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Flying With a Service Dog – The Ultimate Guide

This article was last updated on October 24th, 2023, to reflect the latest updates in the DOT’s rules for air travel.

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

Recently, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) completely overhauled their rules for assistance animals on planes. Due to the DOT’s latest rules , U.S. airlines no longer allow emotional support animals on planes. 

The good news for service dog and PSD owners is that their canine companions remain protected. Service dogs are still allowed to accompany their handlers in the airplane cabin free of charge. The DOT, however, has radically changed the process of how airlines accept service dogs.

Even if you’re an experienced service dog owner who has flown for years with your dog, you’ll want to read this guide. This guide is also perfect for those new to flying with a service dog who need to know all the relevant information. 

We’ll answer common questions like who is  eligible to fly with a service dog , what the new paperwork requirements are, and where to order a  certification, license, or ID . We’ll also share some pro tips for dealing with flights and airports from experienced service dog owners. 

Table of Contents:

• What is a Service Animal?
• What is a “Disability”?
• Service Dog Tasks
• Training and Certifying a Service Dog
• Service Dog Verification by Airline
• Airline Forms
• What to Expect at the Airport
• Harnesses, Vests and ID Cards
• Larger Service Dogs
• Breed Restrictions
• Multiple Service Dogs  
• In-Flight Rules
• Reasons Airlines can Ban a Service Dog
• Practical Tips

1. What does the DOT consider to be a service animal?

First, let’s cover the basics. What does the DOT consider a service animal eligible for special treatment on flights? 

The DOT has essentially revised their definition of service animals to match the definition under the  Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) . 

A service animal for purposes of air travel is a dog, regardless of what breed it is, that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for someone with a disability, including psychiatric, sensory, intellectual, and mental disabilities. 

“Service animal” does not cover  emotional support animals , comfort animals, companionship animals, service animals in-training, or animals other than dogs. That is unfortunate news for owners of service animals like capuchin monkeys or miniature horses, but the DOT felt that dogs were the most appropriate service animals for the interior of an airplane cabin. 

The critical difference between a service dog and a regular pet or an ESA is that a  service dog must be trained to perform tasks  directly related to the handler’s disability. That means even a service dog in training is not considered a full-fledged service dog until it has completed its training.

If you are looking to register your service animal and are ready to order an identification card for your Service Dog, click the button below.

2. What does it mean to have a “disability”?

A service dog brought on board a plane must be trained to assist with a disability. The term “disability” has a specific legal meaning under the DOT’s rules and the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). 

A disability means a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. “Major life activities” include working, sleeping, learning, and other essential life activities. 

The definition of  disability  covers physical impairments (for example, someone with limited mobility or sight impairment) and mental impairments. “Mental impairments” include emotional or mental illnesses and specific learning disabilities. 

The DOT’s new rules also specifically mention “sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental” disabilities. Psychiatric service dogs are commonly used by people with conditions like severe depression,  anxiety , PTSD, phobias, and autism. 

A licensed mental health professional can help assess whether you have a psychiatric disability. Many PSD owners obtain PSD letters from therapists and doctors who have assessed their mental health. It’s important to note that even though emotional support animals are no longer recognized as assistance animals for flights, PSD owners are still protected. 

Remember, however, that there is a crucial distinction between ESAs and PSDs: a psychiatric service dog must be trained to perform tasks directly related to the handler’s disability. ESAs, on the other hand, provide support just through their presence.

Wonder if your emotional disorder qualifies for a psychiatric service dog? Get an assessment by a licensed health professional.

3. What kinds of tasks do service dogs and psychiatric service dogs perform? 

Service dogs perform a wide variety of tasks, and it would be impossible to present an exhaustive list here. There is no official list of eligible tasks. The key criteria are that the service dog must be specifically trained to perform the task to assist the owner with their disability. 

For individuals with physical disabilities, service dogs perform tasks such as:

• Pulling a wheelchair. 
• Guiding the visually impaired. 
• Guiding the hearing impaired. 
• Alerting the owner of an oncoming seizure. 
• Alerting the owner of a rise or drop in blood sugar levels. 
• Providing stability while going up and down stairs or other hazardous areas. 
• Retrieving items. 
• Opening and closing doors and drawers. 
• Pressing buttons (such as in an elevator). 
• Carrying bags and other objects

For individuals with psychiatric disabilities, psychiatric service dogs are known to perform tasks such as:

• Interrupting panic/anxiety attacks. 
• Using pressure and tactile stimulation to calm the handler. 
• Reminding the owner to take their medication. 
• Preventing behaviors like scratching. 
• Grounding and reorienting the handler during a panic or anxiety attack.
• Acting as a physical buffer in crowded areas. 
• Waking up the handler to prevent oversleeping. 
• Interrupting repetitive behaviors. 

A dog does not  qualify as a service animal  until it has fully completed its training. In addition, keep in mind that a proper service animal should be under your control at all times and have passed a public access test to be comfortable in all public settings. 

Airplanes and airports are crowded, hectic areas with many potential distractions. A service dog should be able to focus on the handler and their duties even in potentially stressful environments. 

As we’ll discuss in detail later, an airline can reject a service dog if it misbehaves or engages in disruptive actions. 

4. Does a service dog or PSD need to be professionally trained or certified by an organization?

A  service dog  does not need to be trained by a third-party trainer, school, or organization. These services may be helpful, especially for novice dog owners, but the DOT notes that “service animal users are free to train their own dogs to perform a task or function for them.” This is consistent with ADA rules.

That is good news for people who have the ability to train their service dogs but not the financial means to afford a professional trainer or help from an organization. 

In addition, a service dog does not need to be certified by an organization that it has completed its training. Registrations and certifications for service dogs are always optional and are not mandatory.

5. How can an airline verify that I have a service animal?

The DOT gives airlines three methods to determine whether someone is traveling with a genuine service animal. In addition, as we’ll discuss in the next section, airlines will require that service dog owners submit a new form created by the DOT prior to boarding. 

In addition to the DOT Form, there are three ways the airline’s 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. It’s important to note that service dog owners have a right to a certain degree of privacy. Airline staff can never make specific inquiries about your disability or ask that you have your service dog demonstrate the task it has been trained for.
• Observing the behavior of the animal.  Airline staff can observe the general behavior of the service dog to see whether it remains under the control of its handler. 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, or 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. In such cases, the airline can deny boarding.
• 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 weigh whether the dog is a service dog. Paraphernalia such as tags, vests, ID cards, certificates, and harnesses are frequently used by service dog owners to signal to members of 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 help determine whether they are dealing with an authentic service dog or not.

If you are looking to register your Service Dog so that you have a Service Dog ID card for your personal convenience at the airport, you may order one below.

6. What forms do I have to submit to fly with my service dog?

Perhaps the biggest change in how service dogs are accepted on flights is the newly created DOT forms. 

U.S. airlines require that all service dog owners complete and submit the DOT’s “Service Animal Transportation Form” (the “Transport Form”). This form must be submitted at least 48 hours before departure. If the reservation is made within 48 hours of the flight, the form can be submitted before the flight or at the gate). 

For a complete guide to completing the DOT Transportation Form, click on this link . 

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.

The handler must also certify that their 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 Transportation Form also asks for the name of the dog’s trainer, which can just be the owner or handler if the dog was trained without the help of another person. 

The form is self-certifying, meaning that the handler is personally responsible for making all of the attestations and signing the form. 

The DOT’s form will be used for all airlines, eliminating the confusion that occurred in the past when each airline used their own special form. For your reference, a copy of the DOT Transport Form can be found below.

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

7. 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 with you and submit it to an airline agent at the airport. 

It’s a good idea to arrive earlier than usual if you travel with a service dog. You will need to 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. 

While at the airport, it’s a good idea to have a paper or digital copy of your DOT Transportation Form in case anyone asks for it. Keep in mind that airport workers and airline staff can also verify you have a service dog by asking two questions: 

1. Is the service dog required because of a disability? 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Airline and airport staff are not allowed to ask any other questions, ask for details about your condition, or demand that your dog perform its task. You have a right to privacy and dignity as a service dog owner. 

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, it can also be very helpful to have service dog accessories while at the airport. 

8. Does my service dog need to have a harness, vest, or ID card?

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 may 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. 

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. 

As a practical matter,  service dog owners find these accessories especially helpful  in crowded areas with unfamiliar people, such as airports and plane cabins. They provide an easy way for airport and airline staff and other passengers to recognize that you are boarding with a service dog.

9. How big can my service dog be to fly with me?

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’s new rules require airlines to accommodate larger animals by moving them to another seat location within the same service class where the animal can be accommodated, if possible (such as if there is a seat 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.

10. Can an airline deny my service dog because it is a certain breed?

Under the DOT’s new rules, an airline cannot prohibit a service dog solely because it is a certain breed. The DOT recognizes that all types of dogs can serve as effective service dogs and disallows airlines from stereotyping certain breeds.

As we’ll discuss in a  later section , the airline can still prohibit boarding if the service dog is acting aggressively or disruptive.

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

Some handlers have multiple service dogs, each fulfilling a different but important job relating to their disability. Under the DOT’s new guidelines, airlines can limit the number of service dogs a handler can bring onboard to two. 

The handler will also need to be able to comfortably accommodate both of the service dogs in their foot space or lap. For handlers with two large service dogs, they may want to consider taking additional steps to ensure their service dogs can be accommodated. 

For example, on a flight likely to be full without an empty seat, the handler may want to consider purchasing an additional seat or taking a less popular flight. Otherwise, they risk the chance they may have to relegate their service dog to cargo which is a non-starter for many service dog owners.

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

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

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. 

In addition, as previously noted, 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. A service animal cannot block a space that must remain unobstructed for safety reasons, the aisle, or access to the emergency exit.

If the service dog causes any damage to the airplane cabin, the owner is responsible for the damages. 

13. 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 safety or health requirements of a foreign government.  For international flights, it’s important to make sure you understand what the foreign country’s rules are 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 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. 

14. 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:   Try to 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. 
• 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. 

Is there anything else I should keep in mind?

The DOT’s new rules went into effect on January 11 th , 2021. It’s important to know the rules we have discussed in this guide, but you should also contact the airline you’re flying with to ensure you’re clear on their policies and have submitted your paperwork to their satisfaction. 

Remember, to successfully fly with a service dog or PSD, preparedness is the key!

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

About the Author: The writing team at Service Dog Certifications is made up of folks who really know their stuff when it comes to disability laws and assistance animals. Many of our writers and editors have service dogs themselves and share insights from their own experiences. All of us have a passion for disability rights and animals.

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Thanks to this article, I understood some difficult issues.

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Hi. My son’s service dog is a German shepherd. Has anyone taken a transatlantic flight to Europe with this size dog? Trying to find out what seats to purchase

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6 Tips for Traveling with a Service Dog

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Table of Contents

1. Bring your paperwork

2. find the right veterinarian, 3. pick your countries carefully, 4. obtain a pet passport, 5. research service animal regulations, 6. consider pet-friendly accommodations, if you’d like to travel with your service animal.

Traveling can be stressful, even when you’re just heading down the road. Want to compound the difficulty? Try adding in an animal. While many of us head off with our beloved pets in tow, the process can be much more complicated with a service animal. I know: My service dog and I have spent the past four years wandering the world together, which has taught me quite a few things about how it’s done.

Let’s talk about flying with a service dog, what to expect and ways to make traveling easier for both of you.

Did you know there is no internationally recognized service animal database? In fact, in the U.S., there’s no specific license for service animals. While this means more folks have access to aid from a service animal, it can also mean you’ll face more scrutiny, especially if you have an invisible disability. After all, there isn’t a magic piece of paper that’ll declare your animal certified for service.

But traveling with a four-legged passenger is always going to require paperwork, so bring it all with you — printed — in an easily accessible pocket. If you’re traveling internationally, this means bringing along your service animal's U.S. Department of Agriculture health certificate. If you’re going to fly, it also means completing an attestation of training.

And if you’re looking for a way to prove that your service animal is legitimate (because you will be asked when overseas), you’ll also want to bring along proof of training. Passing the Canine Good Citizen test from the American Kennel Club is a good start, and if your animal was trained by a professional organization, have a representative write a letter outlining the training methods, the name of your animal and that they belong to you.

» Learn more: How to fly with a dog

Where are you traveling? Depending on where you’re going, you’ll need some of the paperwork mentioned above, including the USDA-endorsed health certificate. This certificate lets other countries know that your animal is up to date on shots and is healthy overall.

Not all veterinarians are able to fill out health certificates, so you’ll need to find one that does. And although your vet may be able to fill these out by hand, the best ones can complete these digitally.

Because health certificates need to be endorsed by the USDA within a 10-day window, getting a paper certificate can mean waiting in line at an endorsing facility or overnighting your paperwork to an eligible office. Either way, you’re at the mercy of time and government bureaucracy to get your paperwork in order.

Those traveling with a service animal are exempt from USDA-charged fees associated with an international health certificate.

In contrast, vets who can upload a digital certificate can do so directly to the USDA, cutting out days' worth of waiting and money spent on shipping or gas. Note that not all countries accept these digital certificates, so you’ll need to research yours before traveling.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards for pet owners

Sure, I’d like to head to Australia with my service dog. It’s a beautiful country with tons to explore — what’s not to love? But although I can fly to Europe and land with my dog without an issue, the same can’t be said for Australia.

All animals, including service animals, are required to undergo a mandatory isolation period upon arrival to Australia. For travel from the U.S., that time period lasts 10 days. This is a significant chunk of time for a vacation, and the separation of a service dog from its handler can be traumatic. So it’s a no-go.

» Learn more: The most pet-friendly airlines

Do you travel to the European Union fairly regularly? If so, you’ve probably watched in horror as those USDA health certificate fees have stacked up. Rather than visiting the vet every few months, consider getting your service animal a pet passport on your next visit to the EU.

Issued only by vets within the EU, these booklets allow you to skip health certificates when you travel to the EU. Certain conditions must be met (such as making sure vaccinations are up to date), but this can make traveling with your service animal significantly easier.

Different countries have different laws when it comes to service animals. Although the Americans with Disabilities Act guarantees access pretty much anywhere within the U.S., the same can’t be said for the rest of the world.

While plenty of countries have regulations supporting access for service animals, some rules are outdated. Such is the case in the EU, where airlines are missing vital information as to what constitutes a “recognized service dog.” They’ve denied legitimate service animals on flights — so much so that the EU is trying to find a solution to the vaguely worded laws.

So you’ll need to do your homework when it comes to service animal regulations — wherever you’re traveling. Although you may be used to going to a restaurant with your service animal at home, regulations abroad may limit or otherwise restrict your options when it comes to traveling with that animal.

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Do you need to book pet-friendly accommodations when traveling with your service animal? No, not usually, though this can depend on international regulations. But traveling with a service animal can already be difficult enough. If your hotel or Airbnb host doesn’t understand service animal laws or doesn’t believe your animal is legitimate, disputes can escalate quickly. It doesn’t matter that you’re right or that you have the right — it’s exhausting.

For an easier time, consider booking pet-friendly accommodations instead. This way, your hosts are already expecting the hair, fur and slobber that come with animals. Neither of you will be caught off guard or left upset.

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Service animals complete an important job. Whether they’re guiding those without vision or alerting for low blood sugar, their services can be lifesaving. Despite this, traveling with a service animal can be a tiring and poorly understood process, with little literature designed to help handlers. So use these six tips to make your next trip a little easier for you and that rock star by your side.

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• 19 Tips for Flying With Your Service Dog From an SD Handler

Table of Contents

Traveling with a service dog can be an intimidating experience.

From the added stress of being in an unfamiliar environment to navigating through airports and dealing with airline policies, it can be overwhelming for both handler and animal alike.

And honestly there aren’t a lot of proper resources on how to do it!

I remember feeling completely panicked the first time I traveled with my service dog – and it was a national trip! Our first international one had me sweating clean through my shirt just at the thought of what could go wrong.

Fortunately, there are ways to make traveling with your service dog easier and more enjoyable.

Here are 19 tips from a seasoned service dog handler on how to make flying with your beloved pup as smooth as possible!

1. Tire Them Out Before the Flight

Make sure your pup gets plenty of exercise the day before and on the morning of the flight.

This can be tough if you have an early morning flight. So in that case, take them out the day before to get some exercise. Maybe go for a hike or take them to doggy daycare so they’re thoroughly tired.

When my mobility is restricted, I play a jumping game with my dog or hide and seek.

The jumping game has me sit in a doorway with my legs up on the frame. I throw a piece of kibble over my legs and he has to jump across me to get it.

We do this with his dinner and he’s properly panting by the end!

Hide and seek is more when there are outside mobility restrictions, as you will need to move around. I put him in a place or stay command, then go and hide around the house or hotel room. He has to come find me.

This can be done by hiding treats around the room too, if you don’t have room to hide your whole body.

Having your pup properly tired makes it easier on them to rest during the flight.

2. Prepare for Pet Relief Areas

Pet relief areas at airports suck – plain and simple.

The nicest ones are a private room with a piece of astroturf in the corner. But some – like at Toronto Pearson – are just out in the open with a fake bush in front of them.

Even to me with my terrible sense of smell, they reek! And for a dog it must be way worse.

You can help prep your dog to go on these areas by training them on astroturf, or creating a potty command that has them go on command.

My dog has these skills and still won’t pee on them, so I bring a pee pad with me and put it beside the area or let him go on it in the human bathrooms and use a Lysol wipe on the floor beneath it after.

You should consider bringing pee pads especially for smaller dogs who can’t hold it during the flight. You can take them to the airplane bathroom and put it on the floor, then put it in the trash (do not flush them!).

For small service dogs, it can go in their carrier as well, but I recommend changing it out as none of us want to sit on pee for a long flight and neither do our dogs.

3. Preparing for Security

Security was one of the things that freaked me out the most.

I knew my dog’s vest is full of metal, so it’s going to set it off. Even his leash has metal rings on it to make it a hands-free version when I need it.

There are two ways security will ask you to go through the machine:

1) Your dog walks ahead of you at a distance and you hold the leash out. You’ll want to essentially have a full arms length between any of the metal of the dog’s leash and your body as you go through the metal detector.

2) You walk through first while your dog is in a stay command on the other side of the metal detector. Once you are approved, you call them through.

Then they will be wanded to check their vest.

I practiced for these with my dog by using a doorway as a fake metal detector and playing beeping noises on my phone so he wouldn’t be thrown off by it.

I then had him sit while I waved a rolling pin around him (it was the only wand-sized thing I could think of).

Most dogs won’t have trouble with these, but like anyone new things can be surprising and airports are chaotic places. You’ll be stressed out too if you don’t know what to expect, so I found practising helped us both. I felt more confident in his knowledge and felt more confident that I’d be able to handle whatever happened.

Some other notes for security:

• While you’re putting things in the bins, don’t rush. Take a moment to put your dog in a place that feels comfortable. I know we all want to get through the process quickly, especially with them yelling at everyone to hurry, but realistically chaos isn’t productive. So take a beat to settle yourself and your SD.
• You can bring treats as carry-on, even internationally. However, some countries like New Zealand and Australia, will make you throw them away before you go through customs on their end. However most countries are totally fine with dog treats and kibble. I use a fanny pack instead of a treat pouch (since I wear leggings to fly) and just toss it in with my backpack and carry on luggage on the conveyor belt.
• Kibble can go in your carry on for your dog. However, some things like peanut butter or other “liquids” (how is peanut butter a liquid??) can’t. This is true of wet dog food as well. You can only bring 100ml of them. So be mindful.

4. Shorter Lines (Sometimes)

99% of the time when I fly with my SD – which is pretty often as a full-time travel writer – we get moved to the priority line.

I don’t have Nexus or anything, but I get to go through those priority lines because they want to ensure your SD is set up for success and neither of you are standing around for hours in line ups.

My grandma had the same treatment when flying in a wheelchair and my cousin gets the same for flying with her newborn.

It’s common practice and a really nice bonus – especially since we have to manually check in with them when we arrive and that can slow down the whole airport experience.

When I’m not immediately routed to the fast lane, I just ask, “Would you mind if we use the short lane due to my SD and disability?”

You don’t have to disclose your disability. But more than 9/10 times, you’ll be routed there.

The only time I haven’t been was when there were legit two other people in the regular line in Halifax’s airport, so it really wouldn’t have sped things up at all anyway.

Having more time helps when you need to hunt down the dog relief station and get yourself prepped for the flight.

5. Pre-Boarding

Like the shorter lines, with an SD you’re included in the pre-boarding call for anyone who needs more time or has small children.

This is great because it gives you time to get your dog settled in without tons of crowds or suitcases bumping into them.

The one downside is, it means more time stuck in a small space.

I use this time to get him settled into his “tuck” command for the small space and then I play treat games with him. It keeps both of us distracted and makes the boarding time go faster.

Some of the things I do are:

• Using the edge of his towel/blanket as a snuffle mat and crumpling it up with some treats
• Holding treats in front of him and making him wait to take them
• Having him pick between my hands for which one has the treat
• And even DPT on my feet and once he’s in place he gets his treat

After our first two flights, he didn’t really need the games anymore as he settles in and isn’t bothered anymore. But our first two this was really needed.

6. Pack Them a Towel

Airports and airplanes are gross.

And on top of the germs, they have sooo many smells that can be distracting for your pup.

I bring an XL microfiber towel with me everywhere for my service dog. This helps in rental cars too, so he doesn’t get fur or any dirt from his paws on the seats.

When flying with your service dog, it’s a good idea to have something for them like this that smells of home.

It’s also helpful if you think your dog will struggle to stay in place for the whole flight. You can practice the place command on the towel ahead of time so they associate it with staying put.

I spread this out for him when we’re waiting at our gate and on the floor of the plane where he’ll need to stay for our flight.

🐾 Check out my favorite large microfiber dog towel here !

7. Have a Treat Pouch Handy

Pockets and flying do not mesh. You have to empty them all the time with security, and on the plane they can be hard to access.

Instead, have a treat pouch or fanny pack handy so you can easily reward your service dog for their excellent work.

I use a fanny pack because I wear leggings so it’s harder to attach a treat pouch to them while flying – but equally a treat pouch would work.

This is where all your treats will go. I stick with high value treats for flights. For my SD this is mainly freeze dried rabbit and salmon treats.

Since this is a tougher situation, I figure he deserves the best treats possible!

8. Put on a Happy Hoodie/Snood

Planes are very loud for us. For our service dogs with way better hearing, it’s deafening – especially during take off and landing.

Those are the parts my service dog had the most trouble with initially.

I got him this happy hoodie (or snood – that’s what I call it) to help him.

It’s used by groomers to help dogs handle the noise of blow dryers in their face. Which is pretty similar to a plane … I guess?

But it works!

We practiced with it a couple times at home so he’d get used to how it felt to wear it since it presses his ears down a bit. The first time I put it on him, he was determined to get it off. But by the third, he just fell asleep.

On the plane, I pop it on him for the take off and landing only – you can leave it on the whole way, but for us it isn’t needed as he just sleeps for most of the flight.

I did intend to get him a blue one but it arrived and it was bright pink, so now he rocks his very very pink snood on all flights and everyone asks me what the heck it is cause he does look a little weird.

🐾 Check out my favorite Happy Hoodie to protect your dogs’ ears here !

9. Help Pop Their Ears with Water and Treats

Like babies, dogs need their ears to pop. But we can’t just tell them to yawn or have a hard candy.

So how do we pop their ears?

Make them swallow. And the easiest way to do that is water or treats.

I always have a collapsible water dish on me for him. So when we get on the plane, I fill it halfway with some water for him and put it beside his head.

I also give him some treats once I take his snood off after takeoff.

You’ll notice your dog is struggling with their ears if they’re pawing at them or rubbing them on the ground. If you notice this, try to get them to eat or drink something.

Again, this is where high value treats come in. Even if they’re distracted or upset, their best treat will likely convince them to eat something.

I did try to bring some peanut butter once for this purpose for my dog, but the container was 150ml by accident. So try to bring a smaller one if something like that would help.

10. Try to Desensitize Them to the Noise

Beyond the Happy Hoodie, you can prep them for the noise ahead of time by having them in the place or stay command while playing airplane noises on your laptop or your phone.

I practiced with Theo by putting him in place between my chair and under my desk (I measured out the 83cm of space Air Canada said our seat would have for him), and putting on these noises while I worked for chunks of time.

While it’s never quite the same as an actual plane, it definitely helps them feel like it’s not a completely novel situation.

In fact, I recommend anyone flying with a dog do this – whether or not they’re a service dog.

11. Practice “Tuck”

Or whatever you call it!

Many service dogs don’t do a ton of tight space work like sitting under your chair/table at a restaurant. They know how to, but it can fall out of practice – especially with how strenuous it is for most of us to go to restaurants anyway (and so fricken expensive!).

Even if they’re an expert at it, staying for hours on end is tough. Typically we don’t go to a restaurant for 8 hours – or at least I don’t!

So having a command where your dog knows to get into a tight space and curl up if needed helps.

This is more for large service dogs.

For a small service dog, you want to practice in their carrier so they know they’ll be in there for a long time.

Treat it like a crate and make it a safe, fun space. Maybe while you work, have them hang out in it while they’re napping.

12. Airplane Toilets Are Scary

Like hand dryers and vacuums, airplane toilets make a lot of noise.

Hell, most people hate the sound!

Plus wit hthe suction it’s pretty scary for a service dog – and there isn’t a very similar noise to desensitize them to.

The clost is a hand dryer at a public restroom.

You can try to desensitize them, but most guide dogs and SDs I’ve encountered still panic when they hear the airplane toilet.

Some options are:

• Try to get them used to the noise as best you can
• If you don’t travel alone, have your travel buddy hold the leash while you go to the bathroom
• You can ask the flight attendants to watch them outside the bathroom while you go – but be mindful that they may not feel comfortable doing so or may be busy doing their other tasks
• Wear a diaper for the flight – yes, this sounds terrible but honestly I’ve done it and it’s not the worst. I wore those thin ones meant for bladder leakage for a 9 hour flight to San Francisco because I was flying alone and was too socially anxious to ask the flight attendants to help with my SD. Honestly, it wasn’t that bad and I’d 100% do it again

13. Have a Folder With Essential Documents and Certification Proof

Flying with a service dog requires a lot of paperwork and forms. To keep track of this, have a folder that’s just for your service dog’s information.xfanyon

Typically you’ll need:

• Proof of their vaccines from a vet
• Doctor’s note
• Proof of their training certification
• Airline’s required forms
• If over a 6 hour flight, a pet relief attestation (provided with the airline forms)

But you may also need other paper work, such as import certificates if you’re moving, international health certificates to fly abroad, ticher tests if you’ve been in a high-risk rabies area, proof of heartworm or flea and tick prevention, and even to provide information on the tasks the dog does for you.

I make triplicates of all of the forms and bundle them into packages (so it’d be one of each 3x, rather than 3 doctors notes, 3 vaccine proofs) so that I can provide them when needed and they can be kept if needed.

Sometimes customs agents do need this record, so be prepared to have these copies. Never give over the original for someone to take!

14. Check the Airline’s Service Dog Policy

Before flying with your service dog, you will need to check the airline’s service dog policy.

Every airline differs based on their own policies, the legal requirements of their home country, and even by the size of the dog.

For example, within Canada 65lb+ service dogs get their own seat for free on a plane (well, the leg room. They can’t sit on the actual seat). Or in the USA, service dogs in training are allowed on national Delta flights. But they aren’t allowed on international ones.

You can typically find these restrictions on the accessibility page (usually linked on the airlines footer). Or you can call the airline to ask.

Almost every airline will require you to fill out a special form and submit your dog’s information via email/over the phone before the flight.

You have to alert airline whether you’re flying with a big dog , a little dog or a service dog anyway.

15. Inform the Airline After Booking Your Ticket

After booking your ticket, contact the airline.

I always book directly with the airline rather than through third-parties like Booking.com or Expedia. This is because of a bad experience I had with WestJet while trying to fly with my SD for the first time.

He was fully certified and it was a national flight within Canada, but they refused him the free seat or even extra legroom (the basic accommodation every airline even internationally makes for a 65lb+ service dog in order to comply with human decency for disabilities). They claimed it was due to the booking being via a third-party.

Even though their denial is illegal under the disability act in Canada (thanks 10 years of law clerk work for that tidbit!), I didn’t want to fight and ended up canceling the whole trip.

Booking with the airline directly avoids this potential excuse on their part, and ensures you tell them ASAP so if they have issues you could cancel the flight within the 24-hour free grace period.

However, they also need the documentation for their records so they can plan the flight. If they offer a free seat, they need to book that out ASAP before they sell it.

Or they need to reserve you a premium seat with extra legroom to fit your SD.

Even for small SDs, they need to know to plan the seating arrangement as only so many dogs can be on any one flight.

16. Consider CBD/Hemp Treats or Anxiety Meds

It’s totally ok to get help calming your dog down – especially for their first flight.

You can give them CBD/hemp treats (however this has to be before security as CBD is illegal post-security everywhere since it’s international “waters” technically – although I know many people dismiss this rule, I don’t want to get in trouble so I do it earlier), anxiety meds, or even car sickness tablets .

Check with your vet ahead of time for what will work best for your dog.

Typically it’s best to give them whatever it is 1-2 hours before the flight.

17. Space Out Flights

Flying is hard work for dogs.

I regularly fly from North America to Europe and Asia – which are really long flights for my golden retriever SD to be stuck in a tiny airplane. So I break up flights whenever I can to be 8 hours max.

I’m flying to Mexico soon from Toronto and it has a layover in Houston. Rather than sitting for a 3.5 hour layover, I’m breaking the trip into a multi-leg excursion so we’ll spend the night in Houston before continuing.

This gives him time to stretch his legs and relax so he’s not in vest for 10 hours – and on a plane for 6 of that.

I definitely know people who don’t do this or just can’t swing it – and that’s ok! But when I can, I try to give him a break between flights. Same with we don’t typically do a weekend round trip on planes because it’s a bit tougher for him. When I can, I’d rather drive.

18. After the Flight, Take Them to a Park

Or do something fun!

If he’s been cooped up on a plane for hours – and stuck in an airport for hours before that – my SD needs an outlet for his energy.

I try to match his working time with play time when I can.

When we arrived in Halifax, I took him to a lake. In San Francisco, we went right to the beach !

I definitely can’t do an 8 hour park excursion post every North America to Europe flight, but I can find an hour to take him somewhere to run around like crazy. Or if I know the place I’m flying to and have a doggy daycare I trust, I can check him in there for the next day.

I have issues with dog parks due to a few attacks we experienced at different ones we trusted and went to for months. So I don’t recommend strange dog parks.

But even a normal park with a long lead tied to a tree and then some fetch or sniff work will help tire them out.

If I get in too late, I’ll play the jumping game over my legs in a doorway or have him snuffle in his towel at the hotel with his dinner.

Anything to let him get some energy out in a traditional dog way.

19. Remember: Flying is Scary for Dogs

Flying is no walk in the park for a dog.

They can’t understand what’s happening, and it’s really loud and scary for them sometimes.

My SD has a few flights under his belt now and he knows what’s going on – but he still gets a bit nervous when we’re taking off or if there’s turbulence. And sitting in a tight spot for that many hours definitely isn’t his favorite thing.

The first couple times we flew he fully freaked out. I’m talking jumped into my lap – all 70lbs of him! – and tried to run into the aisle.

The flight attendant was great and helped me soothe him back into place and comfort him.

But I’ve also seen other SDs bark for the entire plane ride or even refuse to lie down for the whole flight.

If these things happen, take a deep breath and remember: no one died.

I remember telling my therapist I was nervous for a flight and she asked me for the worst case scenario. I told her “what if they have to emergency land the plane and the air mashall has to escort us off and we’re arrested??”

She looked at me like I had 3 heads.

“What could you or he possibly do that that would happen?”

I thought about it and realized it was ridiculous. Anything he could do would at most be a bit uncomfortable for others. But they don’t emergency land the plane whenever a baby cries, so they’re not gonna do it for a dog that barks or gets a bit antsy.

She has two SDs herself and gave me the best advice: “they’re dogs. They won’t be perfect all the time. We can’t predict exactly what they’ll do. And we can’t guarantee they wont ‘bother’ anyone. But that’s not our responsibility. We just have to do our best and remember that it doesn’t need to be perfect.”

So if your SD struggles or does “misbehave” in some way, don’t panic. It happens.

Give yourself some grace and remember this is tough for them. You two can get through it.

Airlines and Service Dogs

Can you fly with a service dog on united airlines.

Yes, you can fly with your service dog on United Airlines as long as the dog is over 4 months old and “individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability”.

Qualifying individuals can travel with up to 2 service dogs.

Note that you must have your dog out of aisles or adjacent passengers footspace. They must be in a carrier if they are small enough to be.

Does United Airlines charge for a service dog?

No, United Airlines allows service dogs in cabin free of charge no matter what breed or size. However, they must be individually trained to work or perform tasks, and be older than 4 months of age.

Do you have to pay for a service dog on Spirit Airlines?

No, service dogs can fly on Spirit Airlines free of charge as long as they are certified. You will need to fill out a form to to submit to the airline after booking your ticket. This goes for both service dogs and psychiatric service dogs, but does not encompass emotional support animals.

How do you get a service dog on Southwest Airlines?

To fly with a service dog on Southwest Airlines, your dog must be a service dog trained to perform individual tasks for your disability. Then you must submit a form once you book in your flight. Large dogs must stay on the floor, while small dogs must be in a carrier. There is no fee.

Do you have to pay for service dog on JetBlue?

No, service dogs flying on JetBlue do not have to pay a fee. They can fly in the cabin free of charge, regardless of their size. However, they have to be specially trained to perform specific tasks for you and you must submit a form to JetBlue after booking your ticket.

FAQs About Flying with a Service Dog

Do you get an extra seat for service dogs.

Service dogs may get an extra seat on flights, but this varies by airline and whether the flight is international or national.

For example, in Canada and the USA, national flights with a service dog over 75lbs qualifies for a free seat on many airlines – notably Star Alliance.

However, a flight between Canada and the USA does not qualify for a free seat.

For small dogs under 65lbs, there is no free seat policy with any airline.

Do You Get Extra Leg Room for Service Dogs?

Yes, most airlines provide extra leg room at no additional cost for service dogs. Some airlines won’t if it’s a very crowded flight and you have a small dog who fits in a carrier.

But for larger dogs, such as my 3ft long golden retriever, you will always get a free extra legroom seat if you book directly via the airline and follow their procedures before checking in for your flight.

Can You Fly With a Service Dog in Training?

Many airlines do not allow you to fly with an SDIT. It is very much up to the individual airline as to whether or not they will accept these dogs.

To find out if you can fly with your service dog in training, contact the airline’s disability center or accessibility center before booking.

Typically national flights will consider it, but international flights will not allow them.

What paperwork do you need to fly with a service dog?

To fly with a service dog, you need an international health certificate and their training certificate. Airlines will then have you fill in a US DOT form attesting the animal’s health and behaviour, as well as a form saying you have a way for them to sanitarily relieve themselves on flights of 8+ hours.

In addition, you should carry their full vaccine certificate if traveling nationally and your doctor’s note (some countries will ask for this).

Can an airline deny a service dog?

Yes, airlines can deny a service dog if it is too large to be accommodated in cabin, if it poses a threat to the safety of others, if it causes a significant disruption at the gate or on the airplane, if it violates the health requirements of the arrival destination, or if the owner fails to provide the airline the proper forms and certificates prior to boarding.

Can a service dog sit on your lap during a flight?

Yes, your service dog can sit on your lap if it can be done so safely during a flight. For example, small dogs may be allowed during the in air portion of the flight, but must be stowed in their carrier for take off and landing. Large dogs cannot sit on owners’ laps during flights.

What is required to fly with a service dog?

To fly with a service dog, you need an international health certificate and/or proof of vaccines, proof of training, and to fill in the US DOT forms attesting their health, behaviour, and ability to relieve themselves on long flights in a sanitary manner. You may also need your doctor’s note in some countries and additional health paperwork.

Can I buy a seat for my service dog on an airplane?

Yes, you can buy an additional seat for your service dog on an airplane. While this is not possible for pet dogs that are large, it is possible for large service dogs. Contact the accessibility desk of the airline to discuss their processes for this, as you cannot typically buy a seat without a person filling it.

Can a service dog fly on a plane?

Yes, service dogs can fly on planes as long as they are specially trained for owner tasks and have completed the necessary health checks such as having their rabies vaccine.

How can my dog become a service dog for flying?

For dogs to become service dogs for flying, they must become service dogs in full. This means extensive owner training, getting a note from your doctor or psychiatrist, and filling out the us DOT forms attesting their health, behaviour, training, and bathroom relief options for the flight.

Can an airline ask you what your service dog is for?

Yes, airlines are allowed to ask about what your service dog is for if, even after providing all the required material, they are not certain that the animal is truly a service dog. This can include what kind of takss the dog performs and what they are trained to do for you. However, do you not need to provide them with your health history.

Do you need a doctor’s note to fly with a service dog?

In the US, you do not need a doctor’s note to fly with a service dog. Doctors and mental health professionals can recommend you get the service dog, but you do not need this to fly. However, in other countries you do need a doctor’s note – such as in Canada.

Do airlines check service dog papers?

Yes, airlines check service dog papers in terms of their own US DOT service dog forms for behaviour, training, and health. They will likely ask to see proof of training if flying internationally and require health certification.

Can a service dog be in a carrier?

Yes, small service dogs may be in a carrier stowed beneath the seat in front of you on a flight.

Conclusion: Best Tips for Flying with a Service Dog

Flying with a service dog can be an intimidating experience, but it doesn’t have to be.

By following the necessary steps and keeping all of your paperwork up-to-date, you can ensure that both you and your service dog will have a safe and comfortable journey.

Whether you are flying within the US or abroad, always remember to contact the airline’s accessibility desk ahead of time so they know what type of assistance animal is accompanying you on board.

With these best tips for flying with a service dog in mind, we wish you happy travels!

Read More About Service Dogs + Dog Travel

• Service Dog Guide
• 17 Pros and Cons of Service Dogs from an SD Handler
• Flying With a Large Dog in Cabin: How to Guide
• How to get a Dog Passport (Expert Guide)

Read More to Learn About Dogs!

How many legs does a dog have arms vs. legs.

• How Many Stomachs Does a Dog Have?
• Does a Dog Whistle Hurt Dogs?
• Dog Travel Guide
• Dog Travel Checklist: What to Bring When Traveling with a Dog

What is the scientific name for a dog?

• Muttluks Review: Fleece-Lined Dog Boots That Stay On!
• West Paw Toppl Review: How to Use It for Tough Chewers
• Pet Travel Quiz: Find Out Where to Go With Your Pet
• Pet Name Generator: Find a Unique Name (200+ Options)

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Traveling With Your Pets. She and her golden retriever, Theo, have been to 3 countries, on dozens of road trips, and explored many cities across North America. Nina has been a full time traveler since 2017 before getting Theo, but hasn't let having a dog chain her to one spot. Now she helps thousands of people plan their pet-friendly holidays around the world.

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Traveling With Your Service Dog

The Americans with Disabilities Act protects your rights to travel with your Service Dog. Although no one should bar your entry when traveling with your Service Dog, being informed about the regulations for each type of travel and being prepared can make for a smoother trip.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles

Flying with your service dog.

The TSA has universal guidelines for traveling with Service Dogs. As long as your dog does not obstruct the aisle or another emergency area, it is illegal for an airline to charge you additional fees. When you go through security at the airport, you should inform the TSA agent that your dog is a Service Dog and not a pet. Depending on the airline, you may be asked to provide official documentation for your Service Dog.

Your Service Dog will have to pass through the same screening process as you and all other passengers, so they will either go through the metal detector with you or be pat down. TSA officers should ask permission before interacting with your dog, but you will be required to keep your Service Dog under control at all times.

If you are treated unfairly—for example, if TSA personnel ask to separate you and your dog, or if you experience any other problems going through security—you should request to speak to a supervisor. You can also file a complaint by sending a message to [email protected] . You should send them a brief description of what happened and include your name, address, phone number, email address, the date/time you went through the security checkpoint, the name of the airport, the name of the airline, your flight number, and your departure gate. You can also call The DOT’s Disability Hotline at 1-800-778-4838.

It’s always smart to inform your airline that you will be traveling with your Service Dog at least 48 hours before your trip. In fact, the most important step before flying with your Service Dog is to contact your airline before you travel. For regulations specific to your airline, read more here .

Always budget extra time to go through security. It’s also wise to visit the airport’s pet relief area before checking in and going through security.

At the gate, you should inform the attendants that you are traveling with a Service Dog. Once on the plane, the airline may ask you to move if you are assigned a seat in an exit row or near a passenger who is allergic to dogs. It is their responsibility to accommodate you and any passengers who are allergic.

If you are traveling internationally, it is especially important to find out that country’s specific rules, as some (mostly island) countries may quarantine your Service Dog.

Taking a Train with Your Service Dog

Sometimes train travel is more convenient, especially if you or your Service Dog aren’t the biggest fans of heights. You can travel with your Service Dog on Amtrak. As always, your Service Dog must remain in your control.

Amtrak personnel may only ask what task(s) your Service Dog performs. You may walk your Service Dog at station stops if the train schedule permits, but it’s a good idea to inform the conductor when you first board. Your Service Dog must remain on the floor; they are not permitted on the train seats.

You can make a reservation to travel with your Service Dog at Amtrak.com or at 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). They can reserve an accessible seat or space for you and your Service Dog, if you’d like, and give you information about station stops. For TTY service, call 1-800-523-6590.

Driving with Your Service Dog

Ride-share apps such as Uber or Lyft are required to accommodate your service animal. Drivers may not deny service or otherwise discriminate against passengers with Service Dogs. It is against the law for a driver to deny service to riders with Service Dogs, even if they are allergic, have religious objections, or are afraid of animals. Both Lyft’s policy and Uber’s policy are extremely clear on these points.

If you prefer to give the driver a heads up, you could give the driver a call once your ride is accepted to let them know you will be traveling with a Service Dog.

If you’ve been denied a ride or would like to report a problem, you can call Lyft’s Service Animal Hotline at 1-844-554-1297 or file an online complaint with Uber here .

Staying at a Hotel With Your Service Dog

You are 100% within your rights to stay at any motel or hotel with your Service Dog. By law, guests with disabilities who are accompanied by service animals cannot be isolated, restricted to certain guestrooms, or barred from areas where other guests are permitted. Hotels are also not allowed to impose extra fees for your Service Dog, unless your dog damages the property.

Hotel employees may only ask you the two questions permitted by the ADA: if your dog is required because of a disability, and what task your dog has been trained to perform for you. They cannot ask for documentation or proof of your disability or your Service Dog’s training.

It could be a good idea to bring your dog’s bed and collapsible crate for emergencies.

Taking a Cruise with Your Service Dog

All cruise-ship carriers based in the U.S. must allow you to travel with your Service Dog. This list is a good resource for carrier-specific regulations.

Like in all public areas, Service Dogs are permitted to accompany you everywhere other guests are allowed, including dining venues. They must use a leash, harness, or tether. They are not permitted in pools, whirlpools, or spas.

It’s important to speak to the cruise line about your Service Dog as far in advance as possible.

Register Your Service Dog For Smoother Sailing

Even though hotel employees, airline attendants, and other people you may encounter on your travels are not technically allowed to ask you for documentation, having it available may facilitate your experience. Not everyone has been adequately trained with information on people with disabilities and Service Dogs, and they may make your experience a hassle. Additionally, visual markers that your dog is not a pet, but is indeed working, such as Service Dog vests and IDs, could eliminate the need for nosy conversations at all.

Registering your Service Dog with USA Service Dogs will help make the entire travel process easier and simpler. Simply provide basic information like your name, your dog’s name, and your condition, and select which registration kit you’d like.

Your registration with USA Service Dogs is fast, easy, and 100% compliant. It’s valid for the lifetime of your dog and can be looked up anytime, anywhere. It also includes 24/7 customer service, 365 days a year, so no matter when you’re traveling you can have knowledgeable support if you encounter any problems. Register your Service Dog now and always feel confident when you travel with your Service Dog .

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Traveling with a Service Dog, a Complete Step-By-Step Guide

I t’s that time of year again that many of us begin to think about traveling. While traveling with your trained and well-behaved Service Dog is your privilege, there are some steps you need to take to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Know what to expect The Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration has universal guidelines for traveling with a service dog or assistance animal. But each airline interprets them slightly differently. The key to success? Always call first!

International traveling Are you flying out of the country or to an island like Hawaii? Service Animals may need to be quarantined depending on your destination. Check with the airline to find out what the current regulations are for your destination country. Confirm with your airline and ask if there are any quarantines happening that you need to be aware of. Each airline interprets TSA guidelines slightly differently. The key to success? Always call first!

Some people are uncomfortable flying, and so are some animals Even the best trained Assistance Animal may have difficulty flying and you need to judge your own animals temperament before you consider flying. If you are at all concerned about how your assistance animal will react to flying consider driving, Amtrak or Greyhound . Please note that Psychiatric Service Animals may also require special documentation from your doctor in the form of a letter.

Contact your airline before you travel The crew may need to make preparations for your boarding, so you must call to make them aware of what type of animal you use. The agent may also be able to help you select the most comfortable seat for you and your animal. Find a direct flight if possible because it will make for an easier experience for you and your animal.

We’ve provided some links to the major carriers to make your life easier.

• United Airlines/United Express/Ted
• American Airlines/American Eagle
• Delta Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• Continental Airlines
• Northwest Airlines
• JetBlue Airlines
• Alaska Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• Lufthansa Airlines

Before you arrive, limit water and exercise your assistance animal Most likely, it will be a long time before you’ll find a good place for your Service Animal to relieve themselves again. Note: If you need to leave the secure boarding area to relieve your animal, you must undergo the full screening process again. Inform the Security Officer upon your return to the security checkpoint and she/him will move you to the front of the screening line to expedite the screening process.

Tech Tip — Find airport dog relief areas: Do you have a smartphone? The free Working Like Dogs “Where to Go” app for Apple or Android can help you find airport dog relief areas.

You and your Service Dog must remain courteous at all times The experience others may have with you and your Service Dog may be the first and only they will ever have. It is up to you to leave them with an excellent impression. While it is your privilege under the law to be accompanied by your Service or Assistance Dog, you still need to be respectful of others who may be uncomfortable around animals. While traveling with a Service Dog, keep your partner under control at all times to avoid becoming the center of attention. Do not play with or show off your Service Dog in the airport or during your flight. Remember, how you and your Service Dog act directly affects other Service and Assistance Dog teams.

Arrive at the airport early and let security know that your Service Dog is not a pet Inform the Security Officer that the animal accompanying you is a Service Animal and not a pet. This will provide you with an opportunity to move to the front of the screening line since the Security Officer may need to spend more time with you. At no time during the screening process should you be required to be separated from your Service Animal.

Identification and documentation Airlines do require some form of assurance that your dog is indeed a Service Animal and not a pet. Identification, such as cards or documentation, the presence of a harness or markings on the harness, a doctor’s letter or other credible assurance of the passenger using the animal for their disability is required. Please call or review each airline’s policy.

What tasks does your animal perform to help you with your disability? What makes a Service Dog different from a pet are the specific physical tasks or work the animal can perform to help someone manage their disability. While it is inappropriate for someone to ask you about your disability, they may ask what tasks your dog is trained to perform. If you have a Psychiatric Service Dog it helps to have letter from a physician in addition to any other identification materials you may have. Remember, misrepresenting an animal as a Service or Assistance Dog isn’t only unethical, it’s against the law.

Be polite and accommodating of the Security Officers Being polite and friendly with the Security Officers will go a long way to making your admission quicker. Remember, they have a stressful job and treating them with respect will make things easier. Security Officers have been trained how to treat Assistance Animals and their handlers. They know not to communicate, distract, interact, play, feed, or pet Service Animals.

You must assist with the inspection process by controlling the Service Animal while the Security Officer conducts the inspection. You must maintain control of your animal in a manner that ensures the animal cannot harm the Security Officer.

Proceeding through Security Recent changes now require that after you successfully go through the metal detector, you cannot make contact with your dog (other than holding the leash) until the dog has been inspected and cleared by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) personnel. Even if you walk through the metal detector and do not set off the alarm, you can be required to undergo additional screening if you touch your dog before it has been cleared.

Secondly, you may be asked to maintain contact with your dog’s leash at all times. If this procedure creates a problem for you — such as with a child who has autism — please explain this to the security officer. Of course, you are responsible for maintaining control of your Service Dog at all times.

Finally, passengers traveling with any kind of animal may now be required to undergo explosives trace testing. This process is quick and easy and generally takes place after you have cleared security. You may be asked to hold your hands out, palm side up. The security officer will then wipe a swab about the size of your palm across each of your hands and then ask you to wait while a machine analyzes the swab for traces of explosives. This process leaves no residue on your hands.

Remember, TSA personnel cannot request that you be separated from your dog nor are you required to remove your dog’s harness, leash or collar. If you experience any problems at the security checkpoint, you should request that a supervisor be contacted for assistance. If you wish to file a complaint against the TSA, send a message to: [email protected] and be sure to include your name, address, phone number and email address as well as the date/time you went through the security checkpoint, the name of the airport, and the name of the airline, flight number & departure gate if known. Give a brief description of what happened and include as much as you can remember about your experience and the TSA personnel involved.

Check in at the gate After you’ve gone through security, check in at the counter at the gate. Let the flight attendants know that you have an Assistance Animal. If this is your first time flying with your Assistance Animal on this airline, ask them what you need to do. Most likely you will be allowed to board the aircraft first.

Boarding the airplane Once you’ve passed through the skybridge to the aircraft, the flight attendants on board will guide you to your seat. Most airlines require your Assistance Animal to use the space at your feet. Small dry treats for your animal will help them feel more comfortable. Avoid bringing water onto the plane for your dog.

Consider using Pet Airways Depending on your disability, you may not need your animal with you in the airport and airplane, though you will when you land at your destination. Some disabled individuals choose to book their Service Animals on a special flights with airlines like Pet Airways .

If you feel you were the victim of discrimination If you believe you are experiencing discriminatory treatment by air carrier personnel or contractors (e.g., pilots, gate agents, or flight attendants) you may request immediate on-site assistance from a Complaint Resolution Official, commonly referred to as a CRO. You may also file a complaint with the Department of Transportation (DOT).

For those wishing to learn more about the rights of individuals traveling by air with a Service Dog, you may call The DOT’s Disability Hotline at 1-800-778-4838 . The Hotline is available from 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, except holidays.

Special thanks to The Evolution of the Soapbox for assistance in compiling information on the revised TSA screening procedures.

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Michelle July 2, 2012

Unfortunately, not all personnel are trained on these procedures. I have always been asked to take everything off my dog and have him heel through security while his things go through xray. Also, I recently learned that you can ask for a seat for your service dog without extra charge if it is a large animal and will need the floor space. Sometimes bulkhead is not really more space….it is just a curtain behind the first class seats. Always call after making reservations to talk to them about your service dog. Don’t forget ADA law states you don’t have to have ID.

Thyjay November 25, 2012

Fantastic Training! )Is there a way to train a default leave it when tairning with toys? Tennis Balls are a huge reinforcer for my dog and I want to try tairning more complex behaviors but treats aren’t motivating enough for her. And she gets overly aroused around toys. Thank you Marie and Lauren~

Service Dog July 3, 2012

That’s unfortunate and never should have happened. You may consider filing a complaint. TSA policy specifically states that:

“If the dog alarms the WTMD, the TSO will ask the PWD’s permission and assistance before they touch the dog and its belongings. The TSO will then perform a hand inspection of the dog and its belongings (collar, harness, leash, backpack, vest, etc.) The belongings will not be removed from the dog at any time.”

“It is recommended that persons using an animal for assistance carry appropriate identification. Identification may include: cards or documentation, presence of a harness or markings on the harness, or other credible assurance of the passenger using the animal for their disability.”

http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/assistant/editorial_1056.shtm

ComS July 3, 2012

Seems pretty standard

Except that animals are not allowed in the emergency exit row…that is illegal… service dog or not.

darlene schug-rushlow July 11, 2012

Do you have information on traveling by train? I have a tiny service dog.

kathy lincoln April 1, 2013

I just flew over 2000 miles [and back] with my 7 month old diabetic alert dog. She great on the plane ,alerted me serval times which made me more confident about traveling. The only problem was finding the dog relief areas at the airports.

Isabelle July 25, 2014

I was thinking of trying to train my husband’s service dog to go on one of those pads during travel times. However she is completely trained to outdoors, & the other trainers I’ve heard from feel that this would be confusing for her. Any thoughts on this???

Mez December 31, 2016

All my dogs from pets to my Hearing Dog Harley are trained to a command of Be clean you could train your dog to this command and the puppy mats I think you referre to. Also a small meal two or three hours before flight then exercise should empty bowels. Whilst on plane they are still as long as other passengers and children do not pet the dog. As no exercise your dog should be okay and just to quench thirst the you could ask the stewards to bring a couple of ice cubes as air condition does make one dry so this will help but not fill the bladder. One thing I would like to question if anyone has travelled in cabin with Assistant Dog have they had any problems with ear pressure can they suffer pain like some children and adults do? My children when young I would give them a carton of juice to drink taking off and landing. I would sit and havebit ready whilst on tarmac and then as the plane left ground I would tell them to suck on straw which worked. But do Assistant dogs have same issues as being a Hearing Dog he is my ears! So would like to here that. Hope above helps and makes sense Kind Regards Mex & Hearing Dog Harley

Alicia January 16, 2017

My first service dog has been on 124 flights. I generally travel on the earliest flight out. I feed him the morning BEFORE we travel and allow him limited water. As soon as we land, and are outside of the airport, I feed him. I arrive at the airport early enough to take him on a 15 minute walk so he has time to be completely empty.

athens122247 November 20, 2022

Dogs pant during take-off and landing. That keeps their eustachian tubes cleared.

Casey July 7, 2015

Hi , did you have to provide anything at check in?

Alicia June 2, 2014

You’re article should be updated to reflect the full definition of “What makes a Service Dog different from a pet are the specific physical tasks the animal can perform to help someone manage their disability.” The law actually states that a service dog must be trained to perform “WORK or physical tasks” to mitigate the disabled handlers disability.

Service Dog June 2, 2014

Hi Alicia, we do have a more updated version at: https://www.anythingpawsable.com/traveling-with-a-service-dog-a-complete-step-by-step-guide-updated/

Based on your comment, we also updated the language in this older version too — thank you for pointing it out!

Angela February 18, 2016

What you do if your service dog never been on a plan before and might act up for the first time .will they kick you out ?? I’m going on a plan for the first time with my service dog .my dog started to be trained for 5 months and she’s doing great but I don’t know how she will act on a plan .what should I do ?

Kea Grace March 14, 2016

Try taking local public transit first – a bus ride or a train/tram ride. Buses are a good choice, due to the tight fit, low manuverability and the rumble of the engines, as well as the loud brake noises. You can also attend a movie you’d like to see, as that will help you practice navigating tight rows with close seats. It’ll also allow you to practice and reinforce long-duration down stays, which are required for flying.

In my experience I want to make sure my “service dog in training” has been exposed to a number of environments that might give me an idea of how they will do in a crowded plane. But I choose environments we can get out of quickly in case the dog is over stimulated and stressed. So, I take the dog to a crowded movie theatre, concerts, sports events, etc. Once the dog is confident and behaved in these environments then I would take her to your local airport, and walk in the public areas (meaning BEFORE entering security). Ride an elevator, if you can carry your dog you can ride an escalator. I teach my dogs to jump off at the bottom as I do not want their nails to get caught in the flattened steps, but I have tall SD’s that can make that jump easily. But anymore, if an airport has escalators it also has elevators. I use them because it doesn’t put my dog’s paws at risk.

Alicia Smith March 14, 2016

Thanks for your quick reply. I was very pleased when anythingPawsable finally included WORK in your information. It’a nice to know we can count on you for up-to-date info. I really appreciate what you offer.

Our pleasure! 🙂

CHUCK February 18, 2017

THE ONLY REQUIREMENT IS BEING DISABLED AND ANY HELP A SERVICE DOG YOU NEED THAT HELPS WITH YOUR SPECIFIC DISABILITY. THAT IS THE ONLY REQUIREMENT UNDER THE ADA LAWS. I USE MY SD FOR BALANCE AND MOBILITY. HE DOES NOT NEED TO PERFORM ANY TASKS OTHER THAN HIM WALKING AND BEHAVING WELL IN PUBLIC FOR ME TO USE HIM AS A SD FOR MY SPECIFIC DISABILITY AND THIS SEEMS TO BE THE PROBLEM AND CONFUSION WITH THE ADA LAWS BECAUSE IT IS SPECIFICALLY WRITTEN VERY BROADLY IN SCOPE TO ACCOMODATE MANY DIFFERENT DISABILITIES AND PEOPLE TEND TO FORGET THAT FACT WHEN THERE ARE MANY DIFFERENT DISABILITIES WHERE A SERVICE DOG IS VERY USEFUL FOR MANY TYPES OF DISABILITIES. THIS IS WHY THERE IS NO SPECIAL REGISTRY OR CERTIFICATION FOR A SERVICE DOG UNDER THE ADA LAWS.

josie February 3, 2017

Any one has a sample letter for the airlines requirement. Confirmation, that your dog can relieve itself in a controlled way. On international flights over 8 hours long you may be asked for documentation that your service dog will not need to relieve itself on board, or that the dog can relieve itself in such a way that does not cause sanitation issues or other hazards to your fellow passengers. You may provide an obedience training certificate. If this is not available, a statement written by you confirming the above is acceptable. · Breed and weight of your dog

Roger Smith June 14, 2017

Emotional Support Animal like cat, Dogs, rabbit etc bring so much emotional, psychological and physical health benefits on human being.

D T August 8, 2017

Emotional support animals are NOT service animals and do not get special privileges. Only dogs and miniature horses, last I knew, can be Service Animals. No cats, rats, snakes, rabbits or anything else! Do not even try taking them anywhere as a “Service Animal”.

Jayden McReynolds August 17, 2017

Thank you for all of this very helpful information.

As a Army combat veteran with PTSD, would a letter/email from the psychiatrist who diagnosed me, be enough documentation needed to have my dog accompany me on an airline?

Kenneth Gladman June 21, 2018

I like that you mentioned having the proper documentation with you to get your dog on the flight. This means having them registered with the proper agencies. It is best to double check this before so there are no confusions.

PINGBACK: Traveling with Blindness - Traveling With a Disability Part 4 September 20, 2019

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Ultimate Guide to Service Dogs on Planes [2023 Airline Rules]

Christy Rodriguez

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What Is a Service Animal?

What is a “disability”, what about size or breed-specific considerations, can i travel with more than 1 service dog, mandatory dot paperwork, what about places with additional restrictions, tsa concerns, airport relief areas, inflight rules, reasons airlines can ban or deny boarding for a service dog, if you encounter problems, health and safety, food and drink, arrive early, final thoughts.

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Recently, the Department of Transportation (DOT) overhauled the rules regarding assistance animals on planes. The good news? Both service animals and psychiatric service animals (PSDs for short) are still protected and therefore are allowed to accompany their handlers on the plane — as long as they abide by the new processes.

The bad news for some travelers? Emotional support animals are no longer allowed on planes . Some airlines still allow pets (meaning non-service animals) on planes, but how they are treated varies drastically from how a service animal is treated.

This guide will cover how the DOT process has changed, who is eligible to fly with a service animal, all the paperwork requirements for each airline, and more. So whether or not you’ve flown with a service animal before, read on for the current guidelines.

In early 2021, the DOT put into place new guidance on service animals, which, among other things, specifically defined a service animal as “a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a person with a disability” — notably including psychiatric and mental disabilities , which had previously required extra steps for qualification.

This aligned the definition with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) .

Now, “service animal” does not cover emotional support animals or animals other than dogs.

The primary difference between a service dog and a pet/emotional support animal is that a service dog must be specifically trained to perform tasks   directly related to the handler’s disability. Even a service dog in training is not considered a full-fledged service dog until it has completed its training.

There’s no official list of these tasks , but we’ve compiled a sample of some of the primary tasks service dogs provide. These tasks are separated between those with physical and psychiatric/mental disabilities.

Physical Disability Tasks:

• Alerting the owner of an oncoming seizure or a rise/drop in blood sugar levels 
• Carrying bags and other objects
• Guiding the visually or hearing impaired
• Opening and closing doors and drawers
• Pressing buttons (such as in an elevator) 
• Providing stability while using stairs or navigating hazardous areas
• Pulling/guiding a wheelchair
• Retrieving items

Psychiatric/Mental Disability Tasks:

• Acting as a physical buffer in crowded areas
• Interrupting or reorienting the handler during panic/anxiety attacks
• Interrupting repetitive/damaging behaviors
• Reminding the owner to take their medication
• Using various methods to calm the handler

In addition to completing these tasks, a service dog should also be able to pass a “public access test” as well. This ensures they can focus on the handler and their duties even in potentially stressful environments like airports.

Dogs not performing tasks related to the handler’s disability are considered pets and subject to each airline’s rules and regulations regarding traveling with pets.

Under the DOT’s rules and the Air Carrier Access Act, a disability is a physical or mental impairment substantially limiting one or more major life activities . “Major life activities” include working, sleeping, learning, and other routines. 

This definition covers physical impairments such as limited mobility or vision impairment and those with mental impairments. The DOT’s new rules also specifically mention “psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental” disabilities. Psychiatric service dogs are commonly used by people with conditions such as severe depression, anxiety, PTSD, and autism. 

Training and Certifying a Service Dog

Earlier, we discussed a public access test. This isn’t a specific test conducted by any particular organization but rather a way to ensure your service dog can perform at the level necessary for the handler.

A service dog does not need to be trained by any specific third-party trainer, school, or organization . The DOT notes that “service animal users are free to train their own dogs to perform a task or function for them.” 

Any registrations and/or certifications for service dogs are always optional and are not mandatory.

There are some items service dog handlers can use to signal to members of the public that a service dog is on duty. These include a harness, tag, or vest, or you may have a certificate or ID card . 

If your disability is not readily apparent, these signals may protect you from intrusive questioning by TSA or airline staff . Just remember, having one of these items isn’t enough to qualify your dog as a service dog — it’s just 1 factor the DOT says airlines can use to help determine whether a dog can be considered a service dog. We’ll discuss all of these in more detail below.

The DOT doesn’t set a weight limit for service dogs but notes that airlines can require that a service animal fit within the handler’s foot space or on the passenger’s lap. Most importantly, the DOT recognizes all types of dogs as service dogs and does not allow airlines to set restrictions based on specific breeds.

If your service animal is larger than can comfortably be accommodated in your seat, the new rules require the airline to move the owner and the service dog to another seat within the same class of service, if possible (e.g., to a row with an open seat or bulkhead seating).

If no accommodations can be made, the airline must offer the opportunity to transport the service dog in the cargo hold free of charge — not ideal — or travel on a later flight. 

You can travel with 2 service dogs , according to the DOT’s new guidelines. Each dog may serve a different purpose but must still fit in the handler’s  foot space or lap.

This can make it tough for people with 2 large service dogs, so it might be worth taking additional steps, such as purchasing an additional ticket, to ensure service dogs can be accommodated without the risk of them having to travel in the cargo hold — or being bumped from multiple flights.

You must complete the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form and submit it to your respective airline (links below) at least 48 hours before your flight. If the reservation is made within 48 hours of the flight, the form can be submitted before the flight or at the gate.

This form includes information about:

• Animal health
• Animal training and behavior
• Basic information about the owner and the animal
• Other assurances

If your flight is longer than 8 hours, you’ll also need to complete the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Relief Attestation Form before your flight.

This form states that your service dog will either:

• Not need to relieve itself while on the flight
• Can relieve itself during the flight without creating a health or sanitation issue (the example it gives is the use of a doggie diaper)

These are both federal forms, so as the DOT states, it is considered a federal crime to “make materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements, entries, or representations knowingly and willfully” when completing either.

Service Dog Verification by Airline

Since there are no official organizations or forms to certify your dog as a service dog, how does an airline confirm that your dog is indeed a service dog?

In addition to reviewing the DOT forms, the DOT gives airlines 3 ways to determine whether someone is traveling with a genuine service animal:

• Ask whether the service dog must accompany you because of a disability and what specific tasks the animal has been trained to perform . However, for privacy reasons, the airline cannot ask specific questions about your disability.
• Observe the behavior of the service dog . This includes observing the temperament of the service dog and its interaction with you and other passengers.
• Look at any harness, vest, or tags your service dog may be wearing, or any certificate.

While all airlines are required to accommodate service dogs, each airline may handle the process slightly differently. For example, s ome airlines have a link on their website to submit the form directly, but other airlines only accept the forms by email. Here are some handy links for you to look at:

• Alaska Airlines
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• Hawaiian Airlines
• JetBlue Airways
• Southwest Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

These DOT rules generally only cover domestic travel, but a few places, like international destinations and Hawaii, impose additional restrictions.

Hawaii requires that service animals travel with a “valid animal health certificate” to enter from other U.S. states. It must be from your dog’s veterinarian, dated within 14 days of arrival. The State of Hawaii notes that service animals are exempt from any quarantine requirements but “must complete pre-shipment requirements including having a current rabies vaccination, passing an OIE-FAVN rabies blood test before arrival in Hawaii with > 0.5 IU/ml and certification.”

Also, note that Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the only port of entry for all dogs and cats entering Hawaii unless a valid Neighbor Island Inspection Permit has been issued by the Hawaii Department of Agriculture .

International Destinations

Be aware that not all countries accept animals, and not all countries protect service animals like they are in the U.S. You are ultimately responsible for ensuring you comply with all requirements and complete any documents necessary to travel with animals to your destination country.

What To Expect at the Airport

By the time you arrive at the airport, you’ve probably already submitted the required DOT Transportation Form (remember, you must submit this at least 48 hours before your flight).

But if you booked your flight less than 48 hours before, bring it along and be ready to submit it to your airline at the airport . Either way, it’s good to keep a paper or digital copy handy if you are asked to provide it again.

If you travel with a service dog, it’s a good idea to arrive earlier than usual . Confirm at your airline’s check-in counter to ensure they have your DOT Transportation Form. Airline staff may also observe your service dog at this point to ensure it is well-behaved and under your control.

Staff may inspect your dog’s ID cards, leash, tags, etc., and will ensure that it is harnessed (it should remain so at the airport and on your flight).

As we noted earlier, airport workers and airline staff can verify you have a service dog by asking 2 questions: 

• Is the service dog required because of a disability?
• What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Per the DOT, these are the only questions that you are allowed to be asked. You have a right to privacy as a service dog owner. 

Another anxiety-inducing part of airport travel is taking your service dog through TSA security checkpoints. The good news is that TSA will NEVER separate you from your service animal.

There are many things to consider here, so check out  our guide on flying with a disability  for a full breakdown of what to expect when going through security.

TSA also has a handy FAQ section to help ease your concerns.

A common concern for service dog owners is having access to pet relief areas. The spaces vary in quality based on the airport, but the good news is that providing access to a pet-relief area (both inside and outside of the terminal) is a requirement .

These Service Animal Relief Areas (or SARAs) have minimum requirements set forth by the FAA and must include space to accommodate a wheelchair, and other sanitation standards.

If you are having trouble locating a SARA, find any airport or airline staff member to ask them where it’s located.

While you’re on the plane, DOT states that the airline can require the service dog to be harnessed or otherwise restrained — even if this might interfere with the service animal’s work. Note that this is a stricter approach than the ADA, which states that a disabled person can use voice commands or other signals where appropriate. 

In addition, as previously noted, all service dogs must be well-behaved during the flight, fit in the space allocated to them, and not be disruptive. This usually translates to the dog not barking, jumping on others, acting aggressively, or relieving itself in the open. 

Ultimately, if the service dog causes any damage to the airplane cabin, the owner is responsible for the damages and can even be banned from future flights.

The DOT spells out a few instances in which an airline can deny boarding or ban a service animal from future flights: 

• Safety Requirement Violations:  There may be instances where the service dog is too big or cannot otherwise be accommodated on a flight. This may result in a denial of boarding, but you and your service dog can typically be bumped to a later flight.
• Direct Health and Safety Threats: Airlines must make an “individualized assessment” of the service dog in question solely based on their interactions at the airport and on the plane. The dog’s breed cannot be the determining factor for this decision.
• Cabin or Gate Disruption:  If an airline staff member observes your service dog’s lack of training , it can be denied boarding. The airline must also consider mitigati ng measures (such as using a muzzle to silence a barking dog).
• Health and Safety Regulations: Transporting service animals is prohibited in some territories or countries, or you may be required to comply with additional health and safety regulations (such as certain vaccinations). If you do not comply, your service dog may be denied boarding.
• Insufficient Documentation: This refers to the same DOT transport and relief forms (for longer flights) discussed above. All documentation must be submitted before boarding the flight. 

Note that if your service dog cannot be accommodated for any reason, any airline must provide a written statement describing those reasons within 10 days. 

When traveling with your service dog, if you believe your rights under the Air Carrier Access Act are being violated, ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Official (or CRO) . Per the DOT , a CRO “is the airline’s expert on disability-related issues in air travel.”

Airlines are required to make a CRO available to you in person at the airport or by telephone — at no cost to you.

You can also file a consumer complaint directly with the DOT online or via phone at  202-366-2220 Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. EST.

Helpful Tips for Traveling With a Service Animal

Before you head to the airport, here are a few key things to remember.

Depending on your destination, it may be necessary to visit your vet before your travel date to ensure your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. At a minimum, the DOT’s transport form will require you to certify your service dog is vaccinated and ask for your vet’s contact information.

Don’t forget your service dog’s vest, tags, ID card, harness, and other accessories . In addition, a leash or harness will help you navigate a busy airport and crowded airplane cabin, and the airline can also insist that your service dog is properly restrained and under your control at all times. 

Don’t forget to pack everything your service dog might need for your trip, including medication, food, treats, water, dishes, and other grooming products. 

Limit the food and drink you provide your service dog before a flight, as they may not have access to relief areas for quite some time . In addition, don’t forget to use the service animal relief areas before boarding, if possible.

It never hurts to arrive a few hours early at the airport when traveling with a service dog . This can help relieve some of the anxiety, especially if there are unexpected obstacles like a long security line or a gate change. 

Whether you’re an experienced service dog owner who has flown with it for years or planning your first flight with your service dog, we hope you found this guide useful, especially in light of the recent DOT changes.

Refer to this guide often to remind yourself what to expect when flying with your service dog, including all of the required documentation, and to ensure you’re educated about all of the accommodations you and your dog are entitled to receive — both at the airport and in the air.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are service dogs allowed on airplanes.

Yes, service animals are required to be accommodated on airplanes (and on all airlines) that operate within the U.S., per the U.S. Department of Transportation. There are guidelines related to where they can sit and how they must behave while on the plane. There are no size or breed restrictions for service dogs. Note that since January 2021, these protections do not extend to emotional support animals.

Do service animals fly free?

Yes, service animals fly for free, permitted they meet the requirements of being a service animal. We’ve listed these all in the article above. If they don’t, they will be required to pay a pet fee (if the airline accepts pets) or be denied boarding.

Are emotional support animals considered service dogs?

No, animals whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals per the Department of Transportation. This brought the DOT into alignment with the Americans with Disabilities Act. This change went into effect in January 2021.

What proof do airlines need for service dogs?

There are a number of ways that an airline can determine if your dog is a service dog. In addition to reviewing your required DOT forms, these methods include:

• Asking the service dog’s owner if the animal is required to accompany the passenger because of a disability and what work they are required to perform
• Looking at the physical indicators (such as a harness or ID) and ensuring the animal is leashed
• Observing the animal’s behavior and ensuring they are under your control

Does a service dog count as a carry-on?

No, a trained service dog is not considered a carry-on and does not count toward your carry-on allotment. Service dogs are required to be accommodated on all flights within the U.S. Also, your service dog does not need to travel in a carrier in the cabin.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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Traveling with Service Animals

Service animals—defined as a dog that’s individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability—are welcome on board JetBlue flights. Find all the requirements and need-to-knows for you and your service animal to travel easily and comfortably.

Important Info

Notification, service animals in mint, countries with high risk of rabies.

Warning:  

It is a Federal crime to make materially false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements, entries, or representations knowingly and willfully on the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation Form to secure disability accommodations provided under regulations of the United States Department of Transportation (18 U.S.C. § 1001).

Things to know about traveling with service animals on JetBlue:

• JetBlue accepts trained service dogs only. 
• JetBlue requires all service animals to be under the control of the handler at all times—in the airport and on the plane—and harnessed, leashed, or otherwise tethered. 
• The behavior of all service animals will be assessed at the airport to ensure safety requirements are met.   
• Notification of service animal travel must be completed at least 48 hours prior to your flight.
• We recommend starting this process as soon as you book your reservation. 
• If you have booked your flight within 48 hours of departure you may complete the US DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form at the airport with a Complaints Resolution Official. Please arrive early and we will provide the accommodation if we can do so by making reasonable efforts, without delaying the flight.
• Service animals in training are not accepted for travel on JetBlue. 
• If you are traveling with a large service animal or two service animals, your animal(s) must fit within the footprint of the seat(s) you have purchased. If your animal(s) is too large to fit in the seat(s) foot space you have purchased, you may purchase additional seat(s) to guarantee travel or wait for a flight that has sufficient empty seats available. 
• No animal is ever allowed to occupy a seat. 
• All animals must remain on the floor, unless the animal is small enough to fit fully on the traveler's lap without touching any part of the seat, tray table, or nearby travelers. 
• Upon request, assistance will be provided by a JetBlue crewmember to and from the animal relief area. Please ask an airport crewmember for assistance.  

Notification of service animal travel must be provided up to 48 hours in advance of the first originally scheduled departure time. We recommend providing notification as soon as you book your reservation. You may choose the best process for your travel from the following options. 

to streamline service animal travel notification. We recommend processing your service dog(s)’ US DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form through the portal to ensure your service dog(s) will be added to your reservation prior to travel. 

If you prefer, you may mail a hard copy of a completed US DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form to: 

JetBlue Airways    Attn: Customer Accessibility   6322 S 3000 E  G10  Salt Lake City, UT 84121 USA 

 and Service Animal Forms Portal form approval with you when you travel.     

If your trip includes a flight on a partner airline, you'll need to contact them separately as their process may be different. 

Additional documentation may be required at the airport:   

• Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands require vaccination documentation for the animal to be admitted into the destination.    
• It’s your responsibility to have the required documentation for your service animal(s).  
• If one of the two notification processes above has not been followed, the customer may bring or request the US DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form to the airport for an onsite review/assessment with a Complaints Resolution Official (CRO).

JetBlue permits service animals to accompany you in any seat except the emergency exit row, unless the animal obstructs an aisle or other area that must remain unobstructed in order to facilitate an emergency evacuation.   

• In our Mint seating, you will forfeit the lie-flat feature in order to accommodate your service animal on the floor.  
• If your service animal is small enough to fit fully on your lap without touching any part of the seat, the lie-flat feature may be used.   
• All animals must remain on the floor, unless the animal is small enough to fit fully on the customer's lap without touching any part of the seat, tray table or nearby travelers. 
• If you’re traveling with a large service animal or two service animals, your animal(s) must fit within the footprint of the seat(s) you have purchased and not prevent a nearby traveler from utilizing the amenities of their seat. If your animal(s) is too large to fit in the seat(s) foot space you have purchased, you may purchase additional seat(s) to guarantee travel or wait for a flight that has sufficient empty seats available. 
• JetBlue requires all service animals to be under the control of the handler at all times—in the airport and on the plane—and harnessed, leashed or otherwise tethered.

In accordance with the CDC guidelines on dog importation from certain countries, and taking into account JetBlue network limitations, JetBlue will not accept service animals on flights to or from:

• Colombia (BOG, CTG, MDE)
• Ecuador (UIO)

 for vaccinated animals.

• Dominican Republic (SDQ, STI, PUJ, POP)
• Ecuador (GYE)
• Guatemala (GUA)
• Guyana (GEO)
• Haiti (PAP)
• Honduras (SAP)

Important note: Customers may travel with service animals to the above destinations from any JetBlue city.

Dogs entering from the above-listed cities must provide the following documentation in order to be cleared for travel to the US:

• Have a valid US-issued rabies vaccine certificate OR CDC Dog Import permit
• Have proof of microchip
• Be at least 6 months old
• Be healthy upon arrival

To request advance written approval from the CDC, follow the instructions at  How to Apply for a CDC Dog Import Permit . For other international destinations, documentation requirements vary by country. Customers are responsible for understanding each country's animal import requirements and acquiring all necessary documentation before traveling with a service animal.

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Home Is Where Your Pet Is

An esa letter keeps it that way, travel everywhere together, psychiatric service dogs can accompany their handlers anywhere – even airplanes, do you really have a good dog, pettable academy is designed to bring out the best in your pet.

Amtrak's pet policy allows passengers to bring small pets on board most trains, with specific requirements regarding the pet's size, weight, and the need for a pet reservation and carrier. Pets must be kept in an appropriate carrier throughout the journey and are subject to a fee. Service animals are allowed on all Amtrak services at no additional charge, provided they are trained to perform tasks to benefit a person's disability. However, Amtrak distinguishes between service animals and emotional support animals, with the latter being subject to the standard pet policy, including fees and carrier requirements.

Amtrak Pet Policy

Amtrak allows pets up to 20 pounds to travel on trips up to 7 hours, requiring them to be kept in a leak-proof, ventilated pet carrier. A pet reservation is necessary, and there's a fee per pet, with a limit of one pet per passenger.

What is Amtrak's Dog Policy?

Amtrak , the national railway service in the United States, has specific policies regarding pets, including service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs), on its trains. Understanding these policies is crucial for travelers planning to bring their furry companions aboard an Amtrak journey. This article will explore the Amtrak dog policy and provide you with all the necessary information you need for your next journey.

Travel season is underway, and those traveling with a service dog should know what to expect. Keep these essential tips in mind when traveling with a service dog to be sure your journey is nothing but smooth sailing.

Pet Size, Health, Breed, & Paperwork Requirements

Amtrak's dog policy requires that pets must meet certain criteria to travel onboard. Firstly, pets must be small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat of the passenger. Additionally, pets should be in good health and up-to-date on vaccinations to ensure the safety of both the animal and other passengers.

Moreover, there are no breed restrictions imposed by Amtrak, meaning that all dog breeds are welcome onboard as long as they meet the above requirements. However, passengers must carry necessary documentation for their pets, such as vaccination records, as requested by Amtrak staff.

Approved Pet Carrier Specifications

When traveling with a pet on Amtrak, it's essential to have an approved pet carrier that meets the railway's specifications. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated to ensure the comfort of the pet. Additionally, the carrier should be sturdy enough to contain the animal securely throughout the journey. Amtrak recommends that passengers check their pet carrier's dimensions to ensure it fits under the seat and complies with Amtrak's guidelines.

Amtrak Pet Fees

Amtrak charges a fee for passengers traveling with pets. The fee varies depending on the route and duration of the journey. Passengers should consult Amtrak's website or contact customer service for specific information regarding pet fees for their intended trip. It's important to note that these fees are separate from any ticket costs and must be paid in addition to the passenger's fare.

Amtrak Policy on Traveling with Assistance Animals

Assistance animals, including service dogs and emotional support animals, play a vital role in providing support and assistance to individuals with disabilities. Amtrak recognizes the importance of these animals and has established guidelines for their accommodation onboard its trains. If you're considering obtaining a psychiatric service dog, you may find this informative guide on how to get one before your next trip helpful: How to Get a Psychiatric Service Dog.

Amtrak Service Dog Guidelines

Service dogs, trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, are welcome aboard Amtrak trains. These dogs are not considered pets under Amtrak's policy and are permitted to accompany their handlers in all areas of the train, including passenger seats, provided they do not obstruct pathways or present safety concerns.

Passengers traveling with service dogs are not required to pay any additional fees, and there are no size or breed restrictions imposed on service animals by Amtrak. However, passengers should carry documentation verifying their service animal's status to facilitate smooth boarding and travel.

Amtrak Emotional Support Animal Policy

Emotional support animals provide comfort and companionship to individuals with mental health conditions. While Amtrak acknowledges the role of ESAs, its policy differs slightly from that of service animals.

Amtrak allows emotional support animals to accompany passengers with disabilities in designated areas onboard, such as the passenger's seat or the immediate vicinity. However, unlike service animals, ESAs are subject to the same pet policy and fees as other pets traveling on Amtrak. Additionally, passengers must provide appropriate documentation for their ESA and adhere to all other pet-related requirements outlined by Amtrak.

Making a Pet Reservation on Amtrak

Passengers planning to travel with their pets or assistance animals on Amtrak are encouraged to make reservations in advance. During the booking process, passengers should indicate that they will be traveling with a pet or assistance animal to ensure that adequate accommodations are available.

It's essential to provide accurate information about the pet or assistance animal during the reservation process, including its size, breed, and any special requirements. This enables Amtrak staff to prepare for the animal's presence onboard and ensure a smooth and comfortable journey for both the passenger and their furry companion.

Tips for Traveling on Amtrak with a Pet or Assistance Animal

Traveling with a pet or assistance animal on Amtrak can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here are some tips to ensure a stress-free journey:

• Plan Ahead: Make reservations early and familiarize yourself with Amtrak's pet and assistance animal policies to avoid any last-minute complications.
• Pack Essentials: Bring all necessary supplies for your pet or assistance animal, including food, water, medications, and comfort items like blankets or toys.
• Keep Documentation Handy: Carry documentation for your pet or assistance animal, including vaccination records and any necessary paperwork verifying their status.
• Be Considerate: Respect the comfort and safety of other passengers by ensuring that your pet or assistance animal remains well-behaved and under control throughout the journey.
• Stay Informed: Stay updated on any changes to Amtrak's pet and assistance animal policies to ensure compliance and smooth travel experiences.

By following these tips and adhering to Amtrak's policies, passengers can enjoy a seamless journey with their pets or assistance animals aboard Amtrak trains. Whether traveling with a service dog, emotional support animal, or beloved pet, Amtrak strives to accommodate all passengers and their furry companions while ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience for everyone.

For information on airlines that allow emotional support animals, check out this comprehensive guide on which airlines allow emotional support animals. Additionally, if you're interested in finding the best airlines for flying with dogs, this article provides useful insights: Best Airlines to Fly with Dogs . For more information about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and its regulations regarding service animals, visit the official ADA website, and to learn more about the Fair Housing Act and its provisions related to emotional support animals, visit the official website of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). For further information on obtaining a legitimate ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional, contact Pettable . 

Meet the author:

Kristi Carignan is a seasoned freelance writer with over 20 years of experience crafting copy for global agencies and brands. When she's not writing, she enjoys spending time with her furry companions, Sugar the PomChi and Rudy the Shiba Inu, and indulging in hobbies like crafting and home renovation.

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Home is Where Your Pet Is

Psychiatric service dogs are protected for air travel, do you really have a good dog.

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Table of contents

Service animals.

The ADA explains what businesses and state/local governments must do to make sure that they do not discriminate against a member of the public with a disability who uses a service animal.

Generally, businesses and non-profits that are open to the public as well as state/local governments must allow service animals to go most places where the public can go. This is true even if they have a “no pets” policy.

About Service Animals

Service animals are:.

Any breed and any size of dog

Trained to perform a task directly related to a person’s disability

Service animals are not:

Required to be certified or go through a professional training program

Required to wear a vest or other ID that indicates they’re a service dog

Emotional support or comfort dogs, because providing emotional support or comfort is not a task related to a person’s disability

If the dog’s mere presence provides comfort, it is not a service animal under the ADA. But if the dog is trained to perform a task related to a person’s disability, it is a service animal under the ADA. For example, if the dog has been trained to sense that an anxiety attack is about to happen and take a specific action to help avoid the attack or lessen its impact, the dog is a service animal.

Examples of Service Animal Tasks

A person who uses a wheelchair may have a dog that is trained to retrieve objects for them .

A person with depression may have a dog that is trained to perform a task to remind them to take their medication .

A person with PTSD may have a dog that is trained to lick their hand to alert them to an oncoming panic attack .

A person who has epilepsy may have a dog that is trained to detect the onset of a seizure and then help the person remain safe during the seizure .

Where Service Animals Can Go

Generally, service animals are allowed to be with their person, even in places that don’t allow pets. For example, service dogs can go into:

• Restaurants

EXAMPLE: A restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating. A woman arrives at the restaurant with her service dog and asks to sit inside. The restaurant cannot require the woman to dine outside because of her service dog.

The ADA also applies to certain types of housing, including:

• Housing at public and private universities
• Public housing programs run by state, county, and city governments
• Emergency shelters

Other laws apply to housing

The Fair Housing Act applies to many types of housing, both public and privately owned, including housing covered by the ADA. Under the Fair Housing Act, there may be different rules that apply when a resident or applicant with a disability uses a service animal or other animal to assist with their disability. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is responsible for administering the Fair Housing Act. Learn more at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development or contact your Regional Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Office .

Other laws apply to airplanes

The Air Carrier Access Act, not the ADA, protects the rights of people with disabilities in air travel. For information or to file a complaint, contact the U.S. Department of Transportation, Aviation Consumer Protection Division: 202-366-2220.

Other rules apply to employment

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is responsible for administering the ADA in employment settings.

Asking if a Dog is a Service Animal

If you are working at a business or state/local government facility and it is unclear to you whether someone’s dog is a service dog, you may ask for certain information using two questions .

You may ask:

Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?

What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

You are not allowed to:

Request any documentation that the dog is registered, licensed, or certified as a service animal

Require that the dog demonstrate its task, or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability

Because service animals are not required to wear vests, a dog that is wearing a vest is not necessarily a service animal. The dog still needs to be trained to perform a task for a person with a disability to be a service animal.

When a Service Animal Can Be Kept Out

A business or state/local government does not need to allow a service animal if the dog’s presence would fundamentally alter the nature of the goods, services, programs, or activities provided to the public.

In most settings, a service animal will not fundamentally alter the situation. But in some settings, a service dog could change the nature of the service or program. For example, it may be appropriate to keep a service animal out of an operating room or burn unit where the animal’s presence could compromise a sterile environment. But in general, service animals cannot be restricted from other areas of the hospital where patients or members of the public can go.

Learn more about when a service animal can be kept out in questions 23-26 in FAQs about service animals and the ADA .

Asking Someone to Remove Their Service Animal

A business or state/local government can ask someone to remove their service animal if:

• The dog is not housebroken.
• The dog is out of control, and the person cannot get the dog under control.

Learn more in question 27 in FAQs about service animals and the ADA .

State and Local Laws

State/local governments can:.

Require service dogs to be licensed and vaccinated, if all dogs are required to be licensed and vaccinated

Offer voluntary service dog registration programs

State/local governments can’t:

Require certification or registration of service dogs

Ban a service dog based on its breed

Learn More About the ADA and Service Animals

The following technical assistance documents provide more helpful information about service animals:

• Frequently Asked Questions about Service Animals and the ADA
• ADA Requirements: Service Animals

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• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

• Within the 48 contiguous United States
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Flying with a service dog? Here’s everything you need to know

Living with a panic attack disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and a sensory processing disorder is challenging as a travel writer, but my life changed for the better when I started flying with a service dog six years ago.

My panic attacks are often triggered by airline travel, which is not ideal considering my occupation, but incorporating my first service animal, Bobbi, a 65-pound pit bull, into my travel routine was a serious game changer. Bobbi was trained to alert me moments before I had a panic attack and then assist me during the terrifying time it lasted. For the first time in forever I felt like I could breathe at work.

After Bobbi passed away during the pandemic, I began flying with my second service dog, Poppy, a 13-pound Chiweenie. Since late 2021, Poppy has flown around 70 flight segments with me on trips in the U.S., Mexico, Europe and the Caribbean, so I'd say we have become experts on everything you need to know about flying with a service dog. Here's the scoop.

What is a service animal?

The Americans with Disabilities Act defines a service animal as any dog or miniature horse individually trained to perform a task or do work in the aid of a qualified individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability. The service dog training does not have to be done by a specific agency in the U.S. but can be done by a trainer or even the person with the disability.

In fact, the ADA specifically states that "covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that an animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry." The same rules apply when taking a service dog on a plane. So, skip all those websites advertising service dog certification cards purchasable online; they are a complete scam.

There are many legitimate organizations that train service dogs for people with disabilities, including Freedom Service Dogs of America, but going through an organization like this is not required by law.

The ADA only mandates the animal has been trained to perform a specific task to assist the person with the disability. For Poppy, these tasks include alerting me before I have a panic attack and assisting me during one. Poppy is also trained to ignore other people and dogs when wearing her vest, to never bark unless she is alerting me before a panic attack (and then she uses just one short bark) and to sit quietly at my feet when dining at restaurants or in other public places.

These are all guidelines that the ADA outlines owners must follow when traveling or taking a service animal into businesses pets are not allowed in. Additionally, you will need to make sure your animal is trained to not relieve itself in a public setting.

Can service dogs fly on planes?

Yes, service dogs can fly on planes in the U.S. and on flights to most countries that originate in the U.S. or return directly to the U.S. from the international destination. The Air Carrier Access Act is the Department of Transportation regulation that mandates airlines allow service dogs on planes. Prior to Jan. 2021, this law also allowed emotional support animals to fly with documentation from a medical doctor verifying the animal was necessary for comforting the passenger. ESAs did not have to be trained.

But after rampant abuse of the system that included people taking everything from peacocks to snakes to untrained and aggressive dogs on flights, the DOT revised its regulations to allow airlines to ban ESAs from the skies. Although the ultimate decision was left up to the airlines themselves, all major U.S. and Canadian carriers quickly changed their policies to stop non-ESA pets from flying. You can still fly with a small dog (under 25 pounds), but the pup must be in a carrier and you will need to pay the airline pet fee to fly.

Can service dogs fly internationally?

Many countries allow service dogs to fly internationally, but some do not and U.S. airlines traveling to foreign countries are subject to the laws of the foreign country they are traveling to. You will need to check with your airline about the country's laws before booking a flight with your service animal.

Just because a service animal is allowed to fly internationally does not mean you can automatically enter the country. You will need to follow the country's health regulations. Some countries, such as Mexico and Canada, make it extremely easy for American dogs to clear customs, requiring only a paper copy of a valid rabies vaccine and a brief agriculture screening looking for parasites or obvious signs of disease.

Related: The reality of international travel with your dog: How Bandido flew from Vietnam to the US

All other countries require dogs to have an international health certificate at minimum to enter their borders. Some countries, such as South Africa, also require advance permission from the ministry of health, which makes traveling internationally with a service dog a serious endeavor.

To fly to European Union countries and Switzerland with your service dog, you'll need an EU health certificate from your veterinarian that is then endorsed by a vet at the USDA. The entire process must be done within two weeks of entering the EU and costs around $300. The good news is that once you get to Europe, in many countries it is quite easy to visit a European veterinarian and get your pup an EU Pet Passport, which will be good for subsequent trips to the continent for as long as their rabies vaccine is valid.

Do service dogs fly for free?

Yes, service dogs always fly for free.

Is there a weight limit for service dogs on planes?

There is no specific weight limit for service dogs on planes, but the ACAA does allow airlines to deny transport to a service dog if it is too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin. Your service dog must be able to either slide beneath your seat or sit at your feet without touching another passenger or impeding their leg room. Airlines are also not allowed to discriminate by breed.

What proof do airlines need for service dogs?

You don't need to provide any proof or certification papers to take your service dog on a flight. But nearly all airlines require you to fill out a Department of Transportation form annually that attests to your service dog's health, behavior and training. Lying on the form or faking a disability to fly with a service animal can result in felony charges. You will also want to bring along a paper copy of your animal's current rabies vaccine.

For flights longer than eight hours, you must also fill out a form stating your dog can either refrain from using the bathroom on the flight or provide a plan for how they will relieve themselves — such as wearing a diaper or using a pee pad.

Service dog requirements by airline

All airlines flying in the U.S. have similar requirements for service dogs on planes, but here are the specifics on how to book and declare for some of the most popular.

Airlines limit the number of service dogs to two per individual, dogs under the age of 4 months are not allowed to fly as service animals and many airlines do not recognize service dogs in training as service animals. Service dogs also are not allowed to sit in the exit row of a plane.

Flying Delta Air Lines with a service dog

Delta allows up to two trained service dogs per passenger. The dogs must be "properly cleaned and must not have a foul odor." You must fill out the DOT Service Animal Air Travel Form for validation prior to the flight. Service animals must be current on all vaccines.

For travel booked more than 48 hours in advance, you must submit the documentation for validation through the Accessibility Service Request Form located in the My Trips section of the website. Your service dog must be seated in the floor space below your seat or in your lap. Delta specifically states that "the size of the animal must not exceed the footprint of the passenger's seat." For more information, visit this page .

Flying American Airlines with a service dog

American Airlines has the same requirements as Delta when it comes to service animals on planes. Once you have submitted your form and it's been approved by American Airlines, you will be sent an email with your Service Animal ID (SVAN ID). You can then add the SVAN ID when booking future travel with the same animal and be approved without resubmitting the form for up to one year from the date of signature or when the dog's rabies vaccine expires, whichever is first.

American Airlines states that if your dog is too heavy or large to be accommodated in the cabin of your flight you may need to rebook on a flight with more open seats or buy a separate ticket for the dog. More information here .

Flying Southwest Airlines with a service dog

Like the above airlines, Southwest requires you to fill out the DOT forms to fly with a service animal. Southwest requires you to present the completed form at the ticket counter or gate on the day of travel and mandates the form be dated on or after the date you purchased your ticket (so you will need to have a new form each time you fly).

You can also let the airline know in advance that you will be flying with your service dog by using the Special Assistance link when booking a ticket. More information here .

Flying United Airlines with a service dog

United allows service dogs in training who are flying with their trainers to fly. The DOT forms must be filled out before your flight. For domestic flights, you can complete the forms electronically and store them in the My Trips section of the app or website. You must also carry a printed copy of the forms while at the airport and on the plane.

For international flights, as well as flights to Hawaii and Guam, the forms cannot be completed electronically. You will need to call the disability access line to add your dog to your reservation. More information here .

Flying Air Canada with a service dog

For flights to and from the U.S., Air Canada allows up to two service dogs, provided they both fit within the seat footprint of the passenger. For other flights within Canada, international flights and Caribbean flights that do not originate in the U.S., your service dog "must have been individually trained by an organization or person specializing in service dog training." Note that this is different from what U.S. airlines allow.

For flights to and from the U.S., you will also need to fill out the DOT paperwork and send it to the Air Canada Medical Assistance desk at least 48 hours before departure. More information here .

Tips on how to fly with a service dog

Flying with a service dog is easy. You'll submit your paperwork in advance, but when you check in at the airport, the airline representative may ask you the question about what task your dog is trained to perform as well as ask to see the DOT form and a copy of the rabies vaccine.

Many airports have a disability access line for TSA screenings. Going through TSA with a service dog is also easy. You will be directed through the metal detector with your dog. After going through the detector, you will have your hands swabbed (this is always done when traveling with an animal). Once cleared you are good to head to the gate.

Airports in the U.S. and Canada have dog bathrooms, usually with AstroTurf and mini fire hydrants. Some are nicer than others. Getting a dog to use a dog bathroom may be the most challenging part of flying! Poppy goes every time, but Bobbi always refused.

Related: My first-class seat was taken by an emotional support animal

As mentioned above, your service animal cannot take away space from other passengers. Your service dog should not sit on the seat with you or occupy an empty seat next to you just because it is vacant. If your disability requires your service dog to be near your face or in your lap as part of its task, and the dog is small enough to easily fit on your lap without touching another passenger, then you may place the dog where you need it.

In some cases, airlines will block off the seat next to you if your service dog is too big to fit at your feet. But this is at the discretion of the airline. Your dog must also always remain under your control and be on a leash.

Finally, while not required, it is always a good idea to put a vest stating you are traveling with a service dog on your pup at the airport and on the flight. This allows other people to know your dog is working and often alleviates questions from authorities or people trying to pet the dog without asking.

Can an airline deny a service dog?

Yes, in certain instances. The only questions an airline can ask a person with a disability regarding their service dog is whether the dog is required to accompany the passenger because of a disability and what work or task the animal is trained to perform.

Airlines are not allowed to inquire about your specific disability, and they cannot deny your service dog from flying because you don't have a visible disability or discriminate by breed and say such things as your dog is a pit bull and "looks scary."

However, if your dog is showing aggressive behavior, growling, or barking (unless the bark is the dog's alert command) or clearly not under your control, airlines have the right to prohibit you from boarding.

As a person with a disability and a well-trained service dog who is not gaming the system, I support this policy fully. I am on my second service dog now. My first service animal, Bobbi, was a 65-pound pit bull with cropped ears. We flew at least once a month for three years, and during this time no airline representative denied us access to our flight.

Other reasons that airlines can deny service dogs from flying, according to the ACAA, include:

• Violates safety requirements — for example, too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin
• Poses a direct threat to the health or safety of others
• Causes a significant disruption in the cabin or at airport gate areas
• Violates health requirements — for example, the dog is prohibited from entering a U.S. territory or foreign country.

If you encounter a problem, here's who to ask for

If you believe your rights under the ACAA are being violated and you are denied boarding with your service animal, ask to speak with a Complaints Resolution Officer for the airline you are flying. This individual is the airline's expert on disability accommodation issues. Airlines are required to make this person available to you in person at the airport or by phone during operating hours at no cost to you.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• The 18 best places to travel in 2023
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

Our team cares for your pet as much as you do.

From our Pet Transport Services team, who specialize in making all the travel arrangements for your pet, to our Pet Handlers, who care for your pet during the travel process – we all love your furry family member !

Get a pet travel quote  

Why choose pet express for your international pet transport service, caring team.

Caring for your pets is our job, and we put the welfare of your animals above all else, always. Pet safety is always our top priority. But we also care for you. We’re here to answer your questions, support your decisions and make sure you feel comfortable and confident in our pet shipping service at all times.

Family-Owned & Operated

We’re a family – owned and operated company, and we take that family approach into our care for you and your pet’s journey. When you work with us, you and your furry friends are family.

Highly Knowledgeable

Whether it’s juggling veterinary protocols, understanding the quarantine requirements of countries worldwide, or ensuring your pet has access to food and water while they travel, we have the information you need. We make the entire pet shipping experience hassle-free and are dedicated to transporting your family safely right to your front door. 

Solutions-Focused

We find solutions, not problems. Our pet shipping services are comprehensive and suitable for any big trip. We’ve transported pregnant pets, handled breed restrictions, dealt with cancelled flights and managed it all through a global pandemic. We have a ‘make it happen’ attitude because we know how important your pets are to you.

Industry Experts

International pet transportation is constantly changing, even more so now. We keep abreast of all the most recent regulations, airline protocols and individual country requirements to ensure your pet arrives at its destination happy and well.

Caring Partners

We wouldn’t leave your pet transport needs with anyone who wasn’t as caring and supportive as we are ourselves. We’ve chosen to work with only the best industry partners, such as Canine Companions for Independence.

We are the pet transport people.

Since 1978, our pet transportation business has been trusted by families to safely relocate their pets all over the world.  We are a family-owned and operated business that believes that the pets who move with us are very special, and so are our values: we love pets, we are the experts in pet transport, we are genuine when it comes to our knowledge and care, and we strive to exceed expectations.

How pet transport services work

Pet Express can take care of the entire process and provide a pet shipping service that is stress free – for both owners and pets!

Book a Travel Crate

We can provide the correct size crate to keep your pet safe & happy.

Get Pet Itinerary

A broken down itinerary of your pet’s travel and shipping information.

Pet Fit to Fly

Your pet is given the all clear by one of our partner vets to take off.

Time to Fly

We take care of pickup, accommodation and transport to your destination.

Wherever Your Pet Needs to Go, We’ll Get Them There

Moving your beloved pets can be emotional and confusing, especially when every country has their own set of rules and regulations. We transport pets cross country or anywhere in the world. And whether they’re going to Sydney, Australia, Florida, USA, or London, UK, we always ensure the process is smooth and seamless for both you and your multiple pets, no matter where you need them to go.

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Is it safe for pets to fly?

Air travel is as safe for pets as it is for people. Airlines have staff that are trained in pet shipping and who will care for your beloved pet on their journey. And, of course, we take care of everything to ensure your pet has a happy and safe journey.

Where does my pet travel on the plane?

Where can i get a strong, comfortable travel crate, how much will it cost to relocate my pet, will my pet have to stay in quarantine, what we’re talking about on the blog.

Our entire team are pet owners as well as pet relocation specialists . So, when we say that we live and breathe pet relocation, we really mean it.

On the blog, we write about location relocation requirements, how to keep your pet healthy and happy during their pet transport service and everything in between. Check it out.

Read Our Most Popular Blogs

The Specialists in Cat and Dog Transport Services

Experience makes all the difference when taking part in dog or cat shipping. International destinations (and Hawaii) have rules and restrictions that must be adhered to. Using our experienced pet transport service knowledge of dog and cat breeds and sizes, airline restrictions and direct routing (even through COVID changes), we make sure your pet arrives happy and well at their new home. We’ll even transport them right to your front door.

Can service dogs travel with the passenger?

Yes, that is possible. Remember that the conditions and rules of transport are different in each country.

Please review the details below depending on the route you will be flying.

Trips to, from and through the United States

According to the regulations of the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), a Service Animal that can be transported at no additional cost in the cabin is a dog trained to do work or perform tasks to assist a person with a disability or a physical, sensory, psychiatric or intellectual condition, or another disability or mental condition. You can see more details at the DOT official website.

This definition also applies on our codeshare flights with associated airlines with a destination or origin of Canada through the United States.

The DOT states that to travel with a Service Animal to, from, or via the United States, the animal must be a dog and must be trained as such, and you must:

• Always complete the DOT Air Transportation Form .
• Complete the DOT Attestation Form if the trip is longer than 8 flight hours.
• Send the form(s) through the Help Center, creating a case in the Requests or Suggestions section , preferably 48 hours before the flight departs.

These forms will also be verified when boarding, and may be presented digitally or printed.

Trips to or from other destinations, except the United States

These are individually certified dogs to perform a task during the trip to benefit their owner with a disability or a health condition, whether it be a guide dog or medical alert dog.

You can travel with your service dog on the plane cabin without additional cost in all our routes, except where local regulations restrict it.

The dog must be at least 16 weeks old and have a document or official training certification for the task it will perform with the name of the dog and its owner or trainer.

Following are the accepted certificates or documents:

• Certificate of a school affiliated with Assistance Dog International (ADI).
• Certificate of a school affiliated with the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).
• Registration Card issued by the National Council for the Integration of People with Disabilities - CONADIS of Peru.
• School or entity registered in the Chilean National Registry for Disability.
• Badge issued by the National Agency of Disability - ANDIS of Argentina
• Badge issued by the national or international entity validated or accredited by the Colombian Association of Animal Assisted Theraphy and/or by the Colombian Agricultural Association (ICA) of Colombia.
• Guide Dogs School of Ecuador (EPGE).
• Certificate by another official organization recognized by the local authorities of the country.

You must fill out and sign the Transport Form for Service Dogs and submit it at the airport counter at the time you travel.

For more information, visit our section Assistance Animals .

Considerations for the transport of your service dog

• The dog can travel at your feet or under the cabin seat without obstructing the aisles and will not be permitted in seats located by the emergency exits.
• It must wear a leash or harness, be clean, healthy and know how to behave itself.

Routes with health restrictions

United States:

The CDC (Centers for Diseases Control and Prevention) continues to restrict the entry to the United States of dogs coming from countries with a high risk of rabies infection , and dogs that have been in those countries in the last 6 months before entering the country. This applies to dogs traveling in the cabin, service dogs and dogs traveling in the hold, regardless of breed.

Given these conditions, LATAM also restricts the service of transporting pets, from countries with a high risk of infection, to the United States. However, there are exceptions, as long as they meet all the requirements listed .

Other Destinations:

There are health restrictions on certain destinations such as the United Kingdom, Australia and the Galapagos Islands, including import permits, searches, seizures and more, that you should consider and review before planning your trip.

Additionally, no animal transportation services are available for travel to and from Aruba and the Galápagos Islands.

For more information, visit our Assistance Animals section.

BarkBox’s next big delivery: Charter flights for dogs

Starting in may, bark air will fly dogs and their owners from new york to l.a. or london.

BarkBox, the service that assembles and ships care packages for dogs to millions of subscribers each month, is expanding into a new market: pet-friendly charter flights. This spring, the company will begin transporting dogs (and their owners) on private planes via Bark Air.

Starting on May 23, Bark Air will fly weekly between Westchester County Airport in White Plains, N.Y., and Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles. The following week, it will kick off bimonthly service between Westchester and London Stansted Airport. Reservations at dogsflyfirst.com will go live Thursday, on National Pet Day. The one-way cross-country flight costs $6,000 for one dog and one owner; the transatlantic flight goes for $8,000.

By comparison, for the same date as the launch, nonstop air on a major carrier starts at $220 one way from New York to Los Angeles and from $525 to London. Adding a dog would cost more.

Bark chief executive and co-founder Matt Meeker said the inspiration for Bark Air came from his Great Dane. Hugo visited nearly two dozen states and Canada during his 12-year lifetime, but he never pranced around the West Coast or Europe because of the challenges of flying pets, especially of his size.

Options are limited for pets too large for the cabin. Depending on the season, destination and airline, owners can transport their dogs as checked luggage or cargo, an arrangement that comes with risks. According to Transportation Department data, U.S. carriers reported nine incidents involving animals, including seven deaths, in 2022. (The agency has not published its annual 2023 numbers for these incidents).

To understand the experience of traveling as baggage, Meeker packed himself into a crate and was rolled across the tarmac and loaded onto a plane, where he stayed in his enclosure for 45 minutes to an hour. His experiment confirmed his suspicions: Flying in the belly of a plane can be traumatizing.

“It was very cramped, very dark. Loud noises. Disorienting. No food or water. Nowhere to go to the bathroom,” said Meeker. “It was very, very terrible.”

Moneyed travelers can book a private or charter plane. However, noncommercial air can be prohibitively expensive or unpredictable. K9 Jets , a private charter operator that started offering pet-friendly flights last year, flies to 13 destinations, including Dallas, Paris and West Palm Beach, Fla. It has similar prices to BarkAir — $6,650 from New Jersey to Los Angeles — but will cancel the flight if it is not at least 75 percent full.

“There’s a huge amount of interest and demand, and really frustration,” Meeker said. “People are looking for a reasonable solution to transport their dog if they’re moving or taking a summer vacation or weekend trip.”

Meeker said the company partnered with Talon Air , a New York-based charter company that will fly two Gulfstream G550s under the Bark Air banner. The plane can accommodate 14 passengers, but the company will cap the number at 10.

After the traveler books the flight, a concierge will contact the family to learn about the dog’s temperament and to help with logistics, including the documents required to enter England. The fare includes complimentary car service within a 30-mile radius of the arrival destination.

Meeker recommends passengers arrive 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Guests will wait in a private area inside the terminal, where a chef will prepare a hot meal for the human travelers to avoid any in-flight tray-table surfing. Before boarding, the dogs will have a chance to sniff each other out.

Onboard, pets can fly without a leash as long as they behave. During a test run, Meeker said the dogs were very courteous, with no unruly outbursts.

“They would say hello to the other dogs and say hello to the other people. Everyone was very calm about it,” he said. “For dogs who were a little more nervous, or people who were more nervous for their dogs, we have a place on the plane for them to sit without anyone bothering them.”

Since the pups are the top dogs onboard, the carrier will cater to their tastes. The menu will feature “Doggie Champagne” (actually chicken broth), doughnuts made for dogs and meaty snacks served on a silver tray. The flight crew will include professionals trained in veterinary care and dog behavior. At the end of the trip, the four-legged fliers will earn their wings, which they can proudly pin to their collar or harness.

If Bark Air does well, Meeker hopes to add larger planes to the fleet, which could help lower the fare. He also dreams of building the world’s first in-flight dog park.

“The dogs for those longer journeys will have a park where they can play with other dogs while their humans enjoy a drink at the bar around the edge of the park,” he said.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst with the Atmosphere Research Group, said pet airlines are more apt to fail than succeed. (RIP, Pet Airways.) However, Bark Air has a few advantages. It is not building an airline from scratch. It has brand recognition. And it oversees a mailing list with the names of millions of pet lovers willing to drop a small fortune on their pooches.

“Some people will absolutely do this,” Harteveldt said. “The question is: Will there be a enough people who love their pets enough to pay $6,000 or more to transport them coast-to-coast or from New York to London?”

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

The world's first doggy jet service will cost you $6K for a one-way ticket

Dogs will soon be able to experience their own “ fur st” class flight with the launch of the world’s first jet charter company specifically designed for man’s best friend. 

BARK, the dog toy company that coordinates the popular treat subscription BarkBox, is partnering with a jet charter service to take away the challenges of long-distance traveling with dogs, according to a press release. BARK Air, as the company calls it, offers the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Taking dogs on airplanes is, typically, a stressful endeavor with different airlines having different policies for pet travel. For example, American Airlines allows small dogs in a carrier to be placed under the seat in front, but larger dogs are put in the cargo space, which has been found to be stressful for the pet. For United Airlines , pets can fly in the cabin if there’s enough space, but they must fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, in a statement. 

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However, you’ll need to pay a hefty fee for the dog-friendly flight. For now, a ticket for just one dog and one human will run you at least $6,000 one way. 

The first BARK Air flights will take off on May 23, and so far, there are only two flight routes available, both from New York’s Westchester County Airport. From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, it’ll cost $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport will cost $6,000 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase on April 11.

Not only does BARK Air allow dogs, it also focuses on the furry friends by treating them like VIPs, the press release said. BARK Air passengers can skip TSA checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process where they can meet the other dogs on the flight and the humans are served a meal cooked by on-site chefs. 

When boarding, a BARK Air concierge is on-hand to ensure the dogs are socializing and adjusting to the environment well. 

Each flight will undergo “Dogs Fly First” flight prep that includes “calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer.” To make the flying experience easier and more enjoyable, dogs have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

During takeoff and descent, dogs are given a beverage of their choice to help their ears adjust to cabin pressurization. Of course, there will be plenty of treats on the flight.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Company launches first-ever luxury airline designed specifically for dogs first

NEW YORK CITY (WKRC) - Have you wanted to take your dog on a trip with you but were worried about bringing them on a busy public flight?

Well you might not need to worry much longer. Man's best friend will soon be able to get their own VIP treatment when taking a flight.

BARK, a dog-focused company that provides a wide range of products and services, has officially announced the "world's first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second," according to a press release obtained by PEOPLE.

As it stands, these flights will serve the New York City area through Westchester County Airport (HPN). The flights will have destinations such as Los Angeles and London.

According to BARK, an Argus Platinum-rated charter company will be responsible for all "aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance-related matter." BARK, on the other hand, will be mainly focused on creating the experience the dogs will get while in air.

Those who are interested will first need to book a trip online. They will then be contacted by a BARK Air concierge, who will gather all the important information about the dog, the owner, and their travel plans. Once it's travel day, pets and their human owners will arrive roughly 45 minutes to an hour before takeoff. Dogs will mingle with their other companions aboard the flight while owners dine on meals made by onsite chefs.

A concierge will then help the dogs settled into the plane through socialization and dog-centric cabin preparations. While on the flight, dogs will have access to various aids to help make their journey as comfortable as possible. Some of the aid included in the flight is calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

Dogs will also be given a wide-range of BARK-brand treats, snacks, and "surprises." They will also be served their beverage of choice during the flight's ascent and descent. This helps ensure that the dogs don't experience any ear discomfort caused by a change in cabin pressure.

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs — from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, according to New York Post. “We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world,"

Zahir Ibrahim, Chief Financial Officer at BARK, said that while the company isn't committed to booking flights far in advance, they do have a lot of flexibility to "opportunistically charter flights during times of high demand."

The company also believes that this will help raise traffic to BARK, which in turn will bring more awareness to their full offerings.

To learn more about BARK Air, click here.

There's a new $6,000-a-flight airline for dogs and of course it's called Bark Air

This is a dog dressed like a pilot flying an airplane; it is not representative of the Bark Air experience

A lot of people leave their dogs behind when they get on an airplane to go somewhere. The flying experience can be unnerving for dogs: Crates, injuries or worse , outright bans in some cases . Offering an alternative, the people at popular dog subscription company BarkBox have unveiled a service called Bark Air.

“Too often, dogs are denied travel, confined to a duffle bag, or endure the stress of flying in cargo,” the company said in a release. “Recognizing these challenges, and the increasing demand for an accessible solution, Bark Air presents a more fun – and humane – option for dogs traveling with their two-legged human companions.”

Perks for pooches on Bark Air include:

🐶 A “Dogs Fly First” flight prep with calming pheromones, music, and dog-friendly colors

🐶 Calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets

🐶 A private check-in process that allows dogs to show up 45 minutes before takeoff with no need to go through TSA checkpoints

Unlike heaven , however, Bark Air is not for all dogs — or any human companions under 18. The planes and the pups aboard will only be flying between small private airports in New York, Los Angeles, and London. And the flights cost $12,000 roundtrip, or $6,000 one-way ($8,000 between New York and London).

A Bark Air representative told Quartz the planes will be Gulfstream G5s or similar aircraft operated by the private jet company Talon Air.

On the Bark Air website, there’s a Frequently AskedQuestions section in which the answers are purportedly provided by a tiny white floofy thing named Amelia, who serves as canine flying officer. Naturally, the price tag comes up. The answer sounds like something you’d hear from a daschund named Karl Barx.

“Money is a construct developed by humans as a means of alienating the worker from the fruits of their labor,” the company says.

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