Originally Posted by InkUnderNails

As they provide unwavering companionship, they provide emotional comfort to the owner. They have been found to be very effective as companions to children with specific needs and to the elderly that have mental problems such as dementia. There are other cases involving all ages, but the determination should be made by a mental health professional.

Their widespread use is becoming controversial as it is felt that many people with typical devotion to their pets assign emotional support status to them garnering the privileges of the designation without a valid corresponding professional determination.