The Paperwork You Need for Flying with Your Service Animal

📝Federal law requires airlines to accommodate service animals on domestic flights within the United States.

💉Service animals must be vaccinated against rabies, and the last vaccination date and expiration should be documented.

🐾Service animals should be properly trained to behave in public settings, without aggression or harmful behavior.

🛂Airlines may require additional forms if there are specific federal, territorial, or foreign jurisdiction regulations to comply with.

🚫Lying on the required forms is a federal crime and can result in severe consequences.

What forms are required for flying with a service animal?

—The U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form, which includes information about the handler, animal health, and training.

Are service animals allowed on all flights?

—Federal law requires airlines within the United States to accommodate service animals, with some exceptions that are listed on the airline's website.

Do service animals need vaccination records?

—Yes, service animals must be vaccinated against rabies, and the last vaccination date and expiration should be documented.

Can airlines charge a fee for bringing a service animal?

—Airlines can only charge a fee if the animal misbehaves and is treated as a pet instead of a service animal.

Are there specific rules for service animals during flights longer than 8 hours?

—Airlines may require additional forms for animals on long flights to ensure they are able to relieve themselves in a sanitary manner or not relieve themselves at all.

00:01Introduction: The importance of paperwork when traveling with a service animal.

04:47Guidelines for filling out the U.S. Department of Transportation Service Animal Air Transportation form.

09:19Understanding the requirements for animal health documentation, including vaccination records.

12:42Explaining the importance of service animal training and behavior.

13:26Clarifying what airlines can and cannot require in terms of additional forms and documentation.

16:13Highlighting the severity of lying on the required forms and the potential legal consequences.