Common Challenges and How to Prepare

Unfortunately, not every airport employee is totally up to speed on ESA laws. From my experience assisting clients in tense situations, here are some potential hiccups and how to be ready: n Overzealous screening: Have vet records, letters, and paperwork accessible for officials who want extra proof. n Crowded planes: Consider sedative aids or carrier training to keep your dog calm on board. n Lost baggage: Pack vital supplies for your dog in carry-on just in case their crate gets delayed. n Language barriers: Save emergency vet contacts and boarding options at your destination in multiple languages. n Being organized and having backups can help you advocate smoothly when issues arise with borders or airlines abroad. Going the extra mile pays off for a worry-free trip.

Can I bring my emotional support dog on an international flight?

Most airlines allow emotional support dogs to fly internationally in the cabin with their owner. However, rules and requirements do vary by airline and country. It’s best to check directly with your airline well in advance.n

What paperwork is needed for an emotional support dog to fly?

At a minimum, you’ll need a letter from your mental health professional documenting your need for an emotional support animal. The letter should be on official letterhead and be signed and dated within one year of your flight date. Most airlines also require things like health records, vaccinations, rabies tags/certificates, and that the dog be properly trained.n

Can my emotional support dog fly in the cargo hold?

Most airlines will not accept emotional support animals in the cargo hold due to risks like extreme temperatures. The whole idea is for the dog to provide support to their owner during the flight in-cabin. Flying in cargo is generally not considered a reasonable accommodation.n

Can airlines deny emotional support dogs?

Yes, airlines do reserve the right to deny any animal they deem inappropriate. For example, if an animal seems aggressive, not properly house trained, or poses a direct threat. The animal must be under the owner’s control at all times. Passengers also risk being denied if paperwork requirements or other policies are not followed correctly. It’s important to thoroughly research each airline’s policies ahead of time.n

What other alternatives are there if flying internationally with my emotional support dog is too difficult?

If an emotional support dog is not allowed or practical for your specific flight, you could explore other options for travel anxiety such as relaxation techniques, prescription anxiety medication under a doctor’s guidance, recorded calming music or noise machines, travel DVDs or books, or scheduling massage therapy after long flights. While not ideal, seeking coping mechanisms is better than attempting to bend or break regulations which could compromise safety.n

Category: InternationalTravel

Hotels

Can Emotional Support Dogs Fly Internationally? Everything You Need to Know About Traveling Abroad With Your Emotional Support Animal

Emma PetExplorer, January 20, 2024February 2, 2024

Can I Fly Internationally with My Emotional Support Dog? If you’re wondering can emotional support dogs fly internationally, the short answer is yes – but there are some important things to know first. In this article, I’ll explain the requirements for traveling abroad with an emotional support animal (ESA) on…

InternationalTravel

How Much Does an International Health Certificate for Dogs Cost? Travel Requirements and Cost of an IH Certificate

Emma PetExplorer, January 20, 2024February 2, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About International Health Certificates for Dogs As dog owners, we want to take our canine companions with us wherever we go. But traveling internationally with pets requires an important document – an international health certificate for dogs. In this article, I’ll answer all your questions…