When you think of “getting healthy,” you probably think of eating veggies or going for a run. But did you know that your pet could be one of the best “medicines” for your mental health?
Doctors are now seeing that Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) do much more than just keep us company. They actually change the way our bodies and brains work to help us feel better.
Photo by Alla Kemelmakher at Unsplash
1. The Science of a Snuggle
It feels good to pet a dog or cat, but there is a scientific reason why. When you spend time with an animal, your body goes through a “chemical flip.”
- The “Love” Hormone: Petting an animal releases oxytocin. This is a natural chemical in your brain that helps you feel calm, safe, and happy.
- Lowering Stress: At the same time, your body lowers its levels of cortisol. Cortisol is the chemical that makes you feel stressed out. By lowering it, an ESA helps your heart stay healthy and keeps your mind clear.
2. A Living “Alarm Clock” for Your Day
Sometimes, when people feel very sad or anxious, it is hard to get out of bed or stick to a schedule. An ESA acts like a partner who keeps you on track.
- Daily Routine: Animals need to eat, go outside, and play. Because they depend on you, they give you a reason to get up and stay active.
- Exercise: Walking a dog is great for your heart. Even playing with a cat gets you moving, which releases endorphins—your body’s natural painkillers and mood boosters.
3. Your Home, Your Safe Space
For many people, the biggest stress is worrying about whether their pet is allowed to live with them. This is where the law helps.
Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), an ESA is not just a pet—it is a “reasonable accommodation.” This means that if you have a real medical need, your landlord must let your animal live with you, even in “no-pet” housing. They also cannot charge you extra pet fees or deposits!
How to Get Your Official ESA Letter
To protect your rights and keep your animal by your side, you need an official ESA Letter. This is a document signed by a licensed health professional that proves your animal is part of your treatment.
At Emotional Pet Support, we make this process easy and stress-free:
- Fast & Simple: You can complete your evaluation online from the comfort of your home.
- Licensed Professionals: We connect you with real, licensed experts who understand the health benefits of ESAs.
- Legal Protection: Our letters follow all federal laws, so you can show them to your landlord with confidence.