Why is ESA education important:

With an explosion of fake ESAs and Service Animals, the integrity and reputation of both are in jeopardy. For people who do have genuine disabilities, the situation is becoming dire. Not only can fake ESAs distract or attack working Service Animals, but service providers who have been inconvenienced by bad behavior from fakes often are discouraged from accommodating all animals thereafter.

For example, those taking advantage of people uneducated has lead to the law for ESAs to be allowed on planes to be over turned: "The year 2021 started with major news for ESA owners: as of January 11, 2021, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) no longer requires airlines to accommodate emotional support animals. In the years prior to this rule change, all airlines were required by law to accommodate owners of ESAs with proper documentation from a licensed mental health professional."

It's important for both owners and employees to understand the difference between these animals and what to do in certain situations.

If you come across what you believe to be a fraudulent ESA website, I found this website you can report them to: ReportFraud.ftc.gov

If you meet someone you believe to be impersonating a Service Animal, remind them that it can be a criminal offense. Learn more about specific state charges here.