Traci Mason, an attorney at Porter Simon, reflects on succeeding Jim Porter as the writer of a beloved law review column known for its engaging and accessible legal insights. Acknowledging the challenge of filling Porter’s shoes, Mason opts for a lighter, more approachable topic in her first article: the unusual presence of miniature horses as service animals on airplanes. She recounts the story of “Freckle Butt Fred,” a miniature horse that flew first class in 2020, highlighting how such animals are recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) but face different regulations in air travel.

Mason explains that while the ADA allows miniature horses as service animals under certain conditions, air travel is governed by the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which since 2021 restricts recognized service animals on flights to trained dogs only. Emotional support animals must now travel as pets, and airlines have discretion over other species. Though miniature horses are unlikely to be seen on planes today, Mason notes they remain important service animals on the ground, reminding readers that service and professionalism come in many forms.