Understanding ESA Restrictions: Empowering You with Knowledge on what Animals Cannot Be Emotional Support Animals
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) play a vital role in the lives of individuals with mental health challenges, providing comfort and companionship. While dogs and cats are the most common choices, the idea of unconventional animals serving as emotional support animals (ESAs) has gained popularity. However, not every animal can be designated as an emotional support animal, at least not legally or practically.
Let’s explore which animals are not recognized as suitable ESAs under current laws and why particular species may be restricted.
🛑 Animals That Cannot Be Recognized as ESAs
1. Exotic or Wild Animals
Animals such as snakes, monkeys, lions, or tigers are not considered suitable emotional support animals. These creatures may be dangerous, complex to care for, or prohibited due to public health and safety concerns.
Examples:
- Primates (e.g., chimpanzees, monkeys)
- Big cats (e.g., lions, tigers, bobcats)
- Venomous snakes
- Bears
- Wolves or wolf hybrids
Why not?
These animals pose risks to others, may be difficult to control in public spaces, and are often banned by local or state laws, even with ESA documentation.
2. Farm Animals
Though people may form deep bonds with animals. Like pigs, goats, or chickens, these animals are not always considered appropriate ESAs, especially in housing or travel contexts.
Examples:
- Pigs (especially large or pot-bellied pigs)
- Chickens and roosters
- Goats and sheep
- Cows and miniature horses (for ESA—not service animals)
Why not?
Farm animals often fall outside reasonable accommodation standards for housing or air travel. Their size, hygiene needs, and public health issues make them difficult to accommodate.
3. Dangerous or Aggressive Animals
Even if an individual feels emotionally supported by their pet, animals with a history of aggression or unpredictability are not legally protected as ESAs.
Examples:
- Dogs with a documented bite history
- Aggressive birds
- Animals that show signs of hostility or uncontrollable behavior
Why not?
Landlords and airlines have the right to refuse animals that may pose a threat to others, regardless of ESA status.
4. Animals Banned by Local or State Laws
Even if a letter from a licensed mental health provider designates an animal as an ESA, local laws can override that status.
Examples:
- Ferrets (banned in some states like California and Hawaii)
- Certain reptiles and amphibians
- Certain dog breeds in breed-restricted housing communities
Why not?
City and state ordinances, HOA rules, and rental property restrictions can legally prevent the keeping of some animals, even with ESA credentials.
✈️ Travel and Housing Limitations: Not Every ESA Is Protected
- Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), only animals that can be reasonably accommodated in housing qualify. Exotic or overly large animals may be denied.
- Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), as of 2021, airlines are no longer required to recognize ESAs as service animals. Most now allow only dogs in the cabin and charge standard pet fees for all others.
✅ Animals Most Commonly Accepted as ESAs
If you’re looking for an ESA that’s more likely to be accepted and legally protected, consider:
- Dogs
- Cats
- Small domesticated rabbits
- Certain types of birds (e.g., parakeets)
These animals are manageable, generally safe, and typically meet legal requirements under housing and (formerly) airline accommodations, providing you with a sense of security and comfort.
Final Thoughts
While the bond between humans and animals is deeply personal, not every creature can legally or practically serve as an Emotional Support Animal. To ensure your ESA is recognized and protected under the law, it’s essential to choose a species that:
- It is domesticated and safe,
- Can be reasonably accommodated in public or shared housing,
- Local ordinances or federal regulations do not restrict it.
Always remember, it’s crucial to consult with a licensed mental health provider and review state and federal laws before acquiring or registering an ESA. Their guidance will ensure you’re on the right track.
Need help understanding ESA rules for your pet? Have a unique situation or question? We’re here to help. Reach out to a licensed provider or visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the most up-to-date legal guidelines.
Reach out to a licensed provider or visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the most up-to-date legal guidelines.
