Emotional Support Dogs
A Person must have a note from licensed Mental Health Professional in order to legally have an ESA Dog. These dogs provide an increased comfort level for their owner, particularly in social situations. These dogs do not have ADA public access right but they are allowed to fly with their owners and qualify for no-pet housing.
Can I ask is an ESA Dog legitimate?
There is no law against asking. Only airline employees, landlords, and education facility administrators have a legal right to ask for medical documentation from the handler to allow access.
Are they legally allowed here?
Only on airplanes, in housing and in educational institutions.
Are they even allowed in Restaurants?
NO, unless by special permission.
What if they are Misbehaving?
They can be excluded anywhere not regulated under the pertinent laws listed here.
Can I pet them?
No, similar to Service Dogs.
What kind of animals are allowed?
Any type of animal. (animals other than dogs will be considered on a case by case basis by airlines.)
Certification or identification required?
No
Have they been Specially trained?
No, not necessarily, though they should be well- behaved and obedient.
Dose the animal have to be leashed or Restrained?
Yes
Are they Pets?
NO. They are not considered pet under pertinent laws.
Subject to normal Licensing & Vaccination rules?
Yes
Do some people Lie about their assistance animal's status?
Yes, some people misrepresent their pets in order to get around landlords' "No pet" rules or to avoid paying extra to fly with their pet. Misrepresentation may be punishable by local law.
Legal Standing?
The animal is viewed as "reasonable accommodation" through the Fair Housing Act(FHA), Air Carrier Access Act and IDEA/Section 504. State and Local laws may provide protection as well. Airline can require 48 hour advance notice, but cannot charge an extra fee for the animal.