needs. Common conditions that may qualify someone for an ESA include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, autism, ADHD, OCD, bipolar disorders, and panic disorders.

How to Obtain an ESA Letter

The process to obtain an ESA letter is simple. First, you’ll begin with a consultation from an LMHP. This usually involves a brief assessment. It helps determine whether you have a qualifying mental condition that would benefit from the support of an ESA.

After the assessment, the licensed therapist will review your mental health history and discuss how an ESA could help. If the professional determines that an ESA is beneficial, they will issue an official ESA letter. This document certifies your need for an ESA.

Once approved, you will receive the ESA letter, which usually takes 24 to 48 hours if you use services like ESA Pet. The letter allows you to live with your ESA in housing with pet restrictions. The letter helps ensure your rights under the Fair Housing Act.

Differences Between Emotional Support Animals and Service Animals

ESAs and service animals mostly differ in training, legal protections, and access rights. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks that assist people with disabilities. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals have public access rights. 

ESAs provide emotional comfort through their presence without any need for specialized training. However, ESAs do not have the same rights to public access as service animals. Recent Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) changes have also restricted ESAs from flying in the cabin for free.

ESA vs. Therapy Animal vs. Service Animal

ESAs can be any domesticated animal that provides emotional support through their presence. They don’t need special training. Under the Fair Housing Act, ESAs are protected against housing discrimination.

A therapy animal can also be any animal. These animals provide emotional comfort to people in settings such as hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and disaster areas. Therapy animals don’t have any specific legal rights. They are allowed to visit certain facilities only with permission.

A service animal, mostly a service dog, is specially trained to perform specific tasks to help a person with a disability. Service animals are protected under the FHA from housing discrimination.

ACAA allows service dogs to travel in a cabin without an additional fee. As per the Americans with Disabilities Act, service animals are allowed in almost all public places.

How to Get an Emotional Support Animal?

To get an ESA, you must first ensure you qualify for an ESA Letter. To do so, you must first ask a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist, to assess you. If the therapist diagnoses you with a mental disorder like anxiety, depression, or PTSD, they’ll issue an ESA letter. 

Once you get your ESA letter, you can choose an ESA depending on your preference, needs, and mental health condition. If you’re diagnosed with anxiety, a dog or cat could be an excellent choice. Birds and rabbits can be a good option if you’re struggling with depression. 

Other factors to consider when choosing an ESA are your living space, general preference, and maintenance requirements. Cats and rabbits can be a good choice if you have a small living space. 

ESA Pet’s 3-Step Process for Obtaining an ESA Letter

ESA Pet provides an easy and quick way to obtain an ESA letter. It requires you to follow three simple steps. The process starts with a short online assessment. This assessment gathers information about your mental needs to help determine if you’re eligible for an ESA.

After completing the screening, you will have a telehealth consultation with an LMHP in your state. During this session, the therapist determines whether an ESA would benefit you.

You will receive your official ESA letter within 24-48 hours if approved. The letter is delivered digitally, allowing you to access it quickly for housing needs.

For further information, check out this page: How to get an emotional support animal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emotional Support Animals

What Animals Cannot Be Emotional Support Animals?

Any animal can be an emotional support animal (ESA). Common ESAs include dogs, cats, birds, and rabbits. Miniature horses, small mammals like hamsters and ferrets, fish, reptiles and amphibians, and hedgehogs can also be ESAs.

What Is the Best Animal for Emotional Support?

It depends on your mental health condition. However, dogs are the most common emotional support animals. Some of the best dog breeds for emotional support include Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Poodles.

What Mental Illnesses Qualify for ESA?

Different types of mental illnesses qualify for ESA. These include depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), Autism, and ADHD. Individuals with cognitive disorders, phobias, bipolar disorders, and panic disorders can also benefit.

How Do You Classify an Animal as an Emotional Support Animal?

Any domesticated animal can be an emotional support animal. These include dogs, cats, birds, small mammals, fish, insects, and more. To get an ESA, you need a legitimate ESA letter from a certified mental health professional.

Are you looking to get a legal ESA letter? Contact ESA Pet today and follow our easy 3-step process to obtain your ESA letter within 24-48 hours of consultation!

Conclusion

ESAs can be an effective way to deal with mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, and PTSD. These assistance animals provide comfort and relief through their presence, loyalty, and companionship. 

Any domesticated animal can be an ESA, from dogs, cats, and small mammals to birds, fish, and insects. However, it’s best to explore different options to choose the right ESA for your specific needs.

To get an ESA, you need to obtain legitimate ESA letters from licensed mental health professionals. This letter protects ESA owners from housing discrimination under the Fair Housing Act (FHA).