US tightens definition of service animals allowed on planes
The government has decided that when it comes to air travel, only dogs can be service animals, and companions used for emotional support donโt count. Under the final rule, which takes effect in 30 days, a service animal is a dog trained to help a person with a disability. Airlines believed passengers abused the rule to bring a menagerie of animals on board including cats, turtles, pigs and in one case, a peacock. The rule requires airlines to treat dogs trained to help people with psychiatric issues the same as other service animals. Airlines can require that service dogs to be leashed at all times, and they can bar dogs that show aggressive behavior.