Ray Joseph is my ESA (Emotional Support Animal.) I have only had him for 3 weeks, but in that short amount of time he has brought so much joy into my life. He is a Cockapoo, a mix between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle. Over a month ago my therapist recommended a ESA because of my extreme anxiety. I have frequent panic attacks, and struggle with other mental health issues as well. RJ has helped me more than I could have imagined. When we first addressed the possibility of  me getting a dog to help cope with these issues I was excited but skeptical. I was worried that he would be too big of a burden for me to handle while at school, and while it has been a challenge at times, I have loved every second of it. I’m not sure what humans did to deserve dogs, because we certainly don’t. He is the sweetest, most well behaved puppy, and even though he isn’t a person, he is someone I can talk to when I am feeling down or freaking out. I never fear judgement from him, and his mannerisms put a smile on my face no matter what I am going through. An ESA isn’t right for everyone, but it was certainly right for me.