Where Can Emotional Support Animals Go? (article by Dr. Gaffud for Certapet.com)

Understanding where an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is permitted proves essential for those who rely on their comforting presence.

Although ESA public access rights differ from those granted to service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), protections remain in place through the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA).

An ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional (LMHP) allows access to ESA housing rights, enabling emotional support animals to live with their owners in most residential settings, including college dormitories and university housing.

In contrast, entry into restaurants, stores, hotels, and public transportation often depends on individual business policies, as ESA public access limitations prevent guaranteed access to all public spaces.

Understanding the distinction between an ESA vs. service animal ensures appropriate navigation of ESA legal protections, especially regarding ESA travel rights and ESA travel restrictions on airlines.

For more information, read Dr. Gaffud's article at Certapet: Where Can Emotional Support Animals Go?