While the site is informative and the process is fairly smooth, there are a few drawbacks --- including a $39 cancellation fee and the fact that ESA letters expire after 12 months, requiring annual renewal. Compared to RealESALetter.com, which offers a faster 24-hour turnaround and a more flexible guarantee, ESAcertificate.org falls short in both speed and value.
Pros:
Clear pricing
Digital delivery within 48 hours
Choose housing or travel letters
Cons:
Letters expire after 12 months
Refunds have a $39 fee
Can Dogs Be Emotional Support Animals?
Absolutely --- in fact, dogs are the most common type of emotional support animal (ESA). And it's not hard to see why. Dogs are naturally loyal, emotionally in tune with their humans, and offer a sense of comfort that can be life-changing for people facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, or chronic stress. Many dog owners say their furry companion helps them feel calmer, more grounded, and less alone --- especially during difficult times.
That said, it's important to understand the difference between an ESA and a service dog. Emotional support dogs don't need any special training to perform tasks. Instead, their value lies in the emotional support they provide through their presence and companionship. While they don't have public access rights like service dogs (e.g., entry to restaurants or airplanes under the ADA), emotional support dogs are protected under the Fair Housing Act (FHA). This means that with a valid ESA letter from a licensed therapist, your dog can live with you in housing that normally doesn't allow pets --- and landlords cannot charge pet fees or deny your ESA.
So yes, your dog absolutely can be an emotional support animal --- and with the right documentation, they can legally stay by your side where it matters most: at home.
How to Get an ESA Letter for Your Dog
Getting an emotional support animal (ESA) letter for your dog is a straightforward and legal process --- as long as it's done through a licensed mental health professional. Whether you're applying through your own therapist or an online ESA service like RealESALetter.com, the steps are simple and stress-free. Here's how it works:
1. Take a Pre-Screening Questionnaire
Start by answering a few basic questions about your mental or emotional health and how your dog supports your well-being. This quick quiz usually takes just a few minutes and helps determine if you may qualify for an ESA letter.
2. Get Matched with a Licensed Therapist
