ESA UK

DATA PROTECTION POLICY - EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL REGISTRY UK

Question: Is the registry UK Government backed?
Answer: No. The Registry is a private Registry offering private registrations only.

Question: If ESAs do not have the same legal rights as service animals in the UK, then what covers them legally?
Answer: Your medical letter stating that the animal is required for your hidden disability protects you under the Equality Act 2010 and the Mental Health Act 1983. As a result, you are safeguarded by the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, as the ESA functions as a medical aid, similar to a mobility scooter.

Question: Can I take my ESA on an airplane?
Answer: Yes, but your ESA must be in a cage or bag that fits under the seat during take-off and landing for safety reasons. Some airlines require the animal to remain in the cage or bag for the entire flight. There is typically a 5kg maximum weight limit for the animal, and airlines charge a fee for ESA travel, which must be booked in advance. Not all airlines permit animals in the cabin, particularly budget airlines like RyanAir. Some airlines also have breed restrictions. It's important to note that while some airlines allow ESAs to fly out of the UK, there is no airline licensed to fly them back into the UK. Additionally, all animals must have proper pet passport documentation with health records and comply with the regulations of the destination country.

Question: Can I travel on Eurostar with my ESA?
Answer: Yes,  Eurostar has now started to let animals onboard the train. Please contact them for details and what you require to be done to travel on the train.

Question: Can I be denied entry into a business in the UK with my ESA?
Answer: Yes, ESAs do not have the same legal rights as service animals. Despite being a medical aid for your hidden disability, businesses like food stores, restaurants and pubs can deny entry under current UK health laws if they think your animal is not clean enough to enter.

Question: Do landlords have to accept my ESA?
Answer: While many landlords, Councils & Universities accept ESAs as they serve as your medical aid for a hidden disability, some may refuse. In such cases, seeking legal advice may be the only option. However, pursuing legal action could lead the landlord to find another reason to remove you later.

Question: If my breed of animal has restrictions under UK law (e.g., requiring a muzzle in public), do I still have to abide by them if my animal is an ESA?
Answer: Yes, all laws regarding certain breeds must be followed, even if the animal is an ESA.