Home / Disasters and Accidents / Woman Slams Southwest After Service Dog Barred
Woman Slams Southwest After Service Dog Barred
27 Nov
Summary
- Disabled woman claims service dog was denied flight access.
- Southwest cited alleged dog defecation at check-in desk.
- Woman alleges airline provided no video evidence of the incident.
A disabled woman, Erinn Hoyt, has publicly criticized Southwest Airlines following an alleged incident at San Diego International Airport where her service dog was reportedly barred from a flight. Hoyt, who has multiple health conditions, claims the airline accused her dog of defecating at the check-in desk, an allegation she strongly denies, asserting the dog remained by her side. She expressed frustration over the airline's delayed response and lack of visual evidence.
Hoyt stated the airline's actions felt like a "gaslighting experience," especially after having successfully traveled with her service dog on numerous previous flights this year. Despite eventually being allowed to board with the dog in a carrier, which she noted hinders his ability to alert her to issues, she was allegedly charged $150. She is seeking a refund and the removal of any future restrictions on her service animal.
Southwest Airlines' policy permits trained service dogs, with specific requirements for their behavior and accommodation. The airline requires passengers to provide a service animal air transportation form, which Hoyt claims she submitted. The airline has stated an internal investigation is underway regarding the incident, but Hoyt has not yet received a refund.
