Michael Toulmin, an 8-year-old boy from Vancouver Island, faces unique challenges due to his autism. Crowds, noise, bright lights, and changes in routine overwhelm him. Fortunately, his certified service dog, Thor, helps him regulate his behavior. However, when Michael’s family planned a trip to Mexico with WestJet, they encountered a frustrating dilemma.
The Journey Begins
The Toulmin family resides in Port Renfrew, a small community on Vancouver Island’s southwest coast. To reach Vancouver International Airport, they embarked on a journey involving a two-hour drive, a 90-minute ferry ride, and another 30 minutes by car. Their goal was to ensure Thor could accompany them on the flight.
The Uncertainty
Despite their preparations, uncertainty loomed. When Michelle Andrews, Michael’s mother, contacted WestJet weeks in advance, she received no clear answer. The airline merely stated that Thor was too big, leaving the final decision to the discretion of check-in or gate agents. Fearing disappointment after such an arduous journey, the family reluctantly left Thor at home.
A Difficult Decision
“It was a really, really hard decision for us to make,” Andrews said, her voice filled with emotion. The lack of clarity around service dog guidelines left them with no other choice. They wanted to avoid the risk of traveling all that way only to be denied access for Thor.
