Summary
Thinking about bringing an Emotional Support Animal to residence? This FAQ explains how to apply through Accessible Learning Services – including documentation requirements, timelines, and housing rules – so you can understand the full ESA approval process at Acadia.
Body
If you’re a student living in residence and believe an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) would help support your well-being, you can apply through Accessible Learning Services.
✅ How to Apply for an ESA in Residence
-
Contact Accessible Learning Services
Email accessible.learning@acadiau.ca to request an ESA application package and a summary of the process.
-
Submit your application and documentation
- Include documentation from a qualified mental health professional.
- Your documentation must show a clear link between your disability and the need for the ESA, as defined by An Act Respecting Accessibility in Nova Scotia (Section 1a).
-
Apply early
- Submit your completed application at least 4 weeks before your ESA’s anticipated move-in date.
- This gives the university time to review your request and notify you of the decision.
Note: Approval is not guaranteed, and early submission does not mean your ESA can move in before the approved date.
📘 Helpful Definitions
- Emotional Support Animal (ESA): An animal that provides comfort to a person with a disability, helping to reduce symptoms of that disability. Unlike service animals, ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks.
- Service Animal: An animal trained to assist with specific tasks related to a person’s disability. These animals are allowed in public spaces and accompany their owner at all times.
- Accessible Learning Services: The department at Acadia that supports students with disabilities, including accommodation requests like ESAs.
🐾 ESA Requirements
- The animal must be non-venomous and live in a species-appropriate enclosure.
- The animal’s standard care and habitat needs must be met without modification.
- Animals that require the following cannot be approved:
- Heating elements of any kind
- Large fish tanks
- Live feeders (including insects)
🛑 Additional restrictions may apply at the discretion of the university.
🔗 Suggested Terms and Links
📝 Special Notes
- Students must give explicit permission to begin the ESA application process.
- You may have a support person attend your intake meeting, but you must be present.
- ESA applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.