I haven't read through the whole thread, but just wanted to comment that I have been seated next to someone with an "emotional support" animal. The passenger said that flying made her nervous so her doc gave her the precription.
I'm not one to push drugs, but isn't that what valium/xanax/klonipin is for? I had to sacrifice my leg room for a 50+ pound bulldog. Granted, he was cute, but major airlines really need to stop this practice. If there is a medication you can take for the condition, then why the dog? I would happily give up space for a dog that's really needed, but OMG get some damn klonipin.
.. but I suppose that the medication answer would require people to be *gasp* responsible pet owners and either find a friend or a place to board their dog while on vacation.