Pet parents know how fun and convenient it is to take their pets on a trip with them instead of leaving them behind with a friend. However, flying with a dog requires certain rules and specifications that you need to follow.
Traveling with your dog also requires careful preparation, as you need to make the travel experience as safe and comfortable as possible for both of you.
Keep reading this article to learn more about how to fly with a dog and learn more about booking the flight, the cost, the safety, and the required paperwork.
Flying With a Dog on a Plane
If this is your first time taking your pet with you for a trip, you might be wondering, “Can I fly on a plane with a dog?” The answer is, in most cases, yes. Most of the time, your puppy can fly on a plane either in the cabin or in the cargo hold.
However, the airlines have plenty of rules and regulations that you need to follow. That’s why you should check them out before boarding to know what to expect and be able to prepare in advance and fly without any issues.
Because the airlines often change or update their policies, it’s important to stay up to date with all of them so that you and your pet don’t experience any issues when boarding the plane.
Airline policies
Generally, airlines require that your pet has a healthy certificate issued from the vet following an examination. The note should state that your dog is healthy to fly in an airplane and is up to date with all the necessary vaccinations.
Keep in mind that the certificates last only 30 days and are required for both departure and return. If you are going on an extended trip, you will need to schedule a vet visit at the place you are staying.
The airlines require a carrier of a size that aligns with the airline’s regulations. Therefore, the vet should state whether the dog will be comfortable flying in such a carrier.
The pets allowed to travel in the cabin should stay in the carrier, which you need to place underneath your seat or the seat in front of you. Aside from the restrictions regarding the carrier, airlines also have limits when it comes to pet size and weight.
Cabin and cargo area
Dogs that weigh more than 20 pounds typically have to travel in the cargo area. On the other hand, smaller dogs are mostly allowed to travel in the cabin area as long as it stays in the carrier during the flight and doesn’t cause disturbance to fellow passengers.
Some of the dog breeds allowed to stay in the cabin include:
- Pomeranian
- Maltese
- Chihuahua
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Pekingese
- Bichon Frise
Airline regulations
Breed restrictions
An important thing to mention is that every airline has different specifications regarding transporting pets via plane. Some airlines allow only dogs from a certain breed to travel, while others have restrictions regarding the destination and the number of pets traveling each flight.
Before booking a flight, check which dog breeds the airline allows to fly on the plane. Certain airlines don’t allow bully breeds and wild and fighting dogs to fly on a plane. These dog breeds include Rottweiler, Shar Pei, American Pit Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Chow Chow, and others.
Some restrict snub-nosed dogs, known as brachycephalic dogs, from traveling in the cargo hold due to their facial structure, which makes it difficult for them to breathe. These breeds include Boxers, Cane Corso, Pugs, Boston Terriers, French Bulldogs, and Mastiffs.
The number of dogs
The majority of airlines allow only a few dogs to travel on each flight, generally up to six dogs depending on the space and the type of plane.
For this reason, it is vital to contact the airline and ensure enough space for you and your dog before you make a reservation. Additionally, some airlines also restrict which area you can sit in when traveling with your dog.
Weather restrictions
The cargo area can fluctuate in temperature, which can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous for the dog. For this reason, many airlines have weather restrictions when it comes to pet travel.
An important thing to take into consideration is that airlines don’t accept dogs on planes during extreme weather temperatures when it is too hot or too cold. In this case, you need to have a backup plan.
Size and age restrictions
Generally, small dogs under 20 pounds are allowed to fly in a carrier in the main cabin. It’s also an airline policy that dogs heavier than others fly in the cargo together with all the luggage. The dogs need to be at least eight weeks old to be able to fly.
Pet carrier
No matter where your pet is traveling, the airlines also have specifications when it comes to the pet’s carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association has also issued statements of pet carrier requirements, which most airlines follow.
You will need an airline-friendly carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carriers/crates need to have a label that there is an animal staying there and have your contact information written.
On the carrier, you can also attach a photo of your dog and a small bag of food so that the personnel can feed the dog in case there is a flight delay.
The pet carriers must be durable, lightweight, and appropriate size, have a leak-proof bottom, and plenty of ventilation.
Fees
Each time your dog travels with you in the cabin, you will be charged a fee. The rates differ from one airline to another but typically vary from $95 to $125.
If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, the fees depend on the dog’s weight and destination. Some airlines have online calculators which you can use to estimate your costs.
Registration
Most airlines require you to call them in advance and inform them that you will be traveling with a dog. Some also have online registrations allowing you to make a reservation for your dog online.
When it comes to paperwork, you will need to prepare a dog license and medical and immunization records.
International flights
Aside from researching the rules and policies of the airline, it’s important to check the laws of the place you are arriving at, especially if you are going on an international flight.
This is because many places have quarantine restrictions, meaning that you will be separated from your adorable companion for most of the trip. In addition, some countries prohibit pets from flying there, while others require testing and treatment for diseases in advance.
As of right now, there are also specific restrictions regarding dogs flying to the US issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention due to the high risk for rabies.
Pet-Friendly Airlines
While traveling with a pet on a plane can be challenging, there are also pet-friendly airlines that are dedicated to making your pet’s traveling experience as enjoyable as possible. Let’s get into more detail about pet-friendly airlines in the US.
American Airlines
American Airlines is one of the biggest airlines in the world, allowing pets to fly in the cabin in a small carrier under the seat during For longer flights, the dogs fly in cargo but are properly cared for during the flights.
- Price: $125 to $200
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and service animals
Check out our guide to American Airlines’ pet policy.
JetBlue
JetBlue is another pet-friendly airline offering a pet perks program. The airline provides pet parents with a carrier bag as well as tips on how to fly with a dog. They also offer affordable rates.
- Price: From $100
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and service animals
Check out our guide to JetBlue’s pet policy.
Delta Airlines
Delta Airlines lets you travel to various destinations around the world. When it comes to flying with Delta, the passengers can fly together with their small pets in the cabin while larger dogs travel in the cargo hold that’s properly cared for.
- Price: $75 to $200
- Pets: Dogs, cats, service animals, and household birds
Check out our guide to Delta Airlines’ pet policy.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest doesn’t allow cargo transportation of dogs. However, the airline does allow small dogs to travel in the cabin in an airplane-friendly carrier. With Southwest, dogs are not allowed on international flights and flights to Hawaii.
- Price: $95
- Pets: Dogs and cats
Check out our guide to SouthWest Airlines’ pet policy.
United Airlines
United Airlines is another US airline that allows pets to travel in the cabin. However, the puppies must be at least four months old, and they should fit comfortably in their carrier.
- Price: $125
- Pets: Dogs and cats
Check out our guide to United Airlines’ pet policy.
Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines allows small dogs in the cabin for domestic flights and international flights to Mexico and the Dominican Republic. However, the airline has specifications regarding the measurement of the carrier, which the passengers need to adhere to to be able to travel with their pets.
- Price: $99
- Pets: Domesticated dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds
Spirit Airlines
Similar to numerous airline carriers throughout the United States, Spirit Airlines permits pets on board their flights, provided they fulfill the necessary criteria.
- Price: $125
- Pets: Dogs, cats, small domestic birds, small domestic rabbits and service animals
Check out our guide to Spirit Airlines’ pet policy.
Dog Travel Policies
Every airline has different policies regarding traveling with dogs and trained service animals, so we suggest checking the airline’s websites for detailed information before booking a flight.
Before getting on a plane with your adorable pet, it’s recommended to carefully read and double-check the regulations of the specific airlines that you are traveling with.
The majority of US airlines have dedicated sections on their website with specific policies announced to passengers traveling with their pets. The following are the web pages of different airlines in the US.
| Airlines in the US | Pet rules and policies |
| American Airlines | Pets − Travel information − American Airlines |
| Delta Air Lines | Pet Travel Overview | Delta Air Lines |
| United Airlines | Traveling with pets | United Airlines |
| JetBlue | Traveling with Pets | JetBlue |
| Southwest | Southwest Pet Policy |
| Alaska Airlines | Pet Travel – Alaska Airlines |
| Spirit Airlines | Does Spirit Airlines allow pets onboard? |
| Frontier Airlines | Family & Pets | Frontier Airlines |
| Allegiant | Travel Info | Flying with Pets | Allegiant® Policy |
| Hawaiian Airlines | Traveling with Animals | Hawaiian Airlines |
| Sun Country | Sun Country: Pet Policy – SeatGuru. |
| East Airlines | Sun Country: Pet Policy – SeatGuru. |
Is Flying Safe for Dogs?
Traveling with your pup can be a very fun experience. However, it is important to remember that flying is stressful for dogs, especially canines of older age and those dealing with health problems.
The reason for this is that loud noises, crowded spaces, bright lights and limited space surround them. If your dog is flying in a cargo hold, it will also be away from you, contributing to its stress.
This especially applies to larger dogs who have to travel in the cargo hold with the luggage. This experience is unpleasant for the dogs and can be very risky.
More about traveling with dogs
Before bringing your furry friend on a plane, it’s also good to consult a vet about the food, water, and exercise they will need before getting on board. You should also ask whether the puppy will need any medications and get them beforehand.
Having this in mind, traveling in the air with your dog is only recommended if you have a good reason to bring it with you. Otherwise, consider looking for other types of transportation or hiring a pet sitter, asking a family member or a friend to look after your dog while you are away.
If you decide to take your dog with you, ensure you arrive on time so you don’t have to rush. The airline agents will ask for all of the required paperwork, which is also something to take into consideration before flying.
Health risks
No type of transportation is entirely risk-free. In the same way as humans, some dogs don’t mind traveling, while others prefer to stay at home.
Therefore, it is important to make a consultation with the vet and determine whether your pup should fly on a plane. If your dog shows signs of anxiety at the airport, you probably won’t want to make your four-legged companion go through the same experience again.
Unfortunately, there have also been a few incidents of dogs getting injured and even dying on a flight, so you must be very careful and follow the professionals’ and airlines’ recommendations and restrictions.
Additional information
Moreover, pregnant and senior dogs are at higher risk, so make sure there are no health implications before flying with your puppy.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, sedation of animals traveling on air is often not recommended.
If the vet recommends it, the medical professional should determine the dosage and frequency of usage. Additionally, some airlines ask for a statement indicating that your pet is not sedated before the flight.
Tips to Make the Flight Comfortable for Your Dog
If you are moving or going on a long stay in another town or country, and you decide to bring your dog with you, it is necessary to make the traveling experience as comfortable as possible. Here is what you can do to travel safely with your pup:
- Direct flights – to minimize the stress and discomfort of your dog when traveling, look for direct flights that don’t require transfers.
- Avoid busy dates – avoid traveling during holidays or major events, as crowded spaces can make your dog feel stressed and anxious.
- Take the weather into account – weather conditions are unpredictable. Make sure to check the temperatures in the destination you are traveling to and book a flight at a time when the temperatures are not too high or too low.
- Look for a pet relief area – make sure to familiarize your dog with the carrier and the crate before you go on board, and determine whether there is a pet relief area at the airport.
Tips for Traveling With Your Dog
Plan the trip in advance
Before you go on a plane ride, make sure that you have the carrier and all the necessary equipment with you.
Check whether you have all the required paperwork in advance of the flight so that you have enough time to acquire it in case you don’t have it.
Before the flight, pack yourself on time and take your dog on a long walk. This is important because when pups are tired, they are usually much calmer.
Arrive early
The airlines usually require the passengers to arrive at the airport at least two hours before the flight.
However, when you are traveling with a pet, you might want to get there at least four hours early to familiarize your dog with the airport.
Additionally, make sure that you have enough time to prepare yourself and your dog to go through security and other airline procedures before getting on board.
Make your dog comfortable in the carrier
For pet owners of anxious canines, we recommend allowing your dog to get accustomed to the carrier. Make sure to bring it with you to places the dog likes besides when going to the vet.
Give your dog food and water
Your dog must have access to water and food before and after the flight. Feeding your dog a small meal at least four hours before flying is recommended.
Another thing to take into consideration is the pup’s bathroom needs, and visit the pet relief area before getting onto the plane.
Can Dogs Have a Seat on the Plane?
While it depends on the company, most airlines don’t allow passengers to purchase an additional seat for their dog to fly on a seat in the cabin.
However, depending on their policies and the dog breed, you might be able to have your dog fly with you in the cabin under the seat in front of you.
This will allow your pet to travel right next to you, and you won’t have to worry about your furry companion during the whole flight.
Why Book a Flight at a Pet-Friendly Airline?
Pet-friendly airlines make sure that your pet is boarded and unboarded safely and on time. For dogs traveling in cargo, these airlines take proper care of the animals and make sure they are comfortable and safe.
They only accept dogs in crates that are large enough for them to stand up, lie down and turn around without any issues.
Their employees are trained to take care of the welfare of the animals and give them a stress-free experience which is why many people opt for pet-friendly airlines.
Service Dogs
In the previous sections, we talked about airline policies and restrictions regarding traveling with dogs. These guidelines are completely different for service animals and emotional support animals.
Typically, fully-trained service dogs are allowed to fly in the main cabin at no additional charge.
However, you will need to provide proof of the dog’s training and certification and fill out the Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before the flight. Some airlines may also require proof of vaccination or a letter issued by a medical professional.
Conclusion
If you are wondering how to fly with a dog, in this article, you can find the necessary information regarding traveling with your beloved companion. Every airline has different pet policies and restrictions, so make sure to check them out carefully before booking a flight.
It’s equally important to check whether it is safe for your dog to travel with you on a plane, get the necessary equipment, and prepare the necessary paperwork in advance. Make your pet’s travel experience as comfortable as possible, and get ready to create memories together.
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