As the saying goes, money can’t buy happiness, and if anyone can attest to that, we know it’s the rich and famous. Pain and sadness are emotions all humans share, and when those feelings begin to overwhelm us and impede our daily lives, many of us turn to the support of our beloved furry friends, and celebrities are no different. Keep reading to find out which celebrities rely on the daily companionship of an emotional support animal (ESA) or service dog.
What’s the Difference Between an ESA and a Service Dog?
Before we reveal our list of celebrities, it’s essential to know the difference between an ESA and a service dog. Although both can help a person cope with a mental illness, the two are different and serve separate purposes.
A service dog undergoes special training to perform a particular duty that can assist a person with a disability. Generally, service dogs are easy to spot because they sport a specific vest or harness like what you can find on Service Dog Registration.
On the contrary, an emotional support dog, or ESA, is not trained and offers comfort through companionship to a person dealing with an emotional or mental illness. ESAs are also often referred to as therapy animals.
Celebrities With an ESA or Service Dog
Now what you have all been waiting for, here’s our list of celebrities who depend on their loyal pets:
Drew Lynch
You probably recognize Drew Lynch from his comedy stand-up, thriving YouTube channel, and various TV roles, but his life looked very different when he was just 23. When being an actor was just a dream for him, he was involved in a softball accident that resulted in a concussion and an injured throat. Instead of letting the severe stutter he sustained from this stop him, he became to be who we know now and all with the assistance of his service dog, a Hungarian Vizsla, Stella.
Bradley Cooper
Most people know who Bradley Cooper is, but did you know his emotional support dog is a celebrity too? Charlie, his adorable Labradoodle, had a role in his major 2018 film, A Star is Born!
Selena Gomez
Selena Gomez has always been very open about her struggles with mental health. To cope with her anxiety and depression, she’s enlisted the help of six emotional support dogs!
Henry Cavill
Yes, even Superman goes through hard times! Henry Cavill’s ESA, an Akita named Ka-El, can always be seen accompanying him through airports. It’s believed Cavill may have a fear of flying, and Ka-El helps him ease his fears.
Ariana Grande
After experiencing a terrorist attack on stage in Manchester that took many fans’ lives, Ariana Grande has been transparent about her ongoing battle with her psychiatric health. Her ESA is slightly different from the rest because it’s a pocket pig! Her name is Piggy Smallz, and while she may be small, she still makes a big impact on Grande.
Conclusion
Although some people might believe celebrities have it all, in reality, they are still people who have real-world problems to deal with too. These stars have a great pet by their side, sticking with them through stardom and low times.