emotional support animal
nounUK /ɪˈməʊʃənəl səˈpɔːt ˈænɪməl/
US /ɪˈmoʊʃənəl səˈpɔːrt ˈænɪməl/
A pet that helps a person feel calm and happy when they are sad or worried.
Her dog is an emotional support animal that stays with her when she feels anxious.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. An animal prescribed by a mental health professional to provide comfort for a person with a diagnosed condition.
The doctor wrote a letter so she could bring her emotional support animal on the plane.
3. Any pet that offers companionship and reduces stress for its owner.
Many people consider their cat an emotional support animal at home.
4. A legal category of animal that is not trained for specific tasks like a service dog.
Unlike a guide dog, an emotional support animal does not need special training.