At Hostshare, we’re all about shared trust and shared respect. That includes how we handle animals in the homes our members open up to each other. This guide outlines the differences between Service Animals, Emotional Support Animals (ESAs), and Pets, and explains what hosts and guests can and cannot do under Hostshare’s policy.
What's the Difference?
Service Animals
Dogs (or miniature horses) trained to perform tasks for someone with a disability
Protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Must be accepted by all hosts, even in "no pet" homes
Hosts cannot charge extra fees or require documentation
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
Provide comfort through companionship
No training required
Not covered under ADA
Hosts are not required to accept ESAs on Hostshare
Hosts may decline a booking or request documentation if they choose to allow an ESA
Pets (Not Service Animals or ESAs)
Any animal that does not meet the definition above
Hosts can allow, restrict, or prohibit pets entirely
Hosts may charge pet fees, security deposits, and enforce rules
What Hosts Need to Know
Animal Type | Must Accept? | Can Deny? | Can Charge Fees? | Can Ask for Documentation? |
Service Animals | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No | ❌ No |
Emotional Support Animals | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (if accepted) | ✅ Yes (optional) |
Pets | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (optional) |
Hosts must not:
Deny service animals
Charge fees for service animals
Ask for paperwork for service animals
Reject guests for having a disability
Hosts may:
Choose to accept or decline ESAs and pets
Set clear rules for animals (leashes, no furniture, etc.)
Request deposits or fees for pets (not for service animals or ESAs)
What Guests Need to Know
If You’re Traveling With a:
Service Animal:
You must let your host know in advance. No fees or documentation are required. Keep your animal under control and clean up after them.ESA:
You may only bring an ESA if the host agrees. Be honest and respectful—don’t misrepresent your animal as a service animal.Pet:
Check the host’s pet policy (on Hostshare & Airbnb) before booking. Only bring your pet if allowed, and follow all rules. Pay any fees or deposits your host requires.
🛑 Policy Violations
Falsely claiming a pet as a service animal or ESA can result in removal from Hostshare.
Denying a service animal without valid reason may lead to account review.
Damage caused by pets is the responsibility of the guest. Truvi may cover some incidents, but not all.
Violating a listing’s no-pet policy by bringing an unauthorized animal.
Need Help?
If you're not sure whether your animal qualifies or if a host allows pets, reach out to us before booking. Our support team is here to help guide the conversation and ensure a respectful stay on both sides.