Emotional Support / Assistive Animals

Service Animal

If you are living on campus with a service animal, you must notify AAS. This does not mean you have to fill out an application.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA)

Access and Accommodation Services (AAS) provides reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Under the Fair Housing Act, an Emotional Support Animal may be approved while living in on-campus housing on a case-by-case basis when there is a documented need.

To be considered for approval to have an animal reside in your on-campus housing residence as an ESA, students must complete the Emotional Support Animal Application and attach the following:

1. Provider Letter: A letter from a qualified healthcare or mental health professional on official letterhead, supporting your request for an ESA in on-campus housing. The letter should be written and signed by a provider familiar with you and the use of ESAs as a treatment option.
2. Vet Records: Documentation from your veterinarian showing your animal is in good health with no transmissible illness(es), parasites, etc., and up-to-date proof of your animal's vaccinations. Rabies is a legally required vaccine for all cats/dogs, but we strongly suggest you follow your veterinarian’s recommendations for all other vaccines.
3. Recent Photo: A clear photo of the animal.

Applications will be reviewed by Access and Accommodation Services, University Housing, and Student Conduct. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Students will be notified of the decision via A-State email. The committee may reach out if additional information is needed.

Please note that your animal is not allowed on campus until you receive written approval. Possession of an unapproved animal will result in a referral to Student Conduct.

ESA Expectations
ESA Liability Statement