travel with service dog jetblue

Jetblue Service Animal Forms: How to Request Accommodations for Your Emotional Support or Psychiatric Service Animal When Flying With Jetblue

A comprehensive guide to jetblue’s service animal policy.

If you need to travel with an emotional support animal or service dog, understanding JetBlue’s policy is essential. This article covers everything you need to know, from required documentation to in-cabin guidelines. By the end, you’ll be well-informed about flying with your pet on JetBlue.

What Documentation is Required?

JetBlue requires specific documentation for service and emotional support animals to travel in the cabin with their owners. At least 48 hours before your flight, you must submit JetBlue’s online Service/Support Animal Documentation Form . This provides important details about your animal to the airline.

• A letter from your mental health professional dated within one year of your trip. It must state you have a disability recognized by the ADA and need your animal for emotional support during air travel.
• Proof your animal is in good health, current on all vaccinations, and is well-behaved/trained. You can submit vet records or a note.
• Proof of your animal’s certification or licensing if required by local/state laws. Only dogs or miniature horses qualify as service animals.

From my experience assisting clients, having complete documentation ready avoids hassle checking in. Airlines grant exceptions very rarely if last minute. Save yourself stress by preparing paperwork on time.

What are the In-Cabin Guidelines?

Once approved to fly with your pet, follow JetBlue’s cabin policies to make the trip smooth for all.

• Your animal must remain on the floor at your feet or on your lap during flight. It cannot block aisles or take another seat.
• Stay in control of your animal at all times. It should respond to your voice/signals. Excessive barking or disruption is not allowed.
• Clean up after your animal in the cabin, lavatory, and terminals using cleaning supplies you provide. Other passengers appreciate cleanliness.
• For health/safety, pets cannot eat while onboard or access food service areas like galleys.

By keeping your animal well-behaved and courteous of space, no one minds sharing the flight. Most issues arise from owners slacking on control or manners. So mind those guidelines!

What if My Animal Misbehaves?

Although rare, improper animal conduct could cause problems. JetBlue maintains a zero-tolerance policy for unsafe pets. If necessary, cabin crew will politely ask you to put your pet in a carrier for the remainder of the flight. In extreme cases involving injury/disturbance, the airline reserves removing unruly pets and owners from planes early. I’ve rarely seen this enforced, but diligent pet care forestalls issues.

Basically, treat flying as a privilege, not a right. The rules protect all passengers’ comfort and safety. If Fido acts up once, stay calm – crew will work with you. Multiple disruptions could impact future travel approval though. Keep training sessions positive to build your pet’s flying manners from the start.

What About International Flights?

When venturing abroad with pets, it gets kinda complicated. Each country sets its own animal importTerms, health certificates, quarantine stays, and transport methods. Make sure Fido’s paperwork perfectly follows regulations for your destination.

For JetBlue international routes, contact their overseas partners too. Rules vary by airline as well as country. Advanced trip planning prevents hassles at foreign borders. Don’t wing pet passports – that journey could end sadly otherwise.

Importantly, check vaccines required like rabies too. Some areas demand titers proving protection versus dated shots. Confirm pet housing if destinations involve multi-leg trips or long layovers. Peace of mind comes from fully researching cross-border pet policies early on.

What Other Tips Should I Know?

A few more suggestions could enhance your pet’s flying experience:

• Don’t overfeed or provide water close to departure. Upset stomachs in pressurized cabins are awful for all.
• Consider sedative aid from vets if your pet stresses easily. Calm behavior reduces unwelcome noises/movements.
• Bring pet’s favorite blanket or toy for comfort. Familiar scents aid relaxation on flights.
• Exercise your pet before the airport to tire them out. Sleepy animals cause fewer problems airborne.
• Tag pets visibly with your name, address, and contact in case separation occurs despite precautions.
• Check replacement carrier rules if transporting dogs. Some airlines mandate hard-sided versus soft cases.

With a little extra focus, flying becomes no big deal for service animals. Remember – your pet depends totally on you when travelling. Planning thoroughly sets companions up for enjoyable trips both near and far.

I hope this guide answered all the questions you may have had about navigating JetBlue’s service animal policy. From required documents to in-cabin rules to international specifics, thorough preparation is key to stress-free flying. Whether soaring domestically or abroad, caring pet parents can travel easily with their furry loved ones alongside.

Please let me know if any part of the process remains unclear. As an animal behaviorist who frequently flies with clients’ service dogs, I’m happy to offer more tips based on real-life lessons learned. Safe journeys to you and your pet – enjoy your next JetBlue flight together with confidence and comfort!

JetBlue Service Animal Documentation Requirements

What types of service animals does JetBlue accept?

Do i need any paperwork for my service animal, can my pet sit on my lap during the flight, how should i prepare my service animal for air travel, what if my service animal acts up on the plane.

JetBlue reserves the right to deny boarding or remove any service animal that displays aggressive behavior or is clearly not under the owner’s control. On the other hand, one minor mistake doesn’t necessarily mean your pet will be ejected. The crew will evaluate each situation separately. Nevertheless, it’s in everyone’s best interest for service pets to stay well-behaved.

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

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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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The Pet Friendly Vacation Guide

Jetblue Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know Before Flying with Your Dog or Cat

posted on March 12, 2023 by James Brockbank | Last updated on March 13, 2023

JetBlue Airways is incredibly pet-friendly and always strives to fulfil their passengers’ needs to the best of their abilities. With the company’s JetPaws program, passengers can learn about traveling with their four-legged friend with JetBlue Airways. 

However, it is important to note that JetBlue does not ship pets as cargo, and only cats and dogs that meet its requirements are allowed to travel in the cabin. Pets are allowed on both domestic and international flights. 

The requirements will be different based on where you are traveling. Let’s see what is included in the JetBlue pet policy.

JetBlue In-Cabin Pet Travel

Pet carriers, pet strollers , tsa security screening , pets traveling internationally , puppies entering the united states, traveling with service animals, final word .

JetBlue’s pet policy states that only six pets are allowed on each flight, so you should book the ticket as early as possible. You can only take a small cat or dog with you on a JetBlue flight. The animal must be in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. 

The airline allows only one in-cabin pet per customer. You can book your pet online, on the JetBlue mobile application, or by contacting JetBlue. Add your pet in the Extras section during booking. 

Pets Traveling Domestically

According to its pet policy, JetBlue accepts pets on all domestic flights. However, remember that vaccination requirements vary from state to state, even when traveling within the United States. For example, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands require vaccination documentation for pets.

You are responsible for understanding the pet import requirements and acquiring all necessary documentation before traveling with a pet. 

Travel guidelines

At the airport.

• The fee for your pet at JetBlue is $125 each way.
• Know that only one pet is allowed inside your pet carrier; along with your pet, they count as one personal item. 
• If you are traveling on Blue Basic, carry-on bags are not allowed, but you can bring one personal item in addition to the carrier. 
• Pets are not permitted in Mint. 
• JetBlue does not accept pets on interline/codeshare bookings. 
• Adding a pet to your booking can earn 300 extra points per flight segment if you are a TrueBlue member. 
• If you have already paid the pet fee and the pet is confirmed to travel, you can check in 24 hours before departing online on the JetBlue app or at an airport kiosk.
• Once you get to the airport, head to the full-service counter or speak with a JetBlue crewmember in the self-service lobby to get your JetPaws bag tag to attach to your pet’s carrier.
• While in the airport, your pet must remain inside its carrier zipped up or closed. 
• You should ensure that your pet uses the bathroom only at designated areas in the airport.
• The carrier cannot exceed 17″ L x 12.5″ W x 8.5″ H (43.18 L x 31.75 W x 21.59 H in centimeters). 
• The combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 20 pounds. 
• Your pet must be able to move around and stand up inside the carrier comfortably. 
• The carrier must have a leak-proof bottom and be well-ventilated. 
• JetBlue accepts both soft-sided and hard-sided pet carriers. 
• Carriers that allow for possible pet escape will not be accepted. 
• You can purchase a pet carrier at the airport ticket counter for $55. 

JetBlue considers pet strollers assistive devices that can be checked at the ticket counter for no additional charge. You can also gate-check your pet stroller if you want to keep it with you through the terminal. 

• You must show your pet to the TSA security officers at the security checkpoint. 
• Your pet carrier is subject to search by the airport security authorities. 
• The airport security authorities will ask you to hold your pet and pass through screening equipment while they inspect the carrier. JetBlue pet policy specifies that your pet will never be placed through an X-ray machine. 
• If you cannot hold your pet through screening, it will have to undergo secondary screening. The secondary screening includes a visual and physical inspection by airport security officers. 

On board and in-flight 

According to the JetBlue pet policy, passengers traveling with their pets are not permitted to sit in an emergency exit row, bulkhead seat, Mint seat, or any seat restricted for under-seat storage. 

Instead, JetBlue recommends sitting in an aisle or a window seat if you travel with your pet. Additionally, once you board your flight, your pet must stay inside its carriage for the whole flight. 

You must place your pet carrier below the seat in front of you during take-off and landing. You can hold your pet carrier on your lap during the flight. If you decide to purchase an extra seat for your pet, you can place the carrier on the extra seat during the flight.

It is important to mention that JetBlue does not accept pets on flights to Trinidad and Tobago and to and from London. The United States’ entry requirements differ based on the country of origin. If your pet does not meet the requirements, it can result in denied entry. 

For pet travel to other international destinations, documentation requirements vary by country. You, as the customer, are responsible for understanding each country’s animal import requirements and acquiring all the needed documentation before traveling with your pet. 

Barbados, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, and St. Lucia 

If you plan to travel with your pet to Barbados, Grand Cayman, Jamaica, or St. Lucia, JetBlue urges you to start the import process at least 30 days before travel to prepare your cat or dog to travel.

Countries with a high risk of rabies

In accordance with the CDC guidelines on dog importation from specific countries, and by taking into account JetBlue’s network limitations, the airline does not accept dogs or cats on flights to or from:

• Colombia (MDE)
• Ecuador (UIO)

Since December 20, 2021, all passengers traveling with dogs or cats from the following BlueCities must enter the United States through JFK only. JFK is a CDC-classified Point of Entry for vaccinated pets. 

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

However, passengers can travel to the above destinations from any JetBlue city with their pets. 

Suppose you and your dog are entering the United States from any of the cities mentioned above. In that case, you must provide the following documentation for your pet to be cleared for travel to the US.:

• Your dog must have a valid US-issued rabies vaccine certificate or CDC Dog Import permit. 
• Your dog must have proof of microchip. 
• Your dog must be at least six months old.
• Your dog must be healthy upon arrival. 

If you are traveling with your puppy, it must be at least 16 weeks old to enter the United States. Your puppy must receive the rabies vaccine at least one month before travel. You must show the rabies certificate upon arrival. The certificate must be valid for the duration of your stay and include the following:

• Your name and address as the owner of the puppy.
• The puppy’s breed, sex, date of birth, color, and markings. 
• The microchip number. 
• Date of the rabies vaccination, vaccine product information, and the date the vaccination expires. 
• The name, license number, address, and signature of the veterinarian who administered the vaccination to your puppy. 

JetBlue Airways welcomes service animals on all flights. Service animals are defined as a dog that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of a qualified individual with a disability. We will go over all the requirements and the things you need to know to have safe and comfortable travel for you and your service animal.

Service animal JetBlue guidelines 

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

Requirements

• JetBlue only accepts trained service dogs. 
• According to JetBlue, all service animals must be under the handler’s control at all times in the airport and during the flight. The service animal must be harnessed, leashed, or otherwise tethered. 
• The airport will assess the behavior of all service animals before boarding to ensure safety requirements are met. 
• JetBlue recommends that you request service animal travel as soon as you book your reservation. 
• If you make your reservation within 48 hours of departure, you should start your service animal request immediately, as the process must be completed at least 48 hours before your flight. 
• When traveling to London Heathrow or London Gatwick, you must have Animal Reception Center approval. 
• JetBlue does not accept service animals in training for travel.
• When traveling with a large service animal or two service animals, they must fit within the footprint of the seat(s) you have purchased. If the animal(s) do not fit in the space, you can purchase an additional seat or wait for a flight with sufficient empty seats available. 
• All service animals must remain on the floor unless it is small enough to fit fully on your lap without touching any part of the seat, tray table, or other passengers.
• You can ask a JetBlue crewmember for assistance to and from the animal relief area. 

Requesting service animal process 

Requesting service animal travel with JetBlue is a two-step process you must complete at least 48 hours before your flight. However, if your trip includes a flight on a partner airline, you will need to contact them separately as they may have a different process. 

The first step

You must complete a DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form online to receive your service Animal Transport Solutions Service Animal ID. You can proceed to the second step if you have your Animal Transport Solutions Service Animal ID. 

When filling out the request for an Animal Transport Solutions Service Animal ID, you will need to provide the following information:

• The name and contact number of your animal’s veterinarian.
• The date and expiration of the rabies vaccination. 
• The service animal’s trainer’s name or organization and number.

Once the form is approved, the Service Animal ID is valid through the expiration date of your service animal’s rabies vaccine. You will not need to complete this step again until you have to update your service animal’s vaccination record. When it’s time to renew the rabies vaccination, you will get an email reminder from Service Animal Transport Solutions. 

The second step

When you receive an approved Service Animal ID and have booked your flight on JetBlue, you can request travel with your service animal. You must complete the second step every time you make a reservation to fly on JetBlue with your service animal. 

Once your request is approved, it will be valid for all flights on that reservation. JetBlue recommends that you have a hard copy or an electronic version of your US DOT Service Animal Transportation Form and Service Animal Transport Solutions approval when traveling.

Service animals in Mint

Per the JetBlue service animal policy, your service animal can accompany you in any seat except the emergency exit row. This is allowed as long as the animal does not obstruct an aisle or other area that must be unobstructed to facilitate an emergency evacuation.

• In JetBlue’s Mint seating, you forfeit the lie-flat feature to accommodate your service animal on the floor.
• If your service animal is small enough to fit entirely on your lap without touching any part of the seat, you can use the lie-flat feature.

Hopefully, you find this detailed guide on the JetBlue pet policy helpful, and now you understand what to expect if you plan to travel with your pet on a JetBlue flight. However, do remember that with JetBlue, you cannot ship your pet as cargo, and the airline only accepts dogs and cats.

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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.

» Learn more: Emotional support animals may no longer fly for free

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.

» Learn more: The best hotels that allow pets

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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What Training Do Service Dogs Need?

Anything pawsable. news and more for service and working dog handlers.

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2022 Ultimate Service Dog Travel Guide

In the United States, every Service Dog handler enjoys the right to travel with their Service Dog. However, finding straightforward information about airline policies and requirements, international laws, TSA regulations, security checkpoints, and other commonly encountered situations isn’t easy! To help you prepare you for your trip, we’ve compiled Service Dog travel tips, tricks, hacks, guidelines, and resources.

Terminology note: U.S. Federal law includes miniature horses in the list of allowable Assistance Animal species. Miniature horses trained as Assistance Animals usually provide either guide services or brace and mobility support. Since the majority of Assistance Animal handlers partner with a dog, we usually utilize the term “Service Dog” instead of the more universal “Service Animal.” However, any time you see “Service Dog,” you could replace it with “Miniature Guide Horse” or “Brace and Mobility Support Horse” seamlessly. Miniature horse users possess identical public access rights to Service Dog teams.

Airlines Updated Service Dog and ESA Policies Several Years Ago

Throughout the course of 2018, nearly every major domestic airline updated their Service Dog travel policies. Most airlines designed their new protocols to crack down on people using legal loopholes to transport untrained or unsuitable dogs free of charge in the cabin. As such, many of the new rules differ greatly from the “old” airline Service Dog requirements. This is particularly true concerning Emotional Support Animals (ESAs).

Many airlines now require an extensive, multi-step approval process for Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals. Some airlines outline different rules or behavioral expectations for different types of Service Dogs . As an example, American Airlines requires Psychiatric Service Dogs to meet the Emotional Support Animal (ESA) requirements instead of the standard Service Dog requirements.

Learn More About how Service Animals, Therapy Dogs, and Emotional Support Animals Differ

Other types of professional working dogs, like  Search and Rescue Dogs and Police K9s, often fly under an airline’s established Service Dog policy. However, that’s far from universal — airline working dog policies range from nonexistent to clearly defined with everything in between! All handlers should confirm their airline’s Working K9 or Service Dog travel policy several days prior to flying.

Airlines accept Service Dogs in Training (SDiTs) at their own discretion. Service Dnimals in Training are not covered by the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) and therefore have no legal rights to fly under any Service Animal policy. Some airlines provide better SDiT policies than others.

Service Dog Definitions and Requirements Vary Widely

In addition to tightening the rules for flying with a Service Dog, many airlines clarified their definitions for Service Dogs, Assistance Animals, and Emotional Support Dogs / ESAs. Rules, requirements, and definitions vary widely airline to airline. Some airlines expect strict adherence to specific behavior and training standards. Others, like American Airlines, no longer transport certain types of Support Animals on flights over 8 hours.

If you don’t follow your airline’s exact Service Dog protocols, then the airline doesn’t have to transport your Service Dog. Some airlines (United and Delta) rolled out their new Service Dog policies in March 2018 with immediate, strict enforcement. Other airlines (Southwest, Alaska, and Frontier) waited to implement their updated Service Dog rules until later in the year.

Almost every major U.S. air carrier who updated their Service Dog transport policy set an implementation date for some point in 2018. For the 2019 – 2020 travel season all airlines with updated Service Dog and Emotional Support Animal travel policies expect strict compliance with the new rules. Airlines regularly turn away teams who do not meet the new Service Dog travel or ESA requirements.

The A i r Carrier Access Act (ACAA) specifically grants trained Service Dogs the right to fly in cabin, with their handler, at no charge. In contrast to some of the better-known Service Dog laws dealing with public access rights, the ACAA also allows airlines to outline and enforce additional requirements for handlers and dogs seeking access to air transport.

The United States Service Dog Registry (USSDR) has been helping Service Dog handlers for over 10 years. Learn more >

Often, people who suffer from invisible disabilities have trouble advocating for themselves and their canine partners. Service Dog Standards is here to help. Learn more >

Updated Service Dog Travel Policies by Airline

Current Service Dog travel requirements appear below in alphabetical order by airline. You’ll find a summary of the airline’s specific Service Dog rules, plus links to their published protocols and requirements. We strive to keep this information up to date, but always double-check the official airline policy prior to arriving at the airport.

Alaska Airlines Updated Service Dog Policy

Official Policy: Alaska Airlines “Traveling With Service or Emotional Support Animals”

Notes: Alaska Airlines suggests making flight reservations as early as possible in order to ensure accommodation of Service Dogs or ESAs. Passengers can request services while booking online, or call Alaska Airline’s dedicated accessible services line at 1-800-503-0101 (711 for relay services).

Alaska Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

Trained Service Animals fly in cabin, for free, on all Alaska Airlines flights. Alaska Airlines does not require any documentation for fully trained Service Dogs of any kind, including Psychiatric Service Dogs. Agents will make inquiries concerning the Service Dog’s training and task work.

Service Dogs must behave appropriately at all times. They should be under the direct control of their handler at all times. They may travel only in the handler’s space, which includes the space under the seat in front. A Service Dog must not infringe on another passenger’s space or obstruct the aisle. Service Dogs cannot sit in a seat or eat off the tray table.

If a Service Animal is disruptive, acting in a dangerous manner, vocalizing inappropriately, isn’t housetrained, or is otherwise out of control, Alaska Airlines’ pet policy will immediately apply to further transport. All applicable fees and requirements will be assessed.

Alaska Airlines directly mentions multiple types of Service Dogs in their new policy, including Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, Diabetic Alert Dogs, Psychiatric Service Dogs, Mobility Support Dogs, and others. They allow dogs, cats, and miniature horses on board under the updated requirements.

Alaska Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Alaska Airlines only transports Service Dogs in Training (SDiTs) in cabin, free of charge, under very specific circumstances. The SDiT must be ready to graduate, traveling with a credentialed trainer, and on its way to placement. The trainer must be certified and carry an official trainer ID card issued by the organization overseeing the placement.

Additionally, the trainer must provide a health certificate for the SDiT and official, organization-provided documentation that the puppy / dog has successfully completed training. The trainer must know the name and location of the SDiT’s placement and be able to provide them upon request. The trainer must confirm space for the SDiT in advance of the travel dates. Finally, travel must be contained to the United States.

Alaska Airlines occasionally transports SDiTs in a kennel, as cargo, without charge. However, all of the above requirements still apply, and there may be some additional paperwork. Contact Alaska Airlines directly to discuss this Service Dog in Training travel option.

Alaska Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

Emotional Support Animals fly in cabin, at no cost, on all Alaska Airlines flights. Handlers may only fly with one Emotional Support Animal. Before flying, ESA handlers must submit documentation for approval. The approval process can take 48 or more hours. All documents must be submitted a minium of 48 hours prior to the flight. Download the required ESA forms from the Alaska Airlines resource section. Handlers must include documentation from their doctor, so try and leave plenty of time!

ESAs must be leashed or in a carrier at all times. If traveling in a carrier, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of the handler. Emotional Support Animals may not be aggressive, disruptive, overly vocal, or otherwise out of control. If an ESA is observed engaging in inappropriate behaviors, Alaska Airline’s pet policy will be in effect for the remainder of the trip, including assessment of any and all fees.  Alaska Airlines allows dogs and cats as Emotional Support Animals.

Alaska Airlines Working Dog Policy

“Alaska accepts for transportation, without charge, a properly harnessed dog trained in law enforcement, explosive detection, drug search, and search and rescue, or other specific functions, when accompanied by its handler on official business as authorized by an appropriate federal, state, or local government agency. Such official duty status must be documented in writing to the satisfaction of Alaska. The dog will be permitted to accompany its handler into the cabin, but not to occupy a seat. A Passenger traveling with such a dog must present a letter of mission and a copy of the dog’s certification. Alaska retains the right, at its sole discretion, to refuse to transport any Animal that exhibits aggressive behavior or any characteristics that appear to Alaska to be incompatible with air travel at the airport, in the boarding gate area, or onboard the aircraft.” ( Alaska Airlines Contract of Carriage Rule 14 Point 3 )

Allegiant Air Service Dog Travel Policies

Official Policy: Allegiant Air “ Passengers With Special Needs “

Notes: Allegiant Air will not transport pit bull type dogs, regardless of status. Service Dogs are not exempt from the Allegiant airline breed requirements. Per their published Service Dog policy, Allegiant Air also denies boarding to all dogs who do not fit within their handler’s personal seat space.

Allegiant Air Service Dog Travel Policy

Allegiant Air accepts fully trained Service Dogs accompanied by their disabled handler on board all flights without charge. Prior to flying, handlers should complete Allegiant Air’s “ Trained Service Animal Veterinary Health Form .” Submit completed forms to a ticket or counter agent at least 45 minutes prior to departure.

Handlers may fly with up to 3 Service Animals. Allegiant Air accepts dogs, cats, and miniature horses under their Service Dog travel policy. Pit bull type dogs are universally excluded from transport.

All Service Dogs should be well behaved, with obvious training and public access skills . In order to qualify as a Service Dog, the dog must provide tasks or work that directly mitigate the handler’s disability. All Assistance Animals must be healthy, odor-free, and free of aggression or excessive timidity. Disruptive behavior or excessive vocalization results in immediate exclusion from the flight.

Allegiant Air Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Allegiant Air proudly transports Service Dogs in Training under their established Service Dog travel policy. See above. Allegiant Air requires handlers / trainers to provide documentation attesting to “in training” status. Additionally, Allegiant Air needs a minimum of 72 hours notice in order to verify and approve the transport request. Contact  [email protected] to begin the approval process.

Allegiant Air Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

Allegiant Air allows Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Dogs to fly with their handler, in cabin, at no charge. However, prior to travel, teams must complete forms documenting the handler’s mental health status, the dog’s health status, and the dog’s behavior and training. You can download the forms for ESAs / PSDs from Allegiant’s website .

A licensed doctor or mental health provider must complete the Mental Health Professional form. Allegiant Air verifies all documentation prior to approving the travel request. Forms must be presented to a ticket or counter agent at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Handlers may fly with a single Emotional Support Animal.

ESAs must be of sound temperament, healthy, and odor free. They may not vocalize excessively, interfere with other passengers in any way, or appear unruly. Allegiant Air reserves the right to deny transport to any ESA who acts in an aggressive or out of control manner.

Allegiant Air Working Dog Policy

Allegiant Air transports Search and Rescue Dogs and Law Enforcement K9s under their established Service Dog policy. See above. At least 72 hours prior to the flight, contact [email protected]  to begin the approval process. An exception to the 72 hour rule exists for Search Dogs and handlers deploying to disaster scenes. Allegiant Air mandates supporting documentation for all professional Working Dogs.

American Airlines Updated Service Dog Policy

Official Policy: American Airline’s “ Service and Emotional Support Animals “

Notes: American Airlines excludes livestock, exotics, insects, non-household birds, reptiles, or smelly animals of any species from its Service Animal / ESA policy. The sole exception to the livestock rule is Miniature Horses trained as Assistance Animals.

American Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

On all American Airlines’ flights, fully trained Service Dogs fly in cabin at no charge. In order to be eligible for free, in-cabin flights, Service Dogs must meet a number of requirements. First and foremost, the dog in question must be trained to do tasks or provide work for a person with a disability. Per American Airlines guideline’s anxiety relief and emotional support do not qualify as trained tasks.

Second, the Service Dog’s training, good temperament, and manners should be clearly evident. The handler should be able to concretely outline the Service Dog’s tasks or specific training. American Airlines lists Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, Seizure Dogs, and Mobility Dogs as examples of Service Dogs. However, the policy allows for other types of Service Dogs. Passengers can expect American Airlines staff to ask a number of questions regarding their Service Dog, the Service Dog’s training, and the Service Dog’s purpose.

Unacceptable behaviors include jumping on other passengers, lunging at people, other dogs, or objects, any vocalizations unrelated to trained tasks, excessive timidity, any aggression, and eating off tray tables. American Airlines specifically defines aggression to include growling and biting or attempts to bite. Any urination, marking, or defecation in the airport, gate area, or on the plane is expressly forbidden, except in designated relief areas. Service Dogs must not appear to be out of control.

If American Airlines observes a Service Dog displaying unacceptable behaviors or being disruptive at any point in a passenger’s journey and the behavior isn’t immediately corrected, the dog loses Service Dog status. Such a dog is considered a pet and all applicable pet transport rules and fees apply for the remainder of the journey.

Third, Service Dogs on American Airlines’ flights must fit within the handler’s personal seat space. This includes the floor directly in front of the passenger and the space under the seat in front of the passenger. Smaller Service Dogs may travel in their handler’s lap, provided the Service Dog weighs less than 25 pounds or so. A Service Dog cannot occupy a seat, even if the seat is empty.

If a Service Dog does not fit in the required space, American Airlines cannot safely accommodate the team. American Airlines provides 3 alternatives if a team can’t fly on a particular flight due to size constraints:

• The handler and Service Dog rebook on an alternate flight with additional open seating so the dog has enough room without infringing on another passenger’s space.
• The handler buys the Service Dog a ticket so the adjoining seat remains open and subsequently, the dog has enough space. This is a good tactic if a handler wants to ensure a large or giant breed Service Dog can be accommodated on a particular flight.
• The Service Dog flies kenneled in cargo under American Airline’s live animal shipping program. All applicable requirements and fees apply . To arrange cargo transport of a Service Dog, contact American Airline’s Special Assistance Desk .

Finally, for some flights, the Service Dog handler may have to provide additional documentation, espcially if the flight is international. If any AA flight lasts longer than 8 hours, handlers must complete and submit the Animal Sanitation Form. This form outlines the handler’s plan for handling the Service Animal’s relief needs during the flight. If the Service Dog needs to relieve itself during the flight, it must do so in a sanitary way, such as on a potty pad that can be wrapped and disposed of. American Airlines recommends keeping the Service Dog’s vaccinations records accessible throughout the journey.

American Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

American Airlines specifically cites “fully trained” Service Dogs in its policy. AA makes no direct mention of Service Dogs in Training (SDiTs).

American Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

American Airlines transports Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in cabin at no charge, providing the handler obtains approval from the airline. The ESA approval process itself can take 2 or more days. The handler must download and complete several forms and provide any additional requested documentation to AA a minimum of 48 hours prior to the flight. To begin the approval process, handlers should submit a Disability Assistance inquiry.

Before submitting the packet, ESA handlers must have their doctor fill out the Mental Health Professional Form so it can be included.  American Airlines requires Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD) teams to comply with all of the listed ESA requirements. American Airlines validates all forms provided by the ESA handler. The airline will contact the handler’s mental health provider for document verification.

Unlike Service Dogs, Emotional Support Animals do not need specific task training. However, all ESAs flying with American Airlines must meet the same temperament requirements as Service Dogs. Additionally, they should have enough training to allow them to work safely in public. Any ESA showcasing disruptive, out of control, or dangerous behavior will not be permitted to board. If an ESA is removed from the flight or refused access for any reason, all applicable pet requirements and fees apply.

American Airlines Working Dog Policy

American Airlines’ official policy regarding Search and Rescue Dogs, Disaster Response Dogs, and other professional Working Dogs, including Detection K9s and Police K9s, is to transport them in cabin at no charge under the current Service Dog policy. American Airlines requires professional Working Dogs to fly with their handler or trainer. In order to qualify for in cabin transport, the team must be on their way to a mandated training event, official mission, or a deployment.

Official documentation showing team status / affiliation, K9 certification, and travel necessity will be required. Handlers should provide this on unit or organization letterhead. Vet records, health certificates, or other paperwork might be required, destination depending. If flying internationally, responsibility for ensuring the K9 meets any and all of the destination country’s import requirements rests with the handler, unit, or team, not with American Airlines.

If your K9 cannot fly in cabin for any reason, American Airlines will ship them as cargo in an appropriately sized kennel. American Airlines does not offer discounts for Working Dogs traveling as cargo. They do offer a 50% military discount. Working Dogs flying in a kennel must meet all of American Airlines’ standard animal shipping  requirements   and pay the appropriate fee. American Airlines requires extensive documentation for dogs flying as cargo, so plan ahead. Fees vary depending on origin, destination, and combined weight of K9 and kennel. You can get an estimate for shipping your Working Dog by using American Airline’s Rate Calculator tool .

Delta Airlines Service Dog Travel Rule

Official Public Policy: Delta Airlines “ Flying With Service and Support Animals “

Official Professional Policy: Delta’s Internal “ Service and Support Animal ” policy issued to Delta professionals

Notes: Pit bull and bully type dogs, regardless of status or training, are forbidden from flying with Delta. Emotional Support Animals may only fly on Delta flights shorter than 8 hours. No animal under the age of 4 months may fly under Delta’s Service Dog rules or ESA policies.

Delta Service Dog Travel Policy

Delta allows handlers with a disability to travel with one or more Service Animals in cabin, free of charge. Delta assesses the need for multiple Service Animals on a case-by-case basis. Delta encourages, but does not require, Service Dog handlers to provide advance notice prior to travel.

Delta encourages all Service Dog handlers complete and submit the Trained Service Animal Request Veterinary Health Form at least 48 hours prior to flying. However, Delta’s official Service Dog policy clearly states handlers with a fully trained Service Dog are not required to submit the form before air travel. Instead, they may bring a copy with them to check-in. Service Dog teams can check-in for their Delta flight via Delta.com, the Fly Delta mobile app, airport kiosks or with an airport agent

Delta policy also permits Service Dog handlers to present vaccination records as proof of immunizations instead of the Delta form. If a handler wishes to upload the completed form, they can add it to their reservation via the  Accessibility Service Request Form  located in Delta’s  My Trips.  If there are any questions concerning travel with a Service Animal or the Trained Service Animal form, contact Delta’s accessibility assistance line at 404-209-3434.

Delta’s Service Animal policy makes specific provision for the free shipment of accompanying gear and equipment. Examples listed include kennels, food, blankets, or toys. If checking the Service Dog’s associated items as baggage, declare them as medical equipment to the counter agent during check-in. Checked gear and equipment must meet standard Delta checked baggage requirements regarding size, weight, and packaging.

All Service Dogs flying with Delta must be well mannered, well trained, and under the direct control of the handler at all times. Delta will not tolerate unsanitary, disturbing, rambunctious, or dangerous behaviors from any Service Animal. Service Animals displaying unacceptable behaviors will be refused transport. If refused transport, alternate arrangements must be made. Dogs unable to travel in-cabin can fly in a kennel as cargo, as long as the team meets the requirements and pays the applicable fees.

Delta’s Service Dog guides mention Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, Diabetic Alert Dogs, Seizure Assistance Dogs, and Mobility Support Dogs. It does, however, note that other types of Service Dogs exist. Delta considers all dogs who perform trained tasks to mitigate a handler’s disability to Service Dog. The only exception is Psychiatric Service Dogs, regardless of disability-specific task training.

PSDs fall under Delta’s Emotional Support Animal policy; see below. Under the updated Service Dog travel requirements, Delta allows both dogs and cats.  Requests for travel with Assistance Animals of other species should be submitted to the accessibility assistance line at 404-209-3434 or online to Delta Reservations .

Delta Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Delta’s new Service Dog and Support Animal policy does not mention Service Dogs in Training. However, official Delta policy clearly exclude puppies under the age of 4 months. Rule 9 of the  Delta Domestic General Rules Tariff states that Guide Dogs and Hearing Dogs who are traveling with their trainer to complete their training at the home of their new owner may fly in-cabin at no charge.

Delta Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

Along with other requirements, Delta requires customers traveling with an Emotional Support Animal or Psychiatric Service Dog to submit a signed Veterinary Health Form and/or an immunization record (current within one year of the travel date), an Emotional Support/Psychiatric Service Animal Request form that requires a letter prepared and signed by a doctor or licensed mental health professional, and a signed Confirmation of Animal Training form.

Prior to beginning the paperwork, submit an accessibility request via Delta’s online Service Request Form . Visit Delta’s site to download the required ESA flight packet . Once complete, upload it through the Accessibility Service Request Form located in Delta’s  My Trips. Utilizing the My Trips functionality requires a Delta login. For assistance with Delta’s required ESA forms, call the dedicated accessibility assistance line at 404-209-3434.

Handlers must submit all required documentation to Delta’s Service Animal Support Desk via Delta.com at least 48 hours before travel. ESA and PSD handlers may only check in for their Delta flight via Delta’s full-service counter service with an agent. Handlers must bring hard copies of all documentation to the check-in for all flights. Delta’s completed ESA and PSD packets remain valid for all travel within the following 365 days.

Emotional Support Animals do not need disability-specific training. However, they should exhibit the control, manners, and temperament necessary to safely work in public. ESAs must ride on the floor. If smaller than 30 pounds, they may ride on the handler’s lap. They may not eat off tray tables or intrude into other passenger’s space. Delta tolerates absolutely no aggression, excessive vocalization, or lack of house training.

Delta will refuse transport to any ESA / PSD showcasing out of control or dangerous behavior. Delta universally excludes Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Dogs from flights over 8 hours. No ESAs or PSDs under the age of 4 months may fly under Delta’s ESA travel policy. Young ESAs or PSDs may be eligible for in-cabin flight as pets in a kennel. All applicable pet requirements and fees apply.

Delta Working Dog Policy

Delta transports Explosive Detection Dogs and Search and Rescue K9s in-cabin at no charge. The K9 must be accompanied by a U.S. military or government handler. Delta’s Working Dog policy comes directly out of the Delta Domestic General Rules Tariff , last updated June 2018. Rule 9 refers to “Specially Trained Service Dogs” and mandates transport of several types of Assistance Dogs, plus working K9s and certain Service Dogs in Training.

Additional Delta Info

If a Service Dog team needs assistance at the airport, handlers can ask any Delta customer service agent. The agent can connect teams to specially trained Complaint Resolution Officials (CROs). All CROs receive extensive training on disability regulations and Delta disability policies.

Delta will universally enforce the updated Service Dog and Emotional Support Animal policy after February 1, 2019, regardless of ticket issue date. On July 10, 2018, Delta enacted breed restrictions for all Service Dogs and ESAs. Pit bull and other bully type dogs are not permitted aboard Delta flights, regardless of training or status. The airline also updated their policy to allow only one ESA per customer.

Effective December 18, 2018, Service Animals and ESAs under the age of 4 months may not travel under Delta’s updated Service Dog policy. Emotional Support Animals may not travel on flights longer than 8 hours.

Delta’s policy excludes all species other than cats or dogs. The policy notes the airline considers other animals on a case by base basis. The official, listed restrictions include rodents, reptiles, hedgehogs, livestock, birds, amphibians, snakes, spiders, sugar gliders, ferrets, insects, horned or hooved animals, and any animal, regardless of species, that is smelly or fouled.

Frontier Airlines Service Dog Guidelines

Official Policy: Frontier Airlines “ Traveling With a Trained Service Animal ” (Policies are located within toggle options, 5th and 6th from the top, under “ Trained Service Animals ” and “ Emotional Support Animals .”)

Notes: Frontier Airline specifically reserves the right to refuse to accommodate any Service Animal or Emotional Support Animal in the cabin if the handler cannot provide the requested documentation or if the animal appears aggressive or disruptive. Frontier’s Contract of Carriage disallows crew from administering oxygen to Service Animals on board during an emergency.

Frontier Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

Frontier Airlines accepts all Service Dogs trained to assist passengers with disabilities in the aircraft cabin free of charge. The new Frontier Service Animal policy includes cats, dogs, and miniature horses. Additionally, Frontier Airlines considers task trained Psychiatric Service Dogs to be fully qualified Service Dogs. There are no requirements for PSDs beyond those mandated for all Service Animals.

All Service Dogs must be trained for public access. Good manners, controlled behavior, and a lack of timidity and/or aggression must be apparent at all times. Service Animals of all kinds must be impeccably house trained. Any Service Dog exhibiting unsafe, unsanitary, or disruptive behaviors will be refused transport.

In addition to meeting basic behavior and training expectations, Service Dogs must also abide by space restrictions. All Service Dogs must occupy only the floor space directly in front of their handler. The handler’s space encompasses the floor under the seat in front of them.

At no point during the journey may a Service Dog infringe on another passenger’s space or encroach into the aisle. They also may not sit in any seat designed for humans, even if the seat is empty. Service Animals unable to remain in their handler’s space may require re-accommodation on a different flight or via alternate transportation options.

Frontier requests Service Dog handlers provide advanced notice of intent to travel with a trained Service Dog. However, the airline does not require it. Passengers should be aware that without advanced notice, larger Service Animals may not be able to be accommodated. To communicate with Frontier concerning Service Animal requests, use their Accessibility Request Form .

Passengers can add their Service Dog to the reservation during booking by selecting the “Trained Service Animal” option under the “Special Requests” section. For existing travel, Service Dog handlers can update their reservation  online . If an animal does not meet the qualifications to travel in-cabin as a trained Service Animal, the animal may be eligible to travel in accordance with Frontier’s  Pet Policy  for a fee.

Frontier Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Frontier Airline does not mention Service Dogs in Training (SDiTs) within their updated Service Dog rules.

Frontier Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

Frontier Airlines transports qualified Emotional Support Animals in cabin free of charge. They accept one ESA per reservation with both Emotional Support Dogs and Emotional Support Cats allowable under the ESA guidelines. Frontier requires authorization for all ESAs prior to travel without exception.

Prior to seeking approval for air travel with their ESA, handlers should complete Frontier’s Animal Behavior Acknowledgement and secure a completed Medical/Mental Health Professional Form from their doctor or care provider ( click to download both ). The handler then uploads the completed ESA packet for approval via Frontier’s online Emotional Support Animal Documentation tool . All documentation must be submitted for validation no later than 48 hours prior to the flight. Frontier’s ESA packet remains valid for one year after the date of issuance.

ESAs traveling with Frontier Airlines must be aggression free and able to work in public without disturbing others. The animal must be housetrained, responsive to the handler, and keep to itself. Emotional Support Animals may not sit in a seat or eat from the tray table. They must occupy the space at the handler’s feet. They may not invade other people’s space.

For safety reasons, no part of their body may protrude into the aisle. Any dog or cat traveling under Frontier’s Support Animal policy exhibiting unsafe, unhygienic, or uncontrolled behavior will not be allowed to travel. Frontier requires excluded animals to complete their travel as pets, with all regulations and fees in full effect.

Frontier Airlines Working Dog Policy

Frontier transports Explosive Detection Dogs, Contraband Search Dogs, or Search and Rescue Dogs on active duty and traveling for that purpose at no charge. The passenger must present credible documentation the animal is traveling for that purpose. ( Frontier Contract of Carriage Rule 6, Point 3 )

JetBlue Service Animal Rules

Official Policy: JetBlue “ Service and Emotional Support Animal Travel “

Notes: JetBlue’s updated Service Dog policy forbids traveling with both a Service Animal and a firearm. If someone checks in for a JetBlue flight with both, the airline requires the individual to check their weapon as baggage.

JetBlue Service Dog Travel Policy

JetBlue allows fully trained, handler accompanied Service Dogs aboard all flights at no charge. They recommend but do not require, advanced notice for Service Dog teams. Trained Service Dogs do not need any documentation to fly with JetBlue.

Handlers can ensure a smoother airport and travel experience by including their Service Dog in their JetBlue reservation. JetBlue’s online booking process offers both Service Animal and ESA options under their Accessibility Options. Alternatively, handlers can call 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583) to notify JetBlue of their travel plans.

JetBlue Service Animal policies cite domestic dogs, cats, and miniature horses as the only allowable species aboard JetBlue flights. The guidelines offer Guide Dogs, Hearing Dogs, Brace Dogs as examples of Service Dogs. Internal JetBlue publications remind associates they’ll encounter additional types of Service Dogs regularly. JetBlue mandates that handlers may only travel with Service Animals trained to meet their specific needs.

The new JetBlue Service Dog policies allow handlers to travel with multiple Service Dogs. However, the airline clarifies that while they’ll make every reasonable effort to accommodate the space needed for multiple Service Dogs, the space allowances don’t change. Per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) safety regulations, all Service Dogs must fit within the handler’s personal foot space.

If a team requires more space, they may purchase additional seats to ensure space on a specific flight. If the team’s scheduling provides flexibility, the handler can wait for a later JetBlue flight with enough open seats to accommodate the Service Dog(s).

Service Dogs ride on the floor in JetBlue aircraft. If a dog is 20-30 pounds or lighter, they may be allowed to ride in their handler’s lap if necessary. Service Dogs may never occupy a seat, even if it’s empty. They may not eat off tray tables or interfere with in-cabin service.

All Service Dogs must be unobtrusive, calm, and well mannered. They may not growl, bite, try to bite, or vocalize excessively. They should remain attentive to their handler’s needs and requests. Any Service Animal displaying threatening, erratic, or concerning behaviors will be prohibited from entering the aircraft.

JetBlue Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Service Dogs in Training are not allowed aboard JetBlue flights. JetBlue specifically excludes all Service Dogs in Training from inclusion in the updated Service Dog travel rules. SDiTs may travel as pets, providing the handler meets all requirements and pays the full fee .

JetBlue Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

JetBlue transports Emotional Support Animals aboard all aircraft at no charge. JetBlue requires airline approval for all ESAs as well as 48 hours minimum notice of intent to fly. Only one ESA is allowed per handler. ESAs may be any breed of domesticated dog or cat. Miniature horses also qualify for ESA status.

To start the approval process for flying with an ESA, passengers should notify JetBlue they’ll be accompanied by an Emotional Support Animal. This can be done while booking a ticket online or by calling 1-800-JETBLUE (538-2583). JetBlue must be notified a minimum of 48 hours prior to the flight. In addition to adding the ESA to the reservation, the handler must complete and upload JetBlue’s required ESA documentation. Both of these things must be completed 48 hours prior to takeoff, so get started early with the packet.

JetBlue’s ESA approval process requires documentation from the handler, the handler’s doctor, and the animal’s veterinarian. Download the JetBlue Emotional Support Animal forms , complete them per instruction, and then upload them via JetBlue’s Emotional Support Animal Documentation tool . Handlers must upload this packet for every JetBlue flight as JetBlue does not keep the documents on file. Documents remain valid for a year following their initial use. Here’s a step by step guide covering JetBlue’s entire Emotional Support Animal approval process .

JetBlue’s Emotional Support Animal definition stipulates ESAs don’t need specific task training. In contrast, Service Dogs, including Psychiatric Service Dogs, must be specifically trained to assist their disabled handler. Nonetheless, all ESAs flying with JetBlue must be aggression free and overall well behaved. They cannot be disruptive or disturb other passengers.

ESAs who do not meet or abide by JetBlue’s training and behavior standards can be refused access to the aircraft or removed from a flight. Barred Emotional Support Animals must continue the journey as pets, with all applicable requirements and fees .

JetBlue Working Dog Policy

JetBlue’s working dog rules prohibit the in-cabin transport of dogs providing any service other than assisting a person with a disability. This policy includes Police Dogs, Bomb Dogs, Detection K9s, and Search and Rescue Dogs.

Southwest Airlines Service Dog Rules

Official Policy: Southwest Airlines “ Traveling With Animals ” Additional Info: “ Trained Service Animals ” | “ Emotional Support Animals “

Notes:  Southwest specifically excludes all Therapy Dogs from transport under their Service Dog policies.

Southwest Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

Southwest Airlines welcomes trained Service Animals to travel in-cabin, free of charge, on all Southwest flights, including those with international destinations. The new Southwest Service Dog rules officially include Psychiatric Service Dogs in the “Service Dog” designation. While flying Southwest, PSDs travel under the same requirements as all other Service Dogs.

All handlers must provide credible verbal assurance regarding the Service Animal’s function. The Service Animal’s conduct and behavior should reflect a high level of training and appropriate socialization. Southwest Airlines does not accept harnesses, vests, jackets, certificates, or ID cards as sole proof of Service status.

Southwest encourages Service Dog handlers to include their partner in their reservation as early as possible. When booking a new flight, handlers can use the “Add/Edit Disability Options” to add a trained Service Animal to the reservation. For existing reservations, handlers can simply update their Disability & Accessibility options via Southwest’s online portal . Southwest Airlines also invites anyone with disability-related questions or concerns to call 1-800-I-FLY-SWA (1-800-435-9792) for prompt service.

All passengers traveling with a Service Animal must check in at the ticket counter or with a gate agent to complete a verbal screening. In order to ensure the animal is eligible to fly under the updated Service Dog policy, a Southwest employee will inquire as to the nature of the service provided and the type of training the animal has.

Fully trained dogs, cats, and miniature horses fall under Southwest Airlines’ Service Dog policy. In order to qualify for free transport, the animal must not only be trained, but also be partnered with someone with a diagnosed disability. Southwest Airlines does not accept exotic or unusual animals on board its aircraft.

Animals exhibiting disruptive behavior or deportment unsuitable for a highly trained professional may not be allowed to fly. All Service Animals must be housetrained and under the control of their handler at all times. Service Animals who act in an aggressive or threatening manner will be denied boarding.

While on board the aircraft, Service Animals must quietly occupy only their handler’s space. They must not infringe on other passengers’ space, nor may they intrude into the aisle. All animals must travel on the floor. Only humans may sit in seats, and only humans may eat off tray tables.

Every airport Southwest Airlines services provides indoor Service Animal Relief Areas. Handlers may ask any Southwest employee for directions to the closest facility.

Southwest Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Southwest Airlines doesn’t have a published Service Dog in Training Policy online. However, handlers with an SDiT can call Southwest for accommodation. The airline generally allows SDiTs in cabin, but usually requires the handler to purchase a ticket for the dog in training for half of the current price point of a seat.

Southwest Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

Southwest Airlines always invites Emotional Support Animals with proper documentation and approval aboard all domestic and international flights at no cost. Only dogs and cats qualify as ESAs under the Southwest ESA guidelines. A handler may travel with only one ESA.

Emotional Support Animal handlers must provide recent documentation on official letterhead from a licensed mental health professional or medical doctor who is treating the handler’s mental health-related disability. To be accepted by Southwest Airlines, the letter must include all four of the following points:

• The Passenger has a mental or emotional disability recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
• The Passenger needs the Emotional Support Animal as a specific accommodation for air travel and/or for activity at the passenger’s destination
• The individual providing the assessment is a licensed mental health professional and the passenger is under his or her professional care
• The date and type of the mental health professional’s or medical doctor’s license and the state or other jurisdiction in which it was issued

While in the airport and aboard Southwest aircraft, all ESAs must be in a carrier or on a leash. They must be well mannered, of sound temperament, and have enough training to safely work in public. Any Emotional Support Animal that engages in disruptive or potentially harmful behavior may be denied boarding.

Southwest Airlines Working Dog Policy

Southwest Airlines accepts fully-trained Law Enforcement K9s trained in explosives or drug detection (or other specific functions) as well as Search and Rescue Dogs for in-cabin transportation, without charge, when accompanied by handlers on official business. Each passenger traveling with a Law Enforcement K9 or Search and Rescue Dog must present an official letter of mission and a copy of the animal’s certification. Search Dogs and Working K9s must sit at their handler’s feet without obstructing the aisle. In addition, Working Dog handlers with a K9 cannot sit in an emergency exit row.

Spirit Airlines Service Animal Policies

Official Policy: Spirit Airlines “ Can I bring my Service, Emotional Support, or Psychiatric Service Animal on my Flight? “

Notes: None

Spirit Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

Spirit Airlines allows fully trained Service Animals of a wide variety of species on board all domestic and international flights. There is no limit to the number of Service Animals allowed per guest. Spirit asks handlers to verify training and status during check-in.

In order to fly under Spirit’s Service Dog policy, a Service Animal must fulfill all of the following criteria:

• Possess specific training that allows them to perform mitigating tasks or work for a person with a disability
• Possess training that allows them to safely work in public around a variety of people and distractions
• Be partnered with a person with a disabiliy whom they work for regularly
• Be well-behaved, under control, and non-aggressive

If a dog does not fulfill all 4 of the above points, they do not qualify to travel as a Service Dog. Spirit Airlines will not allow an animal to travel that shows signs it will cause a disruption in the cabin, it has not been trained to function as a service animal in a public setting, or it has potentially dangerous temperament issues.

When traveling in a Spirit Airlines aircraft, Service Dog teams must abide by all safety regulations. Dogs ride on the floor, at their handler’s feet. They can’t occupy space belonging to another passenger. Service Dogs cannot sit in exit rows. They may not occupy a seat. They can’t lounge in the aisle. They cannot interfere with food service or steal food from tray tables or people.

If the team requires more space than is available at a single seat, Spirit offers several options. One of the more comfortable options is an upgrade to one of the Big Front Seats. Teams could also purchase an additional seat to allow the dog(s) room to stretch out. If the team has budget constraints, they can accept re-accommodation on a later Spirit Airlines flight with more available space.

Spirit Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

Spirit airlines emotional support animal (esa) policy.

Spirit Airlines transports both Emotional Support Animals and Psychiatric Service Dogs at no cost on all domestic and international flights.

Eligibility to fly requires completion and submission of the Spirit Airlines Emotional Support Animal documentation at least 48 hours prior to departure, plus good behavior on the part of the ESA. Start the process by downloading the Spirit Airlines forms in English or Spanish . Follow the directions in each document. Once completed, upload the documents via Spirit Airline’s Emotional Support Animal and Psychiatric Service Dog tool .

Carry copies of the forms because Spirit doesn’t keep them on file. Handlers will need to upload them for every future Spirit flight they take with their Emotional Support Animal. Spirit reminds handlers that all documents must be submitted online at least 48 hours prior to departure. If the documents are late, Spirit cannot ensure they’ll be verified in time. Airport personnel cannot approve Spirit Airlines ESA documentation under any circumstances, as Spirit’s specially trained team of Disability Coordinators handles this task.

This hip airline seems very open about ESA species and expresses willingness to accept a wide variety of animals. Spirit’s Emotional Support Animal policy excludes rodents, reptiles, spiders, ferrets, and sugar gliders. Animals cannot pose a threat or hazard to fellow passengers and must only occupy their handler’s space. To discuss requests for ESAs other than dogs, cats, or mini horses, contact Spirit via  spirit.com/help .

No Emotional Support Animal, regardless of species, may exhibit aggressive behavior. All ESAs must be under control and non-disruptive. Spirit reserves the right to determine if an ESA has not been trained to function in a public setting and to deny the animal access to the aircraft.

Spirit Airlines Working Dog Policy

United airlines service dog rules.

Official Policy: United Airlines “ Service Animals “

Notes: United Airlines offers no-charge kennel transport of Service Dogs who don’t meet size requirements for in-cabin flight. Emotional Support Animals must weigh less than 65 pounds. United requires Psychiatric Service Dogs to meet all Emotional Support Animal requirements in order to be eligible for transport.

United specifically excludes all Therapy Animals, including Crisis Response Dogs, from traveling under their Service Animal Policy. All Therapy Dogs must travel via the PetSafe program with standard fees.

United Airlines Service Dog Travel Policy

United Airlines accepts trained Service Animals aboard all flights at no cost as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability. The United Service Animal policy covers dogs, miniature horses, monkeys, cats, and birds, with case by case discretion allowed for trained Support Animals of other species. Rodents, reptiles, snakes, ferrets are not allowed in the cabin of the aircraft for any reason.

All Service Animals traveling aboard United aircraft must adhere to high standards of behavior and deportment. United will not tolerate aggression, threatening behavior, or out of control conduct. Service Dogs should behave professionally at all times. They sit on the floor at their handler’s feet, without protruding into the aisle or intruding into other travelers’ space.

If a Service Dog or Service Animal cannot comfortably rest within the allotted space, United Airlines offers two solutions. The handler can purchase a second seat so the SD has additional room. Alternatively, the handler can release their teammate to the United Live Animal Desk for the duration of the flight at no charge. The Live Animal Desk will provide a free kennel for the Service Dog. A United agent will bring the Service Animal to the aircraft door to greet the handler upon arrival.

Handlers should be aware, though, that United Airlines’ Contract of Carriage allows United to remove both the Service Animal and handler from any United flight at United’s sole discretion, with the potential of a permanent ban from United flights, if an animal is oversize, overweight, or falls short of behavioral or training expectations.

United Airlines Service Dog in Training (SDiT) Policy

United Airlines’ Service Dog in Training Policy is complicated. The Service Dog policy in the passenger accommodation of the site straight out says “Service Animals are not accepted.” However, there is a proviso specifically for organization-affiliated trainers who are working with a Service Dog in Training on flight-related skills and behaviors. These trainers may bring a single SDiT on board free of charge. The proviso ends with “Trainers transporting Service Animals in the ordinary course of business or Service Animals who are not in training must check these animals .”

United Airlines Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

United Airlines accepts Emotional Support and Psychiatric Service Animals in cabin, free of cost, for qualified individuals with a disability if  certain information and documentation  are provided in advance of travel. Approved United passengers may travel with a single ESA weighing 65 pounds or less.

United passengers traveling with an Emotional Support Animal or a Psychiatric Service Animal must submit the  required documentation  at least 48 hours before the customer’s flight via United’s  secure portal . If United cannot validate the documentation, if the passenger does not provide completed documentation, or if the passenger doesn’t provide advance notification, the animal may be denied boarding.

If an animal is unable to fly under United’s ESA policy, they may be eligible to be transported as a pet, and pet fees may apply. A handler can contact the United Accessibility Desk at 1-800-228-2744 if there are questions about this process or if booking a flight within 48 hours of the departure time.

United Airlines Working Dog Policy

United Airlines transports, without charge, properly harnessed professional Working K9s. The K9 must be accompanied by their handler on official emergency business as authorized by an appropriate federal, state, or local government agency. Such official duty status must be documented in writing to the satisfaction of United Airlines. Rule 16 of United’s Contract of Carriage includes Explosive Detection Dogs, Narcotic Detection Dogs, Search and Rescue Dogs, and other Working K9s trained for a “specific function.”

Service Dog Travel Laws for Flying

Before you can educate anyone else about your right to travel with a Service Dog, you need familiarity with the laws yourself. While U.S. federal law grants near-unrestricted public access to Service Dogs , air access laws for traveling with a Service Dog are actually defined by a separate piece of legislation, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA). Federal Service Dog law and the ADA only apply to public access while you and your partner’s feet are on the ground.

Fortunately, though, the ACAA is relatively straight-forward. Individuals with a disability traveling with a Service Dog are to be granted access to air travel with their partner riding in the cabin, free of charge. Additionally, any equipment used in conjunction with an assistance animal’s work is to be considered an assistive device and can be flown free of charge in the cargo hold as medical equipment. (Please note that food is not equipment under this definition and therefore may count as carry-on or checked baggage.)

The ACAA specifically cites documentation and paperwork as examples of policies airlines may opt to enforce. The laws within the  Air Carrier Access Act specifically grant Service Dogs the right to fly in cabin, with their handler, at no charge. However, unlike the better-known ADA, the ACAA allows airlines to require compliance with additional requirements from Service Dog teams and ESA handlers in order to gain access to secure areas and aircraft.

To determine flight eligibility, all air carriers may make inquiries regarding the dog’s status and training. In the case of Service Dogs, airlines must accept credible verbal assurance from the handler, plus the presence of a harness, vest, or other identifying gear, ID cards or other written documentation as proof of the dog’s job.

Each airline determines their own requirements for access to air travel. Once an airline grants access, teams can expect pretty universal rules regarding flying in the aircraft itself. In addition to standard public access skills and behavior , the highlights include:

• No dog can block or obstruct aisles on the plane for any reason.
• Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals must occupy only the space allowed to the ticketed passenger, which includes the footspace and the space under the seat in front of the handler.
• Even if the seat is empty, dogs may not sit in an airplane seat designed for a human.
• Small dogs may never be placed on the tray table.
• No working dog team of any kind can be seated in an emergency exit row.
• Dogs cannot interfere with in-cabin service.
• Dogs cannot steal food or eat off tray tables.
• All dogs must behave in a manner that allows other passengers to enjoy a flight experience similar to a flight without the dog present.

Flying With Giant Breeds or Mini Horses

If your partner is an extra large or giant breed Service Dog, airlines are not required to accommodate you on your specific flight if your dog infringes on other passengers’ space. Typically, if there are seats available, many airlines will try to seat you so there’s at least one seat between you and another passenger. That way, your dog has space. However, this is not required and shouldn’t be expected.

If it’s a full flight or they cannot shuffle seats, airlines can offer you a later flight where they can accommodate you and your dog’s size. Depending on the airline, they may also offer to allow your dog to travel in a kennel in the climate controlled cargo hold. You always have the option of purchasing a second seat to accommodate your Service Dog, should your dog require the additional space. If you are concerned about your Service Animal’s size and you must travel on the selected flight, then purchasing a second seat assures your ability to do so.

Service Dogs, SDiTs, ESAs, and Access

While Emotional Support Animals are not granted access under the ADA, the ACAA does allow them to fly with their owners. However, there are special requirements for flying with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). In 2018, most airlines established more restrictive policies concerning ESAs; you can view them above. The majority require documentation to be submitted a minimum of 48 hours prior to the flight and specific approval granted to each ESA team.

Keep in mind that federal law does not mention Service Dogs in Training (SDiT) or grant them access under the ADA or ACAA. Access rights for Service Dogs in Training is determined by the state you reside in. Check your state laws before planning trips if you’re traveling with an SDiT. Know, though, that airlines may set and enforce their own Service Dog in Training policies.

The Department of Homeland Security’s Transportation Security Administration has universal guidelines for traveling with a Service Dog or Assistance Animal and clearing security. Just know that you and your dog must both go through the metal detector. You can go through together or separately. Your Service Dog is going to be patted down regardless, so you’ll need to decide if you’re willing to undergo additional physical examination if your partner sets the alarm off.

If you’re not, go through the metal detector separately, which means your Assistance Dog needs a solid stand-stay. After you’re both through the metal detector, your dog will be physically examined by a TSA officer, so his stand-for-exam should be practiced and proofed before traveling. TSA cannot ask you to undress your Service Dog and they cannot separate your partner from you.

The easiest way to seamlessly move through security is to either send your partner’s gear through the xray and walk your partner through separately from yourself on only an “airport leash,” or one without metal hardware that will alarm OR to use the minimum amount of gear necessary so the pat down for your partner is quick and easy. You do NOT have to remove your partner’s gear unless you’d like to.

International Service Dog Travel

Are you flying out of the country or to an island like Hawaii? Service Animals may need to be quarantined depending on your destination. If you are taking your pet out of the United States to another country, whether permanently or for a visit, it is defined as “export.” The United States has minimal requirements for animals to be exported to other countries. If you’re just planning on visiting, please be advised that there may be certain re-entry requirements if you plan to return to the United States with your Service Dog.

Recognize that even though your Service Dog isn’t a pet, pet import/export requirements, unless otherwise noted by your destination country, may still apply. Please visit the USDA Pet Travel page for important information and things you must do. The U.S. Department of State offers further explanation on their “ Pets and International Travel ” page. Don’t forget to contact your airline to find out what the current regulations are for your destination country. Confirm policies with your airline and ask if your destination enforces any quarantine requirements for Service Dogs.

Do research ahead of time on the laws concerning Service Dogs in the country you’ll be traveling to. Not all countries provide access for Service Dogs, and requirements can vary widely. Assistance Dog International provides a list of laws covering common international destinations. T hey also offer resources for travelers heading to other countries. Responsibility to meet all guidelines required for international travel with your Service Dog rests with you.

Prepare For Success

Even the best trained Assistance Animal may have difficulty flying. You need to judge your own animal’s temperament before you consider flying. If you are at all concerned about how your assistance animal will react to flying consider driving, Amtrak , Greyhound or Megabus .

Each airline interprets ACAA guidelines slightly differently. The key to success? Always call first!

Service Dog Flight Skills

Make sure your Service Dog knows the behaviors and skills required for a smooth trip through the airport and on the plane. Before they travel, your dog needs to know how to navigate confined spaces, ignore dozens of distractions, and showcase excellent impulse control. Check out our guide to Service Dog Flight Skills for more info.

Contact Your Airline Before You Travel

The airline crew may need to make preparations for your boarding, so it’s an excellent idea to make them aware of what type of Service Animal you use. The agent may also be able to help you select the most comfortable seat, as well as offer you additional accommodation, like priority boarding. Find a direct flight if possible because it will make for an easier experience for both you and your partner.

The experience others 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 traveling with a Service Dog, keep your partner under control at all times. 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. The best compliment any dog working in public can receive is, “Wow! I had no idea there was a dog there!”

Airlines Require Proof of Service Dog Status

Airlines do require some form of assurance that your dog is indeed a Service Animal and not an ESA or 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.

In addition to your Service Dog, it’s possible your disability may have further circumstances that require special consideration when moving through security and boarding the plane. You’re not required to provide medical documentation to an officer, however, many passengers find it helpful to have medical documentation as a way to discreetly communicate information about their needs to an officer. The TSA has created an optional Notification Card that passengers can use for discreet communication. Neither use of this Notification Card or the presentation of medical documentation exempts a passenger from TSA screening.

Be prepared to explain what tasks does your animal performs to help you with your disability.  What makes a Service Dog different from a pet are the specific physical tasks or work the animal performs 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 an invisible disability and use a Service Dog, it helps to have a letter from a physician in addition to any other identification materials you may have. Some airlines include Psychiatric Service Dogs in their Service Dog policy, but others require PSDs to meet their Emotional Support Animal guidelines. Check the airline’s Service Animal policies carefully.

Misrepresenting a Dog’s Training or Abilities is Fraud

Remember, misrepresenting an animal as a Service or Assistance Dog isn’t only unethical, it’s against the law. Many states have hefty fines for people lying about their dogs’ status to gain access to places pets aren’t allowed or to avoid paying pet fees. If you misrepresent your dog’s training or abilities in order to fly with them in-cabin, free of charge, you are committing fraud. Additionally, you’re part of the problem real Service Dog teams face from people to have fake Service Dogs.

Flying With a Service Dog Step by Step

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, depending on the airport regulations, you may be asked to maintain contact with your dog’s leash at all times. If this procedure creates a problem for you, simply explain this to the security officer. Of course, the responsibility for maintaining control of your Service Dog rests with you at all times.

Your Service Dog may require a special screening

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 gear, harness, leash or collar. If you experience any problems at the security checkpoint, you should request that a supervisor be contacted for assistance.

Check in at the gate

After clearing security, check in at the counter at the gate. Let the flight attendants know that you have an Assistance Dog. If this is your first time flying with your Service Dog on this airline, ask them what you need to do. Most airlines offer Service Dog teams and ESA handlers priority boarding or pre-board access.

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 Dog to use the space at your feet. Keeping small treats readily accessible for your partner helps them feel more comfortable. Avoid bringing water onto the plane for your dog.

Aisles on airplanes are very narrow, so it’s helpful to teach your partner to either walk behind or in front of you. For dogs who are used to only heeling by their handler’s side, this unique situation can be slightly confusing. It’s easiest to send your partner into your seating area first, and then to follow, so you’re not trying to shuffle your Service Dog while also situating yourself. If your dog has a solid “under,” you’ll both be significantly more comfortable. Even large dogs can travel comfortably by settling their rear end under the seat in front of you, and resting their upper half between your feet.

Tips for take-off and landing

Service Dogs easily slide like crazy on take off and landings. To reduce this, have them sit facing you, so you can hang on to them with your legs while you feed a few small treats or let them chew on a favorite toy. If you use a toy, be sure to choose one that you are able to keep a grip on in case they drop it. Chew toys and treats help distract your dog and keep them calm while also reducing pressure in their ears when cabin pressure changes.

Like babies, even a well-trained Service Dog may fuss if they’re not distracted and the sliding and ear popping can scare them. Since dogs are very situational, one bad experience can color the dog’s view of airplanes and flying for a long time. Planning for this potential pitfall in advance prevents both immediate and future problems.

Consider crate transport

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 transport their animals as cargo and some airlines even have special transport programs like United’s PetSafe . A couple of airlines transport Service Dogs in an appropriate kennel as cargo free of charge. Many airlines allow small animals to travel in-cabin as well. Check with your airline for details.

Questions or Concerns About Service Dog Travel?

Still have questions about screening procedures? In 2011, the TSA launched TSA Cares , a new helpline number designed to assist travelers with disabilities. Call TSA Cares toll free at 1-855-787-2227 prior to traveling if you have questions about screening policies, procedures and what to expect at the security checkpoint. The TSA website lists the hours of operation for the TSA Cares helpline as Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. Eastern time; weekends and federal holidays, 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. Eastern time. You can also e-mail [email protected] to request info about screening procedures.

If you feel you were the victim of discrimination If you believe you experienced discriminatory treatment by air carrier personnel or contractors (pilots, gate agents, or flight attendants), 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).

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 and 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.

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 (voice) or 1-800-455-9880 (TTY). 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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Home Page › Blog › Flying With a Service Dog – The Ultimate Guide

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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I can’t get enough of your insightful articles and engaging stories. Thank you for sharing your passion with the world!

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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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Confused, Frustrated and Stranded at the Airport With a Service Animal

Many travelers with disabilities are encountering hurdles with a process to verify that their service dogs are fit to fly.

By Debra Kamin

Joanna Lubkin, a Unitarian Universalist minister, has chronic pain and fatigue and relies on her service dog, a 4-year-old black Labrador named Sully, to pick up items she drops, press elevator buttons and brace her when her body weakens. She never travels without him.

In June, when she and Sully arrived at the Pittsburgh International Airport to fly home to Boston after a conference, the agent at the JetBlue Airlines gate told her that there were no forms on file certifying Sully as a service dog, and refused to let her board.

Since 2021, the Department of Transportation has required travelers with disabilities to fill out a standard form before boarding an aircraft with their trained service animal, attesting to the dog’s health, behavior and training. Before her flight to Pittsburgh on Delta Air Lines, Ms. Lubkin, 37, had completed the D.O.T. form for both Delta and JetBlue and uploaded it to their websites. With Delta, she experienced no issues.

But a week later she found herself stranded in Pittsburgh, confused and frustrated. She did not know she was only one of many travelers with disabilities encountering hurdles with the verification process, and finding themselves stuck at the airport even after they had correctly verified their service dogs for air travel.

JetBlue is one of four airlines that uses a third-party — a small, Chicago-based company called Open Doors Organization — to review the new D.O.T. forms and issue approvals or denials on their behalf. And when Ms. Lubkin arrived at her gate for her return flight home, she was told Open Doors had not verified her form, and she would not be allowed to fly.

Angry and tired, Ms. Lubkin called a friend, who offered to drive her 570 miles back to Boston.

“Flying is physically painful for me and for a lot of people,” she said. “Making it that much harder for us to travel is just unjust, and it doesn’t feel right to me.”

A JetBlue spokesman acknowledged her concerns.

“We understand that we need to ensure better consistency in verifying paperwork during travel on all flights of a customer’s itinerary,” said Derek Dombrowski, the airline’s senior manager for corporate communications.

‘I consider that discrimination’

Before the coronavirus, air travelers looking to bring an animal into the cabin had to adhere to airlines’ individual rules for flying with pets, which sometimes required the purchase of a special ticket. Fully trained service animals were exempt from any charges.

Airlines say the 2021 regulations were needed after a pandemic-related uptick of pets on airplanes, many of them untrained and presenting a risk to travelers and legitimate service animals alike. There were also a number of incidents where passengers attempted to pass off pets or emotional-support animals as trained service animals. At the end of 2021, most major airlines had declared they would no longer accept emotional-support animals on board, and the Transportation Department put forth new rules for service animals.

Among the changes: Airlines can require users of service animals, which are defined as dogs trained to perform a task directly related to an owner’s disability, to submit a D.O.T. form attesting to the animal’s health, behavior and training.

JetBlue, Allegiant Airlines, Sun Country Airlines and Alaska Airlines have partnered with Open Doors to process the forms. Travelers upload their forms to the airlines’ websites, and the airlines then pass them on to Open Doors, which verifies the legitimacy of the service dog by examining the form and sometimes calling the trainer, whose contacts are required on the form, with additional questions.

Other airlines, including American Airlines and United Airlines, review and approve the forms themselves.

Some dog trainers and disability advocates say the new rules may be illegal.

After Ms. Lubkin filled out her D.O.T. form and uploaded it to JetBlue’s website, more than a week before departure, she received an email from NEADS, the service dog organization that trained Sully, letting her know they had been contacted by Open Doors regarding her form and she was “all set.”

But in Pittsburgh, the gate agent couldn’t find any communication from Open Doors in her file.

“The fact that a corporation is making it so difficult for somebody to get accommodations for their disability — I consider that discrimination,” Ms. Lubkin said.

Travelers on other airlines have also faced issues. In June, Ashley O’Connor, a stay-at-home mother of three, was eager to fly home to Columbus, Ohio, from Myrtle Beach, S.C., with her son, Owen, and his new service dog.

Owen, 4, has CHARGE syndrome — an acronym for a genetic illness affecting the heart and airways — and Téa, a German shepherd, was trained to alert people around her when Owen is at risk of respiratory distress.

Three days before their return flight on Allegiant, Ms. O’Connor, 30, filled out the D.O.T. form on the Allegiant’s website, but was told her application was denied because she didn’t list the specific tasks for which the dog is trained. She filled it out again, resubmitted and then received a confirmation. An email from Open Doors came next, saying she could “request travel” from Allegiant. She did.

At the airport however, Ms. O’Connor was told there were no forms on file. She tried to submit them yet again with her phone, at one point pausing at the check-in counter to suction Owen's tracheostomy tube. But she received a series of error messages, and was eventually told by the Allegiant gate agent that her application was denied.

She had to enlist the help of Owen’s great-grandparents, both in their late 70s, to drive Téa nearly 10 hours to Columbus. She flew home alone with Owen.

“My obviously disabled child was sitting in a stroller next to me,” she said of the incident at the check-in counter. “There was no compassion.”

Allegiant said that Ms. O’Connor’s application was held up due to incomplete information, and that she did not inform the airline she was traveling with a service animal until she arrived at the airport. She contests this.

“Open Doors Organization is a trusted nonprofit disability advocacy organization,” a spokesperson with the carrier said. “This strategic partnership has equipped Allegiant with better tools to serve the disability community, allowing us to streamline the service animal approval process while ensuring the safety of all passengers and crew members.”

Open Doors has admitted that communication with the airlines at times has gone awry. But the organization’s founder, Eric Lipp, said the issue mostly stemmed from airline workers who lacked proper training.

“We have had a couple of hiccups,” Mr. Lipp said. But when paperwork issues arise, he added, airline workers should allow customers with a clear disability to board, or reach out directly to Open Doors for guidance in that moment.

"JetBlue and Allegiant take up 90 percent of our time,” he said, adding that airlines should call the organization for input before issuing a denial. “Sometimes the people who work for the airlines just do stuff. And we don’t want the people at the airport to be the ones making the decisions.”

Passed off as service animals

The Air Carrier Access Act, passed in 1986, requires airlines to allow travelers with disabilities to board a flight with their service animals. And it limits the questions airlines can ask about a traveler's disability as well.

“There are certain reasons an airline can deny a service animal, such as if it’s not a dog or if they see behavioral issues,” said Cait Malhiot, an attorney with Marko Law, a law firm in Detroit. But an airline can’t require passengers to show any specific training for a dog, or that a dog be trained only by an accredited source.

Ashley Townsend, a 32-year-old social worker, is blind and relies on Lolly, a 3-year-old black lab. In June, Ms. Townsend was invited to fly from her home in Denver to a fund-raiser in New York City for a guide-dog conference. The organization booked her ticket on JetBlue, and Ms. Townsend called the carrier two days before her flight to ensure she wouldn’t face issues boarding with Lolly. She was assured that she was all set to fly.

But the next day, Ms. Townsend used her screen reader to look at JetBlue’s website. Only then did she see that her D.O.T. form, which she was used to submitting, would have to be reviewed by Open Doors before flying. She had flown just two months earlier with Lolly on a Southwest Airlines flight and not encountered an Open Doors review. When she received an automated message that it would take 48 hours to receive a response, she panicked — her flight was in less than a day. She again called JetBlue, and after hours on hold, was informed that she had not completed the paperwork properly and would not be allowed to fly.

She canceled her ticket and purchased a new flight on United, which does not use Open Doors. She and Lolly flew without issue.

JetBlue said the Open Doors partnership had been put into place because of multiple incidents of dogs being passed off as service animals on flights, but then wreaking havoc in the air, including biting crew members and relieving themselves on the plane.

“We have developed a process to attempt to distinguish properly trained service dogs traveling with a qualified individual with a disability from other dogs,” said Mr. Dombrowski, the airline’s spokesman.

Ms. Townsend said she understood the rules have been tightened, but she feels that the disability community is bearing the brunt of the responsibility for an issue they did not cause.

“I’m faced with this burden of proving that my service animal is legitimate, instead of people being held accountable for intentionally blurring that line,” she said.

In May, Erin Brennan Wallner, a Jacksonville, Fla.-based communications associate, and her family were left stranded in Boston with their son’s service dog. Mason, 14, has autism and relies on Zoe, a 65-pound goldendoodle in moments of stress.

The family booked a vacation to Boston and was unaware of the change in the D.O.T. rules. So were the agents and crew on their outbound JetBlue flight — they flew with Zoe from Jacksonville to Boston with no issues. But when they arrived at the airport to return home, they were told they could not board without an approved D.O.T. form.

Frantic, Ms. Wallner attempted to fill out the form in the airport. The family watched their flight depart without them, and two hours later, while still hoping to be rebooked that day, Ms. Wallner received an email from Open Doors stating that Zoe, who was trained by a company called Off Leash K9 Training, did not qualify as a service animal.

Open Doors, when contacted about the situation, said that Zoe had been rejected because Ms. Wallner had used vague language to describe the dog’s training, rather than offering specifics on the tasks the dog performs. Mr. Lipp, Open Doors’ founder, said his company processes about 120 forms a day and in cases like Ms. Wallner’s, he always attempts to contact the trainer for more information.

But Zoe’s trainer, Matt Gregory, said he never received a call from Open Doors. The family ended up renting a car and driving 18 hours back to Jacksonville.

Ms. Wallner said that the fact her family was allowed to fly to Boston in the first place proved the system is not working.

“I understand that plenty of people take advantage of the situation,” she said. “But don’t you have a responsibility to at least get us home?”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

An earlier version of this story misidentified an airline that uses the Open Doors Organization. It is Sun Country Airlines, not Sun Valley.

How we handle corrections

Debra Kamin covers real estate for The Times. More about Debra Kamin

Managing Anxiety and Stress

Stay balanced in the face of stress and anxiety with our collection of tools and advice..

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These simple and proven strategies will help you manage stress , support your mental health and find meaning in the new year.

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Service dogs are allowed on planes, but there are some requirements to get them there

Mia Ives-Rublee said that when she travels with her 6-year-old Labrador/Golden Retriever mix, Zini, she’s often asked about him in more detail by airline and airport employees, and sometimes runs into other issues as well.

“Even with the obvious, having a disability, I still get questioned about him and whether he is an actual service dog,” she said. “Sometimes I’ll deal with a TSA person who is afraid of dogs, which I totally understand, but sometimes their reactions get a little old. … I understand that there are people who are afraid of dogs but just jumping out of the way, etc., it doesn’t provide for a very friendly atmosphere.” 

Regulations around traveling with service animals have changed in the past few years, so it’s important to be up to date.

Here’s what experts say service animal handlers and fellow travelers should know:

Cruising Altitude: Progress for disabled travelers is not coming fast enough

What qualifies as a service animal?

According to the Department of Transportation, only dogs count as service animals – sorry to the emotional support peacocks and service miniature horses out there. 

“The biggest thing is that service animals, the definition of service animals in the eyes of the Department of Transportation is that service animals are service dogs, that term is synonymous basically,” Noah Holtgraves, a data and tips writer for Trips to Discover told USA TODAY.

What are the requirements for a service animal?

DOT regulations state that dogs of any size or breed can qualify as service animals, so long as they are “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.” 

Beyond that, service animal handlers can only ever be required to submit two forms to the airlines, and legally, airline employees are restricted in what they can ask about a service animal.

The forms include: 

• An attestation about the animal’s health, behavior and training.
• An attestation that the animal is able to wait up to eight hours to relieve itself. 

“The DOT has made it pretty explicitly clear that no other documentation is allowed outside those two forms,” Holtgraves said, and airlines can require the forms to be submitted up to 48 hours in advance.

But travelers with experience flying with service dogs told USA TODAY things don’t always go as smoothly as the regulations might suggest.

Tell us your story: Mobility device lost or damaged by an airline? USA TODAY wants to hear about it.

Joey Ramp-Adams said she travels frequently with her 10-year-old service dog Sampson , a golden retriever, and said issues are rare but extremely frustrating when they do happen.

“For the most part, it’s relatively smooth and accommodating but not always,” she said, adding that problems seem more likely to occur at the airport rather than on the plane.

“I have had a lot of issues with checking in,” she said. “Education is a big, big thing and making sure that people are very aware of what is allowed and not allowed and how they go about conducting check-ins.” 

Although service dogs are required to be trained, there’s no national service animal registry or any formal licensing for training facilities.

“There’s no certification at all that’s required to fly,” Holtgraves said. “If you train your own service dog you can list yourself as the trainer.”

Can service animals ever be denied boarding?

Airlines are required to transport service animals free of charge, but the DOT outlines specific conditions under which they can be denied boarding. Those include: 

• If the dog is too large or heavy to be accommodated in the cabin.
• If it poses a direct threat to the health or safety of other passengers. 
• If it causes significant disruption at the gate or onboard the aircraft.
• If it does not comply with the health and safety requirements of an international destination.

Holtgraves added that airlines may require handlers to purchase a seat for some large service dogs.

Not so fast: Why you should think twice before booking flights with a tight connection

How should other travelers act around service animals?

Ives-Rublee and Ramp-Adams both said that as frustrating as it can be, other travelers should do their best to not try to get a service animal’s attention. 

“I know Sampson is gorgeous and fluffy and cute, (but) please don’t interact with a service animal,” Ramp-Adams said. “That moment of distraction can cause an accident or can cause the handler to get injured.” 

Ives-Rublee said service animals are pretty much always on the clock when they’re out in public.

“Even if the dog doesn’t look like they’re quote-unquote working, they are working, and your interactions could create distractions,” she said. “Your interactions with them, whether it is petting, or talking to them, or even saying their name, it creates distractions for the dogs, which can create dangerous situations for the handlers.” 

Both women also said it’s important to ask the handlers before petting a service animal and not to get offended if you’re told no.

“There’s many times I have to put my hand down and block someone who’s trying to do what I call a drive-by petting,” Ramp-Adams said.

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Advice for new service animal handlers

Ives-Rublee said it’s especially important to plan ahead if you’re not used to traveling with a service animal.

“I don’t have kids, but my guess is it’s very similar to traveling with a small child,” she said. “It’s definitely packing for another individual.”

In addition to making sure your dog has all the food, water and accessories it might need for a trip, Ives-Rublee and Ramp-Adams said it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the requirements including the DOT forms, to notify the airlines that you’ll be traveling with a service animal in advance, and to keep the dog’s paperwork with you, even though presenting it should technically never be required.

Ramp-Adams added that traveling can be stressful for a service dog, so you should make sure they’re ready for a long stretch in a potentially uncomfortable environment.

“Being on a plane is one of the most taxing and stressful environments, I believe, for a dog to be in,” she said. “That can’t be replicated or practiced unless you’re working with an organization that actually does that as part of its training … (make) sure your dog is ready for that type of stress.” 

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected] .

JetBlue ESA Policy and Psychiatric Service Animal Policy

The bottom line:.

• Does JetBlue Still Accept ESA Letters? - No. ESAs are no longer considered support animals by Jetblue.
• What is a PSD Letter? - A psychiatric service dog letter is a legal document that confirms that you have been evaluated by a licensed mental health professional who has attested that you have a qualifying disability and are legally entitled to live with your PSD.
• How Do You Get a PSD Letter? - You must obtain your PSD letter from a licensed mental health professional in your state.
• How Do You Qualify for a PSD Letter? - You must consult with a licensed mental health professional in your state who will confirm that you have a disability that legally qualifies you to live with a PSD.
• ‍ How to Get Started? - Start by taking the Pettable 3-minute quiz so that we can match you with a licensed mental health professional in your state.

Traveling with a dog can be confusing. Different policies affect different animals when you travel. While service dogs are protected on all airlines, for example, emotional support animals are only protected on some of them. Dogs that don't fall under service animals or emotional support animals have still more guidelines to adhere to. Before you take your next flight, it's a good idea to have a strong understanding of the JetBlue ESA policy. In short, ESA animals are no longer accepted as travel companions on JetBlue. Only service dogs and psychiatric service dogs can travel under the USDOT's new guidelines.

Do I Qualify For A Psychiatric Service Animal Quiz

1 in 5 Americans experiences mental health illnesses, disorders, or illnesses. A Psychiatric Service Animal can be instrumental in helping people manage such mental health challenges.

Recent Changes to the JetBlue ESA Policy

The U.S. Department of Transportation released new guidelines that went into effect in January 2021. The guidelines state that emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals. However, the department still allows people to fly with psychiatric service animals and requires airlines to treat them the same as other service animals. The USDOT defines a service animal as a dog that is trained to perform tasks or do work for someone who has a disability.

• There are several other vital pieces of information outlined in the press release:
• The airline can limit the number of service animals to two per passenger.
• The airline can require the animal to fit within the handler's foot space on the airplane.
• The airline can require animals to be leashed or harnessed at all times.
• The airline can continue to refuse to transport animals that exhibit aggressive behavior.
• The airline can require a form that attests to the service animal's behavior, bathroom training, service animal training , and physical health.
• The airline can request that said forms be provided 48 hours in advance of travel.
• The airline can request that the traveler provide the DOT service animal form at the departure gate when traveling.
• The airline cannot refuse to transport a service animal solely because of its breed.
• Passengers with disabilities do not have to physically check in at the airport and are able to use the online check-in process if they so desire.

Passengers who need to obtain the required psychiatric service dog letter can begin the process on Pettable.

How To Fly With Your Psychiatric Service Dog on JetBlue

The first step to flying on JetBlue with a PSD is to understand the airline's policies for flying with service dogs. JetBlue only allows trained service dogs to fly on its aircraft. It does not accept service dogs in training and requires all animals to be leashed and under the control of the handler at all times.

Animals are not permitted to occupy seats on the aircraft, although their handlers may sit in any seat except the emergency exit row. Service animals must remain in the footprint of the seat or seats that the passenger has purchased. Alternatively, if the animal is small enough, it can sit on the passenger's lap but cannot touch any part of the seat, tray table, or nearby travelers. Large service animals may require additional space, so passengers must plan accordingly if they need to purchase additional seats.

Required Documentation for Service Animals

When flying with service animals on JetBlue, all required documentation must be submitted at least 48 hours prior to departure. In addition to filling out and submitting the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Transportation form online, the passenger must also print out and carry a copy of the form on his or her person while traveling. Passengers who are traveling internationally may require additional documentation. It is the passenger's responsibility to know which forms are required on the aircraft and at his or her destination and to ensure those forms are filled out and available when necessary.

How To Get Your Legitimate Psychiatric Service Dog Letter With Pettable

Getting your legitimate psychiatric service dog letter from Pettable is easy. You can even do a free pre-screening first. Start by taking Pettable's three-minute assessment that asks you a few questions about why you need a psychiatric service dog. Once you complete the assessment, Pettable will match you to a professional therapist in your state who can help you evaluate your situation and get your PSD letter. You'll receive your letter within 24 hours of being approved and can submit it in addition to the USDOT form when traveling with your psychiatric service dog.

What Is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA)?

Defined by the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Air Carrier Access Act prohibits airlines from discriminating against passengers who have disabilities. The main points of the DOT rule (Title 14 CFR Part 382) focus on the prohibition of discriminatory practices, the accessibility of facilities, other services and accommodations, and administrative provisions.

When it comes to service animals, airlines cannot refuse to transport people who have a disability. While they cannot require advance notice specifically because someone has a disability, an airline does have the option of requiring 48 hours' notice if someone is traveling with a service dog. Airline workers must undergo training for dealing with the traveling public, including those who are traveling with service animals.

Emotional Support Animals Under the ACAA

Under revisions to the ACAA in early 2021, emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The JetBlue ESA policy is to no longer allow them on their flights. Someone who previously traveled with an ESA will need to travel with a psychiatric service dog instead. JetBlue requires that all passengers traveling with service animals submit the proper documentation 48 hours before their flight. The JetBlue emotional support animal policy requires you to travel under pet guidelines.

What Is the Difference Between an Emotional Support Animal and a Psychiatric Service Dog?

While both emotional support animals and psychiatric service dogs have a goal of alleviating anxiety, depression, or other symptoms related to mental illnesses or mood disorders, there are some key differences between ESAs and PSDs. The most noticeable difference is their coverage under the Americans With Disabilities Act and the ACAA.

Under these acts, psychiatric service dogs are permitted to go into public establishments with their handlers. In addition to places such as restaurants, grocery stores, and doctor's offices, PSDs are also permitted to fly on airplanes. While emotional support animals are important in their own right, they do not have the specialized training required to allow them into public establishments or in the cabins of airplanes.

JetBlue's Service Dog Policies

Understanding and abiding by JetBlue ESA policy and PSD policy helps to make your travel arrangement go more smoothly.

JetBlue's Required Documents

To travel with a psychiatric service dog on JetBlue, download and complete the U.S. Department of Transportation's Service Animal Air Transportation form . Once completed, submit the forms at least 48 hours prior to traveling.

Passengers may travel with up to two trained service dogs but must complete a separate form for each dog. All fields on the form must be filled out, and a copy of each dog's form must be on your person when arriving at the airport, boarding your flight, and making transfers.

Additionally, those who are flying to high-risk countries require a CDC Dog Import Permit until further notice.

Advanced Notice

JetBlue requires passengers who are traveling with a psychiatric service dog to provide at least 48 hours advance notice. For reservations and other information regarding your flight, you can call 1-800-JET-BLUE (1-800-538-2583). Hearing- and speech-impaired passengers can call 1-800-336-5530.

Other JetBlue Pet Policies

According to the JetBlue pet policy , small dogs and cats may travel in the cabin with their owners as long as they are in an FAA-approved carrier. Only one pet per passenger is permitted.

JetBlue's Pet Fees

The airline charges a pet fee of $125 each way. You may book your pets on the mobile app, online, or by contacting the airline. Only six pets are allowed per flight, so it is important to book early.

JetBlue's Breed Restrictions

While JetBlue does not appear to have any specific breed restrictions, the airline does reserve the right to turn away any animal who is exhibiting signs of aggression and poses a threat to staff members or other travelers.

JetBlue's Pet Carrier Size Requirements

Your pet and its carrier must fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier cannot exceed 17 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, or 8.5 inches high. The combined weight must not be more than 20 pounds.

JetBlue's Travel Requirements

JetBlue's passengers must adhere to guidelines for domestic and international flights, as well as US inbound travel guidelines.

All domestic flights accept pets. Vaccination requirements vary by state. Those traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico must provide proof of vaccinations.

International

JetBlue does not fly pets to Barbados or Trinidad & Tobago, nor does it fly pets to and from London. In accordance with CDC guidelines, it cannot accept dogs or cats on flights to or from Colombia, Ecuador, or Peru.

Those traveling into the U.S. from high-risk areas must enter the country through JFK, which is a CDC-Classified Point of Entry for vaccinated pets.

Pettable's Tips on How To Fly With Your ESA and Psychiatric Service Dogs

Use these tips to make flying with your psychiatric service dog a breeze.

Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian

Take your dog to the veterinarian for a quick checkup. This also allows you to secure a copy of the animal's vaccinations in case you need them at any point during your trip.

Contact the Airline in Advance

Contact JetBlue to talk about your travel options as soon as you know that you'll be traveling with your PSD. This gives you plenty of time to fix any issues that might arise as well as ensures you don't become sidetracked and miss the 48-hour notice deadline.

Pack a Bag for Your Dog

Pack a bag for your dog a couple of days before you're meant to travel. In addition to its service vests, harnesses, and leashes, it needs tags and required identification cards.

Leave Early

Leave yourself plenty of time to check in so that you aren't rushing to your flight. This also gives you the potential opportunity to board early.

Check here for answers to some of your most common questions.

Do Service Dogs Fly for Free on JetBlue?

JetBlue service dog policy states that service animals fly for free.

What Is the JetBlue ESA Policy?

JetBlue no longer allows dogs who act as emotional support animals to fly for free. You may still be able to bring your ESA but need to follow the airline's pet policies rather than its service dog policies.

Can JetBlue Deny My ESA?

Yes, JetBlue can deny your emotional support animal.

Which Airlines Are Still Allowing ESA Dogs?

In the United States, Mexico, and Canada, airlines that allow ESA animals include Latam Airlines, Volaris, and Westjet. Internationally, Air France still accepts all emotional support animals. Lufthansa accepts ESAs up to 8 kgs. China Airlines, KLM, AisanaAir, and Singapore Air all accept emotional support dogs, though restrictions do apply.

Can My Dog Sit on My Lap During a JetBlue Flight?

If your dog can fit completely on your lap while you are flying JetBlue, it can ride on your lap.

© 2024 Pettable, Inc. All rights reserved.

Which US Airlines Allow Dogs & Should More Airlines Allow Dogs On Flights?

T aking a pet dog on vacation can be extremely rewarding - canine companions love a change of scenery just as much as their owners do, and they are part of the family, after all. But the practicalities of flying with a dog may put some passengers off.

With the exception of service dogs, not all carriers accept pet dogs onboard, and those that do tend to have a strict set of rules to follow. But which US airlines allow passengers to travel with their furry friends in the cabin?

American Airlines

The world's largest airline allows dogs to travel in the cabin on flights within the US mainland, as well as to Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, and the US Virgin Islands. American Airlines charges a pet carry-on fee of $125.

However, there are some rules to follow - the dog must be over eight weeks of age, fit comfortably inside a carrier, and the carrier (with a pet inside) must not weigh more than 20 lbs and be placed underneath the seat in front. Larger dogs, and those on flights to other destinations, must travel in the aircraft hold.

It is worth noting that due to a lack of under-seat storage space, pet carriers are not allowed in the airline's first and business class cabins on its Boeing 777s and 787s fleet. Also, the pet carrier counts as a carry-on bag, meaning that the passenger is left with just a personal item for themselves.

JetBlue does not accept pets for travel in the aircraft hold. However, on all domestic flights, the airline allows passengers to bring their dog into the cabin, provided that it is kept comfortably inside a pet carrier weighing no more than 20 lbs. The fee for doing so is $125 each way.

Passengers can bring up to two pets onboard, but a separate seat must be booked for the second. That said, six pets are allowed on each JetBlue flight, so it pays to book early.

Southwest Airlines

Again, a standard fee of $125 is charged to bring a pet onboard Southwest Airlines, although this is reduced to $35 for passengers traveling between the Hawaiian islands. Passengers can bring one pet carrier into the cabin with them, with each carrier able to hold a maximum of two pets of the same species. They cannot travel in an exit row due to a lack of under-seat stowage.

United Airlines

United Airlines allows small dogs and cats to be carried onboard. There is no weight limit, but the pet must be housed comfortably in either a hard or soft-sided carrier that fits underneath the seat in front.

While pets can generally travel on United Airlines' extensive worldwide network, there are several exceptions; they are not permitted on flights to and from a number of countries, including the UK, Ireland, Jamaica, Barbados, and Iceland.

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines allows pets to travel in the cabin on flights to a wider variety of destinations than American Airlines. For a fee of $95, passengers can bring their dogs onboard flights within the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. For other international destinations, the fee rises to $200, except for flights to Brazil, where the cost is reduced to $75.

However, pets are not permitted to travel in the cabin on flights to particular international destinations, including Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. Also, pet carriers are not allowed in the airline's flagship Delta One cabin due to seating configurations.

Other US airlines that allow dogs to be carried in the cabin on certain flights include Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.

Discover the ins and outs of flying with service dogs with this report from the Simple Flying team.

Should more airlines allow flying with dogs?

Most US airlines allow passengers to travel with their dogs, albeit with certain conditions, but should the policy be expanded to cover more flights and airlines? Passengers often find the airport experience and flying, in general, to be stressful, and it is essential to consider the impact of such a journey on pets too. The changes in pressure, temperature, and unfamiliar environments and noises, can all turn traveling into a traumatic experience for pets.

Also worth considering are the statistics, which do not make for pleasant reading - according to a report from the US Department of Transportation, seven pets died during flights last year, and the total figure over the past decade is more than 200, the majority of them dogs.

Get the latest aviation news straight to your inbox: Sign up for our newsletters today .

Do you travel with your pet dog? Which airline do you and your furry friend usually fly with? Share your experiences by commenting below.

Source: New York Times

Everything you need to know about JetBlue's new USA flights to Ireland

Jetblue has launched a direct non-stop flight service to dublin from new york and boston, but will it be a success.

JetBlue is the latest airline carrier to offer direct non-stop flights to Ireland. 

Last month (March 2024), JetBlue launched its daily summer-seasonal service from New York’s JFK International Airport and Boston Logan International Airport to Dublin Airport. 

New York's hometown airline has joined a competitive market that provides direct flights to Ireland which includes legacy Irish brand Aer Lingus as well as United Airlines, Lufthansa, and American Airlines.

JetBlue will use an Airbus A321 Neo on the routes, with 16 seats in business class (branded as Mint) and 144 in economy (branded as core seats).

The flights will run until September 30, 2024, and introductory fares will start at €399 for economy seats and €1,499 for business class.

Schedule between New York (JFK) and Dublin (DUB)

• JFK- DUB Flight: 8:47 p.m. – 9:00 a.m. (+1)
• DUB - JFK Flight: 10:45 a.m. – 1:22 p.m

Schedule between Boston (BOS) and Dublin (DUB)

• BOS - DUB Flight: 8:42 p.m. – 8:20 a.m. (+1)
• DUB - BOS Flight: 10:55 a.m. – 12:57 p.m

The service will operate out of Terminal 2 at Dublin Airport, giving it access to the US Customs and Border Protection facility, meaning passengers won't have to go through immigration checks when they arrive in the US.

According to JetBlue, travelers from the U.S. account for nearly 20% of all overseas tourism to Ireland, and Dublin has been among the most requested European destinations previously not served by the airline.

"JetBlue’s entrance into Dublin is set to introduce a new era of low fares and great service between Ireland and the Northeast,” said Joanna Geraghty, chief executive officer, JetBlue.

To honor the new destination, JetBlue’s seatback screens will offer a catalog of Irish entertainment, including films such as "Belfast", "Once", and "Brooklyn", and specially curated audio stories about Ireland.

You can find out more information about JetBlue's flights from New York - Dublin and Boston - Dublin here.

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Here are the 10 best airlines in 2024: study

6-year-old put on wrong spirit airlines flight.

An airline mix-up caused a little boy to end up at the wrong airport. The 6-year-old, who was flying from Philadelphia, PA was supposed to land in Fort Myers, FL but instead ended up in Orlando, FL four hours away from his grandmother, Maria Ramos."

ORLANDO, Fla. - Ahead of booking your next trip, consider examining which airline suits your needs most effectively. 

WalletHub recently conducted a study to determine the best airlines in 2024. It analyzed data from nine of the largest US airlines and one regional carrier, across 13 important metrics, including cost, canceled flights, delays, entertainment options and mishandled baggage reports.

Here are the findings.

Top 10 best airlines, per WalletHub study

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

Delta Airlines emerges as the top choice for reliability, boasting the lowest rates of cancellations, delays, mishandled luggage, and denied boardings according to the key findings.

Delta and JetBlue were recognized as the most comfortable airlines, with JetBlue taking the lead in providing an exceptional in-flight experience, including complimentary amenities like Wi-Fi, additional legroom, and free snacks and beverages.

For travelers seeking budget-friendly options, Spirit Airlines emerged as the top choice for affordability, as indicated by the study. Additionally, Spirit was recognized as the safest airline of 2024, with Alaska Airlines earning an honorable mention for safety.