Table of Contents
For people with mental disabilities, adopting animal companions for emotional support is a great way to cope. While they offer plenty of love to their owners, they also have needs. To make taking care of them easier, here are some things you should consider doing.
Pick the Right Food
What your ESAs eat greatly affects the way they’re feeling and their overall health. So, make sure their meals are always packed with the right ingredients, not just treats and junk food.
Although it might be tempting to pick up a couple of canned goods, remember that different animals have varying needs. Talk to your vet to guarantee that you’re preparing the best meals for your companions. Don’t hesitate to ask a lot of questions because they’re the ones with enough qualifications to answer all of them.
Provide Ample Attention
Just like how you want love and care when you’re feeling down, your pets also need extra attention from time to time. All you have to do is spend some quality moments with them. This will eventually strengthen your bond.
There are plenty of ways to give them extra love and affection. One practical thing to do is to work out together because it can benefit both of you. Most animals need ample exercise to stay healthy and in good shape. Try to establish a routine where you jog with them when you have enough time to go around the neighborhood. But if you don’t, you can always just play in your yard.
Groom Them Properly
Aside from eating the right kinds of food, your ESA’s hygiene also plays a role in their health. So, grooming them is a crucial part of their everyday routine. Although they can do some of it by themselves, they still need you to provide a helping hand.
The frequency of bathing generally depends on their lifestyle. If they typically stay indoors, they won’t get dirty constantly. You can wash them less often than those that love to play in the yard. Don’t wait until they smell bad because this can be the perfect opportunity for infections to develop.
Get a License
Lastly, you should register your companion as an ESA so they can have their own license, which can be a huge help for you both. Having a registered emotional support animal is proof that they’re working animals, and they need to be with you always. They’re allowed in residential and commercial properties, and they can even board planes with you.
Keep Them Safe
You’re expecting them to care for you, but they’re also trusting you to keep them safe at all times. For instance, if you have a swimming pool in your yard, you should make sure it is fenced in to keep them protected. Pool design in Atlanta is more than just aesthetics. It’s also about protecting your family, including your ESA.