With A Little Help From My Friends

After a year long hiatus, I have decided it's time to start writing again. Leaving London was incredibly difficult and although I was very excited to start my new job, I felt almost lost coming back to the US (which I realize sounds absolutely ridiculous and I am cringing even as I write it - but it's true). I spent the majority of my life in the Midwest, but I never felt like it was my home. It wasn't until two years ago when I stepped out of my very first Uber ride and onto Chalk Farm Road that I knew I was home.

While I was overseas, writing came easy; I was constantly experiencing and seeing new things. It was often hard for me to pick the subject line for a new blog post because there was always something going on. I figured this excitement would continue when I moved to San Francisco. Unfortunately, I found myself uninspired. Uprooting your life and moving to a brand new city and/or state is incredibly difficult, especially when you know absolutely no one. It has taken me about a year to get used to, but I am finally starting to feel at home in San Francisco and am once again feeling inspired to write. Let's do this.

As most of you know, I have an adorable five year old mutt who goes just about everywhere with me. When I travel, I am usually stopped by at least 5-10 people that want to know how Harper is able to sit on my lap and travel with me for free. So here is a quick guide on how to travel with your pet:

1. AIRLINE

Each airline has specific guidelines and paperwork that you need to fill out when claiming your pet as an Emotional Support Animal. I chose American Airlines because they allow you to keep your pet on your lap, where as most of the other airlines want you to keep them in a travel bag under the seat, and they are not allowed out for the duration of the flight. I am not sure how strictly this is enforced, but I didn't want to take any chances.

2. PAPERWORK

Once you pick the airline, they will ask for you to submit documentation. For American Airlines, you simply need to print off the document that is available on their website that states that you need your animal for emotional support on the flight. Have your doctor sign it and make a couple of copies for yourself.

3. BEFORE YOUR FLIGHT

Once your doctor has signed the document, you will email American Airlines with the information of your upcoming flight and attach the signed document (you will need to do this every single time you fly with your pet). They are supposed to contact you within 48 hours of your flight, if for some reason you do not hear from them, be sure to take the initiative and call them before arriving at the airport. This will make things go so much smoother.

4. DAY OF DEPARTURE

The airport can be a little overwhelming for your little one - there are a lot of people, loud noises and worst of all, a lot of standing around. Personally, I have had nothing but good experiences when it comes to TSA and Flight Attendants with Harper. They are quick to help get us through security and are always so nice and friendly. After we get through security, I will usually take Harper to the designated Animal Relief area before heading to our gate for early boarding. That's right, you get early boarding when you have an Emotional Support Animal! I highly recommend taking advantage of this as it really helps you get settled before the long flight to your final destination. When picking your seat, I have found it best to sit in front of the wing as it is less noisy. Harper is not a fan of loud noises and the times that we have had to sit behind the wing, he will shiver out of fear for a good hour or so before calming down. Whereas if we sit in front of the wing, he gets a little nervous during the initial take off, but as soon as we are in the air he is calm and relaxed.

I suggest bringing a few potty pads and poop bags in case you are unable to find a relief area for them. Unfortunately, I learned this the hard way. Also, be sure to pack a small bag of food and a few treats in case your flight gets delayed. Lastly, watch your pets water intake before the flight. I will give Harps a little bit of water before leaving for the airport, so that by the time we arrive he will be ready to go potty before the flight.

HAPPY FLYING!