Emotional Support Animals

Under the Fair Housing Act, a student with a disability may request an emotional support animal (ESA) in university housing as an accommodation if needed to provide the student with an equal opportunity to enjoy and use their residential dwelling. An emotional support animal (also known as a “comfort animal” or “therapy animal”) provides emotional support and comfort to a student with a therapeutic need for the animal. An ESA does not need to be trained to provide a specific task and is not considered a service animal. Because of the therapeutic nature of an ESA, this animal is not considered a pet. An ESA is a housing accommodation and, as such, is to be kept in the student’s residence hall and is not allowed to accompany the student into other campus buildings.

Students with disabilities who wish to request an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) in campus housing must submit an ADS application and the Request for Emotional Support Animal in University Housing Verification Form (PDF).  

Students need ADS approval for an ESA as an accommodation for a disability prior to bringing the animal on campus.