For anxiety-ridden people, their comfort space is like heaven to them. This space can be a corner, a hidden chamber in your basement wall that leads into another fantasy world, but no one will ever know about it, or an emotional support animal. It is the most precious thing for them because this comfort space helps them to calm their chaotic mind and let them take a breather.
The same is true even when they are going for a vacation, on an international trip or just visiting a hill station to wind some of that stress off. And although you cannot take your basement with you, an emotional support animal… is a different story.
Most of us know already that ESAs have this golden ticket called an ESA letter. This ticket allows them to enter any place their owner wants, even if that area prohibits animals. For example- hotels and flights.
Laws that support you
Two major federal laws which are strongly supporting emotional support animal rights are:
- Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) – This law allows people to fly with their pets.
- Fair Housing Act (FHA) – This allows every emotional support animal owner to find reasonable accommodation.
Now both laws are applicable all over the US, which means no one can deny you of flying or renting a house with an emotional support animal even if there’s a no-pet policy in action.
Tips to travel with emotional support animals
There are many things that you need to keep in mind while checking in with your ESA at any hotel. Here are some tips that you can use to ensure a smooth sailing trip on your next vacation.
 Know your legal rights:
Knowing what’s in your power and how you can use laws to protect yourself and your ESA in case of discrimination can be a big help. There are federal laws as mentioned above which can help you in case a landlord refuses your accommodation.
Since ESAs fall under federal law’s protection, you are safe given you have proper documents to prove the claim. These documents include proof of how your pet helps you with your condition, the signature of a certified doctor, and an ESA letter.
How do hotels may refuse?
Since the FHA only covers residential property, the hotel you want to stay in might prohibit your ESA from entering. This is because hotels do not fall under residential property, hence they can deny your request. But you have the power to convey your situation and chances are they might let you in.
Some hotels might allow your pet but on account of extra charges and even on that, you might face restrictions on which breed you can take or the size and weight of your pet.
Choose a common pet
It’s seen that often people who have unusual species like reptiles and amphibians or even birds, as their ESA face denial. This is because these species require extra care and would make trouble for other people if allowed. Therefore, it is always a good idea to choose a pet that is more socially accepted, like a cat or dog. Not only do they get easy access to planes and hotels, we also seen them as emotional creatures and people can relate if you present them as an ESA.
Know more: Carpet Cleaning For Pets & Important Things You Need To Know
Bottom line
ESA can be a big help to help you relax and unwind, not only that, they also help you make friends and help you develop socially by reducing your anxiety. This makes it even more real to bring them with you on your trips, but not being accepted in hotels can put off the mood.
So the best course of action is to make sure you are prepared for everything in advance. Make sure you have proper documents and a certificate from an ESA doctor. Always carry your emotional support animal letter and stay up to date with the hotel policies and laws of whatever state or country you are visiting.
