I want a service dog

So I would like to talk to my therapist about having a emotional support dog. Back when I was 10 and was going through a depressive & hectic time I got a cat. My cat helped me a lot since I was living in Sicily at the time, had zero friends, and no hobbies. So because I'm pretty much going through the exact same thing I thought about getting a service dog. Now I would just get a dog. However, my place will only let me have a dog if I pay a $1500 security deposit and a extra $200 a month. Which is outrageous and is there way of saying no pets.

So I would like to get a service dog, but I feel like if I talk to my therapist about getting one I will be refused. I know animals help me and I have always loved animals. So I want some tips on how to make this go over easier?

I think this is a great idea. However you need to know that ESA (emotional support animals) are not service dogs.

An ESA can be any animal. Only dogs can be service dogs (and there is a provision for some because of their beliefs may have the tiny miniature horse instead. My point is I mean, there are no "service animals" any more according to the ADA.)

Service dogs must have specialized training, and are allowed anywhere the public is allowed including hospitals, restaurants and government offices (not places of worship however.)

Fortunately the main businesses are beginning to accept the ESA more and more, and accommodate for them even though they are not required to by the ADA. That's a good thing, imo! Some do it out of ignorance, but still...

It only takes the letter from your doctor. There is no certification nor training required. But the animal needs to be socialized and under control, and the normal civil things if you go out in public (which is why you would do this anyway, so you would go out) is pick up after it, don't take it if it's sick, keep up to date shots, and not let it bother others.

If you were to go ahead and train a service dog, they cannot charge you extra in any way, any where (rentals, cabs, hotels...) because of the service dog. An ESA does not fall under that...yet... but hopefully in the future the ADA will include them too!

Good wishes on this!

Thanks for your response,

So do I need to register a ESA or will a letter from my therapist suffice my landlord? From what I've read a ESA does not need to be registered or wear a service vest. All I need is letter from my therapist.

I do not plan on taking my ESA out in public, but only when I'm home alone and the dark thoughts start closing in.

Rules are different regarding a Emotional Support Animal. In my province they are recognised as no more than a pet. There is no legal requirement that they must be allowed in public spaces/buildings or even an exemption for rental housing. In other words, your landlord has the law on their side if they disallow you from having your pet on their property. This is not the case for a service dog who by my provincial law are allowed everywhere.

I recommend you do your research regarding local laws and get authorization from your property manager prior to getting yourself any kind of ESA.

BTW, a service dog DOES require specialized task training. It must be trained to perform actual tasks to mitigate your disability.

I have both an ESA and service dog. I have won lawsuits against my HoA over my service dog. If you want some specific information on what your letter from your doctor should say, and how to go about the process with your landlord, please PM me. I deal with this subject daily in service dog advocacy groups.

Good luck,
seesaw