An emotional support animal can be defined as?

An emotional support animal is best defined as companion animals that provide emotional or therapeutic support to individuals. This definition aligns with the role that emotional support animals play in alleviating feelings of anxiety, depression, or other emotional disorders. Unlike service animals, which are specifically trained for tasks that assist people with disabilities, emotional support animals do not require specific training to perform tasks. Their primary function is to offer comfort and companionship to their owners, which is essential for individuals who may be struggling with mental health issues.

This distinction is critical in understanding the protections and rights afforded under fair housing laws, which often allow individuals with emotional support animals to live with their pets in housing that otherwise prohibits animals. The focus is on the emotional connection and psychological benefits provided by these animals, rather than physical tasks or service provisions.