Traveling by car with a service dog requires some special considerations to ensure the safety and comfort of both the handler and the dog.

• Secure Your Dog: Use a dog seat belt or a travel crate to secure your dog during the journey. This not only keeps your dog safe but also prevents them from becoming a distraction while you’re driving.
• Take Regular Breaks: Stop every 2-3 hours to allow your dog to stretch, hydrate, and relieve themselves.
• Keep the Car Cool: Never leave your dog in a parked car, especially in hot weather. Even with the windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly, putting your dog at risk of heatstroke.
• Pack Essentials: Bring a portable water bowl, dog food, a leash, and any medications your dog may need.

When flying with a service dog, you will need to complete certain forms and notify the airline in advance. Here are the details:

Forms: You will need to fill out the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form. This form attests to the animal’s health, behavior, and training4. For flights that are eight hours or longer, airlines may require a DOT form attesting that the animal can either not relieve itself or can relieve itself in a sanitary manner.

Notification: You should inform your airline that you will be traveling with your service dog at least 48 hours before your trip.

Vet Records: It’s recommended to carry a copy of your dog’s vaccination records and any other relevant health information.. Some airlines may require a health certificate for your service dog.

Remember, these requirements can vary by airline, so it’s always a good idea to check with your specific airline for their service animal policies.

Passenger Support Representatives

Passenger Support Specialists (PSS) are TSA officers who have received specialized training to assist individuals with disabilities or medical conditions, and passengers who need additional screening assistance3. You can request the services of a PSS by contacting TSA Cares at least 72 hours prior to your departure.

Passenger Support | Transportation Security Administration (tsa.gov)

Airport Dog Relief Areas

Airports can be stressful environments for dogs, but with a little preparation, you can help your dog use the relief areas effectively:.

1. Familiarize: Before your trip, try to familiarize your dog with the type of surface they’ll encounter in the relief area, whether it’s grass, gravel, or artificial turf.
2. Visit before the Flight: Visit the relief area before check-in to give your dog a chance to relieve themselves before the flight.
3. Use the Command: Use your potty command to encourage your dog to go. Be patient and give your dog some time to get comfortable in the new environment.
4. Bring Supplies: Bring poop bags and cleaning wipes to clean up after your dog. Some relief areas may provide these, but it’s always a good idea to have your own.
5. Reward: Don’t forget to reward your dog for successfully using the relief area. This can help reduce stress and make the experience more positive for your dog.

Remember, every dog is different and may require different amounts of time to learn. Be patient, consistent, and always end training sessions on a positive note.

Staying in a hotel with a service dog requires some additional planning.

• Check the Hotel’s Policy: Before booking, check the hotel’s policy on service animals. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), hotels must allow service animals and cannot charge extra fees.
• Communicate Your Needs: Inform the hotel in advance that you’ll be bringing a service dog. This allows them to accommodate you appropriately, such as providing a room near an exit for easy bathroom breaks.
• Maintain Good Behavior: Ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn’t disturb other guests. Remember, a service dog is a reflection of its handler.

When traveling with a service dog, it’s important to pack all the necessary supplies.

• Food and Water: Pack enough food for the duration of your trip, plus a little extra in case of delays. Don’t forget a portable water bowl and bottled water.
• Leash and Harness: Bring an extra leash and your dog’s service vest or harness.
• Toys and Treats: These can help keep your dog entertained during long journeys or in unfamiliar environments.
• Health Records: Carry a copy of your dog’s vaccination records and any other relevant health information.

Cleaning Supplies

Accidents can happen, so it’s important to be prepared with cleaning supplies.

• Waste Bags: Always have waste bags on hand for picking up after your dog.
• Cleaning Wipes: These are useful for quick clean-ups.
• Small Bottle of Cleaning Liquid (if possible). It’s good to try to clean or sanitize the area.
• Towels: Bring a few towels for drying your dog if they get wet, or for laying down in the car or hotel room to catch loose fur.