emotional support animal

[ih-moh-shuh-nl suh-pawrt an-uh-muhl]

noun

1. an animal that provides a therapeutic benefit to a person diagnosed with a psychological disorder, as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, and that is allowed to accompany the person in certain public places where pets are not allowed, as the cabin of an airplane. ESA

Word History and Origins

Origin of emotional support animal¹

First recorded in 2010–15

Example Sentences

For five more years, I accepted my pet ownership, especially knowing he was a de facto emotional support animal for my now-16-year-old daughter.

From Los Angeles Times

To her, Havoc was more than an emotional support animal, but something akin to a child.

From Los Angeles Times

Plus, she said, the seller told them their new puppy was an emotional support animal.

From Los Angeles Times

He said a doctor treating his depression had endorsed Wally’s status as his emotional support animal.

From Seattle Times

A dog can generally be labeled an emotional support animal with a doctor’s letter.

From Seattle Times