An Emotional Support Animal (ESA) is a pet that provides comfort and support to individuals experiencing emotional or psychological challenges. Unlike service animals, ESAs do not require specialized training to perform specific tasks. Their primary role is to offer companionship, which can help alleviate symptoms of conditions such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD. To qualify for an ESA, a person typically needs a letter from a licensed mental health professional, stating that the animal is necessary for their emotional well-being. ESAs can be any type of animal, but dogs and cats are the most common. They are protected under certain laws, allowing them to live with their owners in housing that may otherwise prohibit pets.