How to Fly with Your Service Dog on Alaska Airlines

This article was last updated on August 28, 2024.

Like all U.S. airlines, Alaska Airlines is legally obligated to let service dog owners bring their dogs into the cabin of the airline, free of charge. That includes service dogs for physical disabilities as well as psychiatric service dogs. Service dog owners have this legal right thanks to the Air Carrier Access Act, which applies to all flights to, from, and within the United States. 

The process for bringing a service dog on a flight is very different from bringing a service dog to a store or public venue. Regular pets would fly under Alaska Airlines’ pet policy. You’ll need to submit special paperwork ahead of time, which we’ll discuss in the next section. 

What to Do Before Your Flight

Before flying with your service dog on Alaska Airlines, you’ll need to complete the following steps:

1. First, book your flight with Alaska Airlines (through their website or another travel platform). 
2. Next, complete the DOT form for your service animal. Remember to do it at least 48 hours before departure.
3. Then, submit the completed DOT Service Animal Form using Alaska Airlines’ Service Animal Form Portal. You’ll have the option to get an ID number that you can use to access your DOT Service Animal Form for future flights so you don’t have to resubmit.
   • Alternatively, if you prefer not to use the portal, or if your flight is less than 48 hours before departure, you can present the form at the airport. However, we recommend submitting the form as early as possible in case Alaska Airlines spots any issues with it. 

What to Do on Travel Day 

On travel day, be sure to bring a copy of your completed DOT form with you. The counter and gate agents may ask to verify that you are traveling with your service dog, your service animal will fit within the floor space of your seat, and may also briefly assess the dog’s behavior. If it’s your first time bringing your dog through security, you might find this guide helpful. 

Pack essentials like your dog’s harness, leash, service dog ID, and any needed paperwork in a handy bag. Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time for security checks and to help your dog get used to the new surroundings. We wrote a guide on how to handle dog haters on airplanes if you run into anyone who gives you a hard time about your service dog. 

What to Do During Your Flight

Once you’re onboard the flight with your service dog, you’ll want to know Alaska Airlines’ most important rules for dogs. You can be kicked off a flight for not complying with these rules, so know them in advance and be mindful during your flight.

The most important rules are the following:

• Your service dog doesn’t have to be in a carrier but must be seated on the floor space below your seat.
• If your service dog is no larger than an infant, it’s okay for them to sit in your lap if you need them to be there in order to help with your disability. 
• As is the case anywhere you take your service dog, your dog must behave appropriately at all times. That means no incessant barking, growling, lunging at other passengers, or causing damage to the plane. 
• Service dogs are not allowed to sit in seats or on tray tables. 
• Service dogs can never be in the aisle or emergency row exits. 

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