Can Rats Be Emotional Support Animals?

Rats are highly social and are able to bond with their humans. They enjoy being around their human companions and often reduce loneliness by bringing smiles to people’s faces. This makes rats excellent emotional support animals. However, you should consider the size of your home before getting a rat as a pet.

Rats are not as sensitive to emotions as dogs, but they are capable of providing comfort to people. They are very similar to therapy dogs, and can be trained to work in a therapeutic environment. Like therapy dogs, therapy rats visit hospitals, nursing homes, and colleges. They are trained to be sociable and accept different types of touching. However, a rat’s training process takes at least six months.

Rats are a popular choice for emotional support animals, as they can be kept indoors and do not require much exercise. They are also very low-maintenance, making them a cost-effective pet. Rats require regular food and water, but do not require constant access to outdoor space.

Any domesticated animal can qualify as an ESA. They can be any age and are not limited to specific task-training. The only requirements are that they do not pose a public nuisance.