Dogs are often considered family, so deciding to leave them behind, especially when traveling to places they’d love, can be difficult. Many people rely on support animals for medical reasons, making their presence essential. Road trips are straightforward, as dogs can easily join you in the car. But what about flying with your dog? What are the rules and costs involved? Will your dog have a place to relieve itself? Can your furry friend sit on your lap in the cabin? Read on to find out all you need to know about flying with your dog.
Generally, keeping your dog in the cabin is safer than putting it in the cargo hold. However, factors such as your dog’s size, weight, temperament, and available space on the plane may dictate your options, as airlines have varying policies. It’s crucial to check these rules before booking your flight. Many airlines require pets over 20 pounds to travel in the cargo hold if it is pressurized and temperature-controlled. For instance, Delta allows pets either in the cabin or via the Delta Cargo service, but many airlines have suspended pet cargo travel due to restrictions.
Regardless of whether your pet travels in the cabin or cargo, opt for direct flights when possible to reduce stress for your dog. Multiple flights increase handling and the risk of complications, like delays, cancellations, or changes. Minimizing these variables can make the journey smoother.
Space for pets in the cabin is often limited, so book early to secure a spot. Remember that pets are usually not allowed in exit rows, as these must remain clear for emergencies.
Consider the weather and time of year when choosing flights. If your pet will be in cargo during winter, fly during the day for warmth; in summer, fly early or late to avoid extreme heat.
Flying with your pet involves extra costs. United Airlines, for example, charges $125 each way, plus an additional $125 for layovers longer than four hours. An extra ticket is needed for pets traveling in the cabin, while cargo fees can be even higher.
Arrive at the airport early to give your pet a chance to exercise and visit animal relief areas, which are available at all airports. Depending on flight duration, consider withholding food and water from your pet beforehand. If using veterinarian-prescribed sedatives, ensure the timing is appropriate.
For cargo travel, pets are dropped off at a designated location hours before your flight and picked up in a specific area, separate from regular luggage collection.
Pets do not go through airport x-ray machines with luggage. At security, remove your pet from its carrier, send the empty carrier through the machine, and walk with your pet through security, returning it to the carrier afterward. Unless registered as service animals, dogs must stay in their carriers in the airport except in relief areas.
Airline policies on pet travel vary, so check with your carrier for specifics. The Federal Aviation Administration allows each airline to decide if pets can travel in the cabin, where pet kennels count as carry-on baggage, subject to size and weight restrictions.
The Department of Transportation mandates all U.S. airlines must allow service animals, defined as dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities, in the cabin without a carrier. Pets under eight weeks old are federally prohibited from flying, and some airlines, like United, require kittens and puppies to be at least 16 weeks old.
Certain airlines don’t allow pets in the cargo area or cabin, and some restrict specific breeds, like pit bulls, from cabin travel regardless of size. Kennel size rules vary, but typically, carriers must fit under seats, yet be spacious enough for pets to stand and turn around, making travel easier with smaller pets.
If your pet is elderly, sick, or fragile, reconsider flying and explore alternative transport options like road trips or train rides. Consult your veterinarian beforehand, as some breeds may struggle with travel stress.
Pets don’t have access to oxygen during emergencies, which is reserved for passengers, and there have been cases of pets dying in cargo holds. United faced criticism for mishandling a pet in an overhead bin. It’s crucial to be informed to protect your pet while traveling.
Since December 2020, emotional support animals are considered pets, with airlines no longer accepting them as service animals, which are limited to trained dogs. Policies vary, so read airline rules carefully. Emotional support animals must travel as carry-on or checked pets, while service animals need a DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form.
Ensure your pet’s ID and vaccination tags are current with up-to-date contact details, and consider microchipping for added safety. Research nearby veterinarians at your destination and save their contact info for emergencies.
Acquaint your pet with its carrier before travel, whether in cabin or cargo, ensuring comfort with being confined. Bring pre-flight health certificates, vaccination records, medications, and a travel water bowl for hydration. Familiar items like a blanket, soft toy, or chew item can offer comfort, but keep crate contents minimal for safety.
