There's a new rule that most airlines now have--in order to fly with a service dog, you need a special 8-digit code (SVAN ID, or Special Service Request SSR code) that you get through the Open Doors Organization (then you need to tell the airline what the code is at least a couple days ahead of time so they can print it on your boarding pass). With many airlines, without this code, you won't be allowed to board your plane. 

Note: While you should definitely call your airline to get instructions on what they need for you to fly with your service dog, but the following is our understanding of what you’ll be asked to do. Again, it’s best to call the airline directly because each airline is different (and also so you’ll get the most updated information). At least with reading this article, though, you'll have some idea of what to expect.

Once You Have Called Your Airline, Here are the Steps to Get the 8-Digit Service Dog ID Code (SVAN ID):

1. Fill Out the DOT Form on the Open Doors website:
   
   • Do NOT download and print the DOT form (the Open Doors Organization does not accept mail or faxed applications...the form must be submitted through their website).
   • Here's the link: https://traveller-app.opendoorsnfp.org/home
2. Submit that Form for Approval:
   
   • The ODO will review your application and approve it if everything is in order.
   • If you trained your service dog yourself, tell that that, which is just fine. If you received your service dog from a nonprofit organization, they'll ask for the organization's phone number (then they'll call the organization to confirm that yes, the organization did the training). 
3. Receive Your 8-Digit SVAN ID:
   • After approval, you’ll receive an 8-digit Service Dog ID Number (SVAN ID).
   • Important: This ID is different from any other registration number you might already have (e.g., it’s not the 10-digit ID from usservicedogregistry.org or any other unofficial service dog registry).
4. Register Your Dog Before Your Flight:
   • Using the 8-digit ID, go online and input your flight information and the dog's ID number at least 48 hours before your flight.
   • Your dog will then be registered to fly.
5. Carry a Paper Boarding Pass:
   • The 8-digit ID code will be printed on your paper boarding pass.
   • Note: The code will not appear on electronic boarding passes, so ensure you have a printed copy.
6. Validity of the ID:
   • The ID code is valid only as long as your dog’s rabies vaccine remains current. You’ll need to renew the ID once the rabies vaccination expires, which is usually every three years (although it can be as short as every year).

Important Considerations:

• Timing: You cannot make last-minute flight changes without risking your dog being unable to fly, as registrations must be completed 48 hours in advance.
• Ease of Travel: Getting the SVAN ID is takes some work, but once you have it, and you've told the airline in advance, and it's printed on your boarding pass, then you're good to go.
• Limited Flexibility: This process can be burdensome for handlers who need to travel on short notice.

Why This Matters:

• If you don't have this code, the airline will refuse to let you board.

Our thoughts:

• The name "Open Doors Organization" is a bit misleading...in the old days, the doors were open for people with disabilities who flew with their service dog, but nowadays, you've got to jump through these hoops before any doors open for you. Our position is that we strongly oppose this new requirement for people with disabilities. Hopefully, you are not buying your airline ticket within 48 hours of your flight.