It’s true that most pets bring comfort and joy. However, for an animal to qualify as an emotional support animal (ESA), there must be a documented disability-related need. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ESAs are not just pets, they are considered a reasonable accommodation for individuals with a mental or emotional disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Simply feeling happier with a pet is not enough. FAKE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL REQUESTS ON THE RISE How to Spot Them and Legally Say No
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