If you’re traveling with a service or emotional support animal for the first time, you may wonder what you can expect from the experience. Here’s a quick rundown.
First of all, you don’t need any kind of official proof that your pet is a service animal. By law, credible verbal assurances are enough. But if you want to be safer rather than sorry, you can always bring documentation.
Most pets are allowed on board flights, excluding snakes and other reptiles, ferrets, rodents, sugar gliders, and spiders. Ultimately every airline has different rules and policies about things like quarantine and documentation, so make sure to double-check with yours.
Your pet and all its accessories will have to come through security with you. In terms of bathroom breaks, the Where to Go app can tell you where there are places your pet can relieve themselves. On the plane, your pet can be under the seat in front of you or, depending on size, on your lap. But you can’t block aisles or emergency exits.
If you have any questions or need help, the agency TSA Cares can answer your questions before your flight. Good luck!