Question 1

What documentation do I need for a support animal?

Accepted Answer

You need a letter from a licensed healthcare professional — such as a licensed clinical doctor, psychologist, psychiatrist, or licensed clinical social worker — stating that you have a disability-related need for a support animal. The letter should be on professional letterhead, include the provider's license information, and be dated within the past year.

Question 2

Can my landlord deny my support animal request?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for support animals when you provide legitimate documentation. Exceptions are rare and include owner-occupied buildings with four or fewer units and single-family homes rented without a broker. A landlord can deny a request only if the specific animal poses a direct threat to safety or would cause substantial property damage.

Question 3

How long is a support animal letter valid?

Accepted Answer

Most housing providers accept letters dated within the past 12 months. TheraPetic documentation is valid for 365 days from the date of issuance. We send renewal reminders before your letter expires so you always have current documentation. Renewal evaluations are available at a reduced rate.

Question 4

What is the difference between documentation and registration?

Accepted Answer

Documentation is a clinical letter from a licensed healthcare professional confirming your disability-related need — this is what landlords legally require under the Fair Housing Act. Registration is an optional convenience service that provides a searchable verification record for your animal. Registration is never legally required. The clinical letter is what carries legal weight.

Question 5

Is this legitimate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. TheraPetic is a verified 501(c)(3) nonprofit, listed on Candid (formerly GuideStar), registered with the BBB, and founded by Dr. Patrick Fisher, PhD, LPC, NCC — a licensed clinical researcher. Every evaluation is conducted by a Licensed Clinical Doctor. We have served over 50,000 families since 2016. You can verify our nonprofit status, read independent reviews on Google and Facebook, and visit our physical office in Washington, DC.

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