4 Things You Need to Know About Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals change the lives of thousands each year, yet they remain pretty misunderstood. If you aren’t sure just how they benefit the lives of so many, you are in the right place. This post will take you through four of the key things you should know about emotional support animals. By the end, you’ll be a veritable expert! (Sort of).

1. They Aren’t Service Animals

A common misconception is that emotional support animals and service animals are the same thing and can be used interchangeably. This is not the case. Service animals often play a particular role in the lives of their owners, whereas, with an ESA, the work is more generalized.

A good example of a service dog would be a guide dog. They help their visually impaired owners to navigate the world. Though this task incorporates numerous jobs within itself, it largely covers one specific base. ESAs don’t have one specific job to enact. Their primary function is companionship rather than the completion of a specific task.

2. They Can’t Always Accompany Owners on Flights

Service dogs are covered by the Department of Transportation’s Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). This means that they are permitted on flights to assist with disabilities. ESAs are not considered service animals by the ACAA. This means that they are effectively classified as ‘pets.’ If the company you are flying with has a no-pets policy, that applies to your ESA, too, regardless of certification.

Airlines may reconsider on a case-by-case basis, meaning occasionally ESAs will be allowed on flights, but this isn’t a guarantee. There is every likelihood that your ESA will have to travel as a pet rather than accompanying you in the cabin. Make sure to double-check your airline’s pet policy before flying to avoid any nasty symptoms.

3. They Can Ease Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression

The primary reason ESAs are used is related to mental health difficulties. Though numerous conditions that an ESA can assist with, anxiety and depression are two of the most common, affecting over 18% of the total population. One of their key benefits is the improvement of social relationships.

A common symptom of anxiety and depression is the breakdown of social contact. There can be numerous reasons for this, but one of the most prominent is the breakdown of social confidence. With an ESA, owners can feel more confident in daily conversation, providing an immediate icebreaker. Dogs, in particular, are especially social, and taking your ESA for a walk every day is a great way to ensure you get some fresh air.

4. Some Breeds are More Effective than Others

Though dogs aren’t the only animals you can use as an ESA (in fact, there are really no limits), they can be some of the most beneficial. This is especially true for certain breeds. Golden retrievers and labradors make for perfect ESAs due to their playful and friendly nature. However, no one breed can be titled as the best ESA.

This is because the best ESA is one that suits the specific needs of its owner. While a golden retriever is exceptionally friendly, a more subdued dog may be exactly what you need. How the owner personally responds to the animal is the deciding factor. They must nurture a close bond for maximum effectiveness.

Emotional Support Animals are Hugely Important to Their Owners

Whether they encourage social interaction or provide them with long-term companionship, there is no denying the importance of ESAs in the lives of thousands. ESAs benefit their owners in numerous ways. If you feel like you could benefit from an ESA, bring it up with your healthcare professional!