Which types of animals qualify as emotional support animals?

An emotional support animal (ESA) provides comfort to help alleviate symptoms or effects of a person’s disability. There are no specific restrictions on the type or breed of an ESA, as long as it is reasonable and justified.

It’s important to note that ESAs are different from service animals, such as guide dogs for the visually impaired. Service animals must meet stricter criteria, including specialized training in obedience, public access, and tasks directly related to a disability. This additional training is essential because service animals are granted public access and travel rights, unlike ESAs, which are primarily protected under housing laws.

ESAs do not have public access or travel rights. It’s always best to check individual business policies to determine whether they permit ESAs.