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Pettable Blog

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

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Emotional Support Animals How Emotional Support Animals Help Relieve Social Anxiety Symptoms

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

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Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Registration: How to Qualify

Are Online ESA Letters Legitimate?

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9 Ways an Emotional Support Animal Can Help Treat OCD Without Medication

Discover how emotional support animals help manage OCD symptoms by reducing anxiety, providing structure, and offering calming, daily emotional support.

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

10 Ways an Emotional Support Animal Can Help Treat BPD Without Medication

April 25, 2025

Discover 10 ways emotional support animals help treat BPD symptoms — from emotional grounding to boosting self-esteem, all without medication.

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

9 Invalid Excuses Landlords, HOAs, and Condos Can’t Use to Deny Your Emotional Support Animal

April 25, 2025

Think your ESA was wrongfully denied? Discover 10 invalid excuses landlords and HOAs can’t legally use to deny your emotional support animal.

Alicia Ramella

10 Ways an Emotional Support Animal Helps You Set a Healthy Routine

April 17, 2025

Discover how emotional support animals can help you create a daily routine that improves your mental health, time management, and overall wellness.

Alicia Ramella

South Dakota Emotional Support Animal Laws in 2025

April 17, 2025

Learn about South Dakota emotional support animal laws, including housing protections, public access rules, and required ESA documentation.

Matt Fleming

Emotional Support Animals: A Natural Solution for PTSD Management Without Medication

March 21, 2025

Learn how emotional support animals help reduce PTSD symptoms, offer comfort, and support healing—plus how to know if one is right for you.

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

Emotional Support Parrots: How These Intelligent Birds Improve Mental Health

March 21, 2025

Explore how emotional support parrots help improve mental health, from legal recognition to unique benefits like speech mimicry and companionship.

Kristi Carignan

Debunking ESA Letter Myths: 9 Common Misconceptions

March 21, 2025

Uncover the truth behind 9 common ESA letter myths, including legal facts, online scams, and what your ESA letter does—and doesn’t—cover.

Alicia Ramella

A Guide to Additional Forms Your Landlord Might Require for Your ESA

March 14, 2025

Learn about additional ESA landlord forms, what documents are legally required, and how to protect your rights under the Fair Housing Act.

Alicia Ramella

How An ESA Can Help Manage Depression Without Using Medication

March 14, 2025

Discover how an ESA can help manage depression naturally. Learn how emotional support animals provide companionship, structure, and emotional stability.

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

How Emotional Support Animals Can Help Manage Bipolar without Medication

March 14, 2025

Discover how emotional support animals can help manage bipolar disorder without medication. Learn how ESAs provide stability, comfort, and routine.

Jennifer Olejarz

Therapist | Nutritionist | Medical Writer

Emotional Support Rats: Tiny Companions with Big Benefits for Mental Health

March 6, 2025

Emotional support rats offer companionship, reduce stress, and qualify as ESAs under the Fair Housing Act. Learn how these tiny pets support mental health.

Matt Fleming

Can Cats Sense Depression and Anxiety in Humans? Feline Empathy and Its Role in Emotional Support

March 4, 2025

Cats can sense human emotions through body language, tone, and routine changes. Learn how they offer comfort and emotional support in times of stress.

Pettable Staff

7 Reasons You Shouldn't Feel Nervous About an ESA Letter Consultation

February 26, 2025

Worried about an ESA letter consultation? Learn why the process is stress-free, confidential, and designed to support your mental health every step of the way.

Alicia Ramella

What Happens During an ESA Letter Consultation? A Step-by-Step Guide

February 24, 2025

Wondering how to get an ESA letter? Learn about the consultation process, requirements, and legal protections for emotional support animals in this guide.

Alicia Ramella

Maine Emotional Support Animal Laws: Understanding Your ESA Rights and Responsibilities

February 18, 2025

Learn about Maine's emotional support animal (ESA) laws, including housing rights, landlord obligations, and public access restrictions for ESA owners.

Matt Fleming

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

Mississippi Emotional Support Animal Laws: Your Complete Guide to ESA Rights and Housing Protections

March 14, 2025

Understand Mississippi ESA laws, including housing rights, landlord rules, and public access limitations. Learn how to protect your ESA rights legally.

Kristi Carignan

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