**Diary Entry A Flight to Remember**
Recently, I had to fly back to visit my parents. Since I suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder after a serious accident, I always travel with my certified assistance dog. This trained companion isnt just a pethe senses panic attacks, helps me breathe steadily, and keeps me from sinking into anxiety. Without him, I couldnt manage.
We settled quietly into our seats: me by the window, my dog lying at my feetjust as the rules allow. But the peace didnt last long.
A middle-aged woman stopped abruptly when she spotted him, her face twisted in disgust. Is this a joke? she snapped. I refuse to sit next to that filthy animal!
Hes a medically trained assistance dog, I replied calmly. Hell stay at my feet the entire flight. And hes perfectly clean.
Its revolting, she hissed. People with dogs should sit in a separate section. What if Im allergic? Put that thing in the cargo hold!
I fought back tears. A flight attendant approached. Is there an issue? she asked politely.
Yes! the woman barked. Theres a dog here. Im allergic, and I dont feel safe.
The attendant responded firmly, Madam, this is a certified assistance dog. He has every right to be here. And hes staying.
I dont care about your rules, the woman spat. He could bite! I want them both removed.
My dog was a model of disciplinecalm and focused, as trained. But my breath grew shallow, panic creeping in. Quietly, the attendant asked, Do you have documentation?
With trembling hands, I passed over his certificate and ID. She read them, then smiled. Thank you. Everythings in order. You may stay.
The woman rolled her eyes. Ridiculous. That doesnt even look like a proper assistance dog!
I assure you, he is, the attendant replied. You can either take your seat or well arrange another.
I wont move! *Shes* the one with the animal!
Then, madam, youll abide by the rulesor well have to escort you off, the attendant said, cool but unyielding.
And thensomething utterly unexpected happened, making the woman regret every word.
The captain strode over, his expression stern. Are you genuinely allergic? Can you provide medical proof?
She hesitated, muttering, No. But I shouldnt have to sit near a dog if I dont want to.
Then Im afraid youll be leaving, he said flatly. You wont fly today. And Ill personally ensure youre never booked with our airline again.
The cabin erupted in applause. Someone even shouted, Well done!
The woman screamed, threatened, sworebut no one listened. Furious yet powerless, she was escorted off.
I remained in my seat, my hand resting on my dogs warm back. He stayed serene at my feetjust as he should.
**Lesson learned:** Cruelty often backfires. And sometimes, the quietest companions teach the loudest lessons.
