It’s a well-established fact that pets can brighten our day and improve our well-being. But emotional support animals can do more than that.

Emotional support animals (ESA) are animals that offer an emotional connection to people suffering from mental and physical disabilities. The most common ESAs are dogs and cats but other animals can also be considered as ESA as long as they provide therapeutic benefits.

Although emotional support animals do not perform specific tasks, their companionship can help relieve the symptoms associated with severe mental conditions. Some of the mental conditions are listed below.

1. Anxiety

Anxiety can negatively impact a person’s emotional and physical health. It’s especially difficult when a person experiences anxiety or panic attacks, making them restless or nauseous. Emotional support animals can reduce these feelings by providing comfort and security.

For people with social anxiety, the presence of ESAs can help build confidence and motivate them to interact with others. They offer a sense of stability when exploring a new environment and make challenging situations less stressful.

2. Depression

Depression is a mental condition that negatively affects how people feel, think, and act. It often leads to extreme feelings of sadness and loss of interest.

There are several possible reasons why some people are diagnosed with depression. It can be due to your brain chemistry, genetics, or stressful life events. But whatever the cause, ESAs can alleviate the symptoms of depression.

ESAs provide companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness. In these situations, dogs are commonly used as ESAs because of their friendly and outgoing nature. They sense when you’re sad or happy and they crave your love and attention.

3. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a form of anxiety disorder that is caused by exposure to terrifying or fatal events. People with PTSD experience panic attacks and sometimes have difficulty sleeping due to intense fear.

ESAs can help individuals with this condition by making them feel safe and secure. They also reduce stress levels by giving friendship and constant companionship.

4. Autism

Most people with autism have difficulty managing their emotions. Some have sudden outbursts and might hurt themselves. Although there is currently no cure for autism, therapies like the use of service animals and ESAs are available to manage some of the symptoms. These animals can provide a solid source of support and comfort to autistic children.

ESAs can provide comfort in stressful situations, but service dogs are more commonly used as companions for people with autism. That’s because they’re trained to detect mood changes and can help navigate physical spaces.

5. Bipolar disorder

The problem with bipolar disorder is the sudden changes in mood, energy, and behavior. Emotional support dogs can detect these changes and make people calmer in times of great distress. They don’t judge and show love, whatever emotions you feel!

Conclusion

Although ESAs can help people suffering from mental conditions, it’s important to note that they’re not a substitute for medical treatments. Therapists and other medical professionals often recommend getting ESAs as an addition to other medications and therapies.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

Conversational AI or chatbots are gaining popularity these days. Not only do they communicate well, but they also help businesses achieve better results efficiently. But did you know that chatbots can also help pet owners like yourself?

Chatbots are programs that use artificial intelligence (AI) and natural language processing (NLP) to communicate with users. They can analyze your questions or request and compose a reply according to your intent.

An example of a powerful chatbot is ChatGPT. It was launched in November 2022, and it’s taking the world by storm. This AI tool can write essays, generate codes, and answer questions from customers. New pet owners can take advantage of this tool by getting the information they need to keep their pets safe and happy.

Here are 5 ways ChatGPT can assist in taking care of your pet!

1. Finds the best pet care websites for you

ChatGPT can give a list of websites that offer resources and information on pet care. For example, you can ask ChatGPT about the “best pet care websites” or “popular pet care websites,” and it’ll give you a list in seconds. It also provides a brief overview of what the websites are.

If you want, you can get more information about the websites. Just type “tell me more about [website name],” and it’ll give a more comprehensive discussion about the website.

2. Provides pet training tips

ChatGPT cannot physically train animals, but it can offer resources to help pet owners train their pets. This includes tips and advice about behavior training, cool tricks, and basic commands.

To show an example, I asked ChatGPT “how to potty train my dog,” and it replied with a comprehensive discussion on potty training. Here’s an image of the reply.

3. Answers questions about pet care

If you have questions on pet behavior, health, and nutrition, you can get quick answers from ChatGPT. ChatGPT can answer a wide range of questions about pet care. For example, you can ask, “what food to avoid” or “what it means when cats purr”.

Keep in mind that the information ChatGPT provides is not a substitute for professional advice from a veterinarian. It’s always best to consult with a trusted professional.

4. Product recommendations

Through ChatGPT, you can get suggestions for pet products, such as toys and grooming supplies. Here’s an example:

Note that ChatGPT may not always be up-to-date with the latest products, so you still need to do your own research before purchasing. In addition, don’t forget to consider your pet’s specific needs, like dietary requirements and health conditions, when choosing products for them.

Conclusion

ChatGPT is like Google, but instead of giving you articles from websites, this chatbot gives more direct and user-friendly answers. However, like other AI chatbots, ChatGPT has flaws and disadvantages.

Because it learns from an extensive database of websites, the information it gives may not always be accurate or reliable. So it’s better to verify with additional research before making any decisions that could impact the long-term health and well-being of your pet.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

New service dog handlers know how difficult it is to work with or train a service dog without making mistakes. But discussing these mistakes shouldn’t be embarrassing. In fact, this is essential to inform first-timers on what to avoid so they can have a smoother experience and reduce the risk of getting injuries in handling a service dog.

If this is your first time getting a service dog, read on to know the mistakes to avoid as a service dog handler.

1. Picking the wrong dog for the job

Remember that you’re choosing a dog that will assist you with your disability and not just a pet. A canine helper should have a personality, temperament, and demeanor that fits a specific job. If not, it will be harder to train them. Well, training them is still possible, but they may not cooperate or work as much.

So what should you do? First, make a list of things that you want your service dog to do. For example, do you want a guide, hearing assistance, or mobility assistance dog? How do you like your dog to react or respond to your actions?

Then consider their size. A larger dog provides more support, while smaller dogs take up less space. It’s essential to choose a dog that you enjoy working with, so take note of their personality. If you’re not sure what breed is right for you, search online or talk to a professional trainer for assistance.

2. Not being adequately informed on ADA laws on service dogs

It’s important to learn the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) laws to know your rights as a service dog handler, from housing to public access. This is also true when you’re traveling, especially since different countries have different laws on service dogs. Be sure that you do your research before planning to travel with your dog.

3. Taking your dog on public access without proper training

State laws allow service dogs to enter places that don’t generally allow pets like restaurants, schools, and hospitals. However, these establishments can ask handlers to remove their service animals if the dogs are not housebroken. If not properly trained, they may disturb other people in the area and get out of control. So make sure that they’re house-trained, and don’t bring them in your travels when they’re not yet ready.

4. Believing that registration is required

The ADA does not require documentation, ID, or certification for a dog to be considered a service animal. Some first-timers believe that their dogs need to be registered in order to be permitted public access, but it’s actually not required. You don’t have to show any proof that your dog has been registered as a service animal as a condition for entry. But if you want, you can still have your dog registered. Local governments and other entities, such as Service Animal Registry of California, only offer voluntary registries for people to know that a dog is a service animal.

5. Using the wrong treats

Food treats are often the most effective ways to reward and influence your dog’s behavior. However, some food could be toxic to them. If your dog is not getting excited about the treats you’re using, it’s most likely because those treats are not suitable for them. Make sure that your fur buddy is healthy by feeding them the right treats.

Conclusion

Having a dog by your side is one of the best things for service dog owners. Give your fur buddy the best time of their life by avoiding these mistakes and prioritizing their health and safety. Remember that if you’re having difficulty handling or training a service dog, you could always contact a professional trainer.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

Do you want to track your dog or find a groomer for them? How about looking for a veterinarian near you? Fortunately, you can find everything on the internet.

You can download applications that can help you connect with other fur parents, train your pet, and care for them. The problem now is to filter which app is best. Don’t worry! Our team has researched the 5 best apps pet parents can use to meet their pets’ needs.

1. Rover

If you’re looking for a pet sitter or boarding facility that guarantees the safety of your pet, this app is for you. Rover can help by connecting you to companies or individuals that offer pet services like dog walking, pet boarding, and pet sitting. So you don’t have to worry if you have a tight schedule. Just use the Rover app to find someone to help your dog stretch and get their exercise in. This website also ensures your pet’s safety as they thoroughly screen applicants before connecting them with pet owners.

Get the Rover iOS app here and the Android app here.

2. Puppr

Do you want to personally train your dog but don’t know how to do it? Check out this simple and fun app that gives step-by-step instructions and lessons for dog training. The lessons cover over 50 tricks and basic commands like “stay” or “sit”. It also has a built-in clicker for positive reinforcement.

Check out their website, and download the app on the App store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)

3. Tractive GPS

Tractive is a company that specializes in pet wearables and pet-related apps. Tractive GPS comes in with a tracker that can be attached to your pet’s collar. With GPS, you can get notifications when your pet is outside the house, and the app shows the exact location of your dog/cat.

Its features include real-time tracking, interactive map, battery status, and pet location sharing. The only downside is you need to buy the GPS tracker, which costs 49,99 € and choose a subscription that ranges from 5 to 8 € per month.

Check out their website, and download the app on App store (iOS) or Google Play (Android)

4. Pet First Aid

The features of this app make it one of the most essential things to have. This will help you perform first aid on your pet in case of emergencies. For example, it provides instructions on what to do when your pet eats a toxic substance or how to act during a disaster. CPR tutorials are also accessible for pet owners. Another top feature is that it can locate nearby veterinary hospitals or pet-friendly hotels.

Get the iOS app here and the Android app here.

5. 11pets

11pets is a great tool that provides various resources for caring for your fur babies. This includes reminders for medications, vaccines, or check-ups. You can also store their medical records and gain access to professional groomers. 11 pets provides other versions for professional groomers and animal welfare organizations.

Check out their website here and download the 11pets: Pet care app Android version here and iOS version here.

Conclusion

These apps are powerful tools that make pet owners’ lives more convenient. From taking care of our pet buddies to giving them first aid, these apps do a lot, especially for pet parents who are still learning. We hope that you find the perfect app that suits your pet’s needs!

Read more articles below:

• 5 New Year Goals to Achieve for Your Service Animal
• Everyday Tips to Promote the Health and Wellness of Your Furry Friend
• Dining Out with Your Dog: What You Need to Know

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

New year’s resolutions are not only for us humans but also for our fur buddies.

A new year has begun and as we write down our goals, don’t forget to consider the welfare of your service animal. The principal task of service animals is to assist us in our daily lives. Still, as owners, we are responsible for taking care of them. So this year, consider the things that could improve your buddy’s physical and mental state.

Here are 5 new year goals that service animal handlers can set for their companion.

1. Provide a healthier diet.

Service animals need proper nutrition so they can carry out their responsibilities. Their diet depends on what type of animal they are, so ask the veterinarian for recommendations. It would help if you also took note of the service animal’s breed and age to ensure that they’re getting what they need and not under or overfed. Avoid giving too many treats to reduce the risk of diabetes and other diseases.

2. Do regular checkups.

Regular visits to the veterinarian are very important to know if your service animal has underlying conditions and get them the treatment they need immediately. Service dogs are recommended to have their checkup at least once a year. And always check for sudden mood changes as they can indicate health problems. Ask your veterinarian if there’s a maintenance medication that they need to take to help prevent problems that may arise.

3. Provide mental and physical stimulation.

Service animals, like other pets, shouldn’t just be on standby. They also need some mental and physical stimulation to keep their active nature. You don’t have to plan for big parties or long drives. A simple walk in the neighborhood is enough for dogs. If you have cats, you can visit your local pet stores to get some toys like plush mice and feathers. The best way to stimulate your fur buddy is to spend time with them. Make sure you include that in your new year goals.

4. Enroll for insurance.

While service animals are highly trained to help you with specific disabilities, they can still get sick or injured. So one goal that you should set as a service animal handler is to get pet insurance. Now, you can choose from various plans that meet their needs and fit your budget. Check out this website to discover different pet insurance companies in 2023.

5. Keep up with training.

Service animals are highly trained to fulfill one’s specific needs. However, they need to remain trained to achieve exemplary service standards and ensure that their handler is always safe. Note that after acquiring a service animal, it’s your responsibility to continually work with the organization that trains them.

As a final note, always consider the health of your service animal when setting goals. Spend more quality time with them. Show your appreciation for their service by providing for their needs, including your love and affection.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

For veterans, their battles don’t end on the field. Most of them carry these physical and emotional scars after their service, and they continue to struggle personally for a long time.

To help them cope with these struggles, doctors recommend having a service dog for companionship and support. Alongside therapy, service dogs can help someone recover from PTSD and other mental disorders. They’re also trained depending on a person’s needs. For example, they can guide visually impaired individuals or assist those with movement issues.

Suppose you’re planning to get a service dog. In that case, you first need to get a certification from your doctor showing that you have a disability and need a service dog to support your daily life. This article tackles what conditions qualify you for a service dog and how you can obtain one.

Disabilities That Veterans May Suffer from

Many veterans experience health conditions due to their serving their country. This can be physical, like vision loss, hearing damage, or chronic pain. Statistics show that most veterans have hearing problems like tinnitus and hearing loss. This may be due to loud noises from guns and explosions. Some veterans may also suffer from vision problems due to blast-related brain injuries or old age.

But aside from physical injuries, veterans also suffer from multiple mental health issues. Research shows that veterans who have been deployed are more likely to experience anxiety and depression than civilians. In fact, one in five US veterans deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan experience PTSD or depression. This results in thoughts of suicide or addiction to drugs and alcohol.

But there is light at the end of the tunnel. The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has programs to help veterans recover. Check out this link for more information on VA-related programs.

How to Obtain a Service Dog Through the Veterans Affairs

The Department of Veterans Affairs also supports the presence of guides and service dogs for veterans suffering from service-related injuries. Aside from therapy and medications, the VA created a program to support qualified veterans with service dogs. Follow these steps to obtain a service dog through the VA:

• Meet with a VA health provider. If you have hearing, visual, or mobility issues, you can meet with your VA Clinical Care Provider. They will determine if you need assistive devices, including a service dog. If you have mental health issues, meet with a VA Mental Health Provider instead. They will assess if your mental condition can cause ”substantial mobility limitations”.
• Contact service dog agencies. Unfortunately, the VA does not provide service dogs. Instead, veterans approved to have service dogs will be referred to Assistance Dogs International or International Guide Dog Federation accredited agencies. Contact these agencies and submit the necessary requirements.
• Adopt and train your service dog. Once your application is approved, you can now adopt a trained service dog. Some veterans can also train their own service dogs but to make sure that your dog is properly trained, it’s best to leave it to the professionals.
• Apply for VA benefits. If the VA team approves your application, you can request service dog veterinary health insurance benefits through the VA Prosthetic & Sensory Aids Service.

Conclusion

Treating service-related health conditions is not easy. No medication can cure these illnesses overnight. But having a trained service dog can help improve your condition. So don’t lose hope and try to seek help.

Are you feeling a little down? Maybe you need a boost of dopamine to lighten your day up.

Dopamine is a chemical released in our brains that makes us feel pleased and satisfied. So when you feel good after achieving something, it may be because there’s a surge of dopamine in your brain.

But dopamine doesn’t just affect our feelings. It’s also involved in maintaining our body movements, cognition, memory, and sleep. Significantly low dopamine levels can lead to Parkinson’s disease, ADHD, and depression. Some people with dopamine deficiency take medications to increase their dopamine levels. However, there are also natural ways to get a boost of dopamine.

Here are 5 ways to increase your dopamine naturally.

1. Spend time with your pets.

Some doctors prescribe people with mental health conditions to have an emotional support animal to improve their emotional state and overall well-being. For example, simply spending time with a pet can elevate dopamine levels, which makes people feel calmer and more relaxed.

Play with your dog or cat. Give them some belly rubs, or simply hold them. It will not only make them happy but also fill your heart with joy and serenity.

2. Eat a healthy diet.

Our brains use an amino acid called tyrosine to produce dopamine. So getting more of this amino acid from food can potentially increase dopamine levels.

To acquire it, you don’t have to look for expensive drugs or meals. Simply eating a healthy diet is enough. This includes eating chicken, eggs, dairy, avocados, and bananas, which are all tyrosine-rich foods. Supplements with turmeric, vitamin D, and magnesium are also claimed to increase dopamine levels.

3. Be physically active.

It’s widely known that exercise is good for your health. But aside from strengthening our physical bodies, working out can also have positive effects on our brains.

During exercise, the brain releases neurotransmitters like endorphin and dopamine that increase the sensation of pleasure. Aside from exercising, you can also do yoga, have a massage, or walk outside. All these physical activities will improve your mood and clear your mind.

4. Meditate regularly.

Meditation is a mental exercise. It allows your mind to wander and become aware of the present. Studies have shown that dopamine levels can be elevated by this activity. So take some of your time to meditate. Appreciate your achievements, no matter how small or big they are.

5. Get enough sleep.

A large amount of dopamine is released once we wake up in the morning. That is why it feels good to wake up. However, when people stay awake throughout the night, dopamine receptors in their bodies can be affected, which reduces dopamine sensitivity.

Lower dopamine levels can result in decreased feelings of alertness and wakefulness. This can also affect our concentration and coordination. So get enough quality sleep and avoid drinking caffeine in the evening.

Conclusion

Note that increasing your dopamine levels alone will not solve all your problems. It will just improve your mood and emotions. So, don’t just focus on dopamine, but also consider other hormones like serotonin and oxytocin.

It’s also possible to start craving more dopamine because you feel good. That’s why some people get addicted to alcohol, illegal drugs, and social media. Once addicted, it’s difficult to get back to normal. So, it’s best to avoid these addicting and harmful activities. Instead, keep your dopamine levels balanced by staying healthy.

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

It’s the holiday season again! Naturally, there’s a surge of food and treats around your house. But more food choices don’t necessarily mean it’s great for your pet dog.

Most of us know that chocolates are bad for your dog. But you might be surprised that some of your holiday feasts can also harm your fur buddy. Here’s a list of holiday foods and ingredients that your dog should avoid ingesting.

1. Grapes and their Dried Products

Did you know that grapes can cause renal failure in dogs? You may be surprised that this fruit is harmful to dogs, but it’s true.

Studies show that grapes and their dried products, such as raisins, sultanas, and currants, are toxic to dogs. This fruit can be ingested raw or cooked as an ingredient in holiday desserts like fruit cakes, mince pies, and snack bars. Once eaten, this may lead to food poisoning symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. So, keep your desserts and fruit baskets out of your pet’s reach and serve them to your relatives instead.

2. Caffeine

Chocolate was identified as one of the 10 most common cases of toxicosis in dogs. But why is it so bad for them? It’s because chocolate contains caffeine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Actually, other plant-derived substances called methylxanthines found in foods and beverages are also toxic.

Get your pet away from methylxanthine-containing foods, including coffee, tea, cocoa powder, chocolate milk, cookies, and cakes. To know whether your dog has ingested one of these foods, look for signs of food poisoning and immediately go to the nearest veterinary office.

3. Bones

Bones are not toxic to dogs, but when cooked, they can splinter and get lodged in your pet’s throat. This may result in serious injuries such as choking, gastrointestinal obstruction, and bleeding. To keep your dog safe, only give meat from your holiday meals and not the bones. Don’t put the cooked chicken or beef bones in your trash can, as your pet may dig them out.

4. Onions and garlic

Onions, garlic, chives, and all members of a bulbous plant group called Allium are known for their strong aroma and odor. They’re commonly used as ingredients in many holiday dishes, like stuffings and baked goods. However, these plants also contain substances that are toxic to dogs. When ingested, this may cause blood cell damage and anemia. Even cooking, drying, or processing does not remove the plants’ toxicity, so it’s best to just keep them away from your pets.

5. Alcohol

Wines and beers are a must in most households to pair with their favorite dishes. But it’s just for human consumption — don’t let your dog get a hold of them. This may seem like common sense, but if left unattended, your pet may accidentally end up drinking them. Alcohols or alcohol-containing fruitcakes or eggnogs are toxic to dogs. Once ingested, the ethanol is rapidly absorbed in their digestive tract and may cause digestive and respiratory issues.

Conclusion

The holiday season is the time to eat, drink and be merry for you and your pet buddy. But before allowing them to indulge, ensure that their tummies are safe. Double-check if your holiday treats are suitable for your dog, then give them in moderate amounts.

Read more articles below!

• Everyday Tips to Promote the Health and Wellness of Your Furry Friend
• Cuddling With Your Pet Is Good for Your Health and Wellness
• 6 Ways to Practice Emotional Self-Care

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

College life is a unique experience, but it can also be overwhelming. In fact, most students experience anxiety because of academics, high expectations, and separation from their families. Some may develop emotional disorders like depression, social anxiety, or worse — suicidal thoughts.

If your academic performance is hindered by any of these conditions, consider getting an emotional support animal (ESA). This article discusses different examples of ESAs and how they can benefit college students.

The Surge of Emotional Support Animals in College Dorms

You may be wondering if you’re allowed to bring animals on campus. Technically speaking, not all colleges and universities allow students to bring pets inside the campus. But emotional support animals are not just pets. They’re prescribed by a licensed mental health professional to provide comfort to their owner and ease their anxiety. You may not be able to bring them to class, but they can be your roommate in your dorm.

All institutions are required by law not to deny housing to ESA owners. According to the Fair Housing Act, ESAs are permitted to almost every type of housing. This includes university dorms and apartments. In addition, landlords are not allowed to charge extra fees or impose restrictions on ESAs.

As the stigma of mental illness diminishes, schools have started accommodating ESAs to mitigate suicides among students in recent years. In fact, colleges are seeing a rise in student requests who want to bring an ESA into their dorms. Many schools are also using therapy animals to help students during stressful times.

What Are the Benefits of Emotional Support Animals for College Students?

Having an emotional support animal by your side comes with different perks for students, especially those that are still adjusting to college. The benefits include the following:

• They help you become physically more active. Your physical health is as important as your mental health, so it’s essential that you keep it in good shape. ESAs, especially dogs, can help you be more active by walking or playing around the campus. These activities are also a good distraction, so you don’t excessively focus on your academics.
• You can handle homesickness better. It’s typical for students to want to be with their families, which makes them feel depressed when they can’t. ESAs can be your companion, so you don’t miss home that much. They can give you a sense of familiarity in a new place and can be a good distraction from all the sadness.
• They’re your support system. Whether they’re paying attention to you or not, ESAs are a great support system just by being there with you. It’s a plus if you actually feel their love when they go to your lap or want your touch. Essentially, they make your day so much better and your college life more bearable.

Conclusion

One of the most common misconceptions about ESAs is that any student can bring them. Note that a pet owner should be able to recognize if a place is conducive for animals. Most dorm rooms are too small, and animals can get neglected. If you really need an ESA, make sure that you’re responsible enough to take care of your fur buddy.

Read more articles below!

• Everyday Tips to Promote the Health and Wellness of Your Furry Friend
• The Best Small Dog Breeds That Are Great for Emotional Support
• 6 Ways to Practice Emotional Self-Care

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals. Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below. 

Pets make our lives happier by being our cheerful companions. However, they can’t do that if they’re uncomfortable or living in poor conditions.

As owners, we have a responsibility of taking care of our pets. Even if they’re trained as emotional support animals or service animals, pets still have basic needs for stress-free lives and also to fulfill their duties. Taking care of your furry friend may take effort, but there are simple ways to ensure its happiness. Here’s what you can do each day to help your buddy live a long and healthy life.

1. Provide them with a nutritious diet

This is one of the most important things that you need to note for your pet. Never let your furry friend starve, and make sure that you feed them with enough protein, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet will make your pet physically and emotionally healthy.

Different foods are recommended for each type of animal. For example, rabbits should eat a lot of hay, cats require a meat-based diet, and dogs can eat both meat and vegetables. Also, don’t forget to provide ample amounts of water so that your furry friend stays hydrated.

Read more: What Healthy and Natural Treats Can Dogs Eat?

2. Make sure they have daily exercise

Your pet also needs exercise to stay in an excellent physical and mental state. You may take them on simple walks, play around, or go hiking. Just make sure you accompany your pet and prioritize their safety and comfort. Daily exercise also allows you to be physically active and share a bond with your buddy.

3. Regularly groom your pet

Ensure that your pet is clean to avoid any disease and complications. Some already clean themselves by licking their furs and shaking. But some pets, like dogs, need to regularly bathe. Brushing their coat is also necessary to prevent skin and lung issues.

4. Try to train your pet

Some animals, like service animals or therapy animals, are already trained to perform important functions that help people suffering from mental or physical conditions. But you can also train your pet to socialize or litter in a proper spot. This will help you manage them more easily and efficiently. If you’re a first-time pet owner, you might want to consult a professional or take a class. Some shelters also offer training that teaches owners how to discipline their pets correctly.

Read more: 7 Commands to Teach a Service Dog

5. Regularly visit the vet

A regular checkup is the best way to ensure that your pet is healthy. This doesn’t have to be done every day, but make sure you visit the vet at least once a year to check for underlying issues. This will allow you to prevent complications if your pet suffers from severe health conditions.

6. Give your attention and love

Demonstrate your love for your buddy by petting, cuddling, or giving it a belly rub. Don’t be shy to show your affection because your furry friend will not judge you. In fact, these gestures will fortify your emotional bond with each other.

Conclusion

Show your pet your gratitude and make sure it’s safe and comfortable in your care. Learn what your pet may feel and find ways to recognize when they’re stressed. They may not say it to you, but your pet will be grateful for your love and efforts!

Do you own an assistance animal? Register your pet today.

The Service Animal Registry of California invites you to have your assistance animal registered in order to designate its status. We also encourage you to take our online classes so you can be fully aware of your rights and gain more knowledge about your support animal.

Finally, we present to you our book entitled, “ASSISTANCE ANIMAL LAWS: LEARN YOUR RIGHTS REGARDING SERVICE ANIMALS, EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMALS, THERAPY PETS, AND OTHER DOGS, CATS, AND ASSISTANCE ANIMALS” to provide you with a complete education on assistance animals.

Purchase your copy of the book by clicking the image below.