Emotional Support Animal FAQs

  • ESAs are trained in basic obedience; they are not trained for public access or any travel training protocol. ESAs are not Service Animals under the Department of Justice (DOJ) guidelines and are not automatically granted access to establishments like stores, restaurants, or malls. ESAs are protected under the Federal Housing Act; however, a landlord may ask the owner to provide documentation from a licensed physician or mental health professional stating that the animal is an essential part of treatment for a disability. Paws For Patrick facilitates such letters.

  • Paws for Patrick will help with one ESA.

  • Paws for Patrick is able to help clients under the age of 30. If you are over age 30 but also the primary caregiver of children under 18, we will be able to help. Clients over age 30 with no dependents will receive a list of alternative resources. Age verification will be used.

  • Paws for Patrick does not discriminate based on gender, race, income, insurance status, immigration status, etc. All applicants will be considered.

  • If your child is under 18, you must fill out the form for them, but you will use their name and date of birth when you are asked to fill out information for the seeker. There will be opportunities later in the form to share parent contact information.

Eligibility & Application Process

  • Yes. When asked for Therapist's contact information, if you do not know it, you can simply put in your own contact information again.

  • One month prior to your letter expiration date, Paws for Patrick will send renewal instructions. If you did not receive instructions, please email donna@pawsforpatrick.org

  • As soon as you applied, you were sent an email. Please check your spam. If you do not find anythin,g please send an email to donna@pawsforpatrick.org

ESA Letters & Legal Information

  • From the moment you apply, it is possible to have an ESA letter in 24-48 hours. Some states require 2 appointments, 30 days apart, and in those cases, you will have an ESA letter after 1 month. As for adopting an animal, that is entirely up to your schedule. We do not breed or sell animals, but we help cover the cost of adoption from a shelter or rescue. Take as much time as you need to find an animal that fits your needs.

  • Paws for Patrick works with CertaPet and ESA Doctors to provide legitimate ESA letters from licensed professionals in your own state. Upon completion of the initial assessment, you will be contacted by a therapist within 48 hours. The process involves a free screening, an assigned licensed mental health professional, and a customer support team that is dedicated to getting you all the information you need.

  • Sometimes, colleges and landlords require more than an ESA letter. When this happens, you will be charged the extra fees, and you will be able to submit that to Paws for Patrick for reimbursement via a virtual gift card.

  • You don’t have to choose between stable housing and your emotional support animal. With a proper ESA letter, you can protect your rights, reduce stress, and maintain the support you need. The Fair Housing Act is a federal law that prohibits discrimination in housing based on disability. If you have a legitimate emotional or psychological need for an ESA, and a licensed mental health professional provides you with an official ESA letter, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for you and your animal.

  • If you want a letter from your own therapist, have the therapist follow the guidelines below...

    • Must be written by a licensed health professional

    • Written on official letterhead

    • Must include:

      • Full name of the professional

      • License number

      • Type of license

      • State where the license was issued

      • State the person has a mental health condition or emotional disability (recognized in the DSM-5).

      • Explain that the ESA is necessary to help treat and alleviate symptoms.

      • Clearly recommend the ESA as part of the person’s treatment.

    • Dated and signed.

  • Clearly state that you are requesting a housing accommodation under the Fair Housing Act for an Emotional Support Animal.

    Attach your official ESA letter to your email.

    Refer to the animal as an ESA, not a pet, to avoid confusion and support your request.

    Email is preferred to keep a clear record of your submission.

    Have all forms ready before meeting with your landlord or housing office to ensure a smooth review process.

 Adoption & Animal Care

  • When considering adoption, start by deciding what type of animal best fits your lifestyle and emotional needs, and consider adult animals, which often adjust more easily. Reach out to reputable shelters or rescues that allow you to spend time with animals before adopting, and let the staff know you are looking for a potential Emotional Support Animal (ESA). Shelter staff can help match you with an animal that has a calm, gentle temperament. While ESAs don’t require special training, it’s important to choose an animal that is emotionally responsive, easy to bond with, and able to adapt well to your home.

  • You can adopt from anywhere you feel comfortable. Paws for Patrick will ONLY reimburse for adoptions from recognized not-for-profit shelter and rescue organizations. At present, adoptions will be reimbursed up to $350. This is subject to change without notice at any time.

  • Start by researching local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Look for those that are transparent about their adoption process, provide medical care and behavior assessments for animals, and have positive reviews from past adopters. Reputable rescues will ask questions to ensure a good match and will be open to answering any questions you may have. It’s also important to check whether the organization is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit and if it partners with veterinarians or national networks such as Petfinder or the ASPCA. Whenever possible, visit the shelter or attend an adoption event to get a sense of how the organization treats its animals.

  • Owning a pet comes with both financial and time commitments. On average, caring for a dog costs between $1,000 and $3,000 per year, while owning a cat typically ranges from $800 to $2,000 annually. Although cats generally cost less than dogs, both require consistent care and supplies. Cats and dogs need food, water, shelter, exercise, and affection. It’s important to provide high-quality, age-appropriate food and fresh water at all times, take them to the vet regularly for check-ups, vaccines, and parasite prevention, and keep their living space clean. Regular grooming and plenty of love contribute to their overall well-being. Dogs benefit from daily walks or outdoor time, as well as playtime and training for mental and behavioral health. Cats need toys, scratching posts, and safe spaces to climb or hide, along with a properly maintained litter box to stay happy and healthy.

  • When looking for a veterinarian, choose someone who is licensed, experienced, caring, and easy to talk to. Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or local shelters, and check online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, or Facebook to learn about the clinic’s reputation. A good veterinarian will take the time to answer your questions, explain treatment options clearly, and focus on your pet’s overall well-being. If possible, select a vet who offers emergency care or has a plan in place for urgent cases.

Training and Behavior

  • While Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are not legally required to have training, basic obedience training is recommended to ensure they are well-behaved and manageable. Paws for Patrick will help eligible clients with an Advanced Training Package from PetSmart. 

Financial and Resource Support

Facility Dog FAQs

  • Only schools, mental health facilities, or mental health inpatient units are eligible for a Paws for Patrick (P4P)-funded facility dog. 

  •  The application must be completed by an authorized representative with decision-making authority (e.g., Hospital Administrator, District Superintendent with prior School Board Approval, Facility Owner). 

Program Eligibility & Application 

Training & Travel

  • Both handlers must attend a one-week training camp in Milton, Georgia. Training takes place Monday–Thursday and includes meeting your dog, lectures, and hands-on learning. This immersive experience ensures handlers are confident and supported before bringing their dog home. 

  • The Acquiring Facility is responsible for all travel-related expenses, including airfare (Delta is preferred for return flights), lodging, meals, ground transportation, and any additional costs for the handlers. 

About the Dogs

  • Facility dogs are typically Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Goldendoodles, or mixes of these breeds. 

  • Most dogs are around two years old when placed. 

  • Dogs are trained using only positive, relationship-based methods. They’ve never experienced punishment, harsh corrections, or fear-based tactics. Their training emphasizes kindness, consistency, and emotional well-being, which enables them to provide trust, comfort, and joy to those they serve. 

    Camp marks the beginning of your partnership with the dog. Building a strong bond may take months — full team potential is typically reached after six months or more of working together. 

  • Facility dogs are trained and raised to work a full 40-hour week. It is generally expected that the dog will be present whenever students or clients are in the facility to ensure consistent availability and maximize program impact. If the primary handler is unavailable, the dog should attend with the secondary handler whenever possible. If neither handler is available, then the dog would remain at home. The goal is to promote frequent and meaningful human–dog interactions to support the program’s mission. 

Handler Requirements & Responsibilities 

  • The Acquiring Facility must designate one primary handler and one secondary handler before applying. We recommend that at least one handler be a certified professional (e.g., MD, LSW, LCSW, psychologist, or child life specialist) who is directly involved in client care. While this is our standard guideline, we recognize that every facility is unique and are open to tailoring the program to meet your specific needs.

    If the primary handler leaves the facility, Canine Assistants will determine whether the dog remains with the facility, returns to Canine Assistants, or transitions with the handler. Acquiring Facilities must sign a contract agreeing to these terms. 

  • Yes! Handlers can have other pets, as long as those pets are not aggressive toward other animals. Integration guidance is provided during camp to ensure a smooth transition. 

  • A fenced yard is highly preferred, but not required. Many handlers live in apartments or urban environments. 

Dog Placement Requirements

    • A safe, smoke-free, and predictable environment 

    • Adequate space for the dog to move and relax without stress 

    • A quiet room for rest every 2–3 hours (30–60 minutes) with a couch, chair, or dog bed 

    • The Acquiring Facility must assume legal responsibility for the dog and handlers 

    • Must provide proof of liability insurance covering dog-related incidents 

    • Must comply with all local, state, and federal laws 

    • Must sign contracts regarding care, placement, and legal obligations 

  •  Canine Assistants and Paws for Patrick reserve the right to reclaim the dog if: 

    • The dog is neglected or abused 

    • The facility fails to provide proper care 

    • The dog's weight is not maintained without valid medical cause 

     If the placement is revoked, the dog must be returned at the facility’s expense. 

Cost & Care

  • Paws for Patrick covers the cost of adoption. The facility is responsible for lifetime costs, including: 

    • Food 

    • Veterinary care 

    • Grooming 

    • Supplies 

  • Facilities are responsible for all expenses associated with sending both handlers to Training Camp in Georgia. Estimated costs for both handlers include airfare ($800), a shared car rental ($150), lodging ($1,600), and meals ($900), totaling approximately $3,500. These costs are subject to change without notice due to market fluctuations. 

  • On average, caring for a dog costs between $3,000 and $5,000 per year. This can vary depending on medical needs and location, and generally covers food, grooming, veterinary care, and pet insurance. Some facilities cover all these expenses, while others have the handler assume the costs, often with the understanding that the dog will become the handler’s personal pet upon retirement. Facilities that cover expenses themselves often provide a stipend to simplify administration and avoid reimbursement paperwork. 

Ongoing Expectations & Feedback

    • Participate in quarterly feedback surveys and annual updates 

    • Share testimonials, photos, videos, and updates on the dog’s impact 

    • Submit regular health information, including weight updates 

  • Whenever possible, the dog should stay with the secondary handler when the primary handler is unavailable. Alternative arrangements should be avoided whenever possible. In rare and exceptional circumstances, the dog may stay with a trusted and reputable caregiver on a case-by-case basis; however, the dog should never be boarded at a commercial kennel. 

Final Tips

  • Dear Client, 

    Hope you and yours are well.  We would like to take a moment to tell you about our program.  We are happily flooded with puppies at Canine Assistants these days.  It is incredible to watch these tiny creatures enter the world so helpless and then, some 18 months later, graduate 60-70 lbs. heavier and indescribably more capable.   Not only are these dogs able to help people, but they are also kind enough to do so with great joy. 

    A few months ago, I was on a stage with the seven dogs we currently have working full-time in the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta system.   As I looked from dog to dog, I was struck by the compassion and generosity of spirit that they show day after day.   They really are quite extraordinary creatures—as are all of our dogs.   

    I began reflecting about what makes them tenderhearted enough to sit completely still as sobbing children hooked up to various medical equipment clings to them yet still brave enough to jump on elevators and escalators in the chaotic Atlanta airport without hesitation.   It starts with their extraordinary kindness; the kindness with which they were born and that which has been poured into them by the staff, volunteers, and other animals of Canine Assistants.  Since before they were born, these dogs have been adored.  They have never experienced a leash correction or a shouting voice.  They have been taught with kindness, and they return that kindness to us a thousand-fold.   Because they’ve not been made to fear, they have complete and total trust in the people they love. 

    This is our 29th year in operation.  When we first started, we used the harsh training techniques that were standard in the day.  That punishment-based approach made everyone involved miserable and resulted in much heartache for people and dogs.  We simply didn’t know any other way.  Now we do.  Our dogs are happy under our current methodology and, as a result, capable of forming stronger bonds than we’ve ever imagined possible.   And of all we have learned in the past 23 years, one fact has become clear above all else—The bond is all that matters.  From that bond comes the willingness to work for success (though it feels like play) and the ability to handle any difficulties that might arise. 

    We have also learned that those who worry more about what they want FOR their dogs rather than what they want FROM their dogs end up being most successful under our methodology.  For the dogs to be able to focus on making you happy and healthy, they have to be happy and healthy themselves.   

    Please understand that camp is the time when you meet your dog and you BEGIN to establish that bond.  Much of the necessary work will have to be done after you get home.  You and your dog will not be at your best as a team until you have been together for six months or more.  Great partnerships require two components— an immediate spark upon meeting and slow strengthening over time as you come to understand one another more clearly.   While you are here, we will help you recognize the spark and give you the tools needed to strengthen the bond, but the remainder is up to you.  

    We have also learned something else over the years—our dogs aren’t right for everyone.  Type A personalities often have a very hard time with our relatively loose structure.  If you find it difficult to imagine asking a dog to do something rather than telling him, we will flat make you crazy.  We do not believe in the use of punishment and do not allow the use of correction with our dogs.   For those who are more traditional in their views of dogs and discipline, this may be difficult.  And, if you have thoughts of saying what you need to say and then handling the dog as you choose when you get home (that might well be my first thought!), I have bad news.   Methods other than our own don’t work with our dogs.   They fall completely to pieces when handled differently resulting in such delights as diarrhea, vomiting, anxiety-based barking and chewing, failure to perform as requested—the list goes on and on.   I promise it just isn’t worth it to start with one of our dogs if you aren’t 100% committed to doing it our way.   If you cannot commit to our approach, that’s okay.  Not every program is right for every person. There are other programs that might be a better fit if you have a more traditional view of dogs and what constitutes appropriate treatment of them.   

    If you feel more comfortable with another program, please visit the internet to find other organizations that will be able to help you. 

    If you are willing to fully and completely embrace our methodology, I look forward to reviewing your application. 

    Much affection,
    Jennifer Arnold
    Founder of Canine Assistants 

Therapy Dog FAQs

  • Visits typically last 30 to 60 minutes. Therapy Dogs can work for a maximum of 1 hour at a time. If your facility needs a longer program, multiple handler/dog teams can be scheduled simultaneously or in consecutive hours so all participants have a chance to interact. 

  • The format varies based on facility type, participant age, and space: 

    • Some schools divide students into groups of 10–12, each group spending 30 minutes with different dogs. 

    • Larger schools may have shorter 15-minute sessions spread over an hour or two. 

    • Some facilities allow participants to stay with one dog for the full hour. 

    • High school visits may occur during lunch or a wellness fair, with students coming and going as their schedule allows. 

    When scheduling a visit, your facility’s contact person will coordinate with Paws for Patrick staff to ensure the visit is well-organized and impactful. 

  • It’s common for one or two participants to feel nervous at the start of a visit. Our handlers are trained to support these situations with care. No one is ever forced to interact with a dog, and participants are never made to feel uncomfortable for choosing not to. 

    We encourage nervous participants to observe from a distance at first. Often, as the visit progresses, they gain confidence and may choose to approach or even pet the dog. Therapy dogs are calm and gentle, do not jump or bark, and frequently lie down quietly, allowing participants to pet or snuggle with them at their own pace. 

Visit Duration & Format

Location & Space

  • Visit locations depend on participant age and facility layout. Common locations include: 

    • Classrooms 

    • Large open spaces (gyms, cafeterias) 

    • Small settings (multi-purpose) 

  • We recommend a ratio of 10-15 participants per dog to ensure the experience is enjoyable and safe for everyone. 

Therapy Dogs

  • Therapy dogs can be of any breed, age (must be at least 1 year old), or size. While you can view our team of dogs here, we do not accommodate requests for specific dogs. Scheduling depends on the handler's availability. 

  • Depending on participant numbers, time, and available space, 1 to 4 dogs may attend. These details are coordinated with your facility before the visit.