Frequently Asked Questions
Need help understanding Emotional Support Animal (ESA) or Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) letters? We've answered the most common questions.
What is an Emotional Support Animal (ESA)?+
An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a pet that provides comfort and emotional support to individuals with mental health conditions. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training but are protected under federal housing laws with a valid ESA letter.
What is a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)?+
A Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) is a specially trained dog that assists individuals with psychiatric disabilities like PTSD, anxiety, or depression. PSDs are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and can accompany their handler in public spaces.
How can I qualify for an ESA letter?+
To qualify for an ESA letter, you must be diagnosed with a mental or emotional disability by a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). Conditions may include anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health disorders.
What's the difference between an ESA letter and a PSD letter?+
An ESA letter grants housing rights under the Fair Housing Act, allowing you to live with your support animal even in no-pet housing. A PSD letter certifies that your dog is a trained service animal, giving you broader public access rights under the ADA.
Are Emotional Support Animals allowed in public places?+
No, Emotional Support Animals are not granted public access rights like service dogs. ESAs are primarily protected under housing laws but generally cannot enter businesses, restaurants, or airplanes unless specifically permitted.
Where are Psychiatric Service Dogs allowed?+
Psychiatric Service Dogs are allowed in all public areas, including restaurants, hotels, stores, airplanes, and government buildings, thanks to their protection under the ADA.
How long does it take to get a letter?+
Once you complete your mental health evaluation, you can often receive your ESA or PSD letter within 24–48 hours.
Can any pet qualify as an Emotional Support Animal?+
Most domesticated animals — including dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds — can qualify as an Emotional Support Animal if their presence alleviates symptoms of a mental or emotional disability.
Do ESA letters expire?+
Yes, most ESA letters are valid for one year. You will need to renew your letter annually with a reassessment from a licensed mental health professional.
Can my landlord deny my Emotional Support Animal?+
Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with valid ESA letters. They cannot charge pet fees or deny your ESA unless the animal poses a direct threat to others or causes significant property damage.
Do I need to register my Emotional Support Animal?+
No registration is required. Only a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional is necessary to secure your rights under housing laws.
Can I have more than one Emotional Support Animal?+
Yes — if your licensed mental health professional determines that multiple ESAs are necessary for your mental health treatment, you may be approved for more than one.
Is online ESA letter certification legitimate?+
Online ESA letter services can be legitimate if they involve a proper mental health evaluation by a licensed provider. Be cautious of sites that offer instant approval without speaking to a licensed professional.
What mental health conditions qualify?+
Common qualifying conditions include anxiety disorders, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and other emotional or psychiatric disabilities.
Can I fly with my Psychiatric Service Dog?+
Yes — under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), trained Psychiatric Service Dogs are allowed to fly with their handlers in the cabin at no additional charge.
What are signs of an ESA letter scam?+
Red flags include instant approvals, lifetime registrations, no contact with a licensed professional, and promises of guaranteed acceptance. A legitimate letter requires a proper mental health evaluation.
Is CertifyPet legit and compliant with the law?+
Yes. CertifyPet follows all laws under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Our process includes genuine mental health assessments to ensure full legal compliance.
How does CertifyPet protect my personal information?+
We prioritize your privacy with strict security measures and HIPAA-compliant practices. Your personal information and medical details are handled confidentially by licensed professionals.
Does CertifyPet offer a money-back guarantee?+
Yes. If you are not approved for an ESA or PSD letter after your evaluation, CertifyPet offers a full money-back guarantee — no hidden fees.
Are CertifyPet's letters accepted by landlords and airlines?+
Yes. Our ESA letters meet the legal standards required under the Fair Housing Act, and our PSD letters comply with the ADA and DOT regulations for travel.
What if my landlord or airline questions my letter?+
We provide free follow-up support. If your landlord, property manager, or airline needs confirmation or additional paperwork, our licensed providers can communicate directly on your behalf when necessary.
Will I speak directly with a licensed mental health professional?+
Yes. Every client speaks directly with a licensed therapist, psychologist, or counselor who is authorized to issue ESA and PSD letters based on a professional evaluation.