A Comprehensive Guide to Flying with a Service Dog in Training
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, flying with your service dog in training can seem like a daunting task. But with some advance preparation and understanding of policies, you and your furry companion can feel more at ease soaring through the friendly skies. In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about flying with a service dog trainee, from requirements and paperwork to what to expect at security and onboard. By the end, your worries will be put to rest so you can both relax and enjoy your journey.
Defining a Service Dog in Training
First things first, it’s important to distinguish a service dog in training from other canines. A service dog trainee is an actively socialized dog being raised to perform disability-related tasks for an individual with a physical or mental impairment. Though not yet fully trained, a service dog in training has basic public access skills like sitting, staying, tolerating medical equipment or loud noises. The handler is actively training the dog in more advanced tasks under the tutelage of an accredited organization or trainer.
Paperwork for Flying with a Service Dog in Training
Most airlines will allow service dogs in training to fly in-cabin just like fully trained service animals, but you’ll need to present paperwork verifying the dog’s status. The golden ticket here is a Training Letter from your service dog trainer or organization. This formal letter should include your name and contact info, the dog’s identifying info, that it’s being trained for tasks related to your disability, and confirmation the trainee is covered by the ADA. Many trainers have templates they customize for each client.
I’d also recommend carrying your Service Dog Harness or Vest to assist airport staff in identifying your furry companion amid the hustle and bustle of air travel. A vest simply stating “Service Dog in Training” can help reassure any questioning eyes. And don’t forget documents proving the handler’s disability if requested, like a doctor’s note.
Calling the Airline Ahead of Time
While service dogs in training should be allowed per federal regulations, it’s always prudent to contact your specific airline in advance of your travels. Explain you’ll be bringing a service dog trainee aboard and that you have the required paperwork. This gives airline employees a heads up and allows you to address any potential concerns before arriving at the airport. Staff are usually quite helpful once they understand your situation.
As an extra step, consider emailing your training letter to airline customer service in advance of your call so it’s already on file. That way they know you’ve dotted all your I’s and crossed all your T’s before you even set foot inside the terminal. With open communication being key, you’ll start your journey feeling supported rather than stressed.
Getting Through Security With a Service Dog in Training
At security checkpoints, you and your service dog trainee should be able to pass through normally without being separated. Just be sure to have your ID and paperwork accessible for TSA agents to review if asked. And don’t forget – service dogs in training aren’t any different from fully-fledged service dogs in terms of access rights. TSA is well-versed in laws pertaining to assistance animals and aim to get travelers through the line quickly while maintaining security standards.
From my experience, I’ve found briefly explaining to security officers that my dog is a service trainee helps dissipate any lingering uncertainty. But rest assured, showing your credentials should suffice and they won’t demand your pup jump through labradors or perform trained tasks on the spot just to clear checkpoints.
Boarding the Plane with a Service Dog in Training
When it’s time to board, head straight for the gate agent or look for signs directing service animals. Show your documentation again for their records. Then make your way down the jetway and find your seat just like any other passenger. Don’t be concerned about disturbing or annoying other fliers either – you both have just as much right to comfortable and timely air travel regardless of ability. Think positive and remember you’re well within regulation bringing this future assistance dog along for the ride.
Once seated, feel free to stretch out your legs and let your trainee relax at your feet or on the empty seat beside you if there’s room. Flight attendants may offer water during the trip, but be wary of letting your pup sip from open cups to avoid potential spills. Instead, bring their own collapsible bowl or wet treats if thirsty. With any luck, your good service doggo will snooze through takeoff and landing like a champ!
What to Expect Onboard With a Service Dog in Training
As with fully trained service animals, a service dog in training must remain under your control at all times – whether sitting quietly by your side or sleeping at your feet. They should not be barking, whining or display disruptive behaviors that could interfere with the flight. If an accident occurs, notify the crew right away so it can be professionally cleaned before the next flight.
Some fellow passengers may stare or glance curiously at your furry pal, but that’s normal – especially since air travel exposure helps desensitize service dogs in training to distractions. If anyone directs questions your way about your pup’s role, feel free to briefly explain they’re learning assistance tasks. But you aren’t obligated to disclose private medical details. With any luck, seeing the calm and well-behaved service pup will help normalize animal companionship for others too in the years ahead.
While in-flight meals aren’t usually served to dogs for sanitary reasons, it’s okay to give your trainee treats from home if they behave well. Just be sure to clean up after them if any crumbs or mess results. With some positive reinforcement during air travel, service dog in training will gain invaluable experience in public access – helping pave their path to graduation day where they can officially assist you full time!
Preparing for Return Travel
The return journey home with your service pup in training should go just as smoothly with the same rules applying. I find it kind of helps mentally to rehearse arrivals too though, as some routine predictability can further ease nerves. Maybe do a quick once-over of your dog’s gear and papers the night before your flight back. That way you’ll feel fully ready when it’s time for security and boarding on the return leg.
Don’t hesitate to lean on airport staff if you have questions – their job is making transportation accessible for all. And remind yourself that millions of service animals fly annually without issue. With the proper documentation and understanding Florida has bestowed on service pups in differing stages of development, you and your trainee will make it home no problem! That’s about it for the complete lowdown on flying with a service dog in progress. Feel free to reach out if you have any other concerns along your journey.
Requirements for Flying with a Service Dog in Training
| Airline | Proof of Training | Vest/Harness | Behavioural Requirements | Cabin Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Vet letter or training school ID | Required | Calm in all situations | At handler’s feet |
| American | Vet letter and proof of training | Required | Ignore all distractions | In-cabin only |
| United | Vet letter and training plan | Required | Well-behaved at all times | Stay on floor or on handler |
| Alaska | Proof from trainer | Recommended | Respond to commands | Cabin only, no cargo |
| Southwest | Vet verification letter | Required | Calm and docile nature | On floor, not on seats |
FAQ
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Can I bring my service dog in training on a plane with me?
Yes, you’re allowed to bring your service dog that is still in training on domestic flights in the United States. The dog just needs to be housebroken and under your control at all times while flying.
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Will I need any paperwork for my service dog in training?
Basically you’ll need a letter from your doctor or trainer saying that your service dog needs to accompany you for training purposes. You may also have to show ID proving that you and the dog are a service dog team. It’s best to check with your airline beforehand about exactly what documentation they require.
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Can my service dog sit on my lap during takeoff and landing?
Unfortunately no, for safety reasons all pets – even service dogs – must be secured in a carrier under the seat during takeoff and landing. However, once the plane levels off after takeoff the service dog should be allowed to sit at your feet for the rest of the flight.
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Will my service dog need any special training to fly?
It’s a good idea to get your service dog accustomed to the noises and sensations of air travel beforehand. Expose them to the sounds of a busy airport if possible. Also work on commands like “settle” so they relax calmly at your feet on the plane. A well-trained service dog is less likely to disrupt the flight.
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What if my service dog acts up on the plane?
If your service dog in training does misbehave like barking or being too restless, the flight attendants may ask you to put them in a carrier. Try to prevent this by bringing treats and chew toys. You may also want travel calming supplements from your vet. With patience they’ll get better at flying as their training progresses.
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Do other passengers have a right to know about my service dog?
Airlines are not allowed to reveal that you have a service animal without your permission due to privacy laws. However, if someone has severe allergies it’s the kind of thing they may need to be aware of. Therefore you may choose to notify the flight crew yourself for medical reasons. Otherwise it’s up to your discretion what you share about your service dog.
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Can other people interact with my service dog without permission?
For the safety and comfort of all, it’s best if other passengers do not pet or distract your service dog in training without getting your OK first. Their job is to focus completely on you, and unnecessary interaction could undermine their training. Politely explain that the dog is still learning so any interaction could interfere with that process. Most people will understand once you tell them.
So in summary, service dogs in training generally are allowed to fly just like fully trained service dogs. However, it’s important to follow guidelines to keep them and others safe and comfortable during air travel. With proper training and documentation, flying with a service dog can go very smoothly.
On the other hand, unexpected things may occasionally come up no matter how well prepared you are. For example, a service dog may become anxious due to unfamiliar noises or smells associated with planes. So it’s wise to have backup plans ready just in case, like extra training treats or calming aids from your vet. With patients and flexibility from everyone involved, even challenges can usually be overcome.