Air travel with pets has become increasingly common, with more people choosing to bring their furry companions along on vacations or when relocating. However, traveling with animals also comes with additional protocols and regulations to ensure the safety and health of all passengers. One question many pet owners have is whether dogs get scanned at airport security checkpoints. Here is an in-depth look at the process and requirements for dogs going through airport security.
Airport Security Screening Basics
Before looking specifically at dogs, it’s helpful to understand the general airport security screening process for all passengers. In the United States, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) oversees all airport security measures. Here’s a quick overview of the standard screening protocols:
- Passengers must show identification and boarding passes to enter the security line.
- Carry-on bags are sent through x-ray machines to scan for prohibited items.
- Passengers walk through metal detectors or advanced imaging scanners.
- Random passengers may be selected for additional screening, including pat downs and bag searches.
- After clearing security, passengers can proceed to their gate.
The key goals are to identify and intercept any weapons, explosives or other dangerous/restricted objects that could threaten passenger safety while onboard an aircraft. Technology like x-ray machines and advanced imaging scanners allow TSA agents to visually screen bags, clothing and people passing through checkpoints.
Screening Procedures for Dogs
So how does the process work for dogs? Here are the typical screening protocols:
- Leashes: Dogs must be on a leash or in a pet carrier while in the security line and checkpoint. TSA provides guidance on leash requirements.
- Removing collars/harnesses: Metal buckles and hardware can set off the detectors, so collars and harnesses must be taken off and placed directly on the x-ray belt.
- Owners carry dogs through metal detectors: Rather than walking through themselves, pets are carried by their owners through the metal detectors.
- Additional screening if alarms sound: If the alarm sounds, TSA will inspect the dog and do additional screening, including a pat down.
- No advanced imaging scanners: Pets will not go through the advanced imaging scanners used to screen passengers.
The key points are that dogs are carried through metal detectors, do not go through advanced scanners, but may receive additional screening if alarms sound. Owners must maintain control via a leash or pet carrier at all times.
Why Don’t Dogs Go Through X-Ray or Advanced Imaging?
While carry-on bags routinely go through x-ray scanners, dogs are not subjected to this screening technology. There are a few reasons why:
- Health concerns from radiation exposure
- Difficulty screening moving animals
- X-rays intended for inanimate objects, not living beings
- Advanced imaging scanners calibrate for humans, not animals
Subjecting a live dog to an x-ray machine could pose health risks from radiation exposure. Advanced imaging scanners use either millimeter wave or backscatter x-ray technology calibrated for scanning human tissue and anatomy. Using these on live pets could yield unclear or misleading images and again raises health concerns. The TSA protocol is meant to balance safety and security with the well-being of animals.
What About Service Animals?
Service animals who assist passengers with disabilities receive some exceptions to the standard screening procedures. Per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are not considered “pets” and have access rights. Here are some key differences in how service dogs are treated at airport security versus pets:
- Do not need to be removed from leashes or harnesses
- May walk through metal detector if owner requests
- RECEIVE less screening (e.g. pat downs)
- Handlers cannot be forced to undergo additional screening because of service dog
However, service animals are still subject to visual inspection and additional screening if the TSA agent determines it is necessary. As with pets, service dogs will not go through x-ray conveyor belts or advanced imaging portals. Their handlers are responsible for controlling them during the screening process.
Requirements for Service Dogs at Checkpoints
To be cleared through security, service dogs must meet the following criteria:
- Harness/vest identifying it as a service animal
- Remain under handler’s control at all times
- Handler provides TSA with appropriate identification
With proper identification and harness, service animals receive expedited screening while still undergoing visual inspections. However, their training often makes them more accustomed to the security process.
Screening Process for Other Animals
Pets and service animals make up the majority of live animals traveling through airports, but other categories can also fly with proper handling. Here is an overview of how some other common airport animals are screened:
Emotional Support Animals
- No required harness/vests
- Undergo same screening as pets
- Travel within cabin must be approved by airline guidelines
Commercial Animals
- Includes dogs trained for security, drug/explosive detection
- May undergo alternate screening at owner’s discretion
- Must meet airline specifications for transport
Non-Service Working Animals
- Police dogs, military working dogs, SAR dogs
- Case-by-case screening based on mission
- Generally undergo expedited screening
The key is that any animal traveling through a commercial airport must adhere to TSA guidelines, even if they receive adapted screening based on their designation and purpose.
Factors That May Lead to Additional Screening
While most dogs breeze through airport security with minimal screening, there are some scenarios where TSA may conduct additional inspections. Common reasons include:
- Alarm sounds when going through metal detector
- Odd behavior or reactions from dog
- Agent unable to visually clear loose items, pockets, accessories
- Unclear identification of dog’s status (service, support, pet, etc)
- Handler requests alternate screening procedures
Just like with human passengers, any anomalies or concerns during standard screening typically result in further inspection. However, these are minimally invasive and avoid subjecting dogs to advanced technology.
What About International Flights?
For international flights departing from the U.S., the same TSA screening protocols apply. However, arriving international travelers face screening by Customs rather than TSA. Requirements vary by country, but some key differences include:
- Stricter identification and vaccination requirements for pets
- Animals may undergo screening in luggage compartments
- Leashed pets may walk through metal detectors themselves
- More frequent use of pat downs and visual inspections
In summary, the U.S. aims for expedited screening of pets and service animals, while other nations may subject arriving animals to more rigorous security protocols. Travelers should research specifics for their destination country.
Preparing Your Dog for Airport Security
To make the airport security process smooth for you and your dog, here are some tips for preparation:
- Ensure collar/harness remove easily
- Practice going through metal detector entryways
- Use a leash 6-feet or shorter
- Have proper identification documents for pet
- Consider a travel vest identifying pet status
- Remain calm – dogs sense owners’ stress!
With some practice and the right gear, dogs can breeze through security checkpoints without anxiety for them or their owners. Proper handling helps keep the process efficient and minimally invasive.
Key Takeaways
To wrap up, here are the key facts on how dogs are screened at airport security checkpoints:
- Carried through metal detectors by owners
- Do not undergo x-ray or advanced imaging
- May receive additional visual screening or light pat down
- Must be leashed or in pet carrier
- Collars and harnesses removed for screening
While not subjected to the same level of screening as human passengers, dogs do have to adhere to TSA protocols for safety and security. Proper handling and preparation can make the process smooth and stress-free when traveling with your furry companions.
Conclusion
Airport security screening provides a vital function, but can also be a hassle and cause anxiety for both passengers and pets. By understanding the specific procedures and requirements for clearing security checkpoints with dogs, owners can take steps to minimize stress and delays. While pets will not go through advanced technology like x-ray machines or imaging scanners, they may still need to undergo light physical inspections, pat downs and visual clearance. Proper identification, leashes, collars and harness removal help facilitate this process. With the right preparation and handling, dogs can breeze through airport security screening in most cases without incident on their way to adventures with their loved ones.