How To Get A Emotional Support Dog For Anxiety

If you suffer from anxiety, you know how debilitating it can be. It can make everyday tasks feel impossible and leave you feeling overwhelmed. However, many people have found relief from their anxiety by getting an emotional support dog. In this article, we will discuss how to obtain an emotional support dog for anxiety, the benefits of having one, and everything else you need to know to make the right decision for you.

Understanding Emotional Support Dogs

Emotional support dogs are different from service dogs and therapy dogs. They provide emotional support, comfort, and companionship to their owners who suffer from various mental disabilities, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. They are not trained to perform specific tasks, and their primary function is to alleviate the symptoms of mental health issues by providing comfort and companionship.

Emotional support dogs are not required to be trained to perform any specific tasks, but they must be well-behaved and obedient in public. They are allowed to accompany their owners in public places, including airplanes and restaurants, as long as they are well-behaved and do not cause any disruptions.

It is important to note that emotional support dogs are not the same as psychiatric service dogs. Psychiatric service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks, such as reminding their owners to take medication or interrupting harmful behaviors. Emotional support dogs, on the other hand, do not require any specific training and are simply there to provide emotional support and comfort to their owners.

Benefits of Having an Emotional Support Dog

Having an emotional support dog can have several benefits for people experiencing anxiety, including:

Reducing anxiety and stress by providing comforting companionship.
Lowering blood pressure and heart rate.
Increasing feelings of happiness and well-being.
Encouraging exercise and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
Providing companionship in social situations, thereby reducing social anxiety.

Aside from the benefits mentioned above, emotional support dogs can also help people with depression. These dogs can provide a sense of purpose and responsibility, which can help individuals feel more motivated and less isolated. Additionally, emotional support dogs can help individuals with PTSD by providing a sense of security and comfort.

It is important to note that emotional support dogs are not the same as service dogs. While service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, emotional support dogs provide emotional support and companionship. However, emotional support dogs can still provide significant benefits for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

How Emotional Support Dogs Help with Anxiety

Emotional support dogs can help reduce anxiety in several ways. They offer a sense of security, companionship, and unconditional love. They can also provide a sense of structure and routine, which can be helpful for people with anxiety disorders. Additionally, the physical act of petting an emotional support dog has been shown to lower blood pressure and reduce stress.

Another way that emotional support dogs can help with anxiety is by providing a distraction from negative thoughts and feelings. When a person is focused on caring for their dog, they may be less likely to dwell on their worries and fears. This can help to break the cycle of anxious thoughts and promote a more positive mindset.

Furthermore, emotional support dogs can help their owners to feel more connected to the world around them. People with anxiety disorders may struggle with social isolation and feel disconnected from others. However, having a dog by their side can provide a sense of belonging and help them to feel more connected to their community. This can be especially important for individuals who have difficulty leaving their homes or engaging in social activities due to their anxiety.

Qualifying for an Emotional Support Dog for Anxiety

To qualify for an emotional support dog, you must have a mental disability, such as anxiety, that significantly impairs your daily life. You will need a letter from a licensed mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist, stating that you have a mental disability and that an emotional support dog would be beneficial to your mental health.

It is important to note that emotional support dogs are not the same as service dogs. Service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, while emotional support dogs provide comfort and support through their presence. Emotional support dogs do not have the same legal protections as service dogs, but they are allowed to fly with their owners in the cabin of an airplane and live in housing that may otherwise prohibit pets.

Requirements for Obtaining an Emotional Support Dog

There are several requirements for obtaining an emotional support dog:

You must have a diagnosed mental disability.
You must have a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that you would benefit from having an emotional support dog.
Your emotional support dog must be well-behaved and non-threatening to others.
The dog must be house-trained.
You must be able to take care of the dog.

Additionally, it is important to research and understand the laws and regulations surrounding emotional support dogs in your area. Some places may have restrictions on where emotional support dogs are allowed, such as in certain housing or public spaces. It is important to have a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities as an emotional support dog owner.

The Process of Getting an Emotional Support Dog for Anxiety

The process of getting an emotional support dog can be straightforward. Once you have a letter from a licensed mental health professional, you can apply for an emotional support dog online. You will need to provide basic information about yourself, your mental disability, and your living situation. Once approved, you can begin to look for a suitable dog.

It is important to note that emotional support dogs are not the same as service dogs. While service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks for their owners with disabilities, emotional support dogs provide comfort and companionship to individuals with mental health conditions. Therefore, emotional support dogs do not require any specific training or certification.

Additionally, it is important to consider the responsibilities that come with owning an emotional support dog. This includes providing proper care, training, and socialization for the dog, as well as ensuring that the dog is well-behaved in public settings. It is also important to be aware of any housing or travel restrictions that may apply to emotional support animals.

How to Find a Legitimate Emotional Support Dog Provider

Unfortunately, there are many online scams when it comes to emotional support dogs. It’s essential to find a legitimate emotional support dog provider to ensure that your dog is trained and certified correctly. The best way to find a legitimate provider is to talk to your mental health professional or do research online. Look for providers that have good reviews and are accredited by the International Association of Assistance Dog Partners (IAADP).

Another way to find a legitimate emotional support dog provider is to ask for recommendations from friends or family members who have gone through the process themselves. They may be able to provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their own experiences.

It’s also important to be wary of providers that offer quick and easy certifications or registrations for emotional support dogs. Legitimate providers will require a thorough evaluation of your mental health needs and the dog’s training and behavior before certifying them as an emotional support animal.

Training Your Emotional Support Dog for Anxiety

While emotional support dogs don’t require any specific training, it’s essential to ensure that they are obedient and well-behaved. You may want to consider taking your dog to obedience classes or working with a professional dog trainer to ensure that it behaves correctly in different situations. Your emotional support dog should be friendly, affectionate, and well socialized to provide maximum benefit.

In addition to obedience training, it’s also important to train your emotional support dog to recognize and respond to your anxiety symptoms. This can include teaching your dog to perform specific tasks, such as providing deep pressure therapy or interrupting negative thoughts. You can work with a professional dog trainer or do research on your own to learn how to train your dog for these tasks.

It’s also crucial to ensure that your emotional support dog is healthy and well-cared for. This includes regular visits to the veterinarian, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. A healthy and happy dog is more likely to provide effective emotional support and be a positive presence in your life.

Best Breeds for Emotional Support Dogs for Anxiety

While any breed of dog can provide emotional support, some breeds are better suited for people with anxiety. Breeds that are known for their calm temperaments, affectionate natures, and loyalty, such as Golden Retrievers, Labradors, and Poodles, make excellent emotional support dogs.

Another breed that is great for emotional support is the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are known for their gentle and affectionate nature, making them perfect for providing comfort to those with anxiety. Additionally, they are small in size, making them great for those who live in apartments or have limited space.

Another breed that is great for emotional support is the Bernese Mountain Dog. They are known for their calm and patient temperament, making them great for providing comfort to those with anxiety. Additionally, they are large in size, making them great for those who want a dog that can provide a sense of security and protection.

Legal Rights and Protections with an Emotional Support Dog

People with emotional support dogs are protected under the Fair Housing Act and the Air Carrier Access Act. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot discriminate against tenants who have emotional support dogs, and they cannot charge a pet deposit or fee. Under the Air Carrier Access Act, airlines must allow emotional support dogs to travel with their owners on the plane for free.

In addition to these legal protections, it’s important to note that emotional support dogs are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that emotional support dogs do not have the same rights to access public places as service animals do. However, some states have their own laws that provide additional protections for emotional support animals in public places.

Maintaining and Caring for Your Emotional Support Dog

Emotional support dogs require proper care and maintenance to ensure that they are healthy and happy. This includes providing them with a nutritious diet, regular exercise and grooming, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian to ensure their overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, an emotional support dog can be a great help for people experiencing anxiety. By following the above guidelines, you can obtain a legitimate emotional support dog, enjoy their companionship, and gain relief from your anxiety symptoms.

It is important to note that emotional support dogs also require proper training and socialization. This includes obedience training, exposure to different environments and situations, and interaction with other dogs and people. Proper training and socialization can help prevent behavioral issues and ensure that your emotional support dog is well-behaved and comfortable in various settings.