How do I get my dog certified as a companion dog?
There is no such thing as a certificate or a certification program that officially qualifies a dog as an emotional support animal under law. The only legitimate way to qualify your dog as an Emotional Support Animal is by obtaining a recommendation letter from a licensed mental health professional.
What is a certified companion dog?
Companion dog certification generally means your dog has passed a series of basic obedience tests, allowing him to progress to a higher level. A companion dog isn’t the same as a service dog. The latter is an animal specially trained to aid people with disabilities.
What qualifies as a companion animal?
Companion animals are those animals who share our homes and lives. Legally, the category is often limited to dogs and cats, but may also include birds, horses, and other animals as well. Most companion animal protection legislation happens at the state level.
How can I get a free ESA letter?
The Only Way an ESA Letter Can Be “Free” Is If You Already Have a LMHP. There is only one instance in which an ESA letter will be free: if you already see a licensed mental health professional (LMHP). A therapist you are seeing can issue your ESA letter at no added charge.
What are the requirements for a companion dog certification?
Unlike service dogs, such as guide dogs, a companion dogs’ requirements for certification don’t involve performing specific tasks or undergoing professional training; your dog just has to be there to provide emotional stability.
Can a companion dog be used as a guide dog?
Companion dogs are not the same as guide dogs – you can’t use them for sighted assistance or as a mobility aid. In the same way, you can’t take them to places where a pet dog legally wouldn’t be allowed in. Some places may let them in but it’s their choice – they don’t have to. Who are companion dogs?
What are the benefits of having a companion dog?
Companion Dogs are paired mostly with people who already receive services or supports from a Guide Dogs organisation. With their calming presence and unique training, Companion Dogs can bring a sense of stability and friendship to both individuals and families.
What to look for in a companion dog?
“A companion dog is a well-behaved pet dog, so we’re looking for dogs that enjoy being around people, thrive around companionship, are easy to handle and have a nice balanced temperament. “To establish whether a dog will be suited to life as a companion dog, we first get information from the last person who was training them.
