Training Programs Approve New DOT Rules for Flying with Service Dogs

For years, untrained animals on flights have posed a threat to passengers with disabilities who fly with trained service dogs. These passengers often risked being attacked (or having their service dogs attacked) by untrained dogs and other animals.

But with the new DOT rules, passengers flying with service dogs can travel safely without worrying about untrained animals on board.

This rule (updated in December 2020) defines a service animal as a dog, regardless of breed or type, that is 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. It allows airlines to recognize emotional support animals as pets, rather than service animals, and permits airlines to limit the number of service animals that one passenger can bring onboard an aircraft to two service animals

The final rule also allows airlines to require passengers with a disability who are traveling with a service animal to complete and submit to the airline a form, developed by DOT, attesting to the animal’s training and good behavior, and certifying the animal’s good health.

You can read the full ruling from the Department of Transportation by clicking the button below.