Freddie’s story began in February of 2019 when he was adopted from our shelter as a shy little puppy. His new pet parents soon found that with love, patience, and positive training, Freddie grew into a confident and spirited companion, ready to take on the world. Today, Freddie not only brings joy to his family, Coleman & Margarida, but also provides essential support as a Psychiatric Service Dog (PSD). His journeys have taken him from his home in Lowell, MA to their second home in Portugal! He has become a seasoned traveler across Europe, turning heads and charming everyone he meets along the way.
Traveling with Freddie is a unique experience. As his handler, Coleman, (Freddie’s dad) has ensured he’s equipped with all the documentation he needs for international travel, including a PSD ID card, TSA forms, a doctor’s letter, and his EU Pet Passport. This passport, issued by a qualified vet in Portugal, certifies Freddie’s vaccinations and health checks, making travel across the EU seamless. Despite his tiny 10-pound frame, Freddie is no stranger to extensive journeys; a typical trip from the U.S. to Portugal can last up to 16 hours, with layovers and travel through multiple airports.
His impressive discipline is on full display during these trips; Freddie, overwhelmed by the multitude of smells at pet relief stations, usually waits until the journey is over to relieve himself. His handler prepares Freddie by halving his meals and limiting water intake a few hours before they leave to keep him comfortable.
Freddie has now visited several countries, including the U.S., Portugal, Spain, France, Ireland, the Czech Republic, and Austria. Each destination has added a unique chapter to Freddie’s story. From a brief but memorable layover in Ireland to car journeys through western EU countries, Freddie has left his mark on each place—sometimes literally! A naturally curious explorer, he’s quick to familiarize himself with new surroundings, though he seems less enthused by museums and galleries, preferring to explore beaches and wooded trails.
Freddie’s first experience with flying was within the U.S. when he accompanied his handler as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA), following a letter of support from their therapist. His owner then enrolled Freddie in additional training in Portugal to meet the qualifications of a Psychiatric Service Dog. Now, Freddie rides comfortably in a sling, staying close to his handler, grounding them during the sensory overload of busy airports and bustling cities.
In preparation for his first transatlantic trip to Portugal, Freddie’s handler navigated USDA requirements and, once in Portugal, worked with a local vet to secure his EU Pet Passport. This document allows him to travel freely within the EU, though a separate PSD certification is required for him to sit in the cabin with his handler on flights. In the U.S., there is no standardized certification for PSDs; instead, handlers are able to fill out the necessary TSA forms. When venturing to eastern EU countries by air, they’ve adapted to the additional regulations, often using pet-friendly airlines where Freddie travels in the cabin for a small additional fee.
Throughout his travels, Freddie has proven to be a model of calm and good behavior. While he goes mostly unnoticed, those who do spot him often welcome him with warmth.
From sandy beaches to bustling city streets, Freddie’s presence has become a vital part of his handler’s life. Freddie may have started his journey as a timid pup from the Lowell Humane Society, but he has since become an invaluable travel companion, a world explorer, and a steadfast friend.
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