Flying with a service dog can be very stressful. Here is some information to know before you embark on your journey.
Starting January 11th 2021 the Department of Transportation has set new guidelines and rules for service animals flying. So lets break those down.
1. Service animal is defined as a DOG that is individually trained to do work or preform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability
2. Emotional support animals are no longer covered by the Air Carrier Access Act. They are now considered "pets" and any rules regarding pets now apply to them.
3.Psychatric service animals are now to be treated the same as any other service animal.
4.Airlines now require forms developed by DOT attesting to a service animals health, behavior and training. There is also a form for long flights attesting that a service animal can refrain from relieving itself on the aircraft unless it can do so in a sanitary matter. These forms must be provided up to 48 hours in advance of travel date if the reservation was made prior to that time.
5. Allows disabled passengers to utilize the online check in process rather than be restricted to physically checking in.
6.Airlines can limit the number of service animals traveling with a single passenger to 2 service animals.
7. Service animals must fit within the handlers' foot space aboard the aircraft.
8. Continuation to allow refusal of service animals that exhibit aggressive behavior or pose a direct threat to the health and safety of others.
8. Service animals cannot be refused solely on breed.
So what does all this mean? Service animals that are not dogs are no longer permitted aboard the aircrafts. ESA's are being seen as pets according to the DOT. Individual airlines can also have specific rules regarding ESA's aboard an aircraft. Previously, PSD's (Psychiatric Service Animal) were required to provide a letter from a medical professional stating that the animal was required for the handlers safety. To many, this process felt unfair because medical alert and guide dogs did not require a letter. This is a huge step for PSD's.
The form entitled " Relief Attestation Form". This form is for flights 8 hours or longer. This form is to ensure the service animal can relieve itself in a sanitary way aboard the aircraft or that relieving itself will not be necessary during the flight.
Above is the paperwork from the DOT that must be provided before flying with a service animal. The second form has sections for Demographics, animal health, training/behavior and other. The first section of the form is simple. Some information on the handler and basics of the animal. Next, it requires information on vaccination information and the contact of your primary veterinarian's office. It is also good to have a good health certificate and record of all pertinent vaccines. Then, we get into an area where their may be some confusion so let me help to clear up any questions. In the USA it is legal to what is called owner training. This is where a service animal is trained by the handler and not through an organization. When it asks about the name of trainer/ organization, you simply put down your contact information. If your dog was trained by ex: Guiding Eyes, you would write Guiding Eyes and their respective phone number. Finally, we reach the other category which is intended to confirm the information above and clarify the handlers responsibilities.
Now that we have talked about paperwork lets discuss what you can expect in the airport.
When it comes to TSA enter the line that best fits your situation. You will be required to walk through the metal detector, if possible, and then call your animal through. You are not required to take harnesses, vest, or any other working material off. If the animal sets of the detector, the dog will be pat down by a TSA agent. Many handlers have also reported having their hands swabbed for bomb residue as well. After TSA has cleared the handler and the dog you may retrieve your items from the belt and head to your gate.
Below is an image taken from the Transportation and Security Administration website.
If you have to exit the security screening checkpoint and then return, you will have to complete the process once again. Please make sure to have any necessary documents for re-entry.
Some handlers prefer to ask for pre-boarding but that is entirely up to the individual. Some handlers also prefer bulkhead seating as well. Please check with your individual airline for their specific procedures.
Some handlers have withheld food and/or water for 6 hours before a flight to prevent bathroom accidents. Please consult your vet before attempting this.
In order to alleviate stress, research the service animal relief stations at each airport you will be visiting. Printing directions out to them can be most helpful.
Service dogs require items just like humans do. Here is a list I found helpful of what to pack in a bag. Please note: check with your airline for carry-on restrictions.
1. Water bowl/ Food bowl. We suggest these be collapsible or easy to store and unbreakable.
2. Food/ extra food. Pack enough food for your trip in a suitcase but in addition we recommend packing at least one days worth of food in tour carry-on. Flights can get delayed or you could be separated from your bag for a long period of time. In a sense this is emergency food. One tip is to portion our each meal into a separate zip-lock bag including any medication. Then place that in a larger bag that states which meal it is for.
3. Gear. Any gear that your dog wears should be on or in your bag. Any extra gear can be packed away in a different suitcase such as cooling coats, bandanas, etc...
4. Treats. It is suggested to not try any new food a week prior to your departure to ensure a positive reaction for your dog. It is not required but some people prefer not to have treats with peanuts/nuts due to allergies. It is also kind if the treats are not super smelly.
5. Hearing protection. Common brands are Mutt-Muffs or Rexspecs. Some handlers say it helps with pooping of ears and others do not.
6. Place mat. Again, this is a personal preference. If your dogs shed a lot it is helpful for flight attendants in the clean-up process.
7. Toy/ Chews. Some dogs may get bored on the plane and want something to do. Toys that do not make noise and chews that do not smell are the best to not disturb other passengers. Nylabones and Benebones are often recommended as something for them to do. Please observe your dog during this time. Just as a reminder the dog must remain in the handlers foot space while playing and not be disruptive.
8. Empty water bottle. This is in order to hydrate your dog. Liquids above a certain ounce are not allowed through TSA but their are filling stations once you pass through security.
9. Wipes. These can be used for dirty paws or anything else you may need.
10. Potty Pads. This is more common for longer flights such as 8 hours and above.
11. All necessary paperwork. Copies of paperwork are your bestfriend. Have all documentation for you and your service animal handy. We recommend putting it all in a folder.
12. Crate. Some people prefer to check their crate under the plane for when they arrive to their destination.
13. POOP BAGS. There is nothing worse than not having enough poopbags. Try carrying an extra roll in your carry-on bag and in your luggage to prevent any situations.
14. Anything else you deem necessary. Every dog is different and requires different things to be set up for success.
If you have any specific questions regarding your time traveling please reach out to the airport directly or your airline. Remember: they are there to help you make your experience enjoyable. Have a safe flight!
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