Getting a cat as an emotional support animal (ESA) is a great idea mainly because they are well-suited for apartment living and can thrive in smaller spaces. As compared to dogs, they are generally low-maintenance pets, especially considering they don’t need to be walked multiple times a day.
However, cat lovers need to consider local laws before bringing one home. For instance, for cat owners in Missouri, it is important to get an ESA letter to ensure they don’t face any problems when keeping one in their rental apartments.
Understanding ESA Letters in Missouri
An ESA letter explains the rare circumstances that require a person to keep an emotional support animal. The letter is issued by a licensed mental health professional, certifying an individual’s need for an ESA.
In Missouri, this letter works as official documentation, ensuring that you are not denied accommodation just because you have an ESA. While there are benefits, it’s not all that simple to get that letter. You have to be evaluated by a mental health professional first. Thankfully, many online companies, like Wellness Wag Missouri can help you in this regard. They have licensed physicians on-board and offer a money-back guarantee as well.
Once you get an ESA, you will be able to find an apartment with ease. Under Missouri state law and the federal Fair Housing Act, you are eligible for certain protections when you have an ESA letter.
Important Considerations for Getting ESA Letters for Cat Owners
Getting housing access even when a building generally has a no-pet policy is probably the biggest benefit of ESA letters, but there are more. For instance, you won’t have to pay additional pet fees if you can produce an ESA letter. It may result in substantial savings because in some areas pet deposits are typically quite high.
However, cat owners must ensure they take good care of their furry friends; it may include proper nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, and adequate exercise. It is also important to ensure that a cat selected as ESA is well-behaved and is not a menace to neighbors. While you can keep cats as ESAs after getting an ESA letter in your apartment, you must still comply with local animal control laws, including leash laws and vaccination requirements.
While most people understand what ESA letters are, some landlords may need to be educated first. They may refuse housing if they are not fully aware of ESA laws. Bear in mind that ESA letters may also need to be renewed after some time, so ensure your documentation is up-to-date.
Finally, you must understand that ESAs are not like service animals. It means your cat won’t have access to the same rights in public spaces like service animals. You may also not be allowed to travel by air with your ESA.
Endnote
Obtaining an ESA letter is essential for apartment-dwelling cat owners to enjoy expanding housing options and save some money in the process. Just ensure you approach the whole process responsibly and always work with licensed professionals to handle your ESA applications properly.
