Are Emotional Support Animals Effective on Flights?

The Rise of Emotional Support Animals on Planes

Recent years have seen a significant surge in the number of emotional support animals (ESAs) traveling on commercial flights. Airlines are increasingly accommodating a wide variety of species, ranging from traditional dogs and cats to more exotic creatures like peacocks, pigs, and ducks.

The Science of Comfort

To understand if these animals truly provide clinical relief, Science Versus spoke with Hal Herzog, a professor of anthrozoology. While there is strong evidence that petting a dog can reduce heart rate and blood pressure in the short term, the efficacy of ESAs for serious mental health conditions is debated:

• Short-term benefits: Studies show that interacting with animals can decrease stress hormones in specific contexts, such as children undergoing medical procedures.
• Lack of clinical data: There is no credible scientific evidence proving that bringing a pet on a plane helps manage anxiety or prevents panic attacks.
• The 'Blankie' Comparison: Some studies suggest that inanimate objects, like blankets, can provide comparable comfort to children as animals, casting doubt on the unique necessity of live animals.

"The evidence that some animals can reduce stress in the short term for some people is actually extremely good... But when it comes to evidence that bringing a dog, an alligator, or a spider on a plane can help someone's mental health, I have found absolutely nothing."

The Regulatory Gap

Currently, the process for registering an animal as an emotional support companion is remarkably simple. Many individuals obtain these designations by paying small fees for online psychological tests that offer limited, if any, clinical rigor. Consequently, airlines are now beginning to crack down on these policies to address cabin safety and passenger comfort.