Service animals are not required to have certification, registration, identification cards, or documentation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Businesses generally may only ask whether the animal is required because of a disability and what work or task it has been trained to perform.

However, emotional support animals (ESAs) are treated differently under federal law. While ESAs do not have public access rights under the ADA and businesses are generally not required to admit them, housing providers are often required to make reasonable accommodations under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). In those situations, reliable documentation from a licensed healthcare professional is often required when the disability or disability-related need for the animal is not readily apparent.

Misinformation produces stigma responses like “people just want documentation to take their dog where they aren’t supposed to be.”

It is important to recognize that many individuals experience legitimate therapeutic benefits from the presence of an emotional support animal. The purpose of an ESA letter is not to allow someone to take a pet everywhere, but to document that the animal alleviates symptoms of a mental or emotional disability and supports the individual’s functioning. That said, an ESA designation does not override the rights of businesses, restaurants, stores, or other public accommodations to limit animals that are not service animals.

For more information or to schedule your assessment with one of our trained providers please reach out at:

931-914-4807 or info@bonafidetherapeuticalliancellc.com