Flying to Alicante with an Assistance Dog: What You Need to Know Before You Go
Before flying to Alicante with your guide dog or assistance dog, it’s important to be aware that the terms and conditions for air travel with assistance dogs can vary between airlines. While this page offers general information on the topic, it is essential to check with your specific airline regarding their rules and policies.
Assistance Dogs and Air Travel
Definition of an assistance dog
An assistance dog, also known as a service dog, is a specially trained canine that provides support and assistance to individuals with disabilities. These dogs undergo extensive training to perform specific tasks that directly aid individuals with disabilities, and they are granted certain legal protections and access rights in public places.
Requirements for air travel with an assistance dog
For an assistance dog to be recognised as such for air travel, most airlines require the following:
- The dog was trained by an organisation accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI) or the International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF).
- You can provide relevant paperwork/certificates to prove the dog’s training.
Assessing readiness for air travel
Before deciding to travel by plane with your assistance dog, it’s essential to consider whether your dog is ready for this experience. If you have any doubts, discuss it with the organisation that provided the training.
Steps for flying with an assistance dog
- Notify your airline: To ensure a smooth journey, inform your airline that you intend to travel with an assistance dog. It is best to do this at the time of booking and no later than 48 hours before departure.
- Preparing Your Dog: To be permitted for travel on an aircraft, your dog must:
- Wear a standard identifying jacket or harness throughout the journey.
- Have a suitable harness that can be attached to your seat belt, providing effective restraint when seat belt signs are on.
- Sit on the floor at your feet and remain under your control at all times.
- Vaccinations, Microchipping, and Documentation: In addition to the above requirements, your assistance dog must meet all vaccination, microchipping, and documentation criteria as any other pet travelling by air. These requirements may vary depending on the country you are travelling from. Details can be found on our page “Pets at Alicante Airport“.
Remember
By following these guidelines and checking with your airline for their specific policies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to Alicante with your assistance dog. Remember that preparation and early communication with the airline are key to a stress-free travel experience.
Further Information
Further information can be obtained on the following pages and websites: