Which of the following is NOT considered an emotional support animal?

The correct answer is based on the definition of an emotional support animal (ESA) and its intended purpose. Emotional support animals are typically pets that provide comfort, companionship, and emotional support to their owners, primarily to help alleviate symptoms of emotional and psychological conditions.

Options A, B, and D all describe animals that are primarily providing companionship or comfort, which is the essence of what defines an emotional support animal. Dogs, cats, and rabbits can all serve this role effectively by offering emotional stability and support for individuals with legitimate mental health needs.

However, option C describes a bird that performs tasks, which indicates a more functional role typically associated with service animals rather than emotional support animals. Service animals are trained to perform specific tasks to assist individuals with disabilities, but ESAs are not required to be trained for any particular tasks. This distinction clarifies why a bird performing tasks does not align with the criteria for an emotional support animal.