Topic: Humane Pet Limits for ESAs

While I know we cannot limit the number of ESAs, I am wondering if there is any guideline as far as *humane* limits for ESAs per unit size. For example, 2 adults and 3 ESAs (let's say two dogs & a cat) in a small 1 bed unit seems inhumane and excessive for the unit size. Any insight or input would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!

Please remember that you have the right to have proof of need when any disability is non-visible.
Also, my opinion is that it isn't inhumane or excessive if the two people have 2 disabilities each.
Perhaps one animal is emotional support for being able to go outside the apartment and the other is required for sleep,
and a health services provider will attest to that. The second resident might have the same or similar issues.

Thank you for your response, Anne. I really appreciate your insight here. I moreso meant in general --- i.e. number of occupants + number of animals occupying a unit --- if there is a humane limit regardless of ESA status/number of disabilities. Additionally, let's say an applicant has 3 ESAs for different disabilities, but (in theory) would then require a 2 bed instead of a 1 bed unit to ensure all beings can occupy the unit size within reason. If someone has several ESAs, but wants to rent a studio, would it be humane to house that occupant and that many animals, etc. I hope that makes sense. Thanks again!

I understand what you are asking. How much is considered adequate space for the combined occupancy of humans and animals which include Support, ESA, and Service Animals. Good question, especially if the space is small and the combined occupancy is large. Just because the doctor says they need 3 different animals each for 2 people, that shouldn't mean we as the housing provider have to accomodate 6 animals and 2 people in a 1 bedroom 600 sf apartment that they chose.

If you have counsel, I would try to get their advice, on whether we can enforce some type of occupancy limits when combining people and animals in a unit. There must be a common sense limit, that we could enforce even with disabilities present for the health and saftey of all. I will be following to see what other input you receive.

You might check with your city's municipal code. Ours has a limit both of numbers of animals and the types of different animals.  While we have been told we could potentially get some pushback on it, we have politely requested that for the safety and health of others (including other animals) that the assistance animals be registered with the city, vaccinated, and spayed/neutered.  On at least the last two, we also try to make arrangements with low-cost clinics for our residents.