Published in 2025 / Updated in 2026
Service Dog is a certified dog trained to help people with disabilities. It undergoes special training.
It has benefits in many countries around the world:
- You can move in with your pet in housing where animals are usually prohibited;
- You can take your pet with you on a plane for free, even if it is not included in the airline’s pet transportation standards. Allowed in the USA and on board some international airlines;
- You can take your pet with you on a train: in the USA and several EU countries.
A detailed and complete guide to traveling with a pet
To take advantage of travel benefits with such a dog, you need the following documents:
- Veterinary passport with the necessary vaccinations,
- Titles (if required)
- Health certificate,
- Service Dog certificate and medical justification that you are disabled and need such a dog for health reasons, certified by a doctor’s seal.
Additional requirements for travelers with service dogs in some countries
Some countries, such as Australia and New Zealand, require a government health certificate and certification from an ADI or IGDF accredited organization when importing a Service Dog into the country.
To train a dog to be a Service Dog, you need to contact an organization that has the right to carry out educational activities in relation to training assistance dogs. Such an organization must be accredited by at least the state, and ideally by Assistance Dogs International (ADI), International Guide Dog Federation (IGDF) or European Guide Dog Federation (EGDF).
ADA Requirements: Service Animals
Falsifying Service Dog status will result in penalties.
