American Support Animals Blog

Emotional Support Animals vs. Psychiatric Service Dogs: What’s the Difference?

Dr. “Azul” and American Support Animals (ASA) always strives to stay informed about anything that may impact you or your “best buddy”. Educating the general public on the regulations protecting the rights of individuals in need of Psychiatric, Emotional or…

Today’s Question – Can I Still Travel With My Dog?

Psychiatric Service Animals

Department of Transportation Office of the Secretary 14 CFR Part 382 Traveling with Service Animals Action: “Final Rule” 12/02/2020 Summary: The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) is issuing a final rule to amend the Department’s Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)…

Dr. Azul Answers Questions About “Service Animals”

What is considered a service animal under the Fair Housing Act? The Federal Fair Housing Act does not define what constitutes a “service animal”. Instead, the Act recognizes that service animals can be considered necessary for individuals with disabilities….

“Dr. Azul” Assists Senior Citizen Overcome Depression!

Dr. Azul was at the Key West Street Market where he was approached by this woman who was in tears. The woman stated “I just lost my best friend last month, you look EXACTLY like he did! Dr. Azul comforted this person adding “I’m sorry for your loss…. He must…

The Difference Between A Psychiatric Service Dog And An Emotional Support Dog

It is not always clear— To staff at public places, and even to some people with disabilities—whether an animal accompanying an individual with a psychiatric disability or impairment is performing a psychiatric service or “merely” providing emotional support. Confusion…

Key Qualities To Look For When Choosing An Emotional Support Animal

If you’re still stressing over the question: “How do I choose the right ESA?” Never fear! After considering the various personal elements that impact what would make a good ESA for you, it’s handy to know some popular ESA characteristics that are common to most…

Dr. Azul Say’s

Every week we bring you a summary of the latest news! This week is no different. Today, we have a story about the latest warning issued by the Better Business Bureau concerning ESAs on flights. Keep reading to get up to speed. BBB Warns ESA Owners, No More Flights…

Avoid Being SCAMMED By Phony ESA / PSD Providers!

Dr. Azul Say’s: We here at American Support Animals NEED to address and educate everyone today on: Emotional Support Animal certification Emotional Support Animal registration Why you ask??? Because it’s a scam! There is NO certification or registration of your…

TIME TO TRAVEL! Make Sure You And Your Best Friend Are Prepared.

We are getting excited to travel again!!! If you are looking forward to travel in 2021, knowing what hotels accept pets will help your planning. Here is a list of our top recommendations: Four Seasons – Looking for something luxurious? Many Four Seasons allow pets and…

Teach Your Dog To Give Puppy Kisses!

What’s cuter than getting kisses from your favorite pup? This is a fun and feel-good trick that most dogs of any size or age can master in just a few short training sessions. There are three main ways to teach your dog or puppy to kiss you on cue. Capturing the Kiss…

TRAVELING WITH MY PSD. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?

Does My PSD Need a Service Vest or Service ID Card? The ADA does not require service animals to wear a special vest, ID tag, or harness. However, we strongly encourage individuals to outfit their dog with these items, as it can make airline travel more convenient and…

Do Service Dogs Really Help With PTSD?

Army veteran Randy Dexter doesn’t need an academic study to tell him what he already knows — that his service dog, Captain, is the reason he’s no longer the “suicidal mess” he was after returning home from war with PTSD. Nevertheless, new research backs him up. A…

How Pets Can Impact Your Health

While people with pets often experience the greatest health benefits, a pet doesn’t necessarily have to be a dog or a cat. Even watching fish in an aquarium can help reduce muscle tension and lower pulse rate. Studies have shown that: · Pet owners are less likely to…

Puppy Dog Eyes

You’re about to eat-and there, by your side, looking up at yours your dog with those BIG soulful eyes. Who could possibly resist? Which may be precisely why dogs do this. Unlike wolves, dogs possess muscles that allow them to raise their inner eyebrows, making their…

How Cats Improve Mental Health

For cat people it’s no question: the whiskers, the fuzzy faces, the meows, and the head nudges let us know our cats are definitely beneficial to our mental health. The rest of the world, however, has some catching up to do. Those who don’t have cats are missing out on…

DR. AZUL DISCUSSES THE PAIN OF LOSING YOUR BEST FRIEND.

LOSING YOUR BEST FRIEND Oftentimes, when someone loses a pet, they’ll receive messages of condolences and lots of sympathy– but sadly, not all people understand the gravity of this loss. Some people may say (yes, out loud) that it’s ‘not like you lost an actual family…

More And More Households With Pets!!

Pet ownership had been pretty steady for the past 10+ years, with about 54% of American households having at least one pet. And then 2020 happened. In the past year, pet ownership has skyrocketed! People with more flexible work-from-home schedules, or just realizing…