Traveling With a Service Dog

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Traveling With a Service Dog

Travel is made possible for thousands of Americans thanks to the assistance of their service dog. The The U.S. Department of Transportation has made it illegal for airlines and other travel vendors to deny you access to needed special services, including your service dog. The Non Discrimination on the Basis of Disability in Air Travel 14 CFR 382 Act assures you that, with proper documentation, your service dog will be able to travel with you. With documentation and a few other considerations, you and your service dog can travel together more smoothly.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Step 1

Obtain evidence to prove your dog is a service animal rather than a pet. According to part 382, airlines can use identification cards, written medical documentation, emergency tags, presence of harnesses, or the “credible verbal assurances” of an individual with a disability. To make the approval process as simple and speedy as possible, provide as many forms of documentation as possible to the airline.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Step 2

Notify your airline, tour operator or any other travel personnel in advance of your need to have your service dog with you on your travels. In some cases, such as for dogs used for psychological or emotional support or for flights longer than eight hours, airlines must be notified at least 48 hours in advance.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Step 3

Make copies of vaccination and other shot records for your dog. Keep a copy of these records on you whenever you travel with your dog, in case of incident or an emergency.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Step 4

Pack with your dog’s needs in mind. Food, treats, a favorite toy or blanket will help keep your dog calm and provide comfort during travel. If you are traveling to places with special weather conditions, bring appropriate protective clothing, as needed, for your dog.[/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]

Step 5

Prepare your dog for traveling. Service animals are highly trained dogs with calm temperaments. However, travel can be very stressful for any dog. Limit your dog’s food and water for 24 hours before flights or extended car travel. Give your dog a bathroom break as close as possible to travel time and as often as your type of travel allows during active travel.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]