Service Dog Requirements for Airlines – Guide for First-Time PSD Flyers

Before you even think about booking your flight, it’s crucial to understand the specific airline policies and the Air Carrier Access Act regarding service animals. Different airlines have different requirements, but there are some general guidelines you can expect across the board:

• Documents Required: Most U.S. airlines require specific forms confirming your dog’s status as a psychiatric service animal. This may include a letter from your healthcare provider, a behavior training certificate of your canine, and the DOT Service Animal form to comply with federal regulations. It’s important to note that emotional support animals are not recognized as service animals under the Air Carrier Access Act and must travel under pet travel policies.
• Advanced Notice: Notify the airline of your intention to fly with a PSD at least 48 hours before your flight. This helps ensure all necessary arrangements are made.
• Size and Breed Restrictions: While service dogs of all breeds are generally permitted, some airlines have size restrictions for the comfort and safety of your dog. If your dog is too large to fit within the foot space, you may need to book an additional seat.

Just like you, your canine companion needs to be prepared for the experience of flying. Here’s what you can do:

• Familiarization with Airports: If possible, take your assistance animal to an airport before your trip to familiarize them with the environment.
• Practice Commands in Noisy Places: Practice basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “down” in environments that mimic an airport’s hustle and bustle. This will help your dog stay calm during the flight. Ensure your dog is individually trained to assist with specific tasks related to your disability, as this specialized training is crucial for their role as a service animal.
• Carry Essential Items: Bring along a few comfort items for your assistance animal, such as their favorite toy or blanket, to make them feel more at ease.

On the day of your flight, you and your trained service dog should be as stress-free as possible. Here’s a handy checklist to keep things running smoothly:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to check in and pass through security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines for screening service animals.
• Have Documentation Ready: Keep all necessary documents and identification for your psychiatric service animal easily accessible.
  • Secure Disability Accommodations Provided: Ensure you secure disability accommodations provided under U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Making false statements on forms related to assistance animal is a federal crime. Follow the necessary procedures and complete the required forms, including the DOT Service Animal form, to receive the accommodations you are entitled to when flying with service animals.
• Ensure Comfort and Hydration: Make sure your dog has had enough exercise, bathroom breaks, and water before the flight. Consider bringing a collapsible bowl for easy access to water during layovers.
• Behavior Management: Any disruptive behavior from your dog could lead to it being treated as a pet instead of a service dog. Therefore, make sure your assistance animal maintains good animal behavior throughout the journey to avoid complications.

• Security Screening: You and your dog will pass through security together. You may need to walk your dog through the metal detector while holding their leash.
• TSA Pat-Down: Be prepared for a TSA agent to pat down your dog, as it’s part of their security protocol.
• Boarding Process: Airlines typically allow passengers with service animals to board early. Take advantage of this to get settled before the cabin fills up.

Once on board, you’ll want to make sure both you and your service dog are comfortable:

• Seating Arrangements: Your assistance animal must fit within the designated space at your feet without obstructing the aisle. If your dog is too large, you might need to purchase an extra seat or consider flying first class. Large service animals may require reseating to ensure safety and space management. Small service animals may be placed on a passenger’s lap if they are smaller than a lap child.`
• Behavior Management: Keep your dog calm and quiet during the flight. If they becomes agitated, use calming commands or offer a favorite treat or toy.

• Medical Documentation: A letter from your healthcare provider stating your need for a PSD can be beneficial. While a letter from your healthcare provider is not legally required for domestic flights, it can still be helpful for international travel or in case any questions arise about your dog’s role.
• Airline Forms: Some airlines require specific forms, such as the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation form. Regulations from the United States Department mandate this form for service animal travel.
  • Service Animals in Training: Service animals in training are not recognized as service animals under the Air Carrier Access Act and must be treated as pets. Check with the airline for specific requirements, potential charges, and travel options available for them.
• Vaccination Records: Proof of current vaccinations may be requested.
• Advance Notification: Notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure for service animal travel and ensure all documentation is in order.

Preparation is key to a smooth journey with your psychiatric service animal. Here’s a concise packing guide:

Documentation Folder:

• Service dog ID or certification (if available).
• Medical documentation from your healthcare provider.
• Airline-specific forms (e.g., U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation form).
• Vaccination records.
• Valid health certificate from a veterinarian.

Comfort Items:

• A favorite blanket or towel for familiarity.
• A favorite toy or chew for engagement.

Travel-Sized Essentials:

• Portable water bowl and small water bottle.
• Low-crumb, high-value treats.
• Sufficient food in a sealable bag or container.
• Extra poop bags.

Service Animal Gear:

• Service dog vest or harness (optional but helpful).
• Sturdy leash and collar; consider a hands-free option.

Health & Hygiene:

• Grooming wipes for quick cleanups.
• Paw balm for protection.
• Small first aid kit with essentials.

Travelers should also check the policies of any partner airline they may be flying with, as requirements can differ.

• Documentation Required: Delta requires the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form. This verifies your dog’s health and behavior.
• Check-In Requirement: Submit the documentation at least 48 hours before your flight. You can submit it online through their accessibility support desk.
• Size and Seating: Your service animal must fit at your feet, under the seat, or in your lap (if it’s a small dog). If your dog is too large, you may need to book an extra seat.

• Documentation Required: You must submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form, confirming your animal’s status as a service animal and attesting to its training and behavior.
• Submission Timeline: Submit the form at least 48 hours before your flight. You can upload it directly on their website.
• Breed and Size: No breed restrictions, but the dog must fit within your seating area without obstructing others.

Southwest’s policy allows you to choose a spot that works best for you and your canine companion, and they do not charge for seating adjustments if needed to accommodate your service animal.

• Documentation Requirements: Only the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form is required. This can be submitted at the airport during check-in.
• Flexibility: Southwest does not impose breed restrictions and is flexible with seating arrangements.
• Boarding Process: Passengers with service animals can board during the pre boarding process, which gives you extra time to get settled.

United Airlines policies offers comprehensive support and availability of additional seating options make it a great choice for passengers flying with larger service dogs or those on long-haul flights.

• Documentation Required: United requires the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form and a separate Service Animal Relief Attestation Form if your flight is longer than 8 hours.
• Advance Notice: Forms should be submitted at least 48 hours before travel.
• In-Flight Comfort: If your service dog needs more space, United may offer seating options to ensure comfort.

JetBlue Airlines‘ focus on customer service and education around service animals makes them a top choice for a hassle-free flying experience.

• Documentation: Submit the DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before your flight. JetBlue does not require additional forms for service animals.
• Petiquette Program: JetBlue offers a unique Petiquette program that educates passengers about flying with pets and service animals.
• Boarding and Seating: Pre-boarding is available, and they will assist you in finding the most comfortable seating arrangement.

• Check Documentation Requirements: Confirm which forms are needed and submit them well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
• Consider Flight Duration: For longer flights, choose an airline like United, which offers seating flexibility and additional comfort options.
• Pre-Boarding Benefits: Choose airlines that offer pre boarding for passengers with service animals to ensure a calm and unrushed boarding process.

When traveling with your psychiatric service dog, keeping vaccinations up-to-date is crucial for both compliance and health. Here’s what you need to know:

Rabies:

• Legally Required: This vaccine is mandated by most states and airlines.
• Frequency: Every 1-3 years, depending on state laws and vaccine type.

DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus):

• Combo Vaccine: Protects against multiple diseases.
• Frequency: Given in a series as a puppy, then every 1-3 years.
• Optional But Recommended

Bordetella (Kennel Cough):

• Importance: Recommended for dogs exposed to other animals, like at airports.
• Frequency: Every 6-12 months.

Canine Influenza:

• Importance: Prevents canine flu, common in crowded areas.
• Frequency: Two initial doses, then annual boosters.

Leptospirosis:

• Importance: Protects against bacterial infections from contaminated water or soil.
• Frequency: Annually, based on risk

Additional Health Travel Preparation Tips:

• Obtain a Health Certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel.
• Verify each airline’s requirements, especially for international flights.
• Be sure to carry both physical and digital copies of vaccination records.
• Check destination regulations early for any extra requirements.

• Right to Travel: You have the right to travel with your PSD on flights and at airports. Airlines must allow service dogs in the cabin, provided they are trained to perform tasks related to your disability. The service dog must assist a qualified individual with a disability as defined by the Air Carrier Access Act.
• Access to Public Areas: Your PSD is allowed in all public areas of the airport, including security checkpoints, boarding gates, and waiting areas.
• No Additional Fees: Airlines cannot charge extra fees for your PSD, but you may need to provide documentation.
• Limitations: Airlines may require advance notice about your PSD and may have specific forms to fill out.

• Pre-Flight Training: Ensure your PSD is well-trained in basic commands and can remain calm in crowded environments.
• Comfort Items: Bring familiar items like a blanket or toy to help soothe them during the flight.
• Frequent Breaks: If possible, take breaks during layovers to let your dog relieve itself and stretch.
• Hydration and Snacks: Pack travel-sized water bowls and low-crumb treats to keep your dog hydrated and happy.

• Security Checkpoints: Your PSD can accompany you through the screening process.
• Boarding Gates: You can bring your dog to the gate while waiting for your flight.
• Terminal Areas: Your PSD can join you in shops, restaurants, and lounges that allow service animals.

Keeping your psychiatric service animal calm during travel is essential for a smooth experience. Here are some effective strategies:

• Desensitization Training: Before your trip, expose your assistance animal to different environments and noises to reduce anxiety.
• Comfort Items: Bring along their favorite blanket or toy to provide a sense of security.
• Positive Reinforcement: Use treats and praise to reward calm behavior during the flight.
• Relaxation Techniques: Teach commands like “settle” to help them stay calm in stressful situations.

What They Can Ask:

• If the dog is required due to a disability.
• What tasks the dog has been trained to perform.

What They Cannot Ask:

• Your specific disability.
• For any documentation of your service dog, unless required by the airline.
• To pet or interact with your dog without your permission.