The Furry Quotient: How Animals Make an Impact on Wellness

Do you think you or someone you care about could benefit from therapeutic activity with animals? There is a wide range of people who are taking advantage of canine therapy, as well as help from other emotional support animals (ESAs).  Also known as “comfort” animals, an ESA is a “companion animal that a medical professional has determined provides benefit for an individual with a disability.” This can be a variety of physical, psychiatric, or intellectual circumstances or health conditions. ESAs are covered by federal law in regard to housing under the US. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). 

ESAs are an additional category outside of service dogs, which are typically more highly trained. But ESAs come in many breeds and do provide help and support to many people with anxiety, depression, and other areas of mental wellness.

Service dogs are often Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Lab/Golden mixes, and German Shepherds.  People who may benefit from having a service dog include individuals who have:

• Visual impairment
• Hearing impairment
• Post -Traumatic Stress Disorder and other psychological needs
• Seizures
• Mobility impairment
• Diabetes, and more

Whether you or a loved one may be interested in an ESA or a service dog, know it can be a life-changing decision that can make a huge impact on your quality of life.