Hi --

I'm new to this forum and I'm hoping someone can offer some advise on a situation I have found myself in.

In my late teens I was diagnosed with Chronic Depression and Asperger's Syndrome (a form of Autism). I find it very difficult to live alone, but finding "understanding" roommates has proven to be even more difficult. As a compromise I started raising Fancy Hooded Rats. They are easy to take care of, personable and bond well to their handlers. I have had one over the course of the last several years, and it really helps with the social emotional anxiety and depression.

I have recently relocated into an extended stay hotel and they have a "no pets" policy; further their contract specifies that they will only allow "certified service animals". After doing some research into the FHA, ADA and other applicable laws, I noted that certification for the animal is not legally required and that they can not deny admittance due to lack there of.

The problem: I was discharged from treatment 7 years ago and I do not, as of now, have or need therapeutic help. I know how to handle my disability on my own and as long as I am not alone for an extended length of time, I am fine and the depression is held in check. Further, I do not have health insurance and can not afford to go see a therapist/psychologist/psychiatrist even if I wanted to.

Everywhere I have read on the 'net says that in order to petition the management for a reasonable accommodation I would need to provide a supporting letter from my mental health care giver. I have tried contacting my previous therapist, but she has not, as of yet, returned my phone call (and never has the other 2 times I have attempted to call her since being discharged over the last 7 years).

My old roommates have been watching Dax (my rat), but they called earlier today and said that they have to drop him off tonight as they are moving as well and can not (or will not) take him with them.

I don't know what to do, I told them to go ahead and bring him here as there is no where else to put him and due to the fact that spending the weekend here alone has caused the depression to rear it's head for the first time in over a year.

Now, I am worried that I am going to end up getting thrown out of this hotel and seeing as I paid for a full month here upfront, I am nearly flat broke and would have nowhere else to go.

Without a letter from a therapist, can I still petition for them to waive the no pet policy?

If not, does anyone know of a qualified professional that would help out with a letter, for free or extremely cheap?

I went on PsychologyToday.com earlier today and emailed several therapists in my area seeking help. I've heard back from one, but only for him to say that he's sold his practice, will consult with the new owner & get back to me. He did say, however, that the new owner of his practice is an expert on Asperger's Syndrome so I am hopeful; but I am not the type to "put all my eggs in one basket" so to speak, so I figured I would ask here as well.

I'm located in Des Moines, IA.

Thanks for any & all help ya'll can provide.