Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category

This article was last updated on December 11th, 2024, to reflect the latest updates in the DOT’s rules for air travel.

In this post, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know to travel with your service dog or psychiatric service dog (PSD)

While the days of emotional support animals on planes are behind us, service dogs (of any size and weight) still have a protected right under the Air Carrier Access Act to fly in the cabin with their handlers, free of charge. 

Here are the five key steps if you want to fly with a service dog:

Make sure your service dog has completed its task training and that you have a qualifying ADA disability.  Notify your airline that you have a service dog when you book your tickets.  Fill out the DOT’s Service Animal Transportation Form and get it to the airline at least 48 hours before takeoff (don’t worry if you’re booking last-minute – you can bring it to the gate) Got a long flight? If it’s over 8 hours, you’ll need to complete the Service Animal Relief Attestation Form Pack a harness, leash, or tether – your service dog needs to stay secured during the whole journey

Keep reading to learn all the important details about flying with a service dog, along with practical tips from experienced service dog handlers who are frequent fliers.

Table of contents 1. What forms do I have to submit to fly with my service dog? 2. How can airline staff verify that I have a service animal? 3. What to Expect at the Airport 4. Does my service dog need a harness, vest, or ID card? 5. Is there a size limit for service dogs on flights? 6. Can an airline deny my service dog because it is a particular breed? 7. Can I bring more than one service dog aboard? 8. What rules apply to my service dog during the flight? 9. When is an airline allowed to deny boarding to a service animal? 10. What are some other practical tips for flying with a service dog? 11. Dealing with Airline Difficulties When Flying With Your Service Dog 1. What forms do I have to submit to fly with my service dog?

To fly within or from the U.S. with a service dog, you’ll need to complete the  DOT’s Service Animal Transportation Form. This form must be submitted to the airline at least 48 hours before departure. If the reservation is made within 48 hours of the flight, the form can be shared at the gate. 

In the DOT Form, the service dog or psychiatric service dog handler has to make the following certifications: 

The service dog or PSD has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of the passenger with a disability; The service dog has been trained to behave properly in public;  The handler is aware that the service dog must be under their control at all times; The handler is aware that if their service dog misbehaves in a way that indicates it has not been properly trained, then the airline can treat the service dog like a normal pet; and  The handler is aware that they may be liable for damage caused by their service dog’s actions.

You also have to confirm that your service dog has been vaccinated. The form asks for a veterinarian’s name and contact but does not require the vet’s signature. 

The DOT Form also asks for the name of the dog’s trainer, which can just be your name if your service dog was trained without the help of another person. 

For your reference, a copy of the DOT Transport Form can be found below.

Download the DOT Form – Service Animal Air Transportation Form (pdf) here.

In addition to the DOT Form, there is a separate form for flights longer than 8 hours called the “Service Animal Relief Attestation Form”.

In the Relief Form, the handler must certify that their service dog will either (i) not need to relieve itself while on the flight, (ii) can relieve itself during the flight without creating a health or sanitation issue, or (iii) refrain from relieving itself, or relieve itself without posing a health or sanitation issue (for example, through the use of a dog diaper). 

Like the DOT Form, this form is self-certifying but only required for flights longer than 8 hours. A copy of the Relief Form for reference can be found below. 

Download the DOT Form – Service Animal Relief Attestation Form (pdf) here.

You can only complete the DOT Form if you have a qualifying ADA disability. Psychiatric disabilities also count. Not sure if your mental health condition is eligible? Consider asking for a PSD letter from a healthcare professional.

Wonder if your emotional disorder qualifies for a psychiatric service dog?Get an assessment by a licensed health professional. 2. How can airline staff verify that I have a service animal?

According to ACAA regulations, here are three ways airline staff can verify your canine companion is a service dog:

Asking whether the animal is required to accompany the passenger because of a disability and what work or task the animal has been trained to perform.As a service dog owner, you have a right to privacy. Airline staff can’t interrogate you for specifics about your disability or ask your service dog to demonstrate what they can do. Observing the behavior of the animal. Airline staff can observe the general behavior of your service dog to see whether they remain under your control. A service dog can be barred from a flight if it is out of control, barking or growling repeatedly at other passengers or animals, biting, jumping on, causing injury to others, or urinating or defecating in the cabin or gate area.

According to the DOT, a dog that engages in these types of disruptive actions demonstrates that it has not been successfully trained to behave in public settings.  Looking at physical indicators such as harnesses and vests.Lastly, an airline can look at physical indicators such as harnesses, vests, ID cards, and tags to judge whether the dog is a service dog. Paraphernalia such as tags, vests, ID cards, certificates, and harnesses are used by service dog owners to signal to the public that their service dog is on duty.

These accessories are especially helpful for psychiatric service dog owners because their disabilities are invisible and not readily apparent. Having these accessories helps protect service dog owners from intrusive inquiries and unwanted interactions.

However, it’s important to note that service animal paraphernalia is not, by itself, enough to qualify a dog as a service dog. It’s just one factor the DOT says airlines can use to determine whether they are dealing with an authentic service dog or not. If you want to register your Service Dog so that you have a Service Dog ID card for your personal convenience at the airport, you can order one below. 3. What to Expect at the Airport

Before arriving at the airport, make sure you have submitted the DOT Transportation Form to your airline.

Some airlines have a link on their website to submit the form, while others accept them by email. If you booked a flight within 48 hours of departure, you can bring the form and submit it to an airline agent at the airport. 

If you travel with a service dog, it’s a good idea to arrive earlier than usual. You must check in with the airline counter to confirm they have your DOT Transportation Form. Airline staff may also inspect your service dog to ensure it is clean, well-behaved, and under your control. Check out our guide on going through airport security with a dog if you’re doing that for the first time. 

While at the airport, it’s a good idea to have a paper or digital copy of your DOT Form in case anyone asks for it. 

While at the airport and during your flight, your service dog should be harnessed or tethered at all times. Service dogs that are not fully under their handler’s control can be removed from the airport or plane. 

As we’ll discuss in the next section, having service dog accessories at the airport can also be very helpful. 

4. Does my service dog need a harness, vest, or ID card?

As we discussed, the DOT allows airline staff to consider items such as harnesses, vests, and tags to determine whether an animal is a service dog. These items are popular with service dog owners because they distinguish their working animals from normal pets.

They help manage uncomfortable interactions with the public and staff members and prevent intrusive inquiries about why the dog is present. These accessories can be especially helpful for psychiatric service dog owners whose disabilities are unseen. They provide an easy way for airport and airline staff and other passengers to recognize that you are boarding with a service dog.

As a reminder, however, these items alone cannot qualify a service dog and are only for fully-trained service dogs. Airlines can weigh the presence of service dog paraphernalia along with other factors to determine whether a dog is indeed a service dog. 

5. Is there a size limit for service dogs on flights?

Many service dogs are larger breeds, such as Golden Retrievers or German Shepherds. There is no absolute weight limit for service dogs, but airlines can require that a service animal fit within the handler’s foot space or on the passenger’s lap.

The DOT requires airlines to accommodate larger animals by moving the passenger to another seat within the same service class where the animal can be accommodated, if possible (such as if a seat is next to an empty seat). 

If there is nowhere to place a larger service dog comfortably, the airline is required to offer the handler the opportunity to transport the service dog in the cargo hold free of charge or travel on a later flight if there is space available in the cabin for that flight. The airline is not required to upgrade the handler to a different class of service to accommodate your service animal.

Most service dog owners would be vehemently opposed to letting their dogs fly in cargo. Fortunately, many larger service dogs can still be trained to fit into the passenger’s foot space on an airplane.

6. Can an airline deny my service dog because it is a particular breed?

Airlines are not allowed to turn away your service dog just because of its breed. This is especially important for handlers with breeds that sometimes face unfair stereotypes, like:

Pit Bulls and Pit Bull mixes German Shepherds Doberman Pinschers Rottweilers Chow Chows Siberian Huskies Alaskan Malamutes Great Danes American Staffordshire Terriers Bullmastiffs

The truth is, these breeds can make exceptional service dogs! German Shepherds are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them excellent mobility assistance dogs. Pit Bulls have the strength and gentleness needed for balance work. Great Danes can be perfect for handlers who need a taller dog for mobility support, while Dobermans often excel at medical alert work due to their attentiveness.

The DOT has made it clear that any breed of dog can be a service dog, and airlines must evaluate each dog as an individual rather than making assumptions. Just because someone once had a bad experience with a particular breed doesn’t mean your highly-trained service dog can be discriminated against.

However, it’s important to understand what airlines can and cannot consider when it comes to your service dog’s behavior:

What Airlines Can’t Do: Ban your service dog based solely on its breed Require additional documentation just because of your dog’s breed Make you muzzle your dog simply because of its breed Force your dog to undergo special screening based on breed Make assumptions about your dog’s temperament based on breed stereotypes

If you have a service dog breed that faces unfair stereotypes, consider these practical tips:

Use a vest or harness that clearly identifies your dog as a service animal Keep documentation of your dog’s training and good behavior handy (like a Public Access Test Certificate, though this isn’t required) If airline staff seem hesitant about your dog’s breed, calmly remind them of the DOT regulations Document any interactions where staff seem to discriminate based on breed

Remember, the key factor is your service dog’s behavior, not its breed. 

7. Can I bring more than one service dog aboard?

Need to fly with more than one service dog? You can bring up to two service dogs on your flight. This is great news if you have two service dogs that help with different tasks — for example, one dog for psychiatric support and another for mobility assistance.

The catch? Both dogs need to fit in your foot space or on your lap. This can be tricky if you have larger service dogs. If you’re flying with two big pups, here’s what you can do to avoid any issues:

Book an extra seat if you can afford it Try to fly during off-peak times when the plane is less likely to be full Ask the airline about flights with more empty seats

Whatever you do, don’t risk having your service dog sent to cargo — most handlers consider this absolutely off-limits, and for good reason. It’s better to plan ahead and make sure both your dogs can stay with you in the cabin.

When booking, immediately inform the airline that you’re traveling with two service dogs. This allows them to help you find the best seating arrangement possible.

8. What rules apply to my service dog during the flight?

During the flight, the airline can require your service dog to be harnessed, leashed, or tethered at all times, even if these items would interfere with your service dog’s work or your disability prevents the use of these items. This is a more stringent approach than the ADA, which allows a disabled person to use voice commands or other signals to control their service dog. 

Service dog owners should come prepared for flights with a harness, leash, or tether and anticipate that their service dog will have to be restrained during the flight and at the airport gate. 

Again, all service dogs must be well-behaved during the flight and not create any significant disruptions. That means no barking, jumping on others, acting aggressively, or defecating/urinating in the open. Your service dog also can’t block a space that must remain unobstructed for safety reasons, the aisle, or access to the emergency exit.

If your service dog causes any damage to the airplane cabin, you’ll be on the hook to pay for the damages. 

9. When is an airline allowed to deny boarding to a service animal?

There are four primary situations where an airline can deny boarding for a service animal:

The service animal violates general safety requirements. The most likely example of this issue would be if an animal is too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin. The service animal poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others. Airlines must make an “individualized assessment” of the service dog in question. They can’t rely, for example, on stereotypes regarding a service dog’s breed.

The airline also has to consider whether any mitigating measures can be taken – for example, using a muzzle to silence a barking service dog.  The service dog causes significant disruption in the cabin or airport gate areas, or its actions indicate it hasn’t been trained properly to be in public. An airline can view a service dog as not having been properly trained if the service dog is running freely, barking or repeatedly growling at others, biting or jumping on people, or urinating or defecating in the open.  The transportation of the service dog would violate the safety or health requirements of a foreign government. For international flights, it’s important to make sure you understand the foreign country’s rules for the arrival of service dogs. For example, some countries may require information regarding the service dog’s health and vaccination status.  The passenger has not completed the DOT’s Transport Form or Relief Form. As previously discussed, service dog owners will need to submit the DOT’s Transport Form and the Relief Form for longer flights before boarding the flight. If you’re on a long, multi-leg flight with your service dog, you might find our guide on finding dog-friendly foods at the airport helpful. 

If an airline refuses to accommodate your service dog for any reason, they must provide a written statement to you describing those reasons within 10 days. 

10. What are some other practical tips for flying with a service dog?

The first time flying with your service dog or PSD can be a nerve-wracking and intimidating experience. But fear not, thousands of service dog owners travel every day without incident, and federal rules protect your rights.

These are some practical tips and precautions to keep in mind to help ensure you have a smooth trip:

Tip #1: If necessary, visit your vet before your travel date to ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. The DOT’s Transport Form will require you to certify your service dog is vaccinated and will also ask for your vet’s contact information.   Tip #2: Vests, tags, ID cards, harnesses, and other accessories can help you navigate a busy airport and crowded airplane cabin.  Tip #3: Avoid overfeeding your service dog before a flight, as they could suffer from air sickness, leading to an unpleasant accident during the flight.  Tip #4: Let your airline know about your service dog and submit the DOT’s Transport Form as soon as possible.  Tip #5: For first-timers, arriving at the airport a few hours early can ease some of the anxiety, especially if there are unexpected obstacles like a long security line or changed gates. Many airports also have stations where your service dog can have an opportunity to relieve itself one last time before boarding. Click here for our guide on keeping your service dog calm during flights.  Tip #6: Remember to bring a harness, leash, or tether – the airline can insist that your service dog is properly restrained and under your control at all times.  Tip #7: Remember to pack all your pet’s grooming products, necessary medication, food, treats, water, and food dishes in suitably accessible compartments. 

Share this image on your site (copy code below): <div style="clear:both"><a href="https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/" target="_blank"><img decoding="async" style="max-width:100%;margin:0 0 10px;" src="https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/tips-on-flying-your-service-dog.jpg" title="Tips on Flying With Your Service Dogs" alt="3 small things to make flying with a service dog more comfortable" border="0" data-src="" /></a></div> Copy

11. Dealing with Airline Difficulties When Flying With Your Service Dog

Flying with a service dog has become more complicated lately, with some handlers reporting increased scrutiny and difficulties at airports. Other passengers have noted facing obstacles with airlines using third-party companies to screen their service dog status. While the DOT rules are clear about service dog rights, sometimes airline staff are not properly trained on these regulations, which can lead to frustrating situations.

Be prepared for these situations by knowing your legal rights: 

Airlines cannot deny your service dog based on breed They cannot require extra documentation beyond the DOT forms They cannot ask about your specific disability They can only ask two questions: Is the service dog required because of a disability? What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

If an airline employee insists on seeing additional documentation beyond the DOT Form, you can say the following:

“I’ve submitted the required DOT Service Animal Transportation Form, which is the only documentation required by federal regulations. Could you please direct me to your Complaints Resolution Official if you have concerns?”

If they question whether your dog is really a service dog:

“My dog is individually trained to perform specific tasks to assist with my disability. The law allows you to ask what tasks they perform, and I’m happy to explain those, but you cannot ask about my specific disability.”

If they try to deny boarding based on your dog’s breed:

“The Department of Transportation regulations specifically prohibit breed-based discrimination for service dogs. My dog is well-trained and under my control. Would you like me to demonstrate some of their training?”

If staff seem unsure about the rules:

“I understand service dog regulations can be tricky. Would you like to review the current DOT guidelines together? I have a copy we can look at.”

If they try to separate you from your service dog or suggest cargo:

“Federal law requires airlines to accommodate service dogs in the cabin with their handlers. Separating me from my service dog would prevent them from performing their essential tasks. Could we look at alternative seating arrangements?”

If you face difficulty with any airline staff, stay calm and polite, even if frustrated. Getting upset rarely helps resolve the situation.

If you’re ultimately denied boarding, request the denial in writing: “I understand you’re required to provide a written explanation for the denial within 10 days. Could you confirm where this will be sent?”

Then, consider filing complaints with the Department of Transportation, the airline’s customer service department, and the airline’s disability desk. Document any expenses incurred due to the denial as well. 

Remember, sometimes access issues stem from staff confusion about current regulations rather than intentional discrimination. Being prepared with documentation and remaining professional can help resolve most situations quickly. 

Register your Service Dog and order your custom Service Animal Identification Card and Certificate

France is a place where most people would love to visit at least once in their lifetime. From the gourmet food and pastries to the outstanding architecture, France offers a vacation like no other.

If you need a Service Dog to help you navigate your way, or use one for other medical reasons, you can still enjoy all France has to offer; you just need to plan ahead.

In this post, we will provide you with a complete travel guide for a Service Dog in France. Don’t book your flight until you have all the facts.

Traveling to France With a Service Dog With an EU Passport

Before you can travel to France with your Service Dog, he or she must have a series of requirements completed. This can be in the form of an EU Pet Passport.

What is an EU Pet Passport?

The EU (European Union) Pet Passport is a document issued by an official veterinarian in a European Union Member State (a country within the EU) or other designated country that contains official health information related to a specific pet. The purpose of this document is to make it easier to travel between the EU Member States and for animals returning from the EU to other countries.

Note: an EU Pet Passport cannot be obtained in the U.S.

Who Can Fill Out an EU Pet Passport?

There are several sections that need to be completed on the EU Pet Passport. These sections are labeled as;

Authorized Veterinarian –  referring to an EU veterinarian A Veterinarian – any licensed vet including those from the U.S

It is very important that each veterinarian fills out there own sections. Failure to do so could have the Pet Passport denied.

Service Dog Requirements Without an EU Pet Passport

If you do not have an EU Pet Passport, you will have to complete a checklist of requirements before you can bring your Service Dog into France.

1. An ISO Compliant Microchip – these are 15 digits long (11784 and 11785). If your Service Dog does not have this type of microchip, you can either bring a compatible microchip reader with you or contact the EU Veterinarian at your destination point to see if he/she has the appropriate reader. You can also have a USDA accredited vet implant the EU microchip.

Remember, the number and implantation dates of both microchips must be documented on the EU Health Certificate.

2. Rabies Vaccination – Must occur AFTER the microchip was implanted or on the same day. However, any rabies vaccination administered before the microchip is considered invalid.

If your pet had a non-ISO compatible chip implanted at the same time as or before your pet’s most recent vaccination, your pet would not have to be re-vaccinated even if it had to be re-microchipped with an ISO compliant chip to travel to the EU.

Vaccinations that are valid from one to three years are acceptable as long as they are current and given according to the manufacturer’s requirements.

The vaccinations also cannot expire before entering France.

3. 21 Day Vaccination Waiting Period

Your Service Dog must wait 21 days after the primary rabies vaccination before traveling to France.

Vaccination is considered “primary” when it’s given at the same time or after a microchip implantation, or it is given after the previous rabies vaccination has expired.

4. The EU Health Certificate

Service Dogs must have an accredited veterinarian issue, complete, and sign the EU Health Certificate. This certificate must be issued within ten days of entering into France.

5. APHIS Endorsement

After your veterinarian has issued the EU Health Certificate, have your completed paperwork endorsed by your local APHIS Veterinary Services office.

APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service) will be able to provide specific information about the process and fees associated with the endorsement of the EU Health Certificate.

Click here to download a non-commercial Health Certificate for your Service Dog.

Please Note: According to their website;

“The EU health certificate is valid for travel within the EU for up to 4 months from the date it is issued by the USDA Accredited Veterinarian as long as the rabies vaccine documented on it does not expire. 

After entering the EU, dogs who are subsequently traveling to the United Kingdom, Ireland, Finland, Malta, or Norway will need to be treated for tapeworms by an EU veterinarian within 1-5 days before entering those countries. 

The EU veterinarian will add the tapeworm treatment information to the EU health certificate issued in the United States. It is your responsibility to ensure your pet meets the import requirements of each country you visit.”

Traveling in Paris With Your Dog

The public transportation rules in Paris are very dog-friendly. You may travel with your dog in subways and trains as long as you purchase a ticket for your dog and they are leashed. Unfortunately, buses do not allow dogs in Paris.

Traveling to France With Your Service Dog

Before you book your flight from the U.S. or Canada to France, be sure to start the lengthy process of getting your Service Dog ready to travel.

As we covered, your Assistance Dog will need to have an ISO compatible microchip, and up-to-date rabies vaccination. You will also need to have an EU Pet Passport in place or the five-step alternative process taken care of before your Service Dog will be admitted into France.

Following this process will ensure your Service Dog is ready and able to travel abroad.

Traveling is exciting. Taking in new sites, discovering interesting people, and making memories are all things a wonderful vacation should be. These expectations shouldn’t change because you need to travel with a service dog.

However, before you book your flight, there are some things you will need to keep in mind when traveling to Europe with a service dog. In this post, we will cover all those important areas to help get you prepared for your dream trip.

EU Animal Travel Requirements  Airline Requirements Jurisdiction Specific Requirements  General Travel Tips EU Animal Travel Requirements 

The European Union has developed rules to make it easy to travel to and between the EU countries. Your animal can travel with you if it has:

been microchipped (in line with the technical requirements of Annex II of the EU Regulation on the movement of pets) or has a clearly readable tattoo if applied before 3 July 2011 been vaccinated against rabies had treatment against the tapeworm Echinococcus multilocularis, where your destination area is free from this tapeworm (Finland, Ireland, Malta, Norway, and Northern Ireland) an EU animal health certificate, when traveling from a non-EU country.

The EU animal health certificate contains specific information about your animal’s identity, health, and rabies vaccination status. 

If you are traveling from a non-EU country like the United States, your pet must have an EU animal health certificate issued by a veterinarian in the country of departure no more than 10 days before arrival.

The certificate is valid for travel between EU countries for 4 months, or until the anti-rabies vaccination expires, whichever comes first. 

Airline Requirements

Service dogs are allowed on flights as long as you notify the airline in advance and complete any documentation requirements. If you are traveling from the United States, you will need to complete the DOT’s Service Animal Air Transportation Form

Please note that each airline has its own procedures for accommodating service dogs. You should check to see their latest rules for service dogs well ahead of your planned departure date. 

Jurisdiction Specific Requirements

In most EU countries, it is against the law for service providers to discriminate against those with disabilities; this also includes individuals with service dogs. It’s important to note, however, that service dog rules vary depending on the jurisdiction you are in.

Note that in contrast to the United States, which does not require any documents or certifications for service dogs, many European countries have specific document and training certification requirements. 

For example, in France, the law for accessibility requires two documents: 1. a State card (carte mobilité inclusion) that testifies that you have a handicap and 2. a certificate that your dog received proper assistance dog training. 

When traveling in Europe with your service dog make sure to not only prepare for the weather conditions but also prepare all the required paperwork ahead of time. General Travel Tips

Caring for your service dog when traveling abroad will take some planning. Check out these helpful tips so you and your service dog will be prepared.

Food & Supplements

Make sure your dog’s food is manufacturer-sealed. This will avoid any conflict when boarding the aircraft. Your local pet retailer may have sample packages of your dog’s kibble that will be easier to transport.

If you embark on a more extended trip, you might want to consider ordering your dog’s food and having it delivered to your destination. Many regions will also have pet retailers where you can purchase your dog’s kibble; however, you may want to call or email them to be sure your dog’s brand is carried and in stock.

If your canine needs medications, be sure to keep them in the original bottles with a note from your veterinarian explaining their purpose.

Health Tips

No one wants their pet or Service Dog to become ill, especially when traveling outside their own country. To help keep your canine companion in top shape when in Europe, follow these additional service dog health tips.

Carry a pet first aid kit. Take a pet first aid course or ask your veterinarian for the basics. Even if you may not be able to physically perform the first aid task, you may be able to instruct someone else to do so. Find a veterinarian at your destination point. It may also be handy to drop this person an email introducing yourself, letting them know that you would like to use their services in the case of an emergency. Keep this information in a safe, yet handy place. Set aside “emergency money” just in case your service dog gets ill or injured. Carry a muzzle or head halter. Some places may require this gear. Be sure your dog has been introduced to these and is comfortable using them. European Adventures With Your Service Dog

In conclusion, traveling with a service dog in Europe requires careful preparation and an understanding of both EU-wide and country-specific requirements. From ensuring your service dog is microchipped and vaccinated, to familiarizing yourself with airline protocols and local laws, each step is crucial to a smooth journey.

Register Your Service Dog Here