Five bases, constant moves
With Fort Carson, Peterson, Schriever, Cheyenne Mountain, and the Academy all nearby, many Colorado Springs renters are military families who move every few years. Each move brings a new lease and new pet rules. When a dog has been the steady presence through deployments and moves, losing it over a lease clause can feel unbearable.
Fair housing basics
Federal fair housing law allows a renter with a disability to request a reasonable accommodation, such as permission to keep an emotional support animal despite a no-pets policy, when a licensed provider documents the disability-related need. HUD's guidance lays out what that documentation should include and the limited reasons a request may be denied.
On-post versus off-post
Housing on Fort Carson and the Space Force bases is run by private housing companies with their own pet and assistance animal processes. Off-base rentals in Fountain, Security-Widefield, Briargate, and downtown follow fair housing rules through private landlords. Bring whatever form applies to your visit.
Limits of an ESA
An ESA's protection is about housing. It cannot accompany you into the commissary, restaurants, offices, or Garden of the Gods trails beyond normal pet rules, and airlines may treat it like a pet. Certificates and registries sold online have no legal standing.
What the evaluation involves
Your provider talks with you about your mental health history and current symptoms, including trauma, and how they affect sleep, work, and family. Then you discuss your animal's role. Based on all of it, your provider decides whether a letter is clinically appropriate. If not, you will hear why, and other options like medication management may help.
The letter
If appropriate, it is printed on our letterhead and signed by your provider with their Colorado license type and number and the date. It confirms a need for the animal and keeps your diagnosis private.
PTSD service dogs
Some veterans work with psychiatric service dogs trained to interrupt nightmares or create space in crowds. Those dogs have public access under the ADA. An ESA does not need training and is protected mainly at home. We evaluate ESA requests only.
Breed and size rules
Some Springs leases ban large breeds. HUD's 2020 guidance says breed and weight limits generally should not apply to an approved assistance animal, though a landlord may consider a particular animal's history of harm.
Pet fees and damage
HUD guidance says landlords generally should not charge pet fees or deposits for an approved assistance animal. Damage remains your responsibility.
Wildlife and good habits
Bears and mountain lions wander into west-side neighborhoods. Keep animals inside at night and on leash on trails. Responsible care keeps neighbors and landlords on your side.
When we say no
Some people leave without a letter because their symptoms do not meet the standard. Your provider will explain why. That honesty is why Colorado Springs landlords and base housing offices can trust the letters we sign.
Already have your dog?
Many requests involve a dog that has been with the family through several moves. That is fine. Your provider looks at how the animal helps you now.
Students at UCCS and Colorado College
Campus housing at UCCS and Colorado College runs its own assistance animal process with its own deadlines. Start early and bring the school's forms.
Black Forest, Fountain, and rural rentals
Some families rent on acreage in Black Forest, Peyton, or Calhan, where landlords may keep horses or chickens. Most ESA requests involve dogs and cats, and housing providers judge other animals case by case. Bring your landlord's questions to your visit.
PCS timing
When orders come, plan a reassessment early. A provider licensed in your new state may need to write the next letter.
Getting started
Visit 102 S Tejon St in downtown Colorado Springs. We see adults and teens 15 and older. Become a patient to schedule an ESA evaluation.
Why Choose Colorado Springs Psychiatry and Mental Health?
- Board-certified psychiatric providers serving Colorado Springs and all of Colorado
- Research-backed treatment protocols
- Full documentation for all evaluations
- Coordinated care with your other providers across the region