It isn’t an over-exaggeration to call an emotional support animal (ESA) a life-saving companion. These animals assist those struggling with debilitating emotional or mental health disabilities and help them regain control over their lives once more.
If you have a dog who already fulfills the role of an ESA for your disability, you may be wondering how much it would cost to get them officially recognized under the eyes of the law.
In this article, we’ll discuss the costs involved and everything else you need to know about emotional support animals.
What Is an Emotional Support Animal?
An emotional support animal can be broadly defined as an animal that provides therapeutic benefits through their presence. They are prescribed to individuals with diagnosed mental or emotional disabilities.
All kinds of species can become legally recognized as emotional support animals, including dogs, cats, fish, spiders, and reptiles. The only requirement is that their companionship eases disability-related symptoms.
What Legal Rights Do ESAs Receive?
Because of the invaluable role emotional support animals provide to people with disabilities, they do receive certain legal rights.
In every state, emotional support animals are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). This federal law states that emotional support animals must be reasonably accommodated in housing and can not be charged pet fees or subjected to pet policies.
Some states, such as California, also give ESAs the right to be with their owners in the workplace if no other suitable reasonable accommodation can be found.
How Do I Make My Dog an ESA?
If you have an emotional or mental disability that has been officially diagnosed and you’re receiving ongoing treatment, you’re likely eligible to make your dog an ESA. However, you must obtain a valid ESA letter.
An ESA letter is a document that is prescribed by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP).
The letter, which is officially signed by the LMHP and printed on official letterhead, confirms that you have a legally recognized disability and require the support of an emotional support animal.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an ESA Letter?
Fortunately, getting an ESA letter and making your dog an ESA isn’t as costly as it may seem. The cost can vary depending on factors such as whether your health insurance plan covers it and which LMHP you go with.
In general, you can expect it to cost no more than $250. This price covers the whole process of the initial meeting with your LMHP and attending an ESA letter consultation.
Getting an ESA letter can cost more if your state has stricter legislation in place. For example, you may need to pay for multiple sessions in states like Montana, which require you to have a 30-day client-provider relationship with the LMHP before you can be eligible for an ESA consultation.
Are There Any “Hidden” Costs?
There shouldn’t be any “hidden” costs when obtaining an ESA letter. However, you do need to be aware of other potential expenses, including:
Professional Training
Emotional support animals do not need to be trained like service animals, but they should be housebroken and know their basic obedience. They should also know how to behave around other people and animals.
This is because emotional support animals can be denied their housing rights if they’re not housebroken or are dangerously out of control.
While you can train your emotional support dog yourself, a professional trainer can set them up for success and help the training process go smoothly and quickly. Expect to pay anywhere between $20 and $80 for each training session.
ESA Attire
Emotional support animals aren’t legally required to wear ESA apparel such as vests or identification tags. However, some individuals find ESA attire reassuring as it ensures the people around them understand the invaluable role their animal has.
The price of ESA attire can vary depending on where you buy it from, though it will typically cost you up to $30 for an ESA vest or around $5 to $25 for an ESA identification tag or leash wrap.
General Pet Care Costs
Don’t forget to also factor in general dog ownership costs. You will need to buy them food, grooming supplies, toys, bedding, and other necessary equipment to ensure they lead a good quality of life. You will also need to take them to regular vet checkups.
ESA: A Life-changing investment
While making your dog an emotional support animal does have costs involved, the investment is truly a life-changing one.
With a legally recognized ESA by your side, you’ll find it easier to overcome life’s hurdles and manage the symptoms associated with your emotional or mental disability.
Wrap Up
If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible to make your dog an ESA, get in touch with a mental health professional today.
You can also contact the team of experts at US Service Animals, who would be more than happy to answer any of your questions and can help you register your emotional support animal.