Emotional support animals (ESAs) are animals that provide comfort and emotional support to people with disabilities. ESAs can be any type of animal, but they are most commonly dogs and cats. While ESAs are not considered to be pets in the traditional sense, they can still be subject to pet limits in housing and other settings.

Does an ESA Count Towards a Pet Limit?

What is an ESA?

An ESA is a companion animal that provides emotional support to a person with a disability. ESAs are not considered to be pets, and they are not required to perform any tasks. However, ESAs can provide significant emotional benefits to their owners, including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.

Do ESAs Count Towards a Pet Limit?

The answer to this question depends on the specific housing policy or pet limit in question. In some cases, ESAs may be exempt from pet limits, while in other cases they may be counted towards the limit. It is important to check the specific policy or pet limit before bringing an ESA into a housing unit or other setting.

How to Get an ESA Letter

In order to qualify for an ESA, you must have a letter from a mental health professional stating that you have a disability and that the ESA provides emotional support for your disability. The letter must be signed by the mental health professional and must include the following information:

  • Your name and contact information
  • The date of the letter
  • A statement that you have a disability
  • A statement that the ESA provides emotional support for your disability
  • The type of ESA you have
  • The name of the ESA

Where Can I Take My ESA?

ESAs are allowed in most public places, including:

  • Hospitals
  • Nursing homes
  • Schools
  • Stores
  • Restaurants
  • Airplanes
  • Trains
  • Buses
  • Taxis
  • Ubers
ESAs are not allowed in all places, however. For example, ESAs are not allowed in:
  • Operating rooms
  • Intensive care units
  • Sterile environments
  • Food preparation areas
  • Some private businesses