Delta Bans Pit Pulls As Support Dogs On All Its Flights

ATLANTA (AP) — Delta Airlines says it's no longer allowing passengers to fly with "pit bull type" dogs as service or support animals.

The Atlanta-based airline describes its ban announced this week as an "enhancement" to its policy on animals in passenger areas. Delta also says it's limiting travelers to a single emotional support animal per flight. The changes take effect July 10.

The airline's statement says its new ban on pit bull type dogs responds to "growing safety concerns" after several employees were bitten. But the ban is prompting a social media backlash, and figuring out exactly which dogs fall under the policy could be a challenge.

Delta describes them differently, as "Bull type dogs," on its online list of prohibited animals, which includes reptiles, spiders and goats, among others.

Earlier this month, JetBlue also made it harder for passengers to bring emotional-support animals on board flights.

Starting July 1, it will require customers to submit forms from a veterinarian vouching for the animal's fitness and vaccinations. Customers will have to tell JetBlue 48 hours in advance if they will be traveling with a support animal. And they must accept liability if the animal hurts someone or damages property.

Unlike service animals such as guide dogs, support animals need no special training. Airline pet fees are waived for support animals, and their numbers have soared. The government is considering new restrictions.

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