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Emotional Support Animal Letter Sample

Sample Letter from a Service Provider

[date]

Name of Professional (therapist, physician, psychiatrist, rehabilitation counselor)

XXXRoad

City, State Zip

Dear [Housing Authority/Landlord]:

[Full Name of Tenant] is my patient, and has been under my care since [date]. I am intimately familiar with his/her history and with the functional limitations imposed by his/her disability. He/She meets the definition of disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Fair Housing Act, and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Due to mental illness, [first name] has certain limitations regarding [social interaction/coping with stress/ anxiety, etc.]. In order to help alleviate these difficulties, and to enhance his/her ability to live independently and to fully use and enjoy the dwelling unit you own and/or administer, I am prescribing an emotional support animal that will assist [first name] in coping with his/her disability.

I am familiar with the voluminous professional literature concerning the therapeutic benefits of assistance animals for people with disabilities such as that experienced by [first name]. Upon request, I will share citations to relevant studies, and would be happy to answer other questions you may have concerning my recommendation that [Full Name of Tenant] have an emotional support animal Should you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Name of Professional

Instructions on Utilizing Emotional Support Animal Letter

Filling out the Emotional Support Animal Letter form is a straightforward process. This letter is important for individuals who need to document their need for an emotional support animal. Follow these steps carefully to ensure you complete the form correctly.

  1. Start by gathering necessary information. You will need your name, address, and contact details.
  2. Identify the mental health professional who will be signing the letter. This could be a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist.
  3. Provide details about your emotional support animal. Include the type of animal, its name, and any relevant identification information.
  4. Clearly state your need for the emotional support animal. Describe how the animal helps you manage your emotional or psychological condition.
  5. Review the form for accuracy. Make sure all information is correct and complete.
  6. Sign the form. If required, have the mental health professional sign it as well.
  7. Submit the completed form to your housing provider or airline, depending on your needs.

Following these steps will help you fill out the form efficiently. Make sure to keep a copy for your records once you submit it.

Misconceptions

Emotional support animals (ESAs) play a crucial role in the lives of many individuals. However, there are several misconceptions surrounding the Emotional Support Animal Letter form. Understanding these can help clarify the purpose and importance of this document.

  1. Anyone can write an ESA letter. Many believe that any person can draft an ESA letter. In reality, it must be written by a licensed mental health professional who has evaluated the individual.
  2. ESA letters are the same as service animal certifications. Some confuse ESA letters with service animal certifications. They serve different purposes. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks, while ESAs provide comfort and emotional support.
  3. ESAs are only for people with severe disabilities. Many think that only individuals with severe mental health issues can have an ESA. However, anyone who experiences emotional distress can benefit from an ESA.
  4. One letter is enough for life. A common belief is that an ESA letter lasts indefinitely. In fact, some landlords or airlines may require updated letters annually or under specific circumstances.
  5. ESAs are allowed everywhere. Some assume that ESAs can accompany their owners in all public places. This is not true. ESAs have different access rights compared to service animals.
  6. You need to register your ESA. Many people think they must register their ESA with a national database. There is no official registry for emotional support animals recognized by the law.
  7. Emotional support animals must be dogs or cats. While dogs and cats are the most common ESAs, other animals can also qualify, provided they offer the necessary emotional support.
  8. Landlords cannot refuse ESAs. Some believe landlords cannot deny an ESA request. However, landlords can refuse if they can demonstrate that the animal poses a direct threat or creates significant property damage.
  9. ESAs do not require any training. People often think that emotional support animals do not need any training. While they do not require specific task training, basic obedience and good behavior are essential.
  10. All mental health professionals can issue ESA letters. There is a misconception that any mental health professional can provide an ESA letter. In fact, only licensed professionals who have established a therapeutic relationship with the individual can issue this letter.

Understanding these misconceptions can help individuals navigate the process of obtaining an Emotional Support Animal Letter more effectively. Clarity about the purpose and requirements of the letter is essential for both individuals and the professionals who support them.

Documents used along the form

When seeking to have an emotional support animal (ESA), several important documents often accompany the Emotional Support Animal Letter. Each of these documents serves a unique purpose and helps clarify the rights and responsibilities of both the individual and the housing provider or airline. Below are some commonly used forms and documents.

  • Verification of Disability Form: This document typically includes information from a licensed mental health professional confirming that the individual has a qualifying disability. It establishes the need for an emotional support animal as part of the individual's treatment plan.
  • Rental Application Form: Completing a House Rental Application is essential for prospective tenants, as it provides landlords with necessary information to evaluate suitability for a rental property.
  • Pet Policy Agreement: This agreement outlines the specific rules and regulations regarding pet ownership in a given property or facility. It may detail any restrictions, fees, or responsibilities that the ESA owner must adhere to while living in the space.
  • Housing Provider's Request for Information: Sometimes, housing providers may request additional information from the individual regarding their ESA. This document may include questions about the animal's breed, size, and behavior, as well as any required documentation to verify the animal's status.
  • Airline ESA Documentation: For those traveling with an emotional support animal, airlines often require specific documentation to allow the animal on board. This may include the Emotional Support Animal Letter along with any other forms that the airline specifies, ensuring compliance with their policies.

Understanding these documents can significantly ease the process of obtaining and maintaining an emotional support animal. Each form plays a vital role in ensuring that both the individual and the entities involved are aware of their rights and obligations. Proper documentation helps foster a smoother experience for everyone involved.