Airline Policies & Forms (Canada)
Flying with a service dog (including psychiatric service dogs) or an emotional support dog (where permitted) can feel stressful—especially if it’s your first time. Policies vary by airline and may change without notice. This page helps you understand common timelines, paperwork requests, and what to do before you arrive at the airport.
Tip: Whenever possible, submit requests at least 48 hours before departure and arrive at the airport early. If you’re requesting pre-boarding, tell the gate agent when you arrive at the gate.
Quick definitions (Canada)
- Service dog: trained to perform disability-related tasks.
- Emotional support dog (ESD/ESA): may be accommodated only under specific conditions and may be treated differently than a service dog.
- Pets: travel under pet programs, fees/caps may apply.
Always check your airline’s latest accessibility page for route-specific requirements.
48-hour checklist (recommended)
- Submit airline forms (if required) and keep a copy (digital + printed).
- Confirm your reservation notes reflect your service dog request.
- Verify seating arrangements and floor space needs (if applicable).
- Arrive early (commonly 2 hours before departure for domestic travel).
- Notify the gate agent if you intend to pre-board.
What airlines typically verify
- Your dog’s behavior and ability to remain under control.
- Whether the dog can be safely positioned at your feet (not in the aisle).
- Documentation required for your itinerary (including destination entry rules).
If you’re traveling internationally, you may need additional destination documents beyond the airline’s forms.
Canada-only airline comparison
This table is a practical summary for common Canada-based carriers. Requirements can vary by route, codeshare, and aircraft. When in doubt, submit early and confirm directly with your airline.
| Airline | Service dogs in cabin | Emotional support dogs | Advance notice | Forms / where to submit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada |
Accepted
Service dog documentation/form may be required.
|
Limited
Only dogs may qualify; additional conditions may apply.
|
48+ hours
Submit required form(s) in advance when requested.
|
Service Dog Form: may be required at least 48 hours prior.
Source: Air Canada accessibility/service dog documentation guidance.
|
| WestJet |
Accepted
Request travel with a service dog as soon as possible.
|
Varies
May be handled differently than a service dog.
|
48+ hours
Recommended for adequate notice and seating.
|
Accessibility request: via WestJet service dog process.
Keep copies of any submissions.
|
| Porter Airlines |
Accepted
Service dogs accommodated in cabin when requirements are met.
|
Accepted (dogs)
Porter references emotional support dogs in its service animal policy.
|
48+ hours
Submit documentation and special requests in advance.
|
Email (commonly used): disabilityassistance@flyporter.com
Use the airline’s disability assistance workflow where applicable.
|
| Flair Airlines |
Accepted
Only dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities are accepted as service animals.
|
Discretionary
ESDs may be treated as pets (domestic-only courtesy) and are not recognized as service dogs.
|
48+ hours
Inform/accessibility request at least 48 hours before departure.
|
Accessibility contact: follow Flair’s service dog process.
Some itineraries (e.g., U.S.) may require additional U.S. DOT forms.
|
| Air Transat |
Accepted
Service dog form + proof of training may be requested.
|
May have form
ESD requests may require additional documentation and assessment.
|
Book early
Submit required service dog form at time of reservation.
|
Service Dog Form: requested at reservation (Air Transat accessibility page).
Keep copies for check-in.
|
| Sunwing Airlines |
Accepted
Service dogs referenced within Sunwing accessibility planning and tariff materials.
|
Limited
Tariff definitions distinguish emotional support dogs from service dogs; requirements may apply.
|
48+ hours
Tariff materials reference advance-notice timelines for services.
|
Use Sunwing special assistance process for documentation and seating.
Always confirm the current process before travel.
|
Important: If your itinerary includes the United States, some airlines may require U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) service animal forms for the U.S. portion of your journey.
Traveling in/out of Canada
International travel may involve additional entry rules, veterinary requirements, vaccination documentation, and country-specific service animal rules. Review the Canadian Transportation Agency’s guidance for travelers with disabilities and service animals when planning cross-border travel.
Recommendation: start documentation planning well ahead of departure for international itineraries.
What we help with
- Organizing airline-requested forms and letters
- Preparing documentation packets for check-in
- Helping you understand timelines (especially 48-hour requirements)
- Guidance for common carrier processes in Canada
Get Airline Forms & Letters
Start early to avoid last-minute issues and reduce the risk of delays at the airport. If you’re unsure which documents apply to your airline or itinerary, we can help you prepare a complete submission.
Footnote (edit as needed): Airline policies may change without notice. Requirements can vary by route, aircraft, and carrier discretion. TheraPetic provides documentation assistance and travel-prep guidance but cannot guarantee airline approval or boarding outcomes.