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Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

spacecoastbill
Frequent Flyer B

@mehta440 wrote:

Hi

 

We are flying first time with an ESA - small poodle. What documentation I need from my doctor or his doctor (vet) to bring with me ? Cost ? Can I keep him in my lap inside the plane? Can he walk freely (with leash) inside the airport and inside the cabin?

 

Thanks a lot,

DM


 A google search is your friend.  $25 should get you the letter you need.

Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

asdfjkl123098
Explorer C

Hello,

 

My question may have already been answered, but there were quite a few questions and threads, that I'm sure I missed it. If so, sorry.

 

I have a trained service dog for anxiety. Again, he is trained and certified and is NOT an emotional support dog. I have all the info for him, and a vest too, if asked, but my issue is me.

 

I have been diagnosed with PTSD by the VA and recieve disability pay for it. I really do not want to have to go to the VA and ask for a letter and then let everyone in the airport see and read it when I travel. Is the letter from the doctor just for those flying with emotional support dogs? What can I do? I can call to discuss or email privately if needed. 

 

Thanks in advance!

MS

Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

franktravel
Aviator B

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Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

Cocopeanut
Explorer C

The definition of Emotional Support Animal is different from Service Dog. Emotional support animals are not the fake service animal as they are indeed important for people experiencing mental health problems. This is recognized by many psychologists and mental health therapists. The differences between ESAs and service dogs are:

ESAs are more suitable for people with mild mental issues or disabilities that can be alleviated by companionship of animals. They are a new form of therapy for people afflicted with mental disorders, such as depression and PTSD. ESAs can also travel with you in the cabin by plane without extra pet fees, but would be not permitted in other public places, such as schools, hospitals and other health facilities.

For someone with severe anxiety, PTSD, or other mental illnesses, psychiatric service dogs  can provide both emotional support and timely physical assistance such as calming down your anxiety through paws pressure. Unlike ESAs, trained service dogs are widely allowed in public places including airports and cabins. 

Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

Mommat
Explorer C

My daughter is working with her doctor to get the documentation for her ESA. The doctor's office is asking for a form? Is there a form avaialble to give the doctor? Or is the only option for the doctor have to draft a letter?

 

Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

chgoflyer
Aviator A

@Mommat wrote:

My daughter is working with her doctor to get the documentation for her ESA. The doctor's office is asking for a form? Is there a form avaialble to give the doctor? Or is the only option for the doctor have to draft a letter?

 


 

Unlike some other carriers who require a specific form, Southwest asks for the following:

 

Documentation requirements to travel with an emotional support dog or cat

A Customer seeking to travel with an emotional support animal must provide to a Southwest Airlines Employee current documentation (not more than one year old on the date of travel) on letterhead from a licensed mental health professional or medical doctor who is treating the Customer's mental health-related disability. The letter must state all four items below:

  1. The Passenger has a mental or emotional disability recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  2. The Passenger needs the emotional support dog or cat as an accommodation for air travel and/or for activity at the Passenger's destination
  3. The individual providing the assessment is a licensed mental health professional or medical doctor, and the Passenger is under his or her professional care AND
  4. The date and type of mental health professional's or medical doctor's license and the state or other jurisdiction in which it was issued

 

You can find complete information here, under Emotional Support Animals:

 

 

Re: Service animals and ESA dogs

spacecoastbill
Frequent Flyer B

There are online webpages that can get you a therapist signed letter for as little as $25.

 

The ESA qualifications is as much of a joke as "medical marijuana" is.