Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category
If you rely on a service dog, you need to know about the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). The ACAA is a U.S. federal law that gives you the right to bring your service dog in the plane cabin on all flights to, from, and within the United States. The ACAA, along with HUD’s housing rules and the Americans with Disabilities Act, form the legal basis for service dog owner rights in the United States.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the ACAA, including how it applies to service dogs, recent rule changes for emotional support animals, and what to do if you encounter issues with an airline.
What is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)?The ACAA was passed to ensure that people with disabilities are treated fairly and respectfully when they fly. This law requires airlines to provide special accommodations for disabled people who need service dogs.
If you’re flying with a service dog, the ACAA guarantees your right to bring your trained service dog into the aircraft cabin without paying extra fees. The ACAA also exempts you from weight and breed restrictions, meaning larger dogs are fine to board the cabin with you.
Here are some key points about the ACAA:
The ACAA applies to all airlines operating in U.S. airspace, covering domestic and international flights that touch U.S. soil. It prohibits airlines from discriminating against travelers with disabilities, including those who have met service dog requirements. The ACAA is enforced by the Department of Transportation (DOT), which issues guidelines and manages complaints. Service Dogs on Planes: What’s Currently AllowedService dogs have a special status under the ACAA, allowing them to accompany their handlers in the airplane cabin.
For service dog handlers, the following rules currently apply:
Before boarding, you must complete and submit the DOT’s Service Animal Form to your airline. Only trained service dogs are allowed to fly in the cabin. This means the dog must be trained to perform specific tasks related to the handler’s disability. Passengers are limited to a maximum of two service dogs each. Dogs must fit comfortably in the handler’s foot space, under the seat, or on the passenger’s lap (if the dog is small enough and permitted by the airline). Airlines cannot charge fees for service dogs traveling in the cabin.Check out this link for a complete guide on flying with a service dog.
According to the ACAA, service dogs are allowed to fly inside the cabin of an airplane. The ACAA and Emotional Support Animals: What Changed?While emotional support animals (ESAs) were once also given special status under the ACAA, regulatory updates changed their classification. As of December 2020, ESAs are no longer recognized for special privileges under the ACAA. U.S. airlines now treat emotional support animals just like regular pets.
The rule changes mean that ESAs:
Can be restricted to travel as pets, with airlines free to enforce pet fees and size restrictions. Do not have guaranteed access to the cabin and may be required to remain in pet carriers for the duration of the flight. May face breed or species restrictions based on airline policies. What to Do if You Face Issues under the ACAAWhen flying with a service dog, airlines are required to:
Offer assistance during boarding, deplaning, and throughout the flight if requested. Make most seats available to you and your service dog, except for emergency exit rows. Ensure a Complaint Resolution Official (CRO) is available to address any issues related to your service dog’s access.If you run into issues with your service dog at the airport or on the plane, here are some steps you can take:
Request a CROEvery airline has CROs trained to handle disability-related issues. Request their assistance if there are problems with service dog policies. Document EverythingTake notes on interactions and record the names of airline staff involved, in case you need to file a complaint. Submit a DOT ComplaintIf unresolved, submit a complaint to the DOT’s Aviation Consumer Protection office within 90 days of your flight. Keep All PaperworkFrom the DOT form to any medical records, keep copies of all documentation relevant to your service dog. Common Questions About ACAA Rules for Service Dogs Can airlines refuse to allow my service dog?Yes, but only under certain conditions. If your dog behaves aggressively, is not housebroken, poses a direct threat to other passengers, or is not yet fully trained, the airline can deny access. Do I need a special ID for my service dog?No specific ID is needed, but having a voluntary service dog ID can help with airline staff and passengers immediately recognizing your dog as a service animal. Are international flights any different?Yes, many international flights have additional rules based on the destination country. Always check entry requirements for your dog, as some countries may require health certifications, vaccinations, or even quarantine. When should I arrive at the airport?Arrive 2-3 hours before your flight. This gives you enough time for check-in, security, and document checks.
Taking the New York City subway system with a service dog or psychiatric service dog is not only possible but fully protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act. Service dogs are allowed on all NYC subway trains and in all stations without needing a carrier, special permit, or extra fee.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about traveling with your service dog on the NYC subway system, from how to respond to NYPD and MTA workers to whether you need an ID card.
Verifying You Have a Service Dog on the MTA ID Cards Required for Service Dogs on MTA Service Dog Rules Onboard the MTA Practical Tips for Taking the Subway with Your Service Dog Verifying You Have a Service Dog on the MTAIf an MTA worker or NYPD police officer asks about your service dog, they can only ask two questions: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? And 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform. That’s it! They can’t ask you any other questions, ask for documents, or ask more detailed questions about your health or dog’s training.
ID Cards Required for Service Dogs on MTAID cards for service dogs on New York subways are optional. You can get a service dog ID card from a service dog registry, and the New York City Transit also offers a voluntary program for ID cards. Keep in mind that these ID cards are for convenience only. There are benefits to having an ID card:
Quicker Interactions: The ID card can help expedite interactions with MTA staff. Reduced Scrutiny: Having an ID can reduce unwarranted scrutiny from staff or passengers who might otherwise question your dog’s presence. Conflict Prevention: The card can serve as a visual cue that your dog is a legitimate service animal, potentially preventing conflicts or misunderstandings before they arise.Remember, while these benefits can make your subway experience smoother, an ID card is not a requirement. Your rights as a service dog handler are protected by the ADA and New York State law, regardless of whether you have a card or not.
Service Dog Rules Onboard the MTANormal dogs are also allowed to ride on the subway, but they need to be in a carrier or bag. Service dogs, on the other hand, are exempt from that rule. You’ll often see New Yorkers carrying their beloved pups in Ikea blue bags or totes, but a service dog can freely walk on the platform and sit on the floor of the train. Service dogs must always be well-behaved — meaning no aggressive or unsanitary actions.
A service dog always has to be under the handler’s control, and you should keep them on a leash at all times. However, your service dog can be off-leash or on your lap if that is required to better assist with your disability.
Practical Tips for Taking the Subway with Your Service DogWhen you’re on the subway platform with your service dog, always stay behind the yellow bumpy strips on the ground. These strips help keep you and your dog safe from the track. NYC trains can be especially loud and create a lot of wind when entering the station. New Yorker’s ears are constantly inundated by the screech of subway cars. Make sure your dog has been properly acclimated to this type of environment. For a New Yorker, that should be part of the public access test a service dog undergoes.
When taking your service dog onto the New York subway, make sure they are accustomed to the sights and sounds and keep yourself and your dog secure.Once you’re on the train with your service dog, try to find a seat at the end of the car if you can. There’s usually more room. If you have to stand, stay near a pole or in a corner, and keep your dog close to your legs. Remember that the train can move and stop suddenly, so be ready to steady yourself and your dog.
Service dog accessories like an ID card, tag, or vest can be helpful on crowded subway trains. They’ll inform other riders why your dog is not in a carrier and may also give you additional space, recognizing that your service dog is a health necessity.
Being able to fly with your dog is one of the great benefits of modern air travel. But if you’re not fully prepared — or if your flight itinerary doesn’t go according to plan — you could end up with a hungry pup in a place with limited options for dog-friendly food.
More than two million pets, including emotional support animals and service dogs, fly on commercial airlines in the U.S. every year. That’s a lot of animals, and a lot of opportunities for humans and their dogs to end up stranded due to canceled flights, missed connections, and other common air travel mishaps.
So what is a conscientious dog owner to do? We’ve compiled a quick guide to dog-friendly foods at the airport, including what should be avoided and what some of your best options are when you’re in a bind.
Here’s What Dogs Can Eat at the AirportWith so many restaurants and shops to choose from at airports, you do have some options for feeding your dog. Certain spots have pet-friendly menu items, such as Johnny Rockets’ “Dog Burger,” a plain burger patty cut into bite-sized pieces.
Here are a few safe picks from some of the most popular airport food spots, plus tips for making each meal as dog-friendly as possible.
McDonald’sMost airports have at least one McDonald’s on-site, and if you open the airport’s app or website, you can likely locate the nearest one. You’ll find a couple of protein-rich options here; just skip the side of fries to protect your dog’s delicate stomach.
Grilled Chicken Sandwich – Order without buns or toppings, so it’s just the chicken. Hamburger – A plain McDonald’s hamburger patty is a decent choice for hungry dogs. Just be sure to leave off the bun and all toppings, especially the onions, which are toxic to dogs in both their raw and cooked form. Chili’s Grill & BarChoose one of these dog-friendly options while you sit back and relax with an Awesome Blossom or Mississippi Mudslide for yourself.
Turkey Patty – The all-natural, 100% white meat turkey patty off Chili’s “Build Your Own Burger” menu can be enjoyed by your dog. For extra protein, ask if you can add a dry scrambled (no egg or oil) egg on top. Subway“Eat Fresh” is always a good motto when it comes to your dog. While processed deli meat is not recommended for dogs due to high sodium levels and potentially harmful additives, you do have some other options.
Egg & Cheese – You can order this staple off the Subway breakfast menu for your dog; just nix the toasted bread or eat it yourself. Veggie Delite – Customize a Veggie Delite sandwich into a dog-friendly meal by opting for just tomatoes, cucumbers, and green peppers, plus some cheddar or provolone for protein. Avoid vegetables that aren’t safe for dogs, such as onions and garlic, remove the bread, and you’re good to go. StarbucksThis famous coffee chain is well-known for its “puppuccino,” but your dog-friendly options go beyond a cup of whipped cream.
Rolled & Steel Cut Oatmeal – Plain oatmeal packs a healthy punch for dogs. To make it more exciting, add a dash of cinnamon and/or a tablespoon of whole milk. Berry Trio Parfait – For this tasty trio, set aside the sweetened granola for yourself, remove about half of the berry compote, and then let your dog go to town on the remaining compote and nonfat yogurt. Panda ExpressDogs and sticky, sweet American Chinese food aren’t a good mix since the sauces tend to include sugar, which can harm your dog’s stomach, and spicy chilis, another no-go. That said, this chain does have one great option for our canine friends.
White or Brown Rice – Cooked, plain rice is easy on a dog’s stomach, making it an excellent choice for airport eats. To make it a complete meal, pair it with protein such as a McDonald’s plain chicken or burger patty or a Chili’s fried egg. Gift Shops and Food KiosksYou can find many dog-friendly food options at airport gift shops and kiosks if you know what you’re looking for. Some items to keep an eye out for include:
Single-serve unsweetened peanut butter packets (xylitol free) Unsweetened coconut flakes Hard-boiled eggs Plain yogurt Apples Bananas Carrots and celery sticks Plain popcornFocus less on feeding your dog a full meal at the airport and more on finding something to tide them over until you can get to their regular food. A full stomach isn’t ideal for flying anyway, and we’re sure your dog won’t mind skipping a meal if it means getting to try some novel airport treats.
Some airport shops may also offer dog-friendly foods to satisfy a small hunger before a flight. Airport Foods You Shouldn’t Feed Your DogIt’s always a good idea to carry some extra food for your dog when traveling, just in case. If you haven’t though, don’t fret. You can get creative and find something for your dog to eat, but it’s important to know what to avoid as you narrow your options.
Airport foods that you should not feed your dog due to the risk of digestive upset, severe illness or death include:
Avocado Grapes and raisins Citrus Onions, garlic, and chives Mushrooms Chocolate Candy Ice cream Baked goods Macadamia nuts Pistachios, walnuts, and pecans Raw or undercooked proteins Flavored waters Caffeinated productsBeyond this list of no-gos, some airport foods may seem dog-friendly but contain ingredients that can be harmful to your pup if ingested. Always check ingredient lists, and do not feed any items containing xylitol (found in many sugar-free foods and certain nut butter), which can cause hypoglycemia or acute liver failure in dogs. You should also avoid items that are heavy in sugar, salt, or grease due to the risk of stomach upset.
TESTIMONIALS
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I have been able to travel with my service animal stress free after getting help from Service Dog Certifications.
I have a disability that is not “obvious”. The service dog ID card helps me show people that I need my service dog without having to explain my disability to them.
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