Question on Emotional Support Animal Certification

[Margaret M Pitts]

I have a problem that I am hoping someone can give me advice on. 

In 2014 I suffered what would have probably been called in the '60s a nervous break down.  I went to a psychologist and one of her recommendations was to get a dog for emotional support. I also had suffered a silent heart attack and needed both knees replaced. So although I was happy to get a dog I felt like to be fair I would need to have my knees in good enough shape to walk my new friend. I also had an internal medicine physician recommend a dog to get me walking and help my cardiac and general health. 

So I had my first knee done in 2015 and second done in 2016. Then I began my research to find my BFF. I had recovered enough I no longer needed regular sessions with the psychologist (which was great since the closest was 100 miles away). I found my match and got my puppy last May (2018), she has helped me immensely! I have lost 45 pounds, lowered my blood pressure and cholesterol and improved my mental outlook increasing my contact with friendly people. I am ready to do some serious travelling and need my paperwork for my friend BUT the psychologist has retired and I have no way to contact her!!  I don't want to start over with a new doctor as the 200 mile roundtrip is not fun unless completely necessary. 

My question is are the offers you see for ESA paperwork legitimate and would it be accepted? Would having the internal medicine doctor write anything be helpful? How can I make it easier for us to travel together? I am hoping for positive responses as I am also having marital problems and don't really need anymore negativity in my life so please be kind! Thank you in advance for any information you can share!

[Margaret M Pitts]

If I could only find my doctor...sigh!!!!!

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

A letter from your primary-care doctor should suffice to get the certification you need. I don't think it's necessary that a psychiatrist/psychologist take care the recommendation. 

[Rosemary (Ro) and Enzo]

A quick search will tell you the law: “ If you have an emotional disability, you can legally qualify for an ESA, short for emotional support animal. You must be certified as emotionally disabled by a psychologist, therapist, psychiatrist or other duly-licensed and/or certified mental health professional.“.  

[Margaret M Pitts]

Thank you all for your help. I was able to talk to a psychologist in the St. Louis area and got what I needed I believe.  As she was repeating back to me some of the things I had told her it really hit home how much this sweet little dog has enriched my life!! She will be a year old next month and I feel so blessed to have her!! 

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Hooray!  I hope you got exactly what you need to be able to keep her with you.