Final answer:
The DD form 2982, which attests to an animal's health, behavior, and training, should be retained according to the specific regulations or agency requirements that apply. Airlines often require this form 48 hours before travel or at the departure gate. For precise retention periods, consult the relevant regulations or issuing authority.
Step-by-step explanation:
You've asked about how long the signed DD form 2982 should be retained in the trainer's file. While specific retention periods can vary depending on the organization or agency, generally, documentation such as the DD form 2982 related to animal health, behavior, and training is important for compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations and possibly airline policies. Airlines often require such forms to be submitted 48 hours before travel or may request them at the departure gate. However, to ensure that you are keeping the form for the appropriate amount of time, it is best to consult the particular regulations that apply to the DD form 2982 or seek guidance from the authority that issued the form or requires its submission.
For passengers with certified service animals, such as a Seeing Eye dog, providing these forms typically presents no issue as the training programs for these animals are structured to meet such regulations.