Kicker: Unusual service animals

MARY REICHARD, HOST: The Americans with Disabilities Act meant commercial airlines had to permit service animals aboard with qualifying passengers. 

Most of us think of dogs when we hear that. 

But the Department of Transportation now says you can bring a more unusual service animal on your next flight. 

Here’s a hint—

CLIP: Hello, I’m Mr. Ed.

For those of you too young to remember Mr. Ed, that’s a horse. 

EICHER: A horse, of course!

REICHARD: The DOT says airlines must consider other sorts of service animals on a case by case basis. Including horses!

But there is a catch: only miniature horses are allowed. Airlines can still refuse any animal deemed too large or heavy, dirty or dangerous. 

Banned creatures can still include all reptiles, ferrets, rodents, and spiders in the cabin. 

EICHER: Since we’re in a fictional mindset—they’re banning Charlotte? 

REICHARD: It’s The World and Everything in It.

(Photo/Creative Commons)

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