Whenever you are feeling bad, there is nothing better than spending time with friends and family to make you feel better. Likewise, companion animals are often recommended for people looking for a way to minimize stress. Studies have shown that living with them can help completely eliminate anxiety and depression.
However, there are only a few animals that can be considered effective companions. Cats and other animals can be good options, but dogs in particular are used for emotional support because of their calming effects. Like humans, they provide comfort to those they love.
Psychological disturbances, especially anxiety, can be eliminated with constant communication with dogs. When you are immersed in communication with your dog, your mind is automatically distracted from any problems. It also creates a sense of responsibility, which can help fight depression.
We can often feel emotional support from pets. Their presence has a therapeutic effect on us and can relieve feelings of anxiety and calmness in everyday life. An emotional support animal is a pet that provides companionship and emotional support to its owner. ESA owners must have an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional in order to qualify for an ESA letter for housing under the Fair Housing Act. ESA owners often report feeling less isolated and more interconnected with the world around them. In some cases, an ESA may also provide physical support, such as helping a person with mobility impairments to get around.
However, the pet may not have any training for this. Sure, all dogs can provide emotional support, but there are breeds that do better in this role. They are gentle, sympathetic and sociable pets, they easily make contact and quickly learn new commands.
Given the information above, most dog breeds can potentially be used for emotional support. Before choosing the best emotional support dog, make a commitment to do some research. Look for the key traits these dogs should have. Here are six of the best dog breeds for emotional support:
American Staffordshire Terrier
Pit bull type dogs have been unpopular for years – the unfortunate result of being raised by poor owners and a bad reputation. But these friendly, loyal dogs are incredibly good at providing emotional support. With proper training and socialization, these dogs usually get along with most people and in a variety of situations.
Golden Retriever
These are probably the best dogs that can help you deal with depression or anxiety. They exhibit qualities such as love and devotion that only certain breeds can display. The strong bond between dog and owner makes Golden Retrievers ideal pets.
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever is on any list of dogs that are classified as emotional assistants, therapists, and service dogs. Labradors are very affectionate and friendly pets with a strong desire to please humans. This breed is suitable for people who need a companion to get out of the house, as Labradors feel great exploring the world around them.
Corgi
Corgis are not just the Queen of England’s favorite breed. These affectionate dogs get along well with people of all ages, and their intelligence allows them to achieve high results in training. But this breed needs mental and physical exercise, so you need to consider this if you want to have a corgi.
Cavapoo
Cavapoo is an amazingly cute dog that helps its owners to deal with stress and depression in many ways, one of which is their love of cuddling. This super-affectionate look is easy to learn. However, there is a drawback, they are prone to heart problems. So make sure you are ready to provide them with all the assistance they need before purchasing.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas have a multifaceted personality. With proper socialization at an early age, they will become affectionate animals that can provide emotional support. Like Yorkies, they can easily tolerate trips to any distance and will be excellent companions. They do not need a lot of physical activity, but they love it when the owners play with them and adore hugs.
For a pet to be recognized as an emotional support animal, the owner must obtain a certificate from a licensed psychotherapist or psychiatrist, which will detail why the person needs such support. That is, serious reasons are needed. The owner must have a diagnosis that suggests the presence of the animal as a therapy. Dogs usually help their owners cope with depression, panic attacks, or increased anxiety.A person can have only one emotional support animal. In public places, such animals should appear only with special identification marks – vests.
