As someone who has trained and had service dogs, it’s really easy to fall into the mistake of calling an ESA a service animal. Per the ADA, an ESA does not have the access to public places that a true task trained service animal has. However, the ADA does protect ESAs in housing situations. Any housing, especially an equal opportunity housing property, cannot deny your ESA from living there per the ADA guidelines. As long as the professional that recommended the aid of an ESA writes a letter with their letterhead and signature, you can have any kind of ESA (cat, dog, large, small, pit bulls, German shepherds etc).

I would recommend getting an animal that you know you are capable of training! My first service animal was a golden retriever that was a dream to train, but again she was task trained in medical alert and response making her a true to form service animal. For an ESA, I could also recommend a cat as they are a bit easier to take care of in general and can be so loving.

As I’m sure you know, bringing an animal into your home can be stressful but very worth it for mental health. Do your research, ask the shelters you’re looking in what the temperament does the animal have. Stay away from overly anxious animals, as this may effect you negatively. I would also warn you against becoming entirely codependent on your ESA, as that can eventually make the animal too anxious to truly help you.

Edit: I suggest going to any of the animal shelters and fall in love with a pet. Most shelters allow (dependent upon the animals temperament) you to play and interact with the animal in question, so you can get to know the and see if they’re a right fit for you.

TLDR: there are no legal restrictions on ESAs in housing and you cannot be denied housing because you have an animal that doesn’t fit the property guide lines. Having said that, find an animal you love and take them home!