Service dogs provide life-saving benefits, companionship, safety, and security for many people with emotional and physical disabilities. While it’s technically not required to register your service dog if you own one, it does come with several benefits worth mentioning. Continue reading to learn why using a service dog registry is beneficial to you and your dog.
Offers Supporting Documentation
Have you ever had your service dog with you at a restaurant, hotel, or another public place and been harassed or felt you had to explain why you needed your dog by your side? If so, you know how frustrating, humiliating, and infuriating this can be. When you have documentation ready to show people who are questioning your right to have your dog with you, it eases tension and creates a more welcoming atmosphere.
Avoid Housing Discrimination
Many landlords aren’t aware that ADA protection for service dogs and their human companions also applies to housing. If you’re interested in a rental property but are being told that pets aren’t allowed, having documentation that your dog is more than a pet helps you argue your case. It’s definitive proof that you need your service dog and if the landlord doesn’t allow the dog then they are in violation of the HUD Fair Housing Act and ADA protection.
Keep Your Pet Focused
When you register a service dog, it makes his or her job noticeable to strangers. Why is this important for your dog? Well, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of animal-loving strangers who want to pet and give your dog a little love. While this is fine, if it’s something you allow, it’s also something that can be very distracting for your service dog. By registering your dog, you’ll get a vest that identifies your dog as a service animal. Most people recognize the meaning behind these vests and know that proper etiquette is to not approach the dog unless given permission. As well trained as service dogs are, they still love attention and having them registered keeps them focused on their responsibility to you.
Keep Your Pet Safe
If you’re ever in an emergency situation that requires evacuation, it’s possible that you and your dog could become separated. Should this happen, it’s important that rescue personnel know who a dog belongs to so you can be reunited quickly. Having your pet registered is one way to make the reuniting process faster.
How to Register Your Dog
Whether you’re flying, staying in a hotel, or wanting to eat at the newest restaurant, these are things you may need to do with your service dog or emotional support animal by your side. To register your animal, it’s recommended you find a good service dog registry. These services have amazing customer service and give you the respect, courtesy, and patience you deserve. The process to register your dog can feel overwhelming to some people. That’s why great customer service is so important. You also want to work with a registry agency that has a long history of doing this work and a reputation for organization and professionalism.
Are you ready to register your ESA or service dog? If so, contact the National Service Animal Registry today!
Animals provide a number of therapeutic benefits for people, from improving their moods to alleviating anxiety. You don’t, however, necessarily need to purchase a specially trained emotional support animal (ESA); you can train your dog to be an ESA and receive all of the same benefits. Making your dog an emotional support animal may actually be easier than most people think it is. Keep reading to learn what you need to do to make your dog an ESA.
Learn What an Emotional Support Animal Is
Emotional support animals are animals that provide comfort and support to people with emotional or mental needs and disabilities. An ESA can be any species of animal, but dogs are among the most common. According to federal law, these animals do not need to have any kind of specialized training. However, they must be well-behaved while in public and around other people. ESAs must be under the handler’s control at all times, too.
Qualify for and Obtain an ESA Letter
Because there is no unique training for emotional support dogs, any pet with the right temperament can qualify as an emotional support animal. To get your current dog recognized as an emotional support animal, you will need to obtain an ESA letter. This is a letter from a mental health professional that states that your dog provides you with the support you need to lead a normal life. ESA letters must also be written on the mental health professional’s letterhead, have their signature, and be dated no later than a year from the ESA approval. National Service Animal Registry is the original and most trusted and referred online provider of ESA prescription letters in the United States, equipped with an extensive network of experienced licensed therapists across the nation who specialize in ESA assessments.Get an ESA Letter
Train Your Dog
Though there is no special training for support dogs, you will need to make sure your dog behaves at all times. Your pups must be friendly and social toward people and other animals anytime you are in public. If your dog does not currently have these skills, it is a good idea to seek help from a professional dog trainer. They can help your dog to stop their inappropriate behavior like excessive barking, jumping on people, and being generally badly behaved. Take some time to find the best dog trainer in your area. Try to find one who has trained emotional support animals in the past and has a proven track record for success. For recommendations, talk to your vet, mental health professional, and other dog owners that you are friendly with.
Register Your Dog
Though it is not a legal requirement, registering your dog as an emotional support animal can provide a few benefits. It adds legitimacy to your ESA, makes them look official, and helps to eliminate any confrontation that you may get when in public with your pet. Register an ESA dog to make life a little bit easier.
To learn more about emotional support animals and to register your dog, contact us at the National Service Animal Registry.
There’s usually much anticipation and excitement when you’re about to introduce a new furry friend home and into the family: Cuddles to look forward to, playful silliness to indulge in, and perhaps, a good excuse to take more walks to the park. Just watching canine behavior, which is so different from our own, yet still so relatable, can provide hours of entertainment. For many, the absolute best part about bringing a service dog (in training) or emotional support dog into the home, however, is the easy companionship they provide. It’s like getting a new friend, or maybe something even more far-reaching: when you welcome a dog into the home, it can be nothing short of welcoming a new family member.
When you consider the significance of such a pivotal moment, it’s also normal to feel a little bit apprehensive about the new addition. How will life change? If it’s a puppy, especially, you may be concerned about the training process, anticipating chewed up shoes and cleaning up urine drenched rugs. Will the pup adjust alright? Will you?
It’s in everyone’s best interest (people and pooches included) to ease the transition with as much care as possible. Dogs are sensitive creatures and feel changes in their environment acutely. You want your new furry family member to move into their new home with as little stress and as much comfort as you can provide.
Preparing the way with smart planning and executing the inauguratory welcome, will not only make your service dog or emotional support dog’s life easier, it will make your life easier, setting the stage for a grand, companionable relationship.
This article will guide you through the process of bringing a new dog into the family with an aim towards minimizing stress for all parties involved, so you can focus on the fun stuff and build a happy, healthful relationship with your new dog.
1. Gather the Tools
First things first: Gather the tools. Naturally, you want to have all the accessories and necessities at the house before your new dog arrives, to prevent hectic scrambling to find a leash when you need to take the dog out to pee, etc. This scenario can create the kind of frenetic energy that is stress-inducing to human and dog alike.
Luckily, it can be fun to shop for your new doggie-friend! You get to pick out colors, styles, and functionality of an amazing array of accessories and toys available online and at the local pet store!
Here’s a short list of the main tools you’ll should have before Woof-Woof gets to town:
A Crate
For many dogs, a crate provides them with a sense of security. Having a place to go to that is both contained and just their own is a great source of comfort to dogs. Additionally, a crate helps with obedience training for the wee-ones.
Dog Bed
Dogs, like people, adore a cozy bed to curl up in. Like the crate, a dog bed can provide them with a comfortable slice of home that is their own alone.
Collar and Tags
Particularly in a new place, you’ll want to safeguard against your dog getting loose, lost, and without tags (heaven forbid)! If yours is a service dog or emotional support dog, collars and ID tags from National Service Animal Registry legitimize the look of your dog, while identifying him/her.
Leash
A leash is sort of self-explanatory, but especially in the beginning, keeping dogs on a leash will make them (and you) feel safe. The first time you introduce them to their new home, you’ll want to bring them in with a leash (more on that below). NSAR offers high quality service dog and emotional support dog leashes at very reasonable prices.
Dog Food!!
Shop around, do some research (maybe ask your vet), or check back on this blog for the best dog food that fits your budget and provides proper nutrition (there are a lot of junk-food dog brands on the market).
Supplements
An important part of your service dog’s health and nutrition, you’ll need to know a little about vitamins and other supplements to help keep your dog in peak physical condition. Do a little research, have a chat with your veterinarian, or check this blog (we’ve done the homework for you) will help you select the most important items. Remember: different ages and different breeds will require different nutrient additions.
Dog Treats and Chew Bones
These can be invaluable for dog training, teeth maintenance, and are an easy way to make your dog feel special!
Food and Water Dishes
It’s important to maintain a water bowl in a designated area of the home which is kept full and fresh, so your dog can monitor his own hydration.
Toys
For puppies, toys will provide hours of play (a helpful adjustment tool since they wont be with their siblings for possibly the first time in their young lives), and additionally gives them something to chew on as they teethe. But even an old dog likes a happy toy or two to chew on 😉
Old Towels and Lots of Rags
You’ll likely need these for mopping up messes, accidents, and cleaning the dog’s feet after a play in a muddy yard, etc.====2. Primp and Preen the Den:====
Now that you have collected the tools and accessories, it’s time to primp and preen the den for maximum comfort for the four-legged. Designate a corner for the crate and/or dog bed. Dogs like having a safe haven, a space just for them.
Decide where the feeding area will be: In the kitchen? Garage? Back Porch? Decide on an indoor and outdoor water station so the dog can be sure to have access to water at all times.
If you have a yard with a fence, maybe you’ll want to install a dog door. Have fun! Arranging a space for a new family member can be a sweet and intentional way to connect before they even arrive.
3. Prepare the Pack
As you collect your handy tools and spruce up the den in preparation for this exciting new adventure with your emotional support dog, you’ll naturally begin to prepare mentally for the family dynamic shift as well. It’s a good idea to gather the pack to establish that everyone is on the same page and has similar expectations.
Discuss with your family or household members how you’d like to incorporate this new wagging member of the pack. What are the rules? Is the dog allowed on the furniture? Are there parts of the house that are off limits? Get the basic law of the land down pat, and you can always adjust, as necessary.
Decide on the commands you will use (do you prefer the command Off or Down for jumping?) so you can maintain consistency among all household members and avoid confusing poor Fido. It’s really a good idea to read up on some basic training techniques to better understand the psychology of your dog and to help enact an effective strategy for training.
Also, divvy up roles, so everybody has a good sense of what is expected of them; who is in charge of feeding? Who is going to get up in the night (if it’s a puppy) so she can relieve that tiny puppy bladder?
Review the appropriate, conservative behavior upon initially bringing your new pooch into the home in order to establish what is expected from the get-go, saving you headaches down the road (more on this below!).
And last, but certainly not least, if you already have a resident dog or cat in your unique pack, you’ll want to consider their comfort as well. Educate yourself on the best way to make an introduction. Animals are territorial, and even if they are a particularly social animal at the park or with the other neighborhood cats, a newcomer to the home-den can be stressful and even frightening. Impervious to any of your new dog’s adorable attributes, they will likely feel as though their safe haven, their very own home, has been invaded by a stranger. And indeed, it has.
Luckily, there are ways to minimize the stress in this situation and hopefully, within a few weeks, if you’re pets aren’t best buddies, at least they’ll accept each other and live in relative harmony. Next week’s blog will focus on introducing your new service dog or emotional support dog to the resident cat. Be sure to check back!
4. Find a Veterinarian
Although we’ll be adding an interesting and informative article on finding the right veterinarian for your service dog or emotional support dog in the next few weeks, in the interim, it’s a good idea to ask friends and family for a good recommendation in your locale. Familiarize yourself with where you’ll be taking your dog for routine health check-ups and shots. It’s best to set up an initial visit sometime in the first couple weeks after bringing your pooch home.
A good vet is an invaluable resource for excellent information on both dog care and dog behavior. They are also an important support system to have in place, should there be an emergency.
5. Introduce Your Dog to the New Territory
The day has finally arrived! You’ve prepared everything so thoughtfully, minding every detail, and now it’s time to bring your furry, slobbering sweetness home! Congratulations you’re about to embark on a wonderful new relationship!
However, as territorial beasts, you’ll want to intro your dog to her new home terrain slowly. In fact, if possible, it’s ideal to familiarize her with the neighborhood a few times before actual move-in day. This way the home-zone is not so foreign.
If it isn’t possible to get a head start on territory-familiarization, (it may be impractical under many circumstances, especially with puppies), that’s okay too. You can facilitate a thorough Project Familiarization on Day-Move-In too.
A good rule of thumb for introducing your new dog to the home-place is to start wide, and circle in. That just means, don’t just jump into the deep end without testing the water (or in this case, the center of activity in the house). Instead, before even going into the home-den, begin with a walk around the neighborhood. Let your hound get a sense of the territory at large: the smells, sights, and sounds.
There are several important benefits of this initial walk:
It serves to tire your dog out even just a little. Arriving at a new home can be VERY exciting for your new friend, and it can easily become a wild and crazy affair! As silly and (sometimes) entertaining as this may be, it’s a good idea to minimize this initial craze (I’ll explain why below). Expending a little energy on a walk will help him or her come home for the first time in a slight calmer, more manageable state, better prepared to relax into a new space.
The walk enables the dog to relieve him or herself, minimizing the chances that it will happen on your living room carpet.
5. Coming in for a Landing, We Arrive: The Home-Den
As you circle the neighborhood, you finally narrow your focus into the home-den. When you enter the house, do so in a calm and calculated manner to prevent hyper-excitement. The reason is that this very entrance impacts the tone of the relationship and living space, as your dog understands it.
So, if you immediately take the leash off and let the dog run wild through the house, frolicking in frenzied excitement encouraged by nearly, equally excited family members who shriek, coo, and besiege the mutt with hugs and pets, ruffling his fur in passionate adoration for his adorableness – well, the stage will have been set.
It’s natural for us to welcome a new member with a party and celebration, but for a dog, this first intro to the home sets the tone for the rest of your years of cohabitation. It’s crucial to set up boundaries. If you open the door and let the dog run wild through the house, you are effectively signaling that there are no boundaries. Going back and retraining isn’t always the easiest or most pleasant of tasks. Without boundaries, your dog is led to believe that the entire home is theirs to do with as they please, which means they can beg, jump, and chew on everything, should they feel the inclination.
It’s much more difficult to correct these behavioral problems later than it is to just establish the norm immediately. Structure will actually provide stability and comfort to your dog, who has it in their instincts to function within a hierarchical, organized group, and will appreciate having a good sense of their own place within the group. Better to save the party for later and show the dog a tranquil experience that firmly communicates expectations.
You can do this by following these simple suggestions:
Keep your cool. Dogs are pack animals, and together, you are now a pack. It’s important for you and the other resident humans to be the Alphas in this pack. Establish this rule from the beginning. Present your dog with an air of calm authority and assertiveness. Keep the stimulation to a minimum; this means controlled talking to and touching the dog. In addition to establishing your controlled leadership, this is compassionate to his or her sensitive-doggie-nervous system. Your dog may now be in a loving doggie-resort, and is already plenty stimulated by the new environment.
Keep the dog on the leash, at least initially. This has the dual benefit of providing poochy-pooh with security and establishing dominance. It lets them know this is not their space to run a free-for-all in. This is your space. Show them their special space, but first, make it understood where it is not.
Continue the home exploration, by moving from one room to another, pausing only a few moments in each to acquaint the dog with the quarters.
As you navigate through the various rooms and spaces, always enter ahead of the dog. This is important to establish your dominance. Try not to let the dog enter each room until you’ve given permission. Have them wait, even sit until you give the signal (this is obviously easier with an older, trained dog, but there’s no time like now to begin the training process!).
After finishing the home exploration, acquaint your new pet with the feeding area. Offer a doggie-treat and an opportunity to lap up some water.
Present him or her with her own slice of heaven. Take her to her crate or dog mat and let her know it’s all hers. Remove the leash (finally!). Watch and see what she does. Maybe she’ll lay right down to rest and absorb the moment, confident that she’s found her place. Maybe she’ll want to sniff around some more or come spend time with you. Don’t be afraid to use a small treat to facilitate this.
It’s no problem, either way, but let you emotional support dog decide: if it wants to rest, let it. And maintain the same cool calm as you have been. It’s okay to be friendly and affectionate if he/she wants to spend time with you, but try not to build the energy up in an exaggerated way. You are still setting an example of dominance and expectations particularly during the first few hours.
Conclusion
If you follow these steps, welcoming your new, sweet pooch into your home will be close to seamless. Just remember, it always takes a little while to acclimate completely. Be patient and you’ll have years full of belly rubs and love to look forward to from a devoted and loyal friend. Congratulations!
Emotional support animals (ESAs) are pets (usually dogs and cats) who provide vital assistance to people suffering from a mental illness. While it’s become increasingly acceptable in recent years to talk openly about the struggles of living with a mental illness, not everyone who could qualify for an ESA is taking advantage of the life-changing difference living with an ESA can make. To qualify for an ESA, pet owners need to have a letter from a mental health professional verifying that they’re living with a disability, so there is a process you have to go through in order to have your pet registered as an emotional support animal. Tags can denote your pet’s status, and there are certification costs, but the benefits associated with ESAs far outweigh the cost and effort.
Reducing Stress
One of the principal benefits from living with an ESA is the impact they have on lowering stress levels. If you suffer from anxiety, having your pet present with you in public spaces will diminish the feelings of alienation you may feel. Time spent with your pet releases endorphins which make it easier for you to cope with anxiety, and the mere act of petting your ESA produces a calming feeling that helps you deal with stressful situations.
Increasing Socialization
Dogs are perfect ice breakers. If you feel nervous around strangers and crowds, your ESA will make it easier to engage in conversations in a positive way. Having a pet you can take anywhere encourages you to get out more and go for long walks where you can expect to meet and interact with other people and their pets. This offers the positive reinforcement from meeting and talking to people you might not get without an ESA.
Greater Responsibility Brings Fulfillment
When you’re taking care of a pet, you transfer your attention from yourself to another living being. If you’re afraid of flying for instance, it can be tremendously helpful to comfort your pet and give them the kind of support that someone might give you. Feeding and caring for your ESA helps divert your thoughts away from things that might be troubling you and offers a sense of satisfaction from knowing the love you give your ESA is returned to you tenfold.
Keeping You in the Present
If you tend to dwell on your own insecurities and problems that upset you, ESAs force you concentrate on the moment at hand. Dogs and cats don’t fixate on issues affecting them in the past or future; they’re always present in the now. This is one of the most instructive things about pets. When you’re with them, petting them and talking to them, you’re as present in the moment as they are and less likely to focus on negative thoughts and fears.
If you would like to take advantage of the benefits offered by emotional support animals, contact the National Service Animal Registry. We’ve been providing people with emotional support animal certification since 1995. To certify your ESA, visit our certification page or give us a call at (866) 737-3930. Get your pet registered today!
When you have a service dog, there’s an extra element of planning that goes into a vacation. Between pet needs, recreation, dog-friendly hotels and restaurants, and good weather, you want to make sure that man’s best friend is as comfortable on your trip as you are. While the U.S. has excellent places to visit, these 10 cities, in particular, are ideal to visit with your service dog.
City Criteria
These cities were evaluated based on pet needs like access to veterinarians and pet stores as well as pet recreation areas provided by dog-friendly beaches, trails, and activities. The city profile was also evaluated by walkability, days of sunshine, dog-friendly hotels and restaurants.
1. Scottsdale, AZ
Scottsdale is known for having nearly 300 days of sunshine daily and is an all-around family-friendly destination, even for your furriest member. There are dozens of dog-friendly hotels, six dog parks, nine trails, top-rated emergency vets, and a whopping 117 restaurants that you can bring your dog to. Due to the Arizona heat, this is a great spot to take your service dog from September to April. Sunny days are abundant without unbearable heat.
2. Charleston, SC
Although coming in after Scottsdale, Charleston still ranks above average for U.S. cities with 209 days of sunshine. It’s a popular destination for family vacations and weddings because of its southern charm. The outdoor activities and pet-friendly hotels will keep you and your service dog content throughout your trip.
3. Jacksonville, FL
You can never get enough of the Florida sunshine. Jacksonville has 221 days of sunshine and 154 dog-friendly restaurants. You can also take your service dog to get some energy out at the nine dog parks in the area.
4. Salt Lake City, UT
Salt Lake City has some of the best outdoor scenery in the country. Between its snowcapped mountains and canyons, your service dog will love accompanying you on all your excursions. There’s also a wide variety of pet-friendly hotels right in downtown SLC along with 12 dog parks nearby.
5. Nashville, TN
Nashville is at the top of the list for best pet-friendly amenities with close to 200 dog-friendly restaurants and countless pet-friendly hotels. Your service dog will also enjoy the six different dog parks and trails that will give you a true peek into the gorgeous Tennessee countryside.
6. Knoxville, TN
Knoxville is considered a hidden gem for most who live near it! The southern hospitality will charm you, and there are dozens of hotels who will welcome both you and your service dog. There are also 149 restaurants in the area and eight dog parks.
7. Virginia Beach, VA
If you’re looking for a beach vacation, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for at Virginia Beach. This city has 213 days of sunshine and numerous dog-friendly establishments for you to cool down after you’re at the beach all day.
8. Seattle, WA
Seattle may not be in the running for days of sunshine per year, but it tops the list when it comes to walkability. Perhaps you already live in a super sunny spot, and you’re seeking some variety in your vacation. Seattle already has more dogs than children and can have really pleasant summers! Dogs are permitted on city bus lines, the light rail, ferries, and even seaplanes. With plenty of dog-friendly businesses, keep Seattle on the list.
9. Nantucket, MA
Nantucket ranks as the number one outdoor activity location in the entire country. Your dog will love how many dog-friendly beaches and trails you have access to. However, in terms of local vets and dog parks, the small community doesn’t provide quite as many. This is the ideal spot to take a service dog when you’re in need of the relaxing outdoors. Rent a dog-friendly beach house and get ready to chill out.
10. Chicago, IL
Another great spot to visit with your service dog in the summertime (not sure you and your pup would want to brave the Chicago winter)! Chicago is a walkable city that loves dogs. Plan your trip to line up with Dog Day with the Chicago White Sox or take your dog to the Montrose Dog Beach. The city also has dozens of dog-friendly hotels for you to stay at right downtown.
Join the NSAR Community
Looking for more information and resources about your service dog? The NSAR is here to help. Visit here to learn more about us and our approach to helping you!
When you have a service or emotional support animal in your life you know a bond that many other emotional support animal owners may only dream of. The service dog is there to comfort you and often times are in tune with your emotions and physical status. These service dogs are trained from puppyhood to be there just for someone like you. They often will protect you from danger and be the ultimate shoulder to cry on when it feels like the world around you is coming apart just a little more than normal. So, it’s no surprise that you’d want your service animal to be healthy if possible.
Getting Started
As with anything, keeping your service dog alive for longer is going to require a bit of research on your end. For starters, just what breed is your service dog? Each different breed of service dog requires different needs to reach their peak health daily. Just like humans, service dogs have their own individual needs that change based on a bunch of surrounding factors in their life. By learning the breed of your service dog, we can begin to pinpoint a starting point for their particular needs, and we can get a better grasp on what health conditions may be most likely to pop up in their lifetime.
We also are going to want to figure in the age of the service dog, as well as their current daily activity levels. Each service dog has a different personality, even within its own breed standards. To figure this out it will take less breed research and more of paying attention to your service dog’s individual habits. Try to record the amount of time your service dog is up and moving around compared to how much they are laying around or sleeping. Also, be sure to get their current weight, as well as write down how much food they seem to eat during the day.
Lastly, make note of what you do with your service dog. How much do you guys go out or do you give your service dog frequently treats throughout the week? By taking about a week or two to fully record your routine with your service dog and their habits, we will have a clear picture to start with. During this also consult your vet to see if the patterns you have noticed seem to line up with your service dog’s needs. Your vet can give you the best idea of what your emotional support animal may be lacking or needing to cut back on.
Keeping Them Nutritionally Sound
The diet of each service dog is going to vary greatly from individual to individual. Still, there are quite a few tips we can offer you to help you extend the life of your service dog through base nutritional knowledge. We will also be able to properly tell you some things you may not know about your canine companions’ dietary needs, such as the fact that service dogs are not full-on carnivores like many people believe. We can also give you a pretty good idea of just why table food is such a bad idea for any emotional support animal, especially a service dog.
First things first, dogs are not full carnivores. In fact, you may be surprised to know their mortal enemy the cat is actually more of a carnivore than a dog could ever hope to be. This is because over time a dog’s intestinal tract has grown longer to be able to better digest things like grains or vegetables depending on what food was available to them. This was most likely due to dogs adjusting to being domesticated creatures over such a long period of times. Thanks to their domestication their bodies have changed some of their nutritional needs from that of their wild counterparts to better help them survive in a human filled environment.
This means that while your service dog could use some vitamins from a few veggies mixed in with their food, they are not able to be vegetarian. If your service dog’s food doesn’t mostly seem to be meat, then you are going to want to change their brand. In order to check this pay attention to the first three ingredients on the back of your bag of service dog food. If they aren’t meat related, then you may just be better off with going to a more expensive brand that offers a more protein driven ingredient list. Many brands have come out in recent years to support better emotional support animal health. Of these brands, a lot of them are now even affordable for lower-income families due to their large market success.
Dietary requirements will also change depending on your service dog’s stage in life. This is because much like us, dogs will have changing nutritional needs throughout different parts of their life. Older service dogs may need more calcium in their food if their bones have begun to weaken. Likewise, when a service dog is younger you may need to give them a food containing higher calories to support healthy growth. Some breeds may even have special mixes available to them if they have strange requirements, and you can get yourself to an emotional support animal specialty store.
Hydration is really the last thing you’re going to need to worry about in the nutrition department. You should always have water available for your service dog and frequently take hydration breaks when on the go. While your dog may not seem like it, they can work up quite a thirst throughout the day. Since service dogs are also more patient creatures, they may not always let you know how thirsty they are unless they are desperate. Simply keep access to a clean source of water available for your service dog as much as possible to meet this need.
Activity is Key
While you may have nutritional needs down, this next part of service dog health lessons will require a lot more effort from you. To truly make sure your service dog is staying as fit as possible, they are going to need a lot of activity in their lives. Even for low energy breeds your going to find that a daily outing may just be needed to properly keep your service dog at a healthy weight and keep their muscles from growing weak over time. In truth, a service dog that just lays around all day is likely to develop a lot of physical, as well as, a lot of mental problems like depression. These can be detrimental to the long-term health of your emotional support animal.
This is where knowing the breed of your service dog is going to be a huge part of figuring things out. If we have a breed to start with then we can tell if they were originally bred to be a working-class service dog or not. Working class breeds need a lot of time to run around each day in order to properly balance their high metabolism and keep a healthy weight. This is because these breeds were originally bred to work all day doing thing such as corralling sheep. Some service dogs may even develop problems resting well if not properly exercised due to their high amounts of unspent exercise throughout the day.
One good way to keep your service dog active is to cycle in new toys. By introducing new toys to the environment, you can keep their interest peaked you encourage play. The more your service dog is encouraged to play inside, the more you can take a break from extra-long walks. If possible, you should consider getting a playmate for your service dog. Another dog can promote play in a way we could never hope to with our dogs. If another dog isn’t possible, then trips to the local dog park can make a great bi-weekly workout for your pet!
Lastly, make sure your dog is going out for at least 30 minutes each day or what their breed requires. If you don’t take your dog out for proper exercise each day, then health problems can quickly rise in the future. Sedentary lifestyles are not good for most any creature on earth including your dog. On the other hand, if you must take your dog out more a lot, be sure to allocate the proper time to rest each day.
Keeping The Veterinarian Happy
While keeping your veterinarian happy can seem like quite the daunting task, fear not! The truth is that a lot of people skip out on a lot of the health needs of their pets or may even put them off for longer without realizing the dangers it can pose to their dog’s health needs. While we can’t speak for any special cases of dog health, there are a few things that you can do to extend the life of your pet while making your veterinarian proud as well.
Keeping your service dog on a schedule may be a little troublesome. However, when it comes to properly getting your dog checked up, having a good schedule is a huge help to stop these health problems early on. If you can keep a good relationship with your vet and take your dog in regularly for check-ups, then it can end up making most health problems go away in their earlier stages. The vet can catch the signs of things that may be affecting your dog’s health with a regular check-up, and by just doing things like simple diet changes they can prevent bigger problems that would come up later on.
Another great way to keep your vet smiling is with flea, tick, and heartworm medicine. Always make sure your dog is up to date on their worm medicine no matter the time of year. The worms don’t just go away with cold weather, and are easily catchable during all times of the year. While this may be rarer for pests such as fleas. If you notice the weather starting to warm, be sure to immediately start your flea treatments if you have decided to forgo them in colder months. Many owners can avoid a bunch of transfer diseases just by making sure their dog is properly protected year round from pests that would love a taste of their blood.
Another much-overlooked part of your pet’s health, is their mental status. Your emotional support animal is going to deal with much more than just a normal dog. Thanks to this you are going to need to make sure they have proper time to unwind throughout the day. If your dog seems too stressed or to be going slower each day, then consider taking a break from going out if possible. Also, make sure to properly show your appreciation to your dog through spending downtime with them as well. The less stress your dog feels, the better their heart and brain will do throughout the years.
Finally, be sure to stay with the same vet, if possible, throughout your dog’s life. By keeping the same vet you are guaranteeing that your dog can get some of the best care. That vet will know the ends and outs of your dog’s medical history. This means that your vet will be able to more correctly diagnose your dog or notice any differences in their labs or blood work more quickly.
Keep Them Close
By mixing all of this together you can help your pet live a longer life. Service Dogs may need more care than some other pets due to the amount of stress we put on them. By providing them with great medical care and nutritional requirements though, we can make them have much longer lives. Never skimp when you have the choice of buying your dog better food or medication. With each dollar you are willing to put into your dog, you are a step closer to giving them the longest life possible.
For individuals who rely on an emotional support animal, it’s extremely important that they be able to bring those animals along with them when they travel. Traveling via airline can be extremely stressful for everyone-and even more so for those with an anxiety disorder. If you struggle with anxiety or another emotional or mental disorder, and you rely on an ESA to assist you with it, here are some things you should know about flying with your ESA.
Does Your Animal Need to Be Certified?
First and foremost, it’s important to be aware that you do not need an official emotional support animal certification for your animal to be considered an ESA. There are no certification or training requirements for an ESA, and if someone tells you differently, they’re misinformed. The only thing you legally need to fly with an ESA, without worrying about paying added fees for bringing a pet inside the airplane, is a letter from your doctor.
What Should the Letter Contain?
It is extremely important, however, that this letter be official, and include all of the necessary information to verify that your animal is, in fact, necessary for your mental and emotional health. This means that the letter needs to be from your primary care physician, therapist, or other mental health professional, and it needs to be written on their letterhead.
The letter should also include your specific diagnosis, and state that the presence of an emotional support animal is essential to you keeping your anxiety or other mental or emotional disorder in check. Be sure that your name, your doctor’s name, the date, and your doctor’s signature are all included. If possible, ask your doctor to include your animal’s name and breed or description in the letter, so that airline staff can easily verify that the animal you have brought with you is your ESA.
Presenting Your Letter
There may be several times throughout your journey when you may be asked to present your ESA letter to officials and airline staff, so keep it on hand along with your boarding pass and ID. Whenever your animal’s presence is questioned, presenting your doctor’s letter should be sufficient to answer any questions that people may have.
Making Your Travel Easier
Unfortunately, it can be quite common to receive some hassling due to the presence of your ESA, especially if it is not readily apparent that your animal is, in fact, there for emotional support. This why we strongly recommend purchasing a vest for your dog that includes the ESA logo or a patch designating them as an ESA. The presence of this vest can go a long way towards minimizing the number of people who question your animal’s presence in the airport and on the airplane.
Additionally, though it is not required, you may want to consider getting an official service animal certification for your ESA. Having this, along with your doctor’s letter, can give your ESA an air of legitimacy that will make it less likely you will be questioned over and over again. If you bring all three along with you-your ESA certificate, a branded ESA vest, and your doctor’s letter-you will be covering all your bases and ensuring that you and your ESA have a simple, hassle-free flight.
Dogs perform a number of jobs in society, including acting as service dogs for many individuals who are deaf, blind, autistic, physically disabled, or otherwise in need of assistance. Dogs are incredibly adept at learning to perform the tasks needed to be a fully certified service animal. But what about emotional support animals? These animals are not required to receive specialized training or to perform specific tasks, so does that mean you can have a different type of ESA animal, like a cat? Or are you limited to only an ESA support dog? Keep reading to find out.
Any Animal Can Be an ESA
The short answer here is yes, a cat can be an emotional support animal. In fact, any animal can be considered an ESA, so long as it provides you with comfort and relief from a mental, physical, or emotional struggle. Many people find their pets to be a comfort in times of difficulty, but for those with persistent anxiety, depression, or even chronic pain, that pet becomes a necessity.
So, if you have a cat that helps to relieve your mental health complications and enables you to live a happier and more fulfilling life, then that cat is qualified to be an emotional support animal.
Not Everyone Is a Dog Person
Not everybody likes dogs. In fact, some people have a deep fear of dogs. This is why it is so important for people to have more than one option when it comes to owning an emotional support animal. Far too many people who genuinely need an ESA will put off getting one because they believe it must be a dog. Once they discover that a cat or other pet can also qualify for ESA registration, they are quick to find a pet that offers them the support that they need.
Benefits of a Support Cat
While any animal can be an ESA, dogs and cats are the two most common options that people choose. In addition to being an excellent option for individuals who may not be entirely comfortable with dogs, having an emotional support cat offers a number of other benefits over their more energetic counterparts.
While dogs are excellent companions, they do require quite a bit more work to care for than cats do. Dogs need to be walked daily, and even lower-energy breeds need regular play and exercise. Cats, on the other hand, are masters at caring for themselves. While they can be loving and playful members of the family, their lower maintenance needs make them a better option for those who simply don’t have the energy to give a dog the care they require.
How Can an ESA Help You?
Emotional support animals can be a great source of relief for many individuals and even be included as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for a number of conditions. ESAs-including dogs, cats, and many other types of animals-help to provide the following benefits to their owners:
Relief from anxiety
Reduced feelings of depression
Coping with PTSD
Helping with ADD
Anxiety and depression are the two most common uses for ESAs, and the animal does not have to be a dog to provide relief for those conditions. The presence of a warm, purring, loving cat can be equally relaxing to those who suffer from anxiety or depression.
Registering an ESA
Registering an ESA is a quick and effortless process. However, it’s important to remember that certifying your animal as an ESA is intended only for those who genuinely suffer from mental or emotional health issues. You can register your cat or another animal online on our website in a matter of minutes. Reach out to us if you have any questions about the registration process.
Every year, around 2 million dogs are stolen in the US, and according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), cases of dognapping (dogs thefts) are on the rise.
You might think that your service dog isn’t at risk because he rarely leaves your side, but that does not mean he/she is safe. Dog thieves are typically quite adept, and there have been many cases of dogs being stolen quickly and efficiently while the owner was distracted – even if only for a few seconds.
This article discusses the issues around dognapping. We will outline the most effective ways to prevent your service dog or emotional support animal (ESA) from being stolen and provide information about what to do if the unthinkable happens and your dog disappears.
Why do people steal dogs?
Purebreds are often stolen so they can be sold, sometimes to order, sometimes opportunistically. Designer dogs (carefully mixed breeds) have gained great popularity, as well, and are increasingly becoming targets.
Small breeds such as Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians, Maltese and Chihuahuas are most at risk.
Dogs who haven’t been spayed or neutered are at risk from being stolen in order to be sold to puppy mills for breeding.
As horrific as it sounds, some breeds are stolen for use in fighting rings. Pit Bulls, Boston Terriers, German Shepherds, and Boxers are most commonly stolen for this purpose.
It isn’t only purebreds that are at risk, though. Sometimes pets are stolen by family members or neighbors for personal reasons.
Yet other dogs are stolen by scammers hoping to collect a reward when they are returned. Disabled people with service animals might be particularly at risk from this, as a thief might target someone with a special bond and dependence on their pet and are most likely to pay a reward.
Where is my service dog most at risk?
You might think your dog isn’t at risk because you are always with him/her, but dog thieves are clever. Some are opportunistic and are more likely to take dogs that are easy targets, but some steal when a client asks for a specific breed. If you have a dog they want, they might keep you under surveillance or distract you in order to take your dog. They might also have identified you as someone who is likely to pay a reward for your dog’s return.
Your dog could be at risk anywhere. Dogs are stolen from parking lots, dog shelters, pet shops, beaches, and even backyards. Remember, it only takes a minute to steal a dog. So, think before you leave them unattended.
How can I protect my Service Dog from theft?
While it is good practice to make sure your service animal wears a service dog ID tag to make it easy for him to be reunited with you if he gets lost, service dog ID tags can get lost or damaged, and if he is stolen a collar ID is easily removed. Microchipping is the best way to ensure your dog can be returned to you if stolen.
All about the microchip
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), 52.2 % of lost dogs with microchips were returned to their owners, whereas only 21.9 % of dogs without microchips were reunited. 38.5 % of cats with chips were taken back to their owners, whereas only 1.8 % of cats without.
How is the microchip implanted?
Microchipping a simple procedure in which your dog or cat has a tiny computer chip encased in a glass cylinder implanted between his shoulder blades. The cylinder is tiny – the size of a grain of rice.
The procedure is carried out under the supervision of a veterinarian. The chip is inserted using a hypodermic needle, just like a vaccination. No anesthetic is required.
Microchipping is a very common procedure, and your service animal or ESA will hardly feel it. The chance that he will suffer from side effects is nearly non-existent. In a UK study, less than 400 (0.0001%) of the 4 million animals studied suffered from any adverse effects, and this was generally because the chip migrated from the place it was originally inserted.
If you have any concerns about the procedure or any specific questions about how it will affect your service dog or ESA, check with your veterinarian; he or she will be able to answer all your questions.
What information does the chip contain?
The chip contains a unique ID number that links to details of ownership held on an international database. The chip will only contain the contact information you provide; it will not contain information about the dog’s health or any other personal details.
How does the microchip work?
A microchip is not a tracking device, the information can only be accessed when it is scanned by a Veterinarian or at a shelter.
If your ESA or service dog goes missing, the chip will be scanned and the staff at the animal hospital or shelter will retrieve the ID number. Each ID is linked to a contact information database which can be used to find you and reunite you with your service dog or emotional support animal.
The AAHA has a Universal Microchip Lookup Tool which contains a listing of every registry service that a Unique ID is registered with. Veterinary or shelter staff can use the tool to contact the correct registry to find out the owner’s information. As there are many different microchip companies and registries, this has simplified the process by which owners can be contacted.
Do I need to maintain the microchip?
There is no need to maintain or replace the microchip as it does not contain a battery or any moving parts. Once it is inserted you and your service dog or emotional support animal will not be aware it’s there. Your veterinarian will check the microchip is working correctly every year at your dog’s annual check-up.
How much does microchipping cost?
Like all veterinary procedures, the cost will vary depending on your animal hospital and region, but it is generally around $25-40. There is often also a one-off fee (approximately $20) to register the ID number with the Contact Information Database. Ask your vet if there are likely to be any future costs, such as, if you need to change your contact information.
Keep your contact information up-to-date
This chip is only as good as the information you provide, so if you move or change your phone number, make sure you update the microchip company with your new contact details. In the AVMA study, the main reason why animals with microchips couldn’t be reunited with their owners was because the contact information was not up-to-date.
Register as many contact methods as possible, so if the unthinkable happens and your service dog or ESA is lost or stolen, you can be contacted easily.
Other ways to prevent your Service Animal or ESA from being stolen
Don’t leave your dog unattended in a backyard for too long. Dogs left outside are often targeted.
Don’t leave your service dog alone in a car. Animals left in parked cars are often the target of dognapping. Even if you are running into a shop for a moment, take your service dog with you. Don’t think it’s not easy for someone to quickly break into your car.
Don’t leave your service dog or ESA tied up outside a store. Dog thieves are clever and always on the look-out for easy targets. If you aren’t planning to take your dog inside the store or cafe, leave him at home.
Only use reputable dog-sitters. If you must leave your service dog in the care of a dog-sitter or kennel, seek recommendations, choose reputable companies, and check references. It’s a good idea to plan ahead and find someone you trust to look after your ESA pet or service animal before you need to use their services. Don’t wait to address it until you have an emergency and need to find someone in a hurry.
Be wary of strangers asking questions about your dog. By all means, have a conversation; they might just be friendly, after all, but be suspicious about giving away information about the cost of your dog, your address or information about whether they have been spayed/neutered.
What to do if your Service Dog gets stolen
f the worst happens and your dog is stolen, this is what you need to do.
Contact the police immediately and file a police report. This information can be invaluable for identification and may be used in court if the case ever goes to trial.
Report the theft to your local animal control department
If your dog is microchipped, contact the company, make sure your contact details are always up-to-date and remain available.
Talk to people in the area from which your pet was stolen, in case someone saw something suspicious.
Find an up-to-date photo of your dog and distribute it in the area from which he/she disappeared. Post it on local pet owner and lost and found Facebook groups. Ask your vet if they know of any local groups that might help.
Make fliers and post at local animal hospitals and shelters. Include a description of your dog but try to leave out a detail that will help you distinguish him if someone calls to collect a reward. Visit local shelters as often as possible to see if he turns up. Contact local newspapers, TV and radio.
Search and post on craigslist.com. If an opportunistic thief has stolen your dog this is a common place where they may try to sell him on. Search other local classifieds.
Check the Pet FBI website and file a report. This a free resource that maintains a database of lost and found pet reports.
Download the free ASPCA Pet Safety App which will provide further information about searching for a lost pet. The App also contains a facility to make a lost-animal flyer quickly and easily
Creating fliers
If your dog is lost or stolen, posting fliers in the area he was last seen is a very good idea. Remember, if he was stolen he might have got away from his captors or they might have released him.
Unfortunately, many people make fliers in haste that are not very effective. The best way to make a flier that contains all the relevant information is to use the template on the Pet FBI website, or the ASPCA Pet Safety App.
When posting fliers, bear these tips in mind:
Print on colored paper, or tape to a colored poster board – yellow is thought to be the most visible
Protect the flier by laminating, or placing in a plastic envelope
If you’re using a marker, make sure it’s indelible ink
Attach the flier to utility poles in the area where your Service Dog went missing using duct tape and nails
Distribute also to Animal Hospitals, Pet Supply Stores, anywhere in the area with a bulletin board
Let’s wrap things up
Protect yourself against scammers
If you receive any calls asking for money in return for getting your pet back, however plausible they sound, be on your guard. For example, someone might say they have found your pet in another state and need money to return him to you. This is a common scam. If you are suspicious, contact the police.
If someone asks to meet with you to return your dog, ask to meet in a public place and never go alone. If you have offered a reward, only hand the money over when you have the dog back.
Beware of dog theft
One in three dogs goes missing in their lifetime. It is not only dogs that are left alone for long periods that are at risk. Dog thieves are clever and sometimes steal to order so even if your service dog rarely leaves your side, you need to be on your guard.
If the unthinkable happens and your service animal gets lost or is stolen, you stand a good chance of getting him back if he is microchipped. Once your service dog has been microchipped, remember to keep the contact details updated if ever you move or change your phone number or email address.
Prevention is always better than cure, so think before you leave your dog unattended. Never leave them in a parked car or tied up outside a shop or cafe. Avoid leaving your Service Animal unattended in the backyard, especially if it is in view from the street.
If you take sensible precautions, register your service dog or ESA, should be safe and enjoy and long and happy partnership with you.
Going through life with an emotional or mental disability can be difficult enough. But when you are trying to find a place to live with your ESA, things can get even trickier. Some landlords are not welcoming to pets, even when they play such a vital role in their owner’s lives. Thankfully, people with emotional support animals have legal rights to fair housing. Keep reading below to learn everything you need to know about the Fair Housing Act, and how it can impact you and your ESA during your home search.
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals
There are two types of service pets that are impacted by the Fair Housing Act: certified service animals, and emotional support animals. Certified service animals are dogs that are trained to perform a particular task for someone with a disability, like helping them navigate a public area or notifying them of an approaching seizure. Emotional support animals do not require specialized training; their only job is to provide comfort and emotional support to their owners. ESAs can be dogs, cats, birds, horses, lizards, or any other type of animal.
The Fair Housing Act
Also known as the FHA, the Fair Housing Act is a federal law. According to this law, anyone with a mental or physical disability cannot be turned away from housing because of their emotional support animal or certified service dog. This law applies to most apartments and buildings, even those that have a “no pets” policy. Apartment managers and landlords must make “reasonable accommodations” for ESAs and service dogs.
Though the FHA does guarantee your rights, there are a few situations when it does not apply. Landlords are not required to comply with the law if the animal is too large for the apartment, like with a horse or llama. The same is true if the unit is in a building with four or fewer apartments and the landlord lives in one of them. Additionally, there are no guarantees to housing if you are trying to rent a single-family home without a real estate agent.
Required Documents
According to the Fair Housing Act, landlords have the right to ask you for certain documentation to prove that you need your ESA dog. This is simply a letter from a mental health professional, like a psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed therapist. The ESA letter must be printed on official letterhead and signed by the mental health professional. The apartment manager may also request an additional form that must be completed by your therapist.
What Landlords Cannot Ask For
The FHA lays out very clear guidelines about what a landlord cannot ask of you. This is designed to protect your rights during your home search. According to the FHA, landlords cannot:
Ask about your disability
Require you to pay additional rent or a deposit for your ESA
Force you to register your support animal
Require the ESA to have special training
Refuse to provide housing because their insurance doesn’t cover support animals
Keep in mind, however, that a landlord can ask you to pay for any damages that your support animal may cause. They also have the right to evict you if your ESA displays wild and uncontrollable behavior. If the landlord does not comply with the FHA, you have the right to sue them for discrimination.
Reach out to us at the National Service Animal Registry to learn more about the Fair Housing Act, service animals, and registering your pet as an emotional support animal.
WHICH SERVICE "TYPE" SHOULD I SELECT?
Guide: This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if you experience vision problems and your dog is trained to guide you in public settings.
Hearing Alert: This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if your dog is trained to alert you to sounds that you are unable to hear or identify, such as alarm clocks, doorbells, telephones, automobile sounds, and other important sounds you have trouble identifying.
In Training: If your dog is being trained to become a service dog, but isn't quite ready to qualify for registration, "In Training" is the service type you should select. Although service dogs that are in training have no federally protected rights, many public places allow you access with your service dog in training.
Medical Assist: This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if your dog is trained to assist you when experiencing a physical situation in which you can't perform a major life task for yourself (retrieve items, open doors, turn on lights, etc.).
Mobility: This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if your dog is trained or able to provide stability and support for substantial balance or walking problems because of a physical disability.
PSA (Psychiatric Service Animal): This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if your psychiatric or emotional disability substantially limits your ability to perform a major life task and your dog is trained to perform or help perform the task for you. A letter from a licensed therapist or psychiatrist that clearly indicates this is required.
Seizure Alert: This type is regarded as a "working service dog". Choose this type if your dog is trained or able to either predict a seizure or to get assistance from another person at the onset of a seizure.
SERVICE DOG VS. EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL
An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is an animal that, by its very presence, mitigates the emotional or psychological symptoms associated with a handler's condition or disorder. The animal does NOT need to be trained to perform a disability-specific task. All domesticated animals (dogs, cats, birds, reptiles, hedgehogs, rodents, mini-pigs, etc.) may serve as an ESA. The only legal protections an Emotional Support Animal has are 1) to fly with their emotionally or psychologically disabled handler in the cabin of an aircraft and 2) to qualify for no-pet housing. No other public or private entity (motels, restaurants, stores, etc.) is required to allow your ESA to accompany you and in all other instances, your ESA has no more rights than a pet.
You'll also need to be prepared to present a letter to airlines and property managers from a licensed mental health professional stating that you are emotionally disabled and that he/she prescribes for you an emotional support animal.
If you do not have a letter of prescription and are unable to get one, we recommend that you consider Chilhowee Psychological Services. This agency offers legitimate psychometric testing, assessment, diagnosis, AND a letter of prescription from a licensed mental health professional. Click here to view their website.
A final note: Some animals are innately able to predict the onset of a physical or psychiatric event or crisis, effectively enabling the handler to prevent or minimize the event. This is an ability that usually cannot be trained - some animals are simply born with the ability to sense the onset of the event. These types of animals, although not otherwise task-trained, are considered "working" service animals.
VIP Pass
Normally, emailed PDF copies are processed and sent the afternoon an order is shipped. It usually takes 2 - 4 business days to process and complete an order once we've received the image of your animal, although that can fluctuate, depending on the number of registrations we've received.
VIP Pass is an optional service that places your order ahead of all other orders in front of you (we usually have between 80 - 140 orders to process each weekday). So, your registration kit will ship either the day you order it (if the order is placed before 10:00 AM mountain time) or the very next business day GUARANTEED! Of course, you'll need to make sure you upload or email us an image of your animal immediately!
VIP Pass is not overnight or next day delivery. To have your order delivered "overnight", please contact our office to order and pay for Next Day Delivery. (1-866-737-3930 or info@nsarco.com).
