Pet parents were crestfallen last January when the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) allowed airlines to ban Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) from flying in airline passengers’ laps. With rare exceptions, only dogs performing a specific function (i.e. “service animals”) are allowed, uncrated, in the cabin.
My wife and I were among those lamenting the policy change. Neither of us are vision impaired nor do we need a canine to thump our chests at the fist sign of a diabetic coma. I was surprised to learn, however, that I have a qualifying condition that flung the skies open to our family.
Following are the highlights of our journey to certify our Lilly, the Boston terrier, as a service animal and our maiden flight together:
The Law — Under the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) a service animal is a dog, regardless of breed or type, who 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.” Unfortunately, the Americans with Disabilities Act does not recognize cats as service animals, though some have been trained to perform vital functions. A few airlines still recognize cats and dogs as ESAs with proper documentation.
Qualifying Condition — My diagnosis of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) DSM-5 300.02 (F41.1) made me eligible to bring a service animal on board a commercial flight. So far, no one has asked for documentation though I could provide it, if needed. Find other qualifying psychiatric conditions here.
Specific Training — Besides curbing Lilly’s reactivity to other dogs, she was also trained to rest calmly on my chest and drape her paws over my shoulders for extended periods. This posture significantly reduces my respiratory rate when I’m feeling anxious.
Initial Paperwork — Filled out the DOT Service Animal Transportation Form. Required fields include a health and training history, trainer contact and questions about Lilly’s temperament. We fudged a bit on the latter since she remains reactive to dogs at close range (I just pick her up before this happens). The DOT approved the application within five days and assigned Lilly’s Service Animal ID Number. This number was to be referenced for all future travel.
Reservations — We noted the reservation code and flight numbers on the email confirmation of our flight and scrolled down to find a link for “passengers needing assistance > service animals.” This link ferried us to another short DOT form on which we supplied information specific to our trip and Lilly’s Service ID number. Approval was issued within two days. A new travel form must be filled out for each trip.
Dry Run — To acclimate Lilly to airport bustle and slick flooring we took a field trip to PDX two weeks before liftoff. Lucky for her, the floors were largely carpeted (she slides on some stone flooring). Though earnestly exploring these new surroundings, she still responded readily to established behavior cues. We scouted out pet relief areas at PDX during our visit.
Fly Day — Two hours before takeoff, we gave Lilly her low-dose of short-acting psychotropic, Clonidine, which was prescribed by her behavioral vet.
Checking In — We arrived two hours before takeoff to check a single bag and to address any possible snags. Counter clerks randomly check service animal travel vouchers which we had on hand. Getting through TSA was a gymnastics floor exercise as we both juggled two carry-ons and Lilly. She got away from me once while I exhumed my laptop and placed it in its bin. No harm done though as she worked the passenger line, extending her paw in hopes of a treat. Lilly and I were directed away from the full-body scanner and through a metal detector. My hands were swabbed to test for explosives (you never know what’s tucked under those dog collars).
The Flight — Other than mild trembling as engines revved during takeoff and landing, Lilly snuggled calmly in my lap or draped over my shoulder.
Takeaways: To spare us from partial disrobing and unpacking, both Susan and I have applied for TSA Pre-check. For future flights involving a stay of one week or less, I plan to pack ONE carry-on (a padded backpack for computer and clothes). Both steps will free us to focus better on Lilly at the airport and intercept any episodes of over-stimulation. Flying first class gave Lilly extra room to stretch.
Some might say that Lilly is simply an ESA in service animal clothing. Would my heart implode in mid-flight if Lilly were not with me? Probably not. But Lilly’s presence quells my mental clatter and smoothes my breathing like morning mist kissing a placid lake.
Now that’s service.