Emotional Support Animals – Know Your Rights

Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) provide more than companionship—they offer comfort, stability and a sense of security to individuals facing emotional or mental health challenges. But what happens when a landlord, HOA, or neighbor challenges your right to have your ESA?

At Boston Dog Lawyers, we fight for the rights of ESA owners who are unfairly targeted or forced to choose between their home and their beloved animal.

Emotional Support Animals vs. Service Dogs

While service dogs are highly trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, ESAs provide emotional and psychological support simply through their presence. They do not require specialized training, and they can be a variety of species—not just dogs. We’ve had emotional support cats, horses and even a snake. 

However, this distinction also means that ESAs don’t have the same broad legal protections as service animals, which can create confusion, legal disputes and stress for the animal’s owner. 

A man works at his computer while sharing a comforting moment with his emotional support dog.

Why People Need Emotional Support Pets

For individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions, an ESA can be life-changing. These animals provide a stabilizing presence, reduce stress, and help their owners navigate daily challenges with greater confidence. They are truly companions that offer a special kind of service to their owners aside from the unconditional love we receive from our animals.

How To Certify Your ESA 

To have your animal considered an ESA, you need a letter from a certified mental health professional. You can speak with a mental health professional in person or online for this assessment. And you can get this letter before you adopt or obtain your animal–you are not required to already own the animal. 

The Legal Confusion Around ESAs

This letter from a licensed therapist or doctor is the only documentation a housing provider can legally request. 

A woman sits in a chair, gently petting her dog who wears a blue bandana and harness.

Many property managers and HOAs only learn about ESA laws when they break them—it’s not always intentional, but ignorance of the law can lead to unfair treatment of tenants with ESAs. Landlords, caught between vague regulations and tenant claims, often don’t know who to believe. Sometimes neighbors see animals in pet-restricted housing and raise complaints without understanding the legal protections ESAs are afforded.

With such loose regulations, it’s not uncommon for someone with an ESA to run into issues. And not everyone is entitled to an ESA. Which is why it’s so important to have a clear need and credible information to advocate for your rights as an ESA owner. 

At Boston Dog Lawyers, we provide clear, credible legal advocacy to demonstrate why our clients are entitled to their ESA—and we ensure that only those with legitimate claims receive protection.

Facing Eviction or Fines Over Your ESA? We Can Help.

We follow strict protocols to assess the need and history of each case. If you're being threatened with eviction or fines due to your ESA, don’t wait until the situation escalates.

Contact Boston Dog Lawyers today. We’ll review your case and determine if you have legal grounds to fight back. Your ESA is more than a pet—it’s part of your well-being. Let us help you protect that bond.

Disclaimer: This is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice.