Pettable Blog

Learn everything you need to know about emotional support animals (ESA), psychiatric service animals (PSD) and much more!

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How An ESA Can Help Manage Anxiety Without Using Medication
February 14, 2025
Wondering if an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can help with anxiety? Learn how ESAs compare to medication and whether they’re the right fit for you.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
Rhode Island Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Guide to Your Rights and Responsibilities
February 21, 2025
Learn about Rhode Island's emotional support animal (ESA) laws, including housing rights, landlord obligations, and public access restrictions.
Kristi Carignan
Ferrets as Emotional Support Animals: A Unique Solution for Mental Health
February 10, 2025
Discover how ferrets provide emotional support, reduce stress, and offer companionship as ESAs. Learn about legal protections and ESA benefits.
Kristi Carignan
Why Emotional Support Fish Are the Perfect Low-Maintenance Comfort Animals
February 19, 2025
Discover how emotional support fish provide a calming, low-maintenance ESA option. Learn about their benefits, legal rights, and how to get an ESA letter.
Kristi Carignan
Emotional Support Animals in College: Your Survival Guide
February 12, 2025
Discover how emotional support animals help college students manage stress and anxiety while securing housing rights under the Fair Housing Act.
Matt Fleming
Why an Emotional Support Animal Might Be the Best ADHD Solution Beyond Medication
February 6, 2025
Discover how Emotional Support Animals provide natural ADHD relief by improving focus, reducing stress, and enhancing emotional stability.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
Why Therapy Dogs Are Transforming Senior Care in Assisted Living Facilities
February 8, 2025
Discover how therapy dogs in assisted living facilities improve seniors’ physical health, emotional well-being, and social engagement.
Alicia Ramella
How Do Landlords Verify an ESA Letter? A Complete Guide for Renters and Property Managers
December 19, 2024
Learn how landlords can verify ESA letters, recognize red flags of fraud, and ensure compliance with the Fair Housing Act while respecting tenant rights.
Alicia Ramella
How Long Does It Take to Get an ESA Letter? A Guide for Patients
December 19, 2024
Wondering how long it takes to get an ESA letter? Find out the typical timelines, factors affecting the process, and tips for quicker approvals through online or in-person options.
Alicia Ramella
Best Emotional Support Animals for College Students Living On Campus
December 12, 2024
Explore the best emotional support animals for college students, including cats, small dogs, and low-maintenance pets like fish. Find the perfect ESA to support your mental health in college.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
Where Can Emotional Support Animals Go? Understanding Your ESA Access Rights
December 12, 2024
Learn where emotional support animals (ESAs) are allowed under federal laws. Explore ESA rights in housing, air travel, and public spaces while understanding key restrictions.
Alicia Ramella
Best Emotional Support Animals for Depression: Top Animals to Help You Cope and Heal
December 12, 2024
Discover the best emotional support animals for depression, including dogs, cats, and rabbits. Learn how ESAs provide comfort, routine, and stability.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
How to Get an ESA Letter from Your Doctor: Everything You Need to Know
December 9, 2024
Find out how to get an ESA letter from your doctor, the legal requirements, and the options available if your doctor doesn’t feel comfortable writing one.
Alicia Ramella
The Ultimate List of Mental Health Conditions and the Best ESAs for Them
December 5, 2024
Explore 20+ mental health conditions and the best ESAs for each. Find out how dogs, cats, and other animals can support your mental health journey.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
The Best Emotional Support Dog Breeds for ADHD - A Complete List
December 5, 2024
Learn how emotional support dogs can help manage ADHD symptoms. Find the best breeds for ADHD, from calm companions to active motivators, and how to choose the right fit.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
We Asked Therapists: How Can Pets Help Beat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)?
December 5, 2024
Learn how pets and emotional support animals (ESAs) help alleviate Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) by offering companionship, promoting routines, and reducing isolation.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
[Infographic] How Astrology Explains Your Pet’s Unique Support Style
November 22, 2024
Discover how pet horoscopes reveal personality traits, strengths, and behaviors, helping owners deepen bonds and tailor training for emotional support.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
Can I Claim My Emotional Support Dog on My Taxes? Understanding Tax Deductions for ESAs
November 26, 2024
Learn if you can claim your emotional support animal on taxes, including qualifying expenses, required documentation, and how to meet IRS guidelines.
Alicia Ramella
Delaware Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Complete Guide to Your ESA Rights and Housing Protections
November 28, 2024
Learn about Delaware ESA laws, including housing protections, public access restrictions, and tenant and landlord responsibilities for emotional support animals.
Kristi Carignan
New Hampshire Emotional Support Animal Laws: Understanding Your ESA Rights in Housing and Public Spaces
November 24, 2024
Learn about New Hampshire ESA laws, including housing protections, public access restrictions, and tenant-landlord obligations for emotional support animals.
Kristi Carignan
North Dakota Emotional Support Animal Laws: Your Guide to ESA Rights and Housing Protections
November 20, 2024
Learn about North Dakota ESA laws, including housing protections, public access rules, and documentation requirements for emotional support animals.
Kristi Carignan
Alaska Emotional Support Animal Laws in 2024: A Complete Guide
November 16, 2024
Understand Alaska ESA laws, from housing protections under the FHA to public access rules, plus tips on securing valid ESA documentation.
Kristi Carignan
Can a Landlord Limit the Number of Emotional Support Animals? Understanding ESA Limits in Housing
November 22, 2024
Learn about emotional support animal laws regarding multiple ESAs, landlord rights, and how to navigate documentation and reasonable accommodation requirements under the FHA.
Alicia Ramella
How to Write an ESA Letter: A Comprehensive Guide for Therapists and Patients
November 18, 2024
Discover how to write a valid ESA letter, including essential elements, legal standards, and state-specific requirements for housing accommodations.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
What Does an ESA Letter Need to Say? Essential Information for a Valid ESA Letter
November 15, 2024
Learn what an ESA letter must include, from diagnosis statements to legal compliance, ensuring your housing rights are protected under the FHA.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
Emotional Support Animal Laws by State: A Complete Guide
November 12, 2024
Learn about ESA laws by state, including federal protections, state-specific rules, and requirements for obtaining an ESA letter.
Alicia Ramella
Do You Have to Pay a Pet Deposit for an Emotional Support Animal?
November 6, 2024
Discover how an ESA letter exempts you from pet deposits and fees, plus learn about landlords’ rights and your protections under the FHA.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
ESA Letter Templates: Layout, Essentials, and Legal Considerations
November 6, 2024
Discover essential info about ESA letter templates, legal requirements, and how licensed professionals can help ensure your letter is legitimate.
Alicia Ramella
Vermont Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Complete Guide
October 27, 2024
Learn about Vermont ESA laws, housing rights, landlord responsibilities, and the documentation required for ESA accommodations.
Kristi Carignan
Kansas Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Complete Guide
October 31, 2024
Discover Kansas ESA laws, including housing rights, landlord rules, and how to get an ESA letter to live with your support animal.
Matt Fleming
Wyoming Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Guide to ESA Rights and Housing Protections
November 10, 2024
Explore Wyoming ESA laws covering housing rights, landlord rules, and the required documentation for ESA accommodations.
Kristi Carignan
West Virginia Emotional Support Animal Laws: A Complete Guide
November 2, 2024
Explore ESA laws in West Virginia, including housing protections, landlord rights, and ESA documentation requirements for tenants.
Kristi Carignan
10 Best Emotional Support Dog Breeds for Anxiety and Depression
October 29, 2024
Discover the top emotional support dog breeds for anxiety and depression, offering calming companionship, affection, and stability to support mental health.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
15+ Common Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder and How an Emotional Support Animal Can Help
October 25, 2024
Learn how an ESA can offer comfort and stability for bipolar disorder, helping manage emotional highs and lows with grounding support and routine.
Nadya Khoja
Head of Content & SEO
The Life-Changing Impact of ESAs and Pettable: Jonathan's Journey
Jonathans story is an example of how support for your mental health can come from unexpected places.
Pettable Staff
Exploring Therapy Cats: How to Get One and Best Options for Legitimate ESA Letters
October 20, 2024
Learn the benefits of therapy and emotional support cats, and how to get a legitimate ESA letter through Pettable’s quick, risk-free process.
Alicia Ramella
Maryland Emotional Support Animal Laws for 2024
October 18, 2024
Learn about Maryland’s ESA laws, including housing protections under the Fair Housing Act and the need for a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional.
Matt Fleming
Is your pet part of your disaster plan?
October 10, 2024
Pettable created a guide to help pet parents prepare for an emergency situation using guidance from the ASPCA, American National Red Cross, and AVMA.
Andrea Vale
Freelance Writer
Common Questions About Emotional Support Pets: Myths vs. Facts
October 11, 2024
ESAs are often confused with service animals, leading to misconceptions. Many other ESA myths surround these wonderful working animals.
Alicia Ramella
What a Therapy Dog Is and How to Qualify for One
October 5, 2024
Learn what a therapy dog is, how they provide emotional support, and the steps to qualify for one in this helpful guide.
Alicia Ramella
15+ Common Symptoms of PTSD and How an Emotional Support Animal Can Help
October 3, 2024
Learn about PTSD symptoms like anxiety and flashbacks, and how an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) can offer comfort and improve emotional well-being.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
The Complete Process of Obtaining an ESA Letter: How to Ensure Legitimacy and Avoid Scams
September 24, 2024
To get an ESA letter, you need to connect with a clinician who can assess your condition and determine if you qualify for an ESA.
Alicia Ramella
Study: Data Reveals True Cost of Pet Inclusive Housing And How ESAs Can Help
September 23, 2024
If you qualify, you can gain peace of mind by making your pet an emotional support animal. You’ll save money on pet rent and keep your family together.
Peter Alig
5 of the best dog breeds for people with allergies and anxiety
September 10, 2024
While true hypoallergenic dogs don't exist, Pettable spoke to experts to learn which breeds may be better pets for people with anxiety and allergies.
Jennifer Huizen
Freelance Writer
Online Vet Care vs. In-Person Vet Visits: Pros and Cons for Your Pet’s Health
September 5, 2024
Your pet health is important, and a vet is a vital part of keeping your pet healthy. Find out whether an online vet or traditional vet service is right for you.
Alicia Ramella
20+ Reasons Why People with Anxiety and Depression Benefit from an Emotional Support Animal
August 29, 2024
Discover 20+ life-changing benefits of emotional support animals (ESAs) for anxiety and depression. Learn how an ESA can provide comfort, reduce symptoms, and improve mental health.
Jennifer Olejarz
Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer
25+ Things You Didn’t Know About Emotional Support Animals and Housing Laws
August 14, 2024
Learn about emotional support animal (ESA) housing rights under the Fair Housing Act, how to get an ESA letter, and tenant protections.
Matt Fleming
Paws and play: 5 great ways to stay active with your dog this summer
Pettable drew on advice from the American Kennel Club and veterinary experts to find out ways to stay active with your dog this summer.
Eliza Siegel
Writer
Which airline is the best to travel with an emotional support animal? See how policies vary.
August 8, 2024
Pettable compared major airline policies regarding pet travel in the cabin to determine which are the most accommodating to emotional support animals.
Colleen Kilday
Public Access Test for Service Dogs
June 4, 2024
A public access test for service dogs is used to see if a service animal is sufficiently trained to be taken out in public safely.
Matt Fleming
The power of pets against loneliness
May 24, 2024
Pettable combed through available research and info from major health authorities to find out how pet ownership may impact feelings of loneliness.
Jennifer Huizen
Freelance Writer
Companion Dogs - Everything You Need to Know
May 14, 2024
Discover how to certify a companion dog for emotional support. Learn the steps to make your pet an official emotional support animal.
Kristi Carignan
5 unexpected ways service and emotional support dogs improve and save human lives
May 8, 2024
Pettable consulted news reports and research studies to explore new and unique ways organizations use service dogs, highlighting five programs.
Colleen Kilday
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in Hotels - A Complete Guide
May 9, 2024
Although emotional support animals are generally not accepted in hotels, there are some chains that will happily accommodate your furry companion.
Matt Fleming
Does Insurance Cover Emotional Support Animals?
May 3, 2024
Although pet insurance does not typically cover most of the costs associated with an emotional support animal, you may still find some financial benefit.
Matt Fleming
Therapy Dog & Comfort Dog Certification Guide
May 3, 2024
Therapy and comfort dog certification validates dogs trained to provide emotional support and comfort in various settings.
Matt Fleming
Psychiatric Service Dog California - Training & Certification
April 17, 2024
If you need a psychiatric service dog in California, you must ensure the dog is fully trained. Pettable offers online PSD training that can help.
Kristi Carignan
How to Get a Doctor’s Note For a Service Dog
April 11, 2024
Learn the benefits of having a doctor's note for your service dog. Discover how it can support your need for a service animal.
Kristi Carignan
Amtrak Pet Policy for Service Dogs & ESAs
April 11, 2024
It’s important to understand Amtrak’s dog, service animal, and emotional support animal policies before booking travel.
Kristi Carignan
How to Get a Service Dog in New York
April 4, 2024
To get a service dog in NY, apply through a certified organization, meet ADA qualifications, and complete required training with the dog.
Matt Fleming
How to Get a Service Dog in California
April 4, 2024
In California, to get a service dog, apply through a certified training program, meet ADA requirements, and complete specific training for your needs.
Matt Fleming
New York State Pet Laws for Apartments (90-Day Pet Law)
March 20, 2024
Learn about New York State's unique pet laws for renters, including the 90-day pet law. Stay informed about your rights as a pet owner.
Kristi Carignan
Colorado Pet Rent Laws in 2024
March 14, 2024
Colorado passed a new law in 2024 that limits what landlords can charge in pet rent/fees. ESAs and service animals are still exempt.
Kristi Carignan
Connecticut Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Laws
March 14, 2024
Discover Connecticut's ESA laws and how to obtain an ESA letter. Learn about your rights and responsibilities as an emotional support animal owner.
Kristi Carignan
How an OCD Service Dog Can Help
February 21, 2024
Learn how an OCD service dog can help manage obsessive-compulsive disorder. Discover the benefits and training techniques for these specialized dogs.
Kristi Carignan
Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed in Restaurants?
February 15, 2024
Emotional support animals may not be universally allowed in restaurants. Policies vary, and it's advisable to check with each establishment beforehand.
April Brightman
ESA Verification Numbers: Why You Don't Need One
February 15, 2024
An ESA verification number is not legally required for an Emotional Support Animal. However, a valid ESA letter from a licensed professional is necessary.
April Brightman
Can I Use My HSA For a Service Dog?
February 7, 2024
HSAs (Health Savings Accounts) generally cover qualified medical expenses. While service dog expenses may qualify, consult tax experts for specific guidance.
Kristi Carignan
Flexible Spending Account (FSA) For Your Service Dog
January 25, 2024
Generally FSAs cover eligible medical expenses. Service dog expenses may qualify with a medical necessity letter, but check IRS rules for specifics.
Kristi Carignan
Fake ESA Letter: How to Tell if You've Been Scammed
January 22, 2024
Verify the legitimacy of an emotional support animal (ESA) letter by checking for a licensed mental health professional's credentials and contact information.
Matt Fleming
Pettable vs US Service Animals: How Do We Compare?
April 26, 2024
We know we are the best online ESA letter provider out there. Find out how we stack up against US Service Animals.
April Brightman
Pettable vs Support Pets: How Do We Compare?
March 1, 2024
We know we are the best online ESA letter provider out there. Find out how we stack up against Support Pets.
April Brightman
Is There An ESA Registration of America?
December 21, 2023
Be cautious of ESA registration scams and stay informed about legitimate practices. Learn how to ensure your ESA letter is legally recognized and protects your rights.
Matt Fleming
Fair Housing Act & Emotional Support Animals: What's Protected?
December 11, 2023
Understand your rights under the Fair Housing Act for keeping an ESA. Ensure your ESA letter is compliant to protect your housing rights.
Matt Fleming
What Does an Emotional Support Animal Letter Include?
December 8, 2023
Learn what makes up an ESA letter and how to obtain this important document. Ensure your ESA letter meets all necessary guidelines for legal recognition.
Matt Fleming
New Mexico Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Laws
December 5, 2023
Read a comprehensive guide on New Mexico's ESA laws and how to get an ESA letter. Stay informed about state-specific regulations and ensure compliance.
Matt Fleming
Can a Reptile be an Emotional Support Animal?
December 4, 2023
See if your reptile can be an ESA and how to get it legally recognized. Learn the steps to certify your pet reptile as an emotional support animal.
Matt Fleming
Pettable vs CertaPet: How Do We Compare?
March 1, 2024
We know we are the best online ESA letter provider out there. Find out how we stack up against CertaPet.
Kristi Carignan
Pettable vs ESA Doctors: How Do We Compare?
January 25, 2024
We know we are the best online ESA letter provider out there. Find out how we stack up against ESA Doctors.
Kristi Carignan
Arkansas Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Laws
November 29, 2023
Arkansas recently enacted a state law HB 1420 on emotional support animals. Learn more about the law and get a legally compliant ESA letter with Pettable.
April Brightman
What is a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) Letter & How to Get One
November 29, 2023
Though a psychiatric service dog (PSD) letter is not a necessity, it can be useful for protecting your rights. Get one from an LMHP in your state.
April Brightman
Is A Free Emotional Support Animal Letter Real?
November 28, 2023
A free ESA letter isn't real because it requires a licensed mental health professional's assessment, not available for free online.
April Brightman
ACAA Emotional Support Animal Guidelines: What You Need to Know
November 22, 2023
Understand the ACAA's rules for flying with service dogs and ESAs. Learn what documentation is required to ensure a smooth flight experience.
April Brightman
ADA Service Dog Laws: What You Need to Know
November 22, 2023
Discover ADA guidelines for service animals: rights, regulations, and responsibilities. Ensure equal access today!
April Brightman
HUD Emotional Support Animal Guidelines: What You Need to Know
November 21, 2023
Understand HUD's guidelines for ESAs under the Fair Housing Act. Learn what documentation is required to ensure your rights as an ESA owner are protected.
April Brightman
What are the Costs Associated with a Psychiatric Service Dog?
November 21, 2023
Obtaining a psychiatric service dog can be costly, from training costs to obtaining documentation. However, there are budget-friendly options.
Kristi Carignan
How to Find an ESA Therapist Near Me
November 20, 2023
It’s important to consult with a therapist or clinician in your state for an ESA letter. This guide will show you how to find an ESA therapist near you.
Kristi Carignan
What Are The Costs Associated With an Emotional Support Animal?
November 17, 2023
Emotional support animals entail costs, including adoption fees, ongoing care expenses, and obtaining necessary documentation.
Kristi Carignan
What Does an Emotional Support Animal Certificate Look Like?
November 16, 2023
Be aware of sites offering illegitimate emotional support animal certificates. Instead, search for ESA letters to properly document your ESA.
Kristi Carignan
Why Cheap ESA Letters Should Not Be Trusted
November 15, 2023
Avoid cheap ESA letter scams and ensure your ESA's legal status. Learn how to find a reputable source for your ESA documentation.
Kristi Carignan
Does a Federal Service Dog Registration Exist?
November 9, 2023
Under the ADA, a service dog is defined as individually trained for specific tasks. There is no federal registry and no registration is needed.
Kristi Carignan
How to Renew Your ESA Letter
November 8, 2023
Learn the process of renewing your ESA letter with ease. Discover essential steps for maintaining your emotional support animal status.
Kristi Carignan
South Carolina Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Laws
November 7, 2023
Get a full guide on South Carolina's ESA laws and how to obtain an ESA letter. Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as an ESA owner.
April Brightman
Emotional Support Animals: What Are They?
November 1, 2023
Emotional support animals are a type of assistance animal that are often misunderstood. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about ESAs.
April Brightman
Service Dog Registration and Certification Guide
October 30, 2023
Be aware of sites and organizations offering illegitimate service dog registration that does not provide benefit.
April Brightman
Fake Emotional Support Animal Certificates: ESA Fraud
November 1, 2023
Identify fake ESA certificates and ensure you have legitimate documentation. Learn how to protect yourself and your ESA from fraudulent services.
April Brightman
Minnesota Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Laws
October 27, 2023
Learn about Minnesota's ESA laws and the process to get an ESA letter. Stay informed about your rights and responsibilities as an ESA owner in Minnesota.
Kristi Carignan
ESA Certification Guide: What You Need to Know
October 27, 2023
There is often confusion about how to legitimately acquire an emotional support animal. Find out the correct process with this comprehensive guide.
April Brightman
Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Registration: How to Qualify
October 25, 2023
Make sure you are following the correct process for getting an emotional support animal and avoid these unnecessary and illegitimate ESA practices.
April Brightman
Are Online ESA Letters Legitimate?
October 13, 2023
Learn to distinguish legitimate ESA letter services from scams. Ensure your emotional support animal letter is valid and protects your rights.
April Brightman

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