Some service animals could get bumped from flights
Department of Transportation considering change of policy
WASHINGTON, D.C. (KYMA, KECY) - In the future, there may be no such thing as a free ride for some types of emotional-support animals.
The Department of Transportation is considering changing its policies on service animals on aircraft.
Airlines have complained about some passengers trying to get their pets on board for free by claiming they need them for emotional support. They've seen people bring on everything from rabbits to turtles to even squirrels.
Under proposed changes, only dogs would qualify as service animals. Airlines could let passengers bring other animals on board, but a hefty fee would apply.
The proposal would also force passengers to sign forms acknowledging that lying or falsifying information about their service animal qualifies as a federal offense.
At this point the changes are just a proposal. The Department of Transportation will solicit public comment before implementing any new policies regarding pets on flights.
