There are still several businesses that cannot go online only e.g Dentist, Physicians, SPA, Beauty Salons, small mom & pop retailers, neighborhood convenience stores etc.  

Glad I read the whole thread first :)Your first line of defense when getting these requests is simple: if the nature of the disability or need for the animal is not obvious (i.e. a "seeing eye dog" for a blind tenant), you are legally permitted to require the applicant provide official documentation of the need for the animal, and the type of animal, from a physician, psychiatrist, social worker, or mental health professional.

I'm a physician, and there are several banks that offer personal, unsecured lines of credit specifically for physicians. 

It's easy to get a prescription, just like it's easy to get a prescription for Prozac or Ambien.

For instance, if I ever want to sell the home, I want to be able to note that there is not an implied easement or a prescriptive easement etc.

It's too dangerous otherwise.Mom knows and can have health care professional writing those prescriptions call you and give you definitive answer on medication.

Occasionally we have applicants with service pets with a not from a physician.

(Once a physician, once a counselor) Our lawyer sent the care giver a certified letter and a call informing them that any liability from a lawsuit resulting in an injury from a vicious breed animal they approved as a service animal would mean we in turn would be including them as liable on the given suit, and to please forward us a copy of their liability limits..In both instances letters were immediately withdrawn..

Prescription medicine can be purchased over the counter

I will be a physician in 5 years (just beginning residency) and am brand new to the REI world, so this question is important for me down the road.