A Guide to flying with a dog: Airline Pet Policies

Thinking of flying with your dog? Many airlines allow dogs, but you’ll want to be prepared to make the flight as easy as possible for you and your dog. If you’re flying with your dog, always communicate with the airline in advance, ideally at the time of purchasing tickets.

Should Your Dog Fly?

flying with a dog

Before deciding to fly with your dog, you’ll want to be thoughtful about if your dog should fly. “Traveling by air can be stressful to people and to dogs,” explains Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club. He notes that the strange sounds, sights, and smells of airports and new destinations can be challenging for pets.

Preparing to Fly

Before you book your flight, it’s essential to check the airline’s specific pet travel policies. Each airline has different rules regarding the size and breed of dogs that are allowed in the cabin or as cargo.

Ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations and health checks. Many airlines require a health certificate issued by a veterinarian within a certain timeframe before traveling. This document confirms that your pet is fit for air travel.

Getting an appropriate carrier is crucial too. Your dog’s carrier should be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Familiarize your dog with the carrier ahead of time to reduce anxiety during the trip.

And don’t forget about your dog’s identification tags and microchip information. In case your pet gets lost during transit, having proper ID ensures they can be reunited with you quickly. Preparing in advance makes for a smoother journey for both you and your beloved companion.

Preparing Your Dog for Flying: Health Checklist

When preparing your dog for flying, it’s essential to prioritize their health and well-being. Start by scheduling a visit to the veterinarian. Ensure your dog is up to date on vaccinations, as many airlines require proof of vaccination before travel.

Next, discuss any possible anxiety or motion sickness issues with your vet. They may recommend calming strategies or medications suited for your pet’s specific needs. It’s also wise to have a thorough check up to confirm that your dog is fit for flying.

Don’t forget to pack a travel health kit. Include essential items like first-aid supplies, any medications, and copies of your dog’s health records for easy access during your trip. Familiarizing your pet with their travel crate ahead of time can also help ease their transition into airline travel.

Remember to keep your dog’s routine in mind. Try to maintain regular feeding and bathroom schedules while traveling to reduce stress. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring both you and your furry friend enjoy safe and enjoyable travels together.

What to Bring When Flying with Your Dog

Traveling with your dog can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to be well prepared. First and foremost, ensure you have a sturdy and comfortable travel carrier that meets airline regulations. Your dog should have enough room to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Don’t forget to pack their favorite blanket or bed; familiar smells can help ease anxiety during the flight. Include sufficient food for the trip along with portable water bowls to keep your pup hydrated throughout the journey.

It’s also wise to bring any medications your dog might need, along with a copy of their medical records. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or crossing state lines.

Put together a basic travel kit that includes poop bags, leash, muzzle (if necessary), and some toys to keep your dog entertained. By packing these essentials ahead of time, you will ensure a smoother travel experience for both you and your furry friend.

How to Prepare Your Dog for Flying

Traveling with your dog can be a fantastic adventure, but preparation is key to ensuring a smooth journey. First, consult your veterinarian. Schedule a check up and discuss any necessary vaccinations or health certificates required by airlines and destinations.

Next, familiarize your dog with their travel crate. Make it a comfortable space by adding their favorite blanket or toy. Start by letting them spend time in the crate at home, gradually increasing the duration to help ease anxiety.

Training is also crucial. Practice commands like “sit” and “stay” in different environments so they feel secure even when surrounded by new sights and sounds.

Don’t forget about hydration! Ensure your dog drinks plenty of water before the trip to keep them hydrated.

Finally, pack an essentials bag that includes food, treats, medication, and waste bags for convenience during travel.

By taking these steps, you’ll help ensure that both you and your furry friend have a safe and enjoyable flying experience.

Dogs at the Airport

Traveling with Your Dog: What to Expect at the Airport

Bringing your four-legged friend along for a trip can be an exciting adventure! However, traveling with a dog requires some preparation, especially when heading to the airport.

Before you leave home, make sure your dog is well-acclimated to their travel crate. The crate should be spacious enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Familiarize your pet with it by letting them spend time in it before the trip.

When you arrive at the airport, check in early. Airports typically have specific regulations regarding pets. Some airlines even mandate that dogs stay in their crates while on the property. Be ready to present documentation such as health certificates or vaccination records.

As you navigate through security, be prepared to remove your dog from their carrier if required. Keep a leash handy and ensure they are under control during this process.

Don’t forget the essentials! Bring water for your pup and consider packing some treats and toys to keep them comfortable during wait times. With these tips in mind, traveling with your dog can be a smooth and enjoyable experience.

travel with a dog
fly

During the Flight

Traveling with your dog can be a rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning. Before you board the plane, ensure your furry friend is comfortable in their carrier. Make sure to choose an airline that welcomes pets and check their specific pet policy for guidelines on crate size and fees.

Arrive at the airport early to navigate security without rushing. During security checks, you may need to take your dog out of their carrier; a leash is essential here for additional safety. Keep your dog calm by speaking softly and reassuring them as they go through this unfamiliar environment.

Once on the plane, it’s crucial to keep your pet in its designated carrier under the seat in front of you. Bring familiar items like blankets or toys to help ease anxiety. If your flight is long, consider bringing water and some treats for breaks during layovers or if allowed.

Always remember that patience is key. Your dog might feel apprehensive during the journey, but with love and care, you’ll make it through together.

Alaska Airlines

Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates or proof of vaccination aren’t required for dogs traveling in the cabin on Alaska Airlines, but dogs must be in good health. Dogs who appear sick or distressed can be denied access to the flight. Dogs flying cargo must have a health certificate dated within 10 days of the flight and within 30 days of the return flight.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Small dogs are permitted to fly in an approved carrier in the cabin. The dog counts as the passenger’s carry-on allotment for under-the-seat baggage. Two dogs of similar size may travel in the same carrier if the dogs are comfortable, and no body parts protrude from the carrier.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? First-class cabins can accommodate a total of three pet carriers per flight. The main cabin can accommodate eight pet carriers per flight. For international flights or flights to Hawaii, dogs are only permitted in the cabin. You can fly with two pet carriers in the main cabin if you purchase a second ticket for an adjacent seat.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned to fly cargo.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in cargo? Dogs and crates cannot weigh more than 150 pounds combined. Dogs flying cargo must be on the same flight as the ticket holder. Dogs must be comfortable in their crates and cannot require any attention or support from airline staff during the flight.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. There is a $100 fee per pet for flying in the cabin or cargo.

travel with a dog

American Airlines:

Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs traveling via cargo on American Airlines need original signed health certificates completed by a licensed veterinarian within 20 days of the flight for both the initial flight and a return trip. Health certificates aren’t required for dogs flying in the cabin.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Dogs are allowed to fly in an approved carrier under the seat on most flights, up to 11 hours and 30 minutes in length.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Depending on the plane, there’s a maximum of either five or seven pets allowed in the cabin of each flight.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? Dogs are only permitted to fly in cargo with active-duty US Military and US State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to two pets can be checked to fly cargo.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. There is a fee of $150 per carrier for dogs flying in the cabin. Fees for dogs flying cargo will vary based on destination and are confirmed at time of booking.

Delta

Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates aren’t required for dogs flying in the cabin as a carry-on on Delta. Dogs who are flying cargo need current health certificates signed by a veterinarian within 10 days of the trip.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Dogs must fit into a carrier that fits under the seat directly in front of you. The carrier must have ventilation openings on three sides for domestic flights or four sides of ventilation for international travel.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic flights. For international flights, dogs must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the United States, and at least 15 weeks when traveling to Europe.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes. The carrier for dogs must be large enough to allow the dog to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around without touching the top or sides of the crate. The carrier must comply with International Air Transport Association regulations.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. The fee for flying with a dog is $95 each way for domestic flights and $200 for international flights.

Frontier

Health and vaccine requirements: There are no health certificate requirements for flying with your dog on Frontier. However, specific destinations may require health certificates from a veterinarian.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs that are at least 8 weeks old are allowed on all domestic Frontier flights, as well as flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Yes, dogs must be able to stand, turn around, and lay down in a natural position in the soft-sided pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $99 each-way fee for flying with dogs.

Hawaiian Airlines

Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs must have health certificates from your dog’s veterinarian before traveling on Hawaiian Airlines if you’re flying between Hawaii and the U.S. Mainland. Health certificates must be dated no more than 14 days prior to the flight’s arrival. As Hawaii is the only rabies-free state in the United States, it has strict regulations for traveling with dogs. The airline recommends contacting the Hawaii Department of Agriculture before travel, for information on quarantine and vaccine requirements.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, on certain flights.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Yes, dogs are permitted on interisland flights within Hawaii, and flights between the mainland US and the state of Hawaii. The pet and carrier’s combined weight cannot be more than 25 pounds.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes, but the weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 70 pounds.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in cargo? Dogs cannot fly in cargo on most flights between April 15 and October 15th, or at any time when temperatures are below 20F or above 85F at the origin destination or connection airport. Dogs aren’t permitted to fly cargo on international flights.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $35 for flights within the state of Hawaii and $125 for flights between the state of Hawaii and the mainland United States.

JetBlue

Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs must have any needed vaccines and documentation required by your destination before flying on JetBlue. Dogs must also have ID tags and licenses.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs under 20 pounds can fly in carriers in the cabin.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? The combined weight of the dog and carrier must be no more than 20 pounds.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? No, JetBlue doesn’t fly dogs in cargo.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $125 for each flight.

Southwest Airlines

Health and vaccine requirements: Passengers must comply with any vaccination or health certificate requirements of their flight destination when flying with their dogs on Southwest.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Dogs are allowed in the cabin for domestic flights, but aren’t permitted in the cabin for any international flights or flight itineraries that include an international flight.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? In-cabin pets are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis until plane capacity for pets is reached. Capacity is six pets per flight. Dogs that display any kind of disruptive behavior can be denied boarding.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $125 per pet carrier for US Mainland flights, and $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands.

Spirit

Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates aren’t required for dogs traveling on Spirit Airlines, except for flights to the US Virgin Islands. Proof of rabies vaccination is required for dogs traveling to Puerto Rico.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Dogs that are at least 8 weeks old and weaned are permitted on domestic flights. Pet dogs aren’t allowed on international flights.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? A passenger can only bring one pet carrier onto a flight, but each carrier can have up to two dogs inside, so long as they fit appropriately. The combined weight of the dog(s) and carrier cannot be more than 40 pounds.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $125 pet fee for each flight.

United

Health and vaccine requirements:

United Airlines encourages all dog owners to get a health certificate from their veterinarian, but they’re not required for flights within the United States. Proof of rabies vaccinations and health certificates are required for dogs flying internationally.

Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs that are at least 2 months old are permitted on domestic flights. For international flights, dogs must be at least 4 months old to fly.

Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Restrictions on how many pets are allowed in the cabin depend on which specific aircraft you’ll be flying on. Some planes allow up to two pets, while others allow up to six.

Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.

Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $125 fee for each flight with dogs. An additional $125 fee applies for each layover of more than four hours for domestic flights within the United States, or for layovers more than 24 hours for international flights.

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