People experiencing chronic anxiety, depression or other mental issues tend to socially isolate themselves.  This social isolation has been associated with significant physiological and psychological handicaps that progressively worsen over time.  Such circumstances greatly affects individuals’ self-esteem which results in feelings of uselessness and of life being out of control.  Life gradually becomes narrower and lonelier.  

Companion dogs give the unconditional love that many desperately require to stop the spiral of negativity that are part of the syndrome of despair and increasing isolation that accompany anxiety and depression and other mental issues.   The stigma of mental illness results in the minimization of the well known benefits that the mere presence of a dog has on one’s quality of life.   The lowering of blood pressure and stress hormones; responsibility; routine and structure; increased social interactions; activity; touch:  all lead to a longer and richer life that the unconditional love that emotional support dogs provide.

In the U.S. there is a greater recognition of the benefits of emotional support animals than in Canada.  This needs to and can be changed with the support of concerned Canadians.  Let condominium strata councils and the government know the harm being inflicted by having no-pets bylaws.