Service animals perform many different functions, each of which is critically important to their owners. Some dogs work with blind owners to guide them when they’re out in public, while other dogs are trained to recognize specific events such as seizures or when their owner’s blood sugar gets too low. Emotional support animals provide comfort to their owners, but under The Americans with Disabilities Act, only dogs trained to perform a specific job or task are afforded the rights of being a service animal. Visit the ADA website for more information about requirements.

While service animals enable their owners to live life to the fullest, it can be tricky to travel with a service animal in tow. To help make travel as seamless as possible, we’ve compiled a guide to stress-free travel with your service animal.

Tips For Traveling With A Service Animal

1. Have your paperwork handy. You may have to prove your service animal’s legitimacy when you’re out and about, so make sure you have a printed copy of your paperwork easily accessible. Some countries require a USDA-endorsed health certificate, so look into what you’ll need ahead of time.

2. Avoid places with an isolation period. Countries like Australia require an isolation period of 10 days for animals coming from the US, with no exceptions. Make sure you know the rules of the country you’re visiting.

3. Aim for pet-friendly accommodations where you can. Even though a service dog can accompany you in most places thanks to the ADA, picking pet-friendly locations is still a good idea to make travel smoother.

4. Know your rights. By law, taxis, limos, or ride-sharing companies must accept clients with service animals.

Top 5 Vacation Spots For Travelers With A Service Animal

1. Charleston, South Carolina

Bright, sunny, and full of southern charm, Charleston is an excellent vacation destination. You can choose from plenty of outdoor activities including their many horse-and-buggy tours through the city. There are many pet-friendly hotels and restaurants to choose from that will make your trip a breeze.

2. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is incredibly walkable and full of dogs for your service animal to socialize with. You can go for a stroll along the waterfront or drive up into the mountains for a leisurely hike. There are also plenty of dog-friendly cafés, restaurants, and parks to relax in and enjoy the city.

3. Sedona, Arizona

Sedona is another great city for hiking. The Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock has a custom welcome package for their canine guests, which includes a special menu just for pets. You can eat from pet-friendly restaurants and go sightseeing by car or on foot. If you go hiking in the desert, make sure to bring some special dog booties to protect your pup’s paws.

4. Jacksonville, Florida

Jacksonville not only has over 150 dog-friendly restaurants, but also includes nine different dog parks where your dog can socialize with other dogs. There are seven different dog-friendly beaches where you can relax in the sun. Check out Hanna Park to explore the winding trails overlooking the placid ponds and grassy knolls.

5. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid is a mountain town in the Adirondacks that is a perfect blend of scenery and tranquility. The Saranac Waterfront Lodge is very welcoming to dogs and even makes a donation to the Tri-Lakes Humane Society for each canine guest they receive. You can grab ice cream at Emma’s Lake Placid Creamery or take a trip to Mirror Lake and its dog-friendly beach.

These tips and vacation spots will help you plan a fun and stress-free vacation for you and your pup. And if you don’t have a service animal but you spot one out in public, remember the golden rule–don’t pet without permission!

Start your travel search now on the SCF Travel Website!