ESA vs Psychiatric Service Dog
Understand the difference and which Colorado documentation is right for you.
Emotional Support Animal (ESA)
Provides comfort and emotional support to a person with a diagnosed mental or emotional condition. Protected primarily under the federal Fair Housing Act for housing access.
- Housing protection (FHA)
- Letter from licensed clinician required
- No specific task training required
Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD)
Trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a psychiatric disability. Protected under the ADA for public access in addition to housing and (with limits) air travel.
- Housing protection
- Public access under ADA
- Air travel (DOT rules apply)