Cruising With A Service Dog....everything You Ever Wanted To Know!

[wizard-of-roz]

We are back from our 16-day Celebrity cruise to the Panama Canal – going through the canal was amazing. Henri did really well on her first cruise and next time will be a breeze. As I posted, we did (after being persistent, but nice) get the relief box moved to our balcony. Even though I was promised that the box would be accessible, it was not. No automatic doors and the thresholds to go outside were a real challenge in a wheelchair. We first spoke to Guest Services and then to the Hotel Director at the cruise critic connections gathering (also the Asst Guest Servicea Manager). They wanted my husband to take her to the box or they offered to provide a crew member to take her some of the time, but I politely explained that we were a team and that I needed to be able to take care of her myself (and that I should not be separated from her for the convenience of the ship). The box was 3x3 with bark.

 

We were stopped everywhere we went on the ship by people wanting to talk to Henri or pet her. Henri was perfectly behaved and was a great ambassador for service dogs; she was the only dog on this sailing.

 

There were no questions at all about her paperwork. Nothing was requested in the Mexican ports; in Guatemala they preformed a physical inspection (but did not ask for a fee). We were told that they did not need to inspect her in Costa Rica, but they must have changed their minds at the last minute because our cards dinged when we tried to get off the ship. The authorities looked at her from across the room and then said we were free to go. We took an excursion to the National Park in Costa Rica and to the Tarcoles River to see crocodiles. We did not get off the ship in Panama. We were going to go to old town in Cartagena, but the local authorities wanted to charge $41 to inspect Henri and wanted her to wear a muzzle so we decided to skip it. It was extremely hot and humid in all of the ports.

 

We flew home from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco on JetBlue. The flight was full and it was very tight even though we were in the bulkhead. We were very lucky to have a nice man sitting in the row with us who was willing to share some of his space with Henri (she likes to stretch out a bit and it can be hard to get her to roll into a ball if there's extra room). The pet relief area was located outside the terminal. Luckily, we had TSA pre-check – I asked and if we took the dog back out to the relief area TSA said I would have to go through the complete pat down and wheelchair check again. I asked about an escort or a way around going through security again but they said it was not possible. They also told us we would have to wait in line again (we could not go to the front of the line).

 

The TSA made us take Henry's collar and leash and vest off. We could have kept them on, but they said it would take longer for us to go through security. It turned out okay for us since my husband was with me and he could stand on one side of the scanner and I could be on the other side.

 

Here is a picture of Henri on our balcony.

 

 

Thank you so much for sharing your experiences with us. Will the ships ever learn?????? Slowly, very slowly we're showing them the right way.

 

To put the box on our veranda's is truly the best way to go!!!!!

 

TSA was NOT helpful at all and really made it more difficult for you and Henri. These boxes were supposed to make it easier for those of us who have to travel with an assistance dog, not more difficult.

 

Henri and Horton look like brother and sister.

 

I'll be on my 19 day cruise on November 16th......let's see how it goes!

 

Thank you for being such a great ambassador for all of us!!!

[Caribbean Chris]

Wonderful report on Henri's first cruise!! (Beautiful photo! She reminds me of Raylene, too.) I love hearing details of service dog cruises - we all learn from each other.

 

So glad you stood your ground on the box. Separating a service dog team is not OK, and now maybe a few more ship staff will remember that. Putting the box where it is inaccessible for a wheelchair is not OK either!

[wizard-of-roz]

Wonderful report on Henri's first cruise!! (Beautiful photo! She reminds me of Raylene, too.) I love hearing details of service dog cruises - we all learn from each other.

 

So glad you stood your ground on the box. Separating a service dog team is not OK, and now maybe a few more ship staff will remember that. Putting the box where it is inaccessible for a wheelchair is not OK either!

 

On one of my first cruises after Morey had passed away, I boarded the Star Princess. The first thing I like to do is check in with the Purser's Desk and have them tell me where the potty box is located. I asked one person, who then asked another and then another and no one seemed to know. Then, the Maintenance Engineer was called and he told the purser where it was. They started to explain where it was to me and I insisted that someone take me to it. I was asked to follow this lovely young woman who led me to deck 7, out the door, to the Promenade Deck which led to an "Officers Only" door, past a hallway, up a steep incline, over a huge door step, down another hallway, to another door, named "Crew Only" and there it was. If I were in a wheel chair, no way could I maneuver this terrain. My dog would have been forced to use the gang plank!!!!!

 

I told the lovely young woman that the ship had exactly 1/2 hour to move the potty box to my veranda, before my dog would do his business on the carpeting in any convenient lounge!!! Unfortunately, I was brought to tears [considering that I was used to having a strong mate beside me to hold me up and do my battles with me and sometimes for me!] I was alone and I had to stay strong and insist that the right thing be done for me and for my dog. I stayed strong, albeit through tear filled eyes!

 

I'm NOT in a wheel chair but for the ship to just assume that I'm able bodied is not fair to those who are in chairs and could have NEVER traversed the pathways to the box that this ship had provided for my dog.

 

Twenty minutes went by, I waited by the Purser's Desk [so I could be easily found] when they had righted their ignorant mistake! The same young woman who had showed me to the original box approached me and said, "the box has been placed on your veranda Madam, we hope you're pleased and have a pleasant cruise!" I said "thank you" and hurried to my cabin so that Horton could relieve himself and I could go to the muster drill.

 

We MUST insist that our dogs and ourselves be treated with respect and awarded the same conveniences that everyone else is. Our circumstances are unusual, I admit, but we walk or wheel with amazingly well behaved animals and should be afforded the opportunity to have an easy and restful experience as everyone else!

[wizard-of-roz]

Horton had his Vet visit yesterday. All paperwork is filled out, he had 4 immunizations [i was a wreck, no different than when my children went to the pediatrician and I couldn't watch them getting their shots!] No problem, Horton was a champ.

 

I had more paperwork for the doctor to fill out [even some for CCI!]

 

I've ordered his Virbac chews that I will cut on our electric paper cutter, here at work. I cut them into thirds. Although Horton is a big boy, his digestive system can't take too thick a chew and cutting them makes it easier and also stretches these expensive chews out a bit! He loves them! And, they're good for his teeth, gums and breath.

 

We are now that much closer to getting on the ship. My most un-favorite weather awaits us. HUMIDITY!!!!

 

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.......We, here in L.A. are finally getting some wet weather......it's exciting!

Edited October 28, 2016 by wizard-of-roz

[DUTRAVEL]

Horton had his Vet visit yesterday. All paperwork is filled out, he had 4 immunizations [i was a wreck, no different than when my children went to the pediatrician and I couldn't watch them getting their shots!] No problem, Horton was a champ.

 

I had more paperwork for the doctor to fill out [even some for CCI!]

 

We are now that much closer to getting on the ship. My most un-favorite weather awaits us. HUMIDITY!!!!

 

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.......We, here in L.A. are finally getting some wet weather......it's exciting!

 

It is a relief to get all of the paperwork taken care of! Yes, be prepared Roz - it was so hot and humid in all of the ports and through the canal. It was in the 90's every day with 90% humidity. I tired to stay outside as much as possible when we were going through the canal, but had to go inside several times to cool off in the air conditioning.

 

Maybe as more of us cruise with a service dog, things will get easier! It may take one ship at a time!

 

Dianne

[Algebralovr]

I need some opinions here. Off the topic of cruising, but on the topic of SD.

 

I'm active on a forum of rental property owners. Animals, particularly ESAs, Comfort animals and poser SDs are a real problem.

 

My local laws give me permission to require vet records for any cat or dog to be sure of rabies vaccine.

 

We are debating the merits of a statement in a lease that states: All animals, including service, support, and comfort animals, must be reported to management on form #123, within 24 hours of the animal occupying the home, with a photo ID of the animal for identification purposes and the safety of management and service technicians who may enter the building.

 

As individuals who are familiar with the issues surrounding animals, how would you feel about such a statement in the lease? Please keep in mind, none of the landlords on the forum have issue with well trained SDs, but do have issue with the untrained ESAs, often not even trained to go outside! There is no request for deposit or added rent, simply to let the LL know when to expect an animal when sending a service representative.

 

Thoughts?

[wizard-of-roz]

It is a relief to get all of the paperwork taken care of! Yes, be prepared Roz - it was so hot and humid in all of the ports and through the canal. It was in the 90's every day with 90% humidity. I tired to stay outside as much as possible when we were going through the canal, but had to go inside several times to cool off in the air conditioning.

 

Maybe as more of us cruise with a service dog, things will get easier! It may take one ship at a time!

 

Dianne

 

Let's hope so......because I'm not going to stop cruising for a while and it sure would be nice if the ships start thinking "smarter" before I arrive!

 

I'm bringing a 2x5 piece of artificial turf with me [rolled up] to lay over whatever filler they may provide. I'm also bringing some puddle pads [placed under the turf], and will place this on my veranda until the box is finally moved there.

 

I'm going to bring Horton a bed on this longer than usual journey. Hopefully, it will help him to be more comfortable.

[rangeley]

Hope the floors are easier for John's chair. Raylene slips and slides on our flooring too, especially when she's excited leading me to a microwave noise in the kitchen, going at high speed, and then has to stop and Sit At Sound. Those front paws keep sliding out from under her.

John is loving the floors!! We got a big area rug and a runner coming for the entry. That should help the boy alittle. He seems to know to go slow coming in the apt.

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

[rangeley]

We are back from our 16-day Celebrity cruise to the Panama Canal – going through the canal was amazing. Henri did really well on her first cruise and next time will be a breeze. As I posted, we did (after being persistent, but nice) get the relief box moved to our balcony. Even though I was promised that the box would be accessible, it was not. No automatic doors and the thresholds to go outside were a real challenge in a wheelchair. We first spoke to Guest Services and then to the Hotel Director at the cruise critic connections gathering (also the Asst Guest Servicea Manager). They wanted my husband to take her to the box or they offered to provide a crew member to take her some of the time, but I politely explained that we were a team and that I needed to be able to take care of her myself (and that I should not be separated from her for the convenience of the ship). The box was 3x3 with bark.

 

We were stopped everywhere we went on the ship by people wanting to talk to Henri or pet her. Henri was perfectly behaved and was a great ambassador for service dogs; she was the only dog on this sailing.

 

There were no questions at all about her paperwork. Nothing was requested in the Mexican ports; in Guatemala they preformed a physical inspection (but did not ask for a fee). We were told that they did not need to inspect her in Costa Rica, but they must have changed their minds at the last minute because our cards dinged when we tried to get off the ship. The authorities looked at her from across the room and then said we were free to go. We took an excursion to the National Park in Costa Rica and to the Tarcoles River to see crocodiles. We did not get off the ship in Panama. We were going to go to old town in Cartagena, but the local authorities wanted to charge $41 to inspect Henri and wanted her to wear a muzzle so we decided to skip it. It was extremely hot and humid in all of the ports.

 

We flew home from Fort Lauderdale to San Francisco on JetBlue. The flight was full and it was very tight even though we were in the bulkhead. We were very lucky to have a nice man sitting in the row with us who was willing to share some of his space with Henri (she likes to stretch out a bit and it can be hard to get her to roll into a ball if there's extra room). The pet relief area was located outside the terminal. Luckily, we had TSA pre-check – I asked and if we took the dog back out to the relief area TSA said I would have to go through the complete pat down and wheelchair check again. I asked about an escort or a way around going through security again but they said it was not possible. They also told us we would have to wait in line again (we could not go to the front of the line).

 

The TSA made us take Henry's collar and leash and vest off. We could have kept them on, but they said it would take longer for us to go through security. It turned out okay for us since my husband was with me and he could stand on one side of the scanner and I could be on the other side.

 

Here is a picture of Henri on our balcony.

 

Oh how cute!!!

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

[wizard-of-roz]

John is loving the floors!! We got a big area rug and a runner coming for the entry. That should help the boy alittle. He seems to know to go slow coming in the apt.

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

 

Aw, Wex, you are such a handsome dude! I remember when you first came home and looked so black and now you are so distinguished with all your gray hair!

 

I have to tell Horton "be careful, go slowly" on the shiny floors so he doesn't slip. He's got legs like Wex's, very, very long!!!!!! He likes to get his treats in the kitchen and then hi-tail to his bed in the living room. Some guys love to eat in bed!!!!!!!

Edited October 31, 2016 by wizard-of-roz

[rangeley]

Horton had his Vet visit yesterday. All paperwork is filled out, he had 4 immunizations [i was a wreck, no different than when my children went to the pediatrician and I couldn't watch them getting their shots!] No problem, Horton was a champ.

 

I had more paperwork for the doctor to fill out [even some for CCI!]

 

I've ordered his Virbac chews that I will cut on our electric paper cutter, here at work. I cut them into thirds. Although Horton is a big boy, his digestive system can't take too thick a chew and cutting them makes it easier and also stretches these expensive chews out a bit! He loves them! And, they're good for his teeth, gums and breath.

 

We are now that much closer to getting on the ship. My most un-favorite weather awaits us. HUMIDITY!!!!

 

Have a wonderful weekend everyone.......We, here in L.A. are finally getting some wet weather......it's exciting!

What size chews do you buy? I buy the large. They are a nice size for Wex.

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

[wizard-of-roz]

What size chews do you buy? I buy the large. They are a nice size for Wex.

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

 

I buy the large too but Horton can't handle some of the very thick ones so I have to cut them into thirds on the electric paper cutter. He will get diarrhea from them. Even some of the small ones can be very thick. His digestive tract can't handle them if they're too dense. It's okay because cutting them stretches them out and he loves them!!!! They're expensive but so worth it!!!!

Edited October 31, 2016 by wizard-of-roz

[DUTRAVEL]

John is loving the floors!! We got a big area rug and a runner coming for the entry. That should help the boy alittle. He seems to know to go slow coming in the apt.

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

 

Wexler is so handsome!

 

Best thing I ever did was get rid of my wall to wall carpeting - so much easier for a wheelchair. Henri does slide around some, but I also try to put area rugs where she will be jumping down, etc.

 

Dianne

[Caribbean Chris]

I need some opinions here. Off the topic of cruising, but on the topic of SD.

 

I'm active on a forum of rental property owners. Animals, particularly ESAs, Comfort animals and poser SDs are a real problem.

 

My local laws give me permission to require vet records for any cat or dog to be sure of rabies vaccine.

 

We are debating the merits of a statement in a lease that states: All animals, including service, support, and comfort animals, must be reported to management on form #123, within 24 hours of the animal occupying the home, with a photo ID of the animal for identification purposes and the safety of management and service technicians who may enter the building.

 

As individuals who are familiar with the issues surrounding animals, how would you feel about such a statement in the lease? Please keep in mind, none of the landlords on the forum have issue with well trained SDs, but do have issue with the untrained ESAs, often not even trained to go outside! There is no request for deposit or added rent, simply to let the LL know when to expect an animal when sending a service representative.

 

Thoughts?

 

There are different federal laws relating to service dog access (ADA) and to housing for people with dogs Fair Housing Act) plus state and local laws as you know. That's why there are lawyers specializing in these areas, which might be where you should go with this question.

 

But if you are asking for opinions, I'd delete the lumping in of service dogs with the others, and telling SD handlers they are required to report to management with some sort of paperwork and photo ID! I would feel you are violating the ADA, just as if you were Pizza Hut or Home Depot telling me I needed to produce my dog's documentation within five minutes of parking my car.

Edited November 1, 2016 by Caribbean Chris

[Algebralovr]

There are different federal laws relating to service dog access (ADA) and to housing for people with dogs Fair Housing Act) plus state and local laws as you know. That's why there are lawyers specializing in these areas, which might be where you should go with this question.

 

But if you are asking for opinions, I'd delete the lumping in of service dogs with the others, and telling SD handlers they are required to report to management with some sort of paperwork and photo ID! I would feel you are violating the ADA, just as if you were Pizza Hut or Home Depot telling me I needed to produce my dog's documentation within five minutes of parking my car.

Thanks for the opinion, Chris. That is one of the things we are debating.

 

The law is not clear on what a landlord can ask. It says a property owner/manager can't charge extra. Asking that a dog partner let the management know about the dog is another story.

 

Heck, my employer just passed a policy requiring me to provide proof of immunizations for Scooter.

 

Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk

[wizard-of-roz]

A legitimate Service Dog - A dog that has been trained to perform a specific task for its handler should NEVER be put in the same category as an ESA. You may ask the tenant what task the dog performs and that's it! I also ask for immunization records because if something untoward should happen I like to know that the dog is adequately vaccinated [this is not an inappropriate question.]

 

I also ask for a letter from a medical professional stating that the ESA is required.

 

It can be stated in a rental agreement that management be informed if a SD or a ESA is going to be occupying the dwelling. And, that at NO TIME will the dog be tied to any structure or left alone for any long period of time. Management reserves the right to examine the premises and intervene if they feel the animal is treated in a inhumane fashion.

 

It can also be stated that the animal should NOT interfere with the rights and privileges of others, i.e. excessive barking, howling, whining, scratching, jumping, digging or otherwise damage of the rental property, either inside or out. And, can be asked to be removed if it is deemed unsafe to others.

Edited November 1, 2016 by wizard-of-roz

[Algebralovr]

Thanks, Roz. One of the issues is animals that appear after the start of the lease.

 

Another problem is people who use terms incorrectly, as happened at my employer, although we got that one fixed.

 

Third are the people who think they can go online and buy a certificate. Those make me so mad! The lack of regulation is both a help and a hindrance!

 

Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk

[keithm]

A legitimate Service Dog - A dog that has been trained to perform a specific task for its handler should NEVER be put in the same category as an ESA. You may ask the tenant what task the dog performs and that's it! I also ask for immunization records because if something untoward should happen I like to know that the dog is adequately vaccinated [this is not an inappropriate question.]

 

I also ask for a letter from a medical professional stating that the ESA is required.

 

It can be stated in a rental agreement that management be informed if a SD or a ESA is going to be occupying the dwelling. And, that at NO TIME will the dog be tied to any structure or left alone for any long period of time. Management reserves the right to examine the premises and intervene if they feel the animal is treated in a inhumane fashion.

 

It can also be stated that the animal should NOT interfere with the rights and privileges of others, i.e. excessive barking, howling, whining, scratching, jumping, digging or otherwise damage of the rental property, either inside or out. And, can be asked to be removed if it is deemed unsafe to others.

In reference to your last statement: No service animal would do the things you listed. These animals are rigorously trained.

[Algebralovr]

In reference to your last statement: No service animal would do the things you listed. These animals are rigorously trained.

Yes, but a lot of people use the term incorrectly or fake it. You would be amazed.

 

Sent from my SM-N910P using Tapatalk

[wizard-of-roz]

In reference to your last statement: No service animal would do the things you listed. These animals are rigorously trained.

 

You are so right. My SD would NEVER do any of these poor behaviors but there's always the "fakes" who give the rest of us a bad name.

 

It still needs to be stated and written on the lease so that those who bring a dog into a rental property and claim that it is an ESA or an SD using the certificates purchased online or fake doctors notes can be called out and removed.

Edited November 1, 2016 by wizard-of-roz

[keithm]

Yes, but a lot of people use the term incorrectly or fake it. You would be amazed.

 

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Trust me I know about the fakers. We will & have booted them out of our business & I have NO problem publically shaming them. Nasty, perhaps, but I had to do it with handicap parking with my parents. People need to stand up to fraud or we just are as much to blame.

[rangeley]

What can you ask about Esa dogs? Since they are not allowed in public, what actual rights do they have?

 

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[wizard-of-roz]

What can you ask about Esa dogs? Since they are not allowed in public, what actual rights do they have?

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

 

To be allowed to live in a "NO PETS ALLOWED" apartment building; to be allowed to board an airplane and city transportation with the handler; albeit with a note from a medical professional.

[keithm]

What can you ask about Esa dogs? Since they are not allowed in public, what actual rights do they have?

 

Sent from my SM-G920V using Forums mobile app

Actually, no rights. ESA animals are NOT covered by ADA, nor should they be. This is a large area where the fakers come into play. I'm SOOOO tired of people who really need to get a life!! Sorry, but the world just does NOT orbit around you. Service animals, fine, others no.

[wizard-of-roz]

Actually, no rights. ESA animals are NOT covered by ADA, nor should they be. This is a large area where the fakers come into play. I'm SOOOO tired of people who really need to get a life!! Sorry, but the world just does NOT orbit around you. Service animals, fine, others no.

 

You are correct that the ESA dogs are NOT covered by the ADA, however, these dogs serve a remarkable purpose for people who suffer from various phobias and fears that literally and physically leave them homebound and trapped within their own mind. Some of these folks have served our country and remain dutiful members of our society and some need their dogs to be able to just face each day without becoming overwhelmed by their inner thoughts and fears.

 

It's not fair of us to judge others who may suffer with any of the above with a broad brush.

 

There will always be those who take advantage of the "system", no matter what it may entail. And, by taking advantage they make it more difficult for those of us who truly need our dogs to continue to live full lives and serve as active members of the world in which we live.

 

It's easier to be kind and show a gentle heart towards those who are less fortunate.