Service Animals vs Emotional Support Animals vs Pets

Not all animals are treated the same under housing laws. Service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) are different from pets, and they’re handled differently in our screening process and policies.

Understanding the difference protects your rights if you have a disability — and helps you avoid confusion about fees, approvals, and documentation. It also ensures we comply with fair housing laws while keeping expectations clear for everyone.

1. Service Animal

   1. A dog (or, in some cases, a miniature horse) trained to perform specific tasks for a person with a disability (for example, guiding, alerting, or retrieving items).

   2. Service animals are not considered pets.

2. Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

   1. An animal that provides emotional or therapeutic support related to a disability, but is not necessarily trained to perform a specific task.

   2. ESAs are treated differently from pets for housing purposes, but they are not “service animals” under the same definition.

3. Pet

   1. Any animal kept primarily for companionship that does not qualify as a service animal or ESA.

   2. Pets are fully subject to our Pet Policy, including approvals, limits, and fees.

• We do not charge pet fees or pet rent for a verified service animal.

• We may ask limited questions or request documentation via PetScreening.com if the disability or need is not obvious, consistent with fair housing guidelines.

• Service animals must still follow basic behavior and cleanliness expectations (no aggressive behavior, no ongoing property damage).

• We may request reliable documentation via PetScreening.com from a qualified health professional that links:

  • Your disability, and

  • The need for an ESA in connection with your housing.

• Approved ESAs are not charged pet fees or pet rent, but must still follow behavior and cleanliness rules.

Pets are subject to our Pet Policy, which covers:

• Allowed species and breeds,

• Limits on the number or size, and

• Any pet deposits, fees, or pet rent.

• Unauthorized pets or animals can result in lease violations and charges.

1. Notify us before or during the application process, if possible.

2. Be prepared to provide documentation, if requested, especially for ESAs.

3. Submit any requested forms through PetScreening.com or as otherwise directed.

4. Keep the animal under control, clean up after them, and prevent damage to the property.

• Reach out and let us know your situation.

• We’ll explain what information we can legally request and how we evaluate requests for reasonable accommodation.

• Pet Policy – Rules and fees for pets that are not service animals or ESAs.

• General Rules – Expectations for behavior, noise, and community standards.

• How We Handle Your Security Deposit – How damage from animals may affect your deposit.

• Caring for Your Unit – Tips to prevent pet- or animal-related damage.