Federal laws like the ADA, the Fair Housing Act, and various state fair housing acts provide guidance on
what conditions or disabilities may be covered for service or emotional support animals.
In general, a service animal offers support to its human for a physical or emotional impairment that
substantially limits one or more life activities.
The definition of disability is construed rather broadly. Again, physical, mental, and emotional conditions
fall under the general definition if it limits one or more life activities.
Mental and emotional conditions, including learning disabilities, can be covered and may impact the type
of animal that is needed—service animal or emotional support animal.
What Disabilities Can a Service or
Emotional Support Animal Support?
