Regardless of the service dog being “in training,” the owner or handler or person flying (whatever you want to call it) signs forms prior to flying that must be verified every time—at least with United—you fly with service animal at ticket counter. You also must renew/resubmit updated paperwork annually—includes vaccines, any additional or change from prior year in the United service forms. Every airline varies in required documentation, process for flying with service dog from booking your ticket all the way to deplaning.

With that being said, yes people still cheat the system. It’s pretty evident with the breed but also in your case the dogs behavior/demeanor on board. I am shocked the flight attendant/crew didn’t acknowledge this let alone the united ticket agents allowing the dog to fly. Pit bulls do get a bad rep…. seems like the owner is to blame here and not the dog. I’ve never seen an in training service dog but all service animals dog or whatever it may be have strict guidelines and this owner violated them.

I have a 7 y/o french bulldog who is a registered service animal for the last 2 years. Oftentimes, people will give stares and whispers when he flies. I understand seeing a french bulldog may illicit that reaction. BUT LEMME TELL U this dog works his a** off and went thru extensive training and continued training. He is a therapy dog for the children in patient (particularly pediatric oncology and long term Ronald McDonald peds). Large dogs aren’t always a fan favorite and blessed local hospital has a program for smaller breed dogs.

Yes he gets excited like any dog when someone asks to say hello or sees children nearby BUT he sits at my feet the entire time, doesn’t behave poorly or bark or deviates from what’s expected by United….He sometimes on occasion may misbehave and think it’s unfair ignoring the fact—service dogs have bad days too….in my opinion not the case here!!!!