Post
by bmathers » Thu Jun 09, 2016 10:31 pm
ESA's are not recognized by the ADA - the ADA only allows for service dogs to board a flight. HOWEVER, the ACAA (air carrier aviation act) does cover and legally allow for ESA's (with proper documentation) to fly, for free, in the cabin of a plane.
Furthermore, having your dog documented as an ESA can REALLY help with finding housing at law school (I have mine designated as an ESA for that reason - I have been through a lot in my life and I have a couple diagnoses that qualify me for an ESA, but honestly do not need one - however, the benefits are worth talking to a certified mental health professional [NOT a GP/family doc] about getting a letter for one). The FHA covers ESAs, legally, in housing. Any apartment building that is over 4 units (or, if less than 4 units if the owner does not occupy any of the units) cannot deny an ESA - whether it is pet-friendly or not - and can not charge you a fee or a monthly pet rent. However, if your dog is not well-behaved, they do have the right to later "kick you out." (Yeah, I want to get into disability law and probably know a bit too much about service vs. therapy vs ESA vs pet distinctions and laws governing them all)