More and more people are turning to emotional support dogs as part of their mental health journey, and for good reason. Unlike traditional service dogs trained for physical disabilities, emotional support animals (ESAs) offer comfort, companionship, and stability for individuals managing anxiety, PTSD, depression, and other emotional challenges.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States live with a mental health condition (NIMH, 2022). While therapy and medication help many, emotional support animals have become an increasingly powerful tool for bringing peace to daily life.
A study published in BMC Psychiatry found that 74% of ESA owners reported significant improvements in their emotional well-being (BMC Psychiatry, 2020). These animals help stabilize mood, reduce feelings of isolation, and encourage healthier routines.
“Grayson didn’t just calm my anxiety. He helped me build friendships, routines, and a kind of happiness I never thought I’d find.”
— Sara, Charleston
How Emotional Support Dogs Help
Emotional support dogs provide comfort in many ways. Their calming presence can soothe the nervous system, ease loneliness, and create a sense of daily rhythm. Their unconditional love can be a steady source of support during difficult moments.
Physical Benefits:
Dog owners naturally stay more active. According to the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, dog owners walk an average of 22 more minutes per day than non-dog owners, supporting better cardiovascular health, mobility, and overall fitness.
Mental and Emotional Benefits:
Emotional support dogs can help reduce anxiety, promote better sleep, and ease symptoms of depression. The University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging reports that pet ownership reduces feelings of loneliness by up to 36% in older adults.
Social Benefits:
Dogs also help owners engage more socially. Walks often lead to conversations with other dog owners, and emotional support dogs can become the reason many people form new friendships and social circles.
Public Perception and Challenges
While emotional support animals continue to gain public awareness, some ESA owners experience challenges in public spaces. Many people are kind, curious, and supportive, often asking questions or offering warm words. Yet, there are moments when confusion arises about an emotional support dog’s role.
Unlike service dogs trained for specific tasks, emotional support dogs do not always have the same legal protections for public access. Travel, housing, and entry into certain businesses may require documentation or face restrictions. Still, for most owners, these occasional hurdles are far outweighed by the daily benefits their ESA brings.
A Personal Story: Finding Grayson
Sara from Charleston,SC shares her journey with her emotional support dog, Grayson:
“Throughout my life, I faced periods of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges that made it hard to find lasting peace. Even after years of working with doctors and trying different treatments, I often felt like something was still missing. I reached a point where I knew I needed something steady in my life, something that would help bring me comfort and a sense of balance.”
“I’ve always loved animals, so I began exploring the idea of getting a dog who could provide companionship and emotional support. One day, the local shelter called to tell me they had found a dog they thought might be right for me.”
“When I arrived, a sweet dog came running toward me, tail wagging and full of energy. The moment he looked up at me and licked my face, I knew we were meant to be. His name was Grayson, and from that day forward, everything started to feel a little brighter.”
“For the past 12 years, Grayson has become my constant companion. We take daily walks, visit with friends, and even spend afternoons playing mahjong with our group. His calming presence helps ease my anxiety, and being with him has allowed me to build friendships and routines that bring me joy. More than anything, Grayson has given me comfort, connection, and a sense of happiness I hadn’t felt in years.”
“For me, getting an emotional support dog was the best decision I could have made. Grayson isn’t just a pet — he’s my steady companion, my comfort, and a very special part of my life.”
Should you Consider an Emotional Support Dog?
If you struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, or ongoing stress, an emotional support dog may provide exactly the kind of comfort and stability you need. While not everyone requires a full psychiatric service dog, many people experience tremendous benefits from the companionship, structure, and emotional grounding an ESA offers.
Before getting started, speak with your doctor or mental health provider. In many cases, a formal recommendation or prescription may be needed for housing or travel accommodations related to your emotional support dog.
Sources
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Mental Illness Statistics. 2022.
BMC Psychiatry. 2020. “The Impact of Emotional Support Animals on Mental Health.”
Journal of Physical Activity and Health. 2020. “Dog Ownership and Physical Activity in Older Adults.”
University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging. 2019. “The Pet Factor: Pets and Older Adults.”
