Airlines that Accept Emotional Support Dogs – A Guide to Flying with Your Service Animal

A Guide to Airlines Accepting Emotional Support Animals

If you find traveling by plane to be an anxiety-inducing experience and could benefit from the soothing company of an emotional support animal, you’re not alone. Millions of people living with mental health conditions like depression, PTSD, or generalized anxiety disorder rely on emotional support animals (ESAs) for comfort and stability. If flying is part of your routine, it’s helpful to be aware of which airlines are most accommodating of ESAs.

Understanding the Difference Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Animals

Before reviewing specific airline policies, it’s important to understand the distinction between service animals and ESAs. Service animals, such as guide dogs for the blind, are highly trained to perform tasks that mitigate a handler’s disability. They have extensive public access rights protected by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). ESAs, on the other hand, provide therapeutic benefits through companionship but are not required to have special training. They are prescribed by a mental health professional to help manage a person’s mental health condition.

While ESAs are not considered service animals, the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) requires airlines to allow properly documented ESAs into the cabin for a small fee. The animal must remain under the owner’s control at all times and cannot obstruct the aisle or take up another passenger’s seat.

Major Airlines Accepting Emotional Support Animals

Most major US carriers will transport ESAs provided all documentation requirements are met. Here are a few of the most pet-friendly options:

1. Delta: Allows one ESA per passenger in the cabin for a non-refundable fee of $125 each way. Animals must remain in a pet kennel under the seat.
2. United: Charges $125 each way for transporting ESAs in-cabin. Animals must fit on the floor at the passenger’s feet without going into the aisle.
3. American: ESAs fly free but a veterinary health form is required at least 48 hours prior to travel. Kennels are not mandatory but animals cannot be loose in the cabin.

Budget Airlines with ESA Policies

While major carriers have gotten stricter, some budget airlines aim to attract travelers needing ESA support with pet-friendly policies:

4. Allegiant: Allows one ESA per passenger at no extra charge with advanced forms provided 2 weeks prior. Animals must remain in an approved carrier at all times.
5. Frontier: Accepts ESAs with documentation submitted at least 24 hours in advance. No fees apply if kennels are used, but animals must fit on the floor.

Tips for Flying Comfortably with an Emotional Support Animal

From my experience flying frequently with an ESA, advanced preparation is key to a smooth journey. Here are some tips:

1. Consult airline policies and fees for ESAs on the carrier’s website well before booking tickets.
2. Have documentation letter from a licensed mental health professional on official letterhead no older than 12 months.
3. Download required health forms and submit to the airline at the recommended timeframe, usually 1-2 weeks ahead.
4. Consider using an approved pet carrier or travel kennel to keep animals safely contained according to seat size limits.
5. Pack a change of clothes and supplies like food, water, and cleanup bags in carry-on luggage rather than checked bags.
6. Arrive extra early at airports to allow time for check-in questions about ESA documentation.

Dealing with Pushback from Other Passengers

Sometimes the sight of an animal onboard causes other travelers anxiety of their own. Unfortunately, some have been known to complain to flight staff. However, it’s important to remember ESAs have as much right to fly as any other passenger. Here are strategies to handle objections gracefully:

1. Be prepared to briefly and politely educate skeptics about ESA laws and the animal’s role in your mental wellness.
2. Avoid confrontation and simply reiterate your animal is legally permitted according to airline policy.
3. Request a staff member resolve issues if others persist in causing problems after an initial explanation.
4. Consider bringing official ESA badges or patches for quick visual verification of your animal’s working status.
5. Stay calm and don’t argue – the goal is a relaxing flight, not a debate on disability rights!

Alternatives if Airlines Refuse ESA Transport

On rare occasions, an airline may deny boarding despite valid paperwork. In these situations:

1. Politely ask for an explanation of why the documentation is insufficient and what can be provided to remedy the situation.
2. Request the pilot or flight staff file an official complaint on your behalf for potential legal recourse later.
3. Consider booking alternative flights with a carrier known to be more accommodating of ESAs like those outlined above.
4. As a last resort, taxis, rental cars, or trains may allow ESAs where air travel does not.

With proper preparation and understanding of airline ESA policies, most trips can be anxiety-free for owners and animals alike. Don’t be afraid to educate yourself and stand up for your rights – with a little effort, flying with an emotional support animal is definitely possible and may become routine.

I hope this guide has addressed your questions and intention to find airlines that understand the importance of emotional support animals. Please let me know if any part of the process remains unclear. Wishing you smooth and stress-free travel wherever life’s journey may lead!

Airlines That Allow Emotional Support Dogs

Airline	Requirments	Fares
American Airlines	Note from mental health professional, ES dog must fit on owner’s lap	Regular fare + $125 per flight
United Airlines	Note from licensed mental health professional, ES dog must fit on owner’s lap	Regular fare + $125 per flight
Delta Airlines	Note from licensed mental health professional, ES dog must fit on owner’s lap	Regular fare + $125 per flight
Alaska Airlines	Note from licensed mental health professional or medical doctor, ES dog must fit on owner’s lap	Regular fare + $125 per flight
JetBlue	Note from licensed mental health professional, ES dog must fit on owner’s lap in cabin	Regular fare + $100-175 per flight depending on route

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow emotional support dogs?

   Basically, all major US airlines will let you bring an emotional support dog on the plane. This includes Delta, American, United, and Southwest. The dog has to be well-behaved and you need a letter from your doctor or mental health professional saying you need the dog for emotional support.

2. Do I need special paperwork for an emotional support dog?

   Yup, you’ll need a document from your doctor or therapist saying your dog provides emotional support. This is called an “emotional support animal letter.” Without this, the airline may not let your pup onboard. Don’t forget to also check if there are any other paperwork rules for your specific airline.

   

3. Is there a size limit for emotional support dogs?

   Kinda. While most airlines don’t have strict size limits, the dog has to be able to sit quietly at your feet without blocking the aisle or hanging into other passenger areas. So a Great Dane might be too big. Also, some restrictions may apply if you have a very large dog. It’s always best to check airline policies for your pup’s specific breed.

4. Do emotional support dogs fly free?

   For the most part, yes – your dog should be able to fly in the cabin with you at no extra cost. The airline can’t charge you a pet fee since it’s an ESA. However, you may have to buy an extra plane ticket if your buddy won’t sit quietly under the seat. And check baggage fees still apply if you need to check the carrier. But basically, emotional support dogs fly free.

5. What’s the difference between a service dog and support dog?

   The main difference is that a service dog is specially trained to perform important tasks while an emotional support animal doesn’t need specific training. Service dogs help with things like guiding the blind, detecting seizures, or picking up dropped items for those with disabilities. Support animals just provide comfort to those with certain mental health issues. Service dogs have more public access rights too.

6. Can airlines deny emotional support dogs?

   Although discrimination is illegal, airlines can reject emotional support animals in some cases. For instance, if the dog seems aggressive or isn’t housebroken. The animal must also be able to remain under control in public. Additionally, airlines aren’t required to transport exotic animals or those over a certain size. So I guess it’s possible, but the bar is pretty high to deny a well-behaved ESA.

   

7. Do I need a service dog vest for my emotional support dog?

   Not necessarily. While a vest can help identify your dog as an ESA, it isn’t legally required since support animals don’t have public access rights like service dogs. However, airlines may give dogs without identifiable vests a tougher time getting onboard. Therefore, a vest proclaiming “emotional support animal” is generally a good idea so there are no mix-ups or hassles at the airport.

8. Anything else I should know about traveling by plane with my dog?

   A few other tips – make sure your dog is well-socialized and accustomed to stressful situations before flying. Bring plenty of water, try to book direct flights to avoid layovers, and check if you need health records. You may also want to bring the dog’s favorite toy or blanket to make them more comfortable. Most importantly, practice good manners and obey airline staff instructions so you dont get escorted off the flight before takeoff! Good luck and happy travels.