How to Get Dog Classified as an Emotional Support Dog
Emotional support dogs have become increasingly popular in recent years, as more people recognize the benefits of having a loyal companion to help them cope with various emotional and mental health issues. If you’re considering getting your dog classified as an emotional support animal (ESA), it’s important to understand the process and what it entails. This article will guide you through the steps to get your dog classified as an emotional support dog.
1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
The first step in getting your dog classified as an emotional support dog is to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. These professionals can assess your emotional and mental health needs and determine if an emotional support dog would be beneficial for you. Once you have a letter from a licensed healthcare provider stating that you require an emotional support dog, you can proceed to the next step.
2. Choose the Right Dog
While any dog can potentially become an emotional support dog, it’s important to choose a breed that is known for being affectionate, loyal, and easy to train. Some breeds that are commonly used as emotional support dogs include Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. Additionally, it’s important to consider the dog’s age, energy level, and temperament to ensure that they will be a good fit for your lifestyle and needs.
3. Obtain an Emotional Support Dog Letter
Once you have received a letter from a healthcare professional, you will need to obtain an emotional support dog letter. This letter should be on the healthcare provider’s letterhead and include their license number, the date of the assessment, and a statement that you require an emotional support dog due to your emotional and mental health needs. This letter is essential for proving that your dog is an ESA and will be needed when renting a home or traveling with your dog.
4. Register Your Dog as an Emotional Support Animal
After obtaining the emotional support dog letter, you can register your dog as an ESA. There are several online services that offer registration for a fee, but it’s important to ensure that the service is reputable and recognized by landlords and airlines. Registration typically involves filling out a form with your personal and dog’s information, as well as submitting the emotional support dog letter.
5. Inform Your Landlord and Airlines
When renting a home or traveling with your dog, it’s important to inform your landlord or the airline that your dog is an emotional support animal. This will ensure that you are granted the necessary accommodations and that your dog is allowed in places where pets may not typically be permitted. Always carry a copy of your emotional support dog letter with you to provide proof of your ESA status.
6. Provide Proof of Your Dog’s Training
While emotional support dogs do not require formal training, it’s helpful to have proof that your dog is well-behaved and under control. This can be in the form of a basic obedience certificate or a letter from a trainer stating that your dog has completed training. This proof can be useful when dealing with any issues that may arise regarding your dog’s behavior.
In conclusion, getting your dog classified as an emotional support dog involves consulting with a healthcare professional, obtaining an emotional support dog letter, registering your dog as an ESA, and informing relevant parties of your dog’s status. By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog is recognized as an emotional support animal and can provide the comfort and companionship you need.
