Originally Posted by
lskohn
I'd make only one modification to this excellent summary -- the owner of a service animal is well-advised to carry the documentation that shows that the animal IS a service animal. It need not disclose the owner's disability, only the animal's status (readily available from the training organization, e.g.). The airline is entitled to verify the animal's bona fides.
Don't know if it's different for airlines, but the usual variety of public accommodations (shops, restaurants, etc.) are specifically not allowed to ask for documentation that an animal is a service animal. The DOJ FAQ says:
Q: How can I tell if an animal is really a service animal and not just a pet?
A: Some, but not all, service animals wear special collars and harnesses. Some, but not all, are licensed or certified and have identification papers. If you are not certain that an animal is a service animal, you may ask the person who has the animal if it is a service animal required because of a disability. However, an individual who is going to a restaurant or theater is not likely to be carrying documentation of his or her medical condition or disability. Therefore, such documentation generally may not be required as a condition for providing service to an individual accompanied by a service animal. Although a number of states have programs to certify service animals, you may not insist on proof of state certification before permitting the service animal to accompany the person with a disability.
http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/animal.htm