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Pegasus Airlines Pet Travel

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FAQ about Pegasus Airlines pet policy

What types of animals are permitted in the cabin of the aircraft? Cats, dogs, and household birds are allowed in the cabin on domestic flights, but only cats and dogs are allowed on international flights.

What are the size and weight restrictions for animals allowed in the cabin? The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8 kg (17 lbs).

What are the specifications for in-cabin pet carriers, including dimensions and materials? The size of the in-cabin pet carrier must not exceed 115 cm in the sum of three dimensions: 55х32х32 cm.

What is the pricing structure for bringing a pet on board, and are there any additional fees or charges associated with it? Pet transportation on Pegasus flights is offered as a Special Service for an additional fee. The fee for pets in the cabin is 450 TRY.

Is there a limit to the number of pets allowed on a single flight? A maximum of two pets are allowed per carrier.

Are there breed restrictions or specific health requirements for pets traveling in the cabin or cargo hold? Wild, predatory, fighting dogs and birds are not allowed to be transported. Kangal dogs can only be transported up to the age of six months. Pets must be healthy, non-threatening, clean, and free of odor to qualify for travel.

What documentation or health certificates are necessary for traveling with a pet? A certificate of good health is required, and your veterinarian will be certifying that your pet is healthy enough to travel and is free of diseases communicable to humans.

Pegasus Airlines Pet Restrictions & Fees

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Pegasus Airlines Pet Policy

If you're planning to travel with your furry friend, it's important to know the pet policy of the airline you're flying with. Pegasus Airlines understands the importance of keeping your pet safe and comfortable during the journey, and they have specific guidelines in place to ensure a smooth travel experience for both you and your pet.

To book your pet's spot on board, you should call the Pegasus Call Center at 0888-228-12-12 as soon as your travel plans are confirmed. This will allow you to secure a reservation for your pet and ensure that there is space available for them on the flight.

In the cabin, Pegasus Airlines allows cats, dogs, and household birds to travel with their owners. The combined weight of the pet and carrier should not exceed 17 lbs (8 kg). It's important to note that pets must be healthy, non-threatening, clean, and free of odor to qualify for travel in the cabin. There is a fee of 60 TRY for pets traveling in the cabin.

Guidance, Tips, & info on Airlines and Airports

• Go to our guide to global airlines to find information on any other commercial airline.
• Peruse the Pegasus Airlines PC baggage fees and restrictions page to learn what luggage policies and fees are imposed.
• Check out where you can fly direct to on Pegasus if you live near one of their gateway cities.
• Get insights and learn the lingo on airline cabin configurations and seating , while understanding the economics and rationale why those airplane seats seem so small.
• Get up-to-date live info for Pegasus 's flight status anywhere in the world.
• For more detailed information, including flight check-in, baggage policies, corporate information, and more, visit our guide to Pegasus Airlines (PC)

If the combined weight of the pet and carrier exceeds 17 lbs (8 kg), pets can be transported in the ventilated cargo compartment of the aircraft. Medium-sized pets weighing between 17-33 lbs (8-15 kg) are considered medium, while pets weighing over 33 lbs are considered large. Just like in the cabin, pets must meet the same health and cleanliness requirements. The fee for transporting medium pets as checked baggage is 120 TRY, while the fee for large pets is 180 TRY.

For both cabin and checked baggage travel, there are specific requirements for carriers. Carriers must not exceed 21" x 15" x 8" (55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm) in size. The carrier must have proper ventilation on three sides, be made of easily portable material, and have enough room for the animal to move around comfortably. It must also be clean, disinfected, and sterilized. In addition, carriers must have locks made of iron that are strong and secured.

It's important to note that Pegasus Airlines has certain restrictions and limitations on the types of pets allowed on their flights. Wild, predatory, and fighter dogs and birds are not permitted. Kangal dogs are only allowed until they are 6 months old. Additionally, specific breeds such as American Pit Bull, American Staffordshire Terrier, Boxer, Bulldog, Caucasian, Chow, Doberman, Dogo Argentinos, Fila Brazileiro, Japanese Tosa, Mastiff, Mastino Napoletano, Pit Bull Terrier, Presa Canario, and Rottweiler are not allowed to fly with Pegasus.

Keep in mind that air carriers can change these policies at any time, so you should always check directly with Pegasus Airlines before you book for the most accurate and up-to-date information. For detailed information about Pegasus Airlines, including flight check-in, baggage policies, corporate information, and more, you can visit the Pegasus Airlines Guide .

Do you need to track your Pegasus flight? Get real-time flight status here .

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Please note that luggage space onboard Pegasus vans are limited. You will be permitted only one “carry-on” size luggage (16″x16″x12″) and up to one set of skis or a snowboard per passenger. If you are traveling with bulky items, large luggage, or any other item that cannot be comfortably brought on your lap, we strongly suggest using the Bustang West Line to better fit your needs.

Pegasus passengers board at street level to the rear of the Union Station Train Hall. The stop is on Wewatta Street, just west of 17th St.

While food and beverages are allowed onboard Pegasus vans, no alcohol or any food or beverage containing drugs (i.e. ‘spiked’ beverages, edible THC products, etc.) are allowed onboard and may not be consumed while riding Pegasus.

Smoking and vaping of any kind are not allowed on Pegasus. Any passengers openly carrying any drug paraphernalia will not be permitted to board or will be asked to exit the van.

With the exception of on-duty law enforcement officers, weapons are not allowed on Pegasus vehicles.

As per part 37.167(d) of the US Title Code 49 subsection g, service animals are allowed onboard Pegasus vans, with the understanding that passengers must always disclose the presence of a service animal to the operator, prior to boarding the bus. Failure to disclose this information may be grounds for removal from the coach. Pets are not permitted on any Pegasus van.

Emotional support animals and emotional therapy dogs will only be allowed on Pegasus vans if they are contained within a pet carrier for the entire duration of the trip. The animal may not be removed from the carrier while it is on the coach. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger, or must fit in the passenger’s lap. The carrier may not be placed on the adjacent seat or be placed in a way that might block the aisle of the coach.

If an emotional support animal is not contained within a carrier, as described, it will not be allowed on the bus. Animals will not be stowed in luggage areas under any circumstances.

An operator will be given the ability to remove or exclude the boarding of an animal if it is a direct threat to the health or safety of others, if it is not housebroken, or if it is not controllable by the handler. Any animals classified as reptiles, rodents, or arachnids, are expressly prohibited from boarding Pegasus vans under any and all circumstances.

Bustang and Pegasus take pride in partnering with local agencies across the state, and we have easy connections with many local agencies, including Eagle County Transit (ECO Transit), Vail Transportation, and Denver RTD. Bustang and Pegasus also connect with Amtrak and Greyhound stations. The appropriate fares will be required for all non-Bustang and non-Pegasus services.

Reservations can be made in advance online and are tied to the day and time of travel. Reservations can be made up to 20 minutes before the trip departure time. All reservations are made online and can be purchased here.

Please note that tickets purchased in the Bustang mobile ticketing app does not transfer to Pegasus trips.

Food and non-alcoholic beverages may be eaten onboard Pegasus. We do ask that you avoid eating soups or other items with sauces that may spill on the seats. Please be sure to throw away your garbage when exiting the coach, and be mindful that you will be sharing a smaller space than a typical coach with passengers.

For all lost item inquiries, please contact our customer service team at 1.800.900.3011. Please provide as much detail as possible so we may identify and return your item. Lost items are kept for up to 30 days. We do not send items out with our operators to return, so all items must be claimed at our base in Golden, Colorado. A valid photo-ID will be required for all item pick up. If you are unable to come to our Golden office, you may send us a self-addressed and postage paid package and we will send the item back to you.

Every seat on our Pegasus vans have seatbelts that can be used to secure a car seat.

Please note that luggage space onboard Pegasus is limited – if you have bulky items or luggage, using the Bustang West Line service will be a better fit for your needs.

Children under the age of 16 will not be permitted to travel on Pegasus alone. All children ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older.

Each van is entirely ADA accessible and has a standard securement area with a rear-loading wheelchair lift. Each van will be equipped with automatic stop announcements as well as visual stop notifications for all passengers – until that time, all stops will be announced by the operator. Service animals are welcome onboard Pegasus vans.

Each Pegasus van is equipped with bike racks, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and USB ports. Each vehicle is entirely ADA accessible and has one standard securement area with a rear-loading wheelchair lift. Bike transportation is currently unavailable on Pegasus.

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TSA offers tips for traveling with small pets through the security checkpoint this holiday season

DENVER - With the holiday travel period upon us, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is expecting to see a marked increase in the number of pets brought to the security checkpoint at Denver International Airport (DEN). Traveling through the security checkpoint with your pet can be easy when you know what to expect.

“TSA recognizes that for many pet owners, their animals are an extension of their family and they want to travel together,” said TSA Deputy Federal Security Director for Colorado Anne Cross “Becoming familiar with the screening procedures and how to clear security quickly and easily is the first step to embarking on a great trip with your pet.”

In the past few weeks, TSA has discovered two pets during the X-ray screening process. The first was a cat who had been placed in a piece of checked luggage at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. The second incident involved a dog who was screened at the security checkpoint at Dane County Regional Airport in Madison, Wisconsin. In both cases, the pets were unharmed, but should not have been screened through an X-ray unit.

Small pets should travel in the cabin of the aircraft with their owners. TSA will screen pets via the security checkpoint. Below is what pet owners can expect:

• All pets should be brought to the security checkpoint in a hand-held travel carrier. Remove the pet from the carrier just prior to the beginning of the screening process.
• Place the empty travel carrier so it can be x-rayed.
• Never place a pet in the x-ray tunnel. The x-ray at the security checkpoint is used to screen passengers’ personal property and carry-on luggage only.
• If possible, carry the pet during the screening process. Alternately, a pet can walk through the screening process if the owner has the pet on a leash.
• A TSA officer will give the pet owner’s hands an explosive trace detection swab to ensure there is no explosive residue on the owner’s hands.
• Once the screening process is complete, owners should return the pet to the travel carrier at the re-composure area away from the security checkpoint. This location helps ensure the safety of the pet as well as other passengers.

Other helpful travel tips to make your trip thru security as easy as possible include:

• Acclimate the pet to the process of traveling by familiarizing it with the travel carrier in the days leading up to the trip. This familiarization will help ensure the pet is more relaxed as it travels through the security process and the airport.
•  Be on the lookout for “working” K9s and handlers at the airport. Areas where it is common to see a working K9 at airports may include a security checkpoint or in the terminal concourse. If you encounter a working canine, please be screened at an alternate checkpoint.
• Know the temperament of your pet and ensure that you can maintain control of it in a busy and potentially crowded transportation environment.
• Familiarize yourself with the pet relief areas at DEN. There are multiple locations available.
• ✔ Jeppesen Terminal, Level 2 on the northwest side (pre-security)
• ✔ A Gates, Level 2, near the U.S. Mail drop
• ✔ B Gates, Level 2, near the U.S. Mail drop
• ✔ C Gates, Level 2, near the U.S. Mail drop

Below are additional tips for traveling with pets provided by Foothills Animal Shelter in Golden, Colorado.

• Ensure your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations before you travel. Check with your veterinarian for a health certificate. Make sure you have your pet’s vaccination records.
• Book a direct flight when possible.
• Ensure your pet is microchipped and wearing a collar and tag with current, accurate information.
• Purchase a pet-friendly crate large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably.
• Make sure you have fresh food and water for your pet.
• Take your dog for a walk and allow them to go to the bathroom before your flight.
• When traveling with cats, provide a small elimination area in the carrier or be thoughtful with their feeding schedule, so they don’t need to go to the bathroom during the flight.
• Help your pet acclimate to the carrier ahead of the flight. Leave the carrier in their living space and feed them in the carrier to ensure they are comfortable.
• Ensure you let the airline personnel know you are traveling with a pet.

Pet travel restrictions vary by airline, so please check with your air carrier before traveling with your pet. For information on traveling with service animals or for other special circumstances, please reach out to the TSA Contact Center by calling 866-289-9673 or by emailing [email protected] .

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Pegasus Airlines Pet Policy

Pegasus Airlines requires that your dog, cat or other pet be accompanied by a certificate of good health, and that your dog or cat is transported in an approved pet carrier or cargo crate.

Your veterinarian will be certifying that your pet is healthy enough to travel and is free of diseases communicable to humans. Air Baltic also requires that you provide copies of the veterinary certificates and other documents required by the country to which you are traveling.

Your airline pet passport package includes:

• Instructions, in cabin and cargo regulations, and other information for transporting your pet on Pegasus Airlines
• Acclimation Certificate and instructions for its use**
• Airline Veterinary Certificate and instructions
• Pet Passport Folder - included with First Class Mail Delivery Options above
• Unlimited Email Support

**During periods of very cold weather, an  acclimation certificate  may also be required for pets traveling in cargo. On most airlines, pets are not accepted for transport in the cargo section of the airline when the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7 degrees Celsius) at any location on the itinerary UNLESS the pet has a veterinarian's statement of low temperature acclimation (Acclimation Certificate). 

All instructions and Pegasus Airlines policies are verified at the time of order. Requirements to fly your dog, cat or other animal with Pegasus Airlines are included. Enforcement may not be consistent at every airport and having proper documentation will better ensure that no problems will arise during your travels.

Additional forms can be self-printed from the Email Attachment option. 

There are no refunds on forms unless there is a problem with the information or forms provided.

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Pegasus Airlines Review [2024]: Best low-cost European airline?

Pegasus Airlines is a low-cost Turkish airline that promises cheap flights to many destinations in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and more. Learn more about Pegasus Airlines as I explore its services, policies, and customer reviews to see if they're worth your hard-earned money.

It's no secret that traveling can be expensive, but it doesn't have to be if you know where to find the best deals. Pegasus Airlines could be the airline you're looking for, as they offer low-cost flight packages. With Pegasus Airlines, you're more likely to see offers ranging from campaigns to services to gift cards, which are only a booking away.

There are plenty of other European budget airlines , so you might wonder if Pegasus Airlines is worth your time and money.  SpiceJet  and  Jetstar , for example, also offer terrific flight deals and competitive packages.

So, are these low-cost flight packages the real deal? Let's go find out! In this in-depth review, I'll share with you everything you need to know about Pegasus Airlines so you can make an informed decision.

What is Pegasus Airlines?

Pegasus Airlines  is a low-cost Turkish airline that flies to many destinations in Europe, Russia, Asia, Caucasia, North Africa, and the Middle East. The airline is headquartered in the Kurtköy area of Pendik, Istanbul, with its main base at Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

Pegasus Airlines was established in 1990 as a charter company under the name Pegasus Airlines and services but was rebranded in 2005. This was when ESAS Holdings purchased and changed the airline to a low-cost carrier from a charter airline.

Pegasus Airlines has a codeshare agreement with about six airlines, giving passengers access to many destinations worldwide. These partner airlines include:

• Delta Airlines
• ITA Airways
• Qatar Airways

Where does Pegasus Airlines fly?

Pegasus Airlines flies to about 125 destinations in 47 countries, giving its passengers a wide range of options. Pegasus Airlines' most popular destinations include:

• Turkey - Istanbul, Hatay, Dalamun, Gaziantep, Ordu
• Europe - Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Russia, Italy
• Asia - Kazakhstan, Kingdom of Bahrain, Georgia, Iraq, Kuwait
• Africa - Egypt, Morocco

Pegasus Airlines Packages

The airline offers four convenient package types, which are as follows:

Basic Package

The Basic Package is excellent if you think one baggage cabin is enough. This package lets you travel light with fewer complications and, thus, saves you both time and money. The package includes the following:

• 1 piece of cabin baggage (55x40x20 cm) or
• 1 personal item no more than 40x30x15 cm in size 
• Economical flight ticket
• Use BOLBOL points to travel for less or for free

Essentials Package

With this package, you can bring 15 kg of baggage on domestic flights and 20 kg on international and Cyprus flights. You can also personalize your essentials to include any additional services. The package consists of the following:

• 1 item of cabin baggage no more than 55x40x20 cm or
• 1 personal item no more than 40x30x15 cm

Advantage Package

The Advanced Pacakge is an excellent option for those who appreciate additional services. The package offers an allowance of 20 kg for baggage. The Advantage Package includes:

• Free seat selection, excluding leg space
• Complimentary sandwich
• Fly&Watch in-flight entertainment

Comfort Flex Package

The Comfort Flex package is perfect for those seeking extra comfort. Passengers traveling with this package will enjoy a variety of convenient options for a comfortable flight. The package includes the following:

• 20kg free baggage allowance
• Flexible date and time changes for free (subject to seat availability)
• Claim for refund up to 2 hours in advance of your flight
• Use BOLBOL points to travel for less or for free.

Book Your Pegasus Airlines Flight

If you're still looking at Pegasus Airlines flights, make sure you're booking the cheapest flights available on the market with SkyScanner!

SkyScanner helps you find the cheapest flights available so that you wouldn't have to pay much for a flight ticket and save that money for more things to do or food to eat!

Extra Services by Pegasus Airlines

Pre-booked Meals: Passengers can choose and pre-book their meals from various options at least 24 hours before their flight. An a la carte menu is available for purchase on all flights.

Track Baggage in Real-Time: Use the 'SITA' baggage tracking service to track your baggage in real-time and receive notifications as soon as it arrives at the carousel.

In-Flight Entertainment: To make your flight more enjoyable, Pegasus Airlines offers in-flight entertainment on all flights. You can enjoy various movies, TV shows, and music on your device or the seatback screen.

Pegasus Gift Cards: You can surprise your loved ones with a Pegasus gift card and let them choose their adventure. Gift cards are available in different amounts, and you can write personal notes on these cards.

Hotels.com & Airbnb Discounts: Passengers can book hotels and Airbnb accommodations with Pegasus Airlines and receive discounts.

Travel With Your Pet: Pegasus Airlines allows passengers to travel with their small pets in the cabin for an additional fee. Pets must be carried in an approved pet carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimension accepted would be 32 cm x 32 cm x 50 cm, and anything more will travel in the ventilated cargo compartment.

BOLBOL Rewards Program: You can join the  BOLBOL  rewards program to earn points every time you fly with Pegasus Airlines. These points can be redeemed for free or discounted travel. As a member, you'll also enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges.

What do customers say about Pegasus Airlines?

Based on Google reviews, some customers are delighted with the airline. Customers praise the company's quality planes, friendly staff, and on-time flights.  Skytrax  also gives Pegasus Airlines 3 stars for the quality of its products and staff service at the airport and onboard. This airline company is considered one of the best low-cost airlines in Europe!

Even though Pegasus Airlines gets good reviews, there is also negative feedback. Some customers are unhappy with its customer service, outdated payment systems, and unprofessional staff.

Is Pegasus Airlines worth it?

Pegasus Airlines is a worthwhile option if you're looking for an affordable and convenient way to travel. With hundreds of destinations and great deals, the pros of flying with Pegasus Airlines outweigh the cons.

You may also consider other budget airlines like  Air India Express ,  Air Europa , and  Thai Lion Air  if you're looking for a better fit.

Overall, Pegasus Airlines is a good option for a low-cost flight.

Our Rating: 3.8/5

• Friendly staff
• Clean and in good condition
• Easy online checking system
• Perfect ground services
• Delayed flights
• Unreliable booking system
• Complicated refunds

Travel with confidence!

If you're a travel addict and don't want to break the bank, then a low-cost airline like Pegasus is a great choice. No matter which airline you prefer, Pilot can help you plan and book a flight that fits your budget and travel needs.

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Flying with pets? Here's what to know.

By Anne Marie Lee

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 6, 2024 / 10:08 AM EDT / CBS News

Thinking of taking your dog or cat with you the next time you fly? For a growing percentage of the 90.5 million pet owners in the U.S., the answer is yes. But while the notion of boarding a plane with your pet may seem simple, the rules and restrictions around traveling with an animal can be confusing. 

Eight major U.S. airlines allow pets to fly in-cabin as carry-ons. But flying with your pet takes research and planning, as pet policies vary from airline to airline, are steeped in restrictions, and are limited to specific countries and cities. You'll also have to pay an extra fee for your pet ranging from $95 to $200, depending on the airline and where you're flying. And restrictions often change.

For example, American Airlines  recently revised its policies  so passengers flying with pets may also bring one full-size carry-on or personal item. But the carrier prohibits carry-on pets on transatlantic and transpacific flights. Here's what you need to know when considering taking your fur baby with you on a plane.

Cargo, check-in or carry-on?

Most airlines offer three options for transporting animals: cargo, check-in or carry-on. But if your pet is larger than a bread box, your options are limited to the cargo or baggage check-in options, with very few exceptions. 

Given that large canine breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in the country, the size restriction for in-cabin pet travel can be a major frustration for those who would rather not fly at all if that means putting their pet in cargo. 

A 2023 Forbes Adviser survey of 10,000 U.S. dog owners found that 33% of respondents fly with their pets, while 37% listed not being able to bring their dog on a plane as their biggest annoyance. (You can learn more about the differences between cargo, check-in and carry-on options  here , including warnings about the  dangers  involved when pets travel in the cargo hold.) 

Carry-on pets

Even for pet owners whose animals are small enough to fly as a carry-on, traveling is no breeze.

"When I fly with him I have to go to the desk," Margaret Rauch, 44, told CBS MoneyWatch, referring to her 15-pound poodle mix, Soda. The New York City resident has taken Soda on dozens of flights to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Soda, now 4, was being fostered by a friend after being found as a stray puppy in 2021. 

In addition to calling the airline in advance to register her dog for a flight, Rauch has to check in at the counter whenever she's traveling with Soda, so the airline agent can confirm her dog and pet carrier conform to the in-cabin pet requirements and that the flight hasn't already met its pet maximum. 

Rauch, who said she would never consider putting Soda in cargo, applauded American Airlines' new policy, while noting that in her experience the one carry-on rule was rarely enforced. 

"I feel the price is already high for what I get. Even with AA's rule change, I lose the underseat space," she said. "My dog creates no extra work for anyone."

Despite the added preparation, paperwork and hassle involved in flying with Soda — not to mention the unfriendly looks she occasionally detects from fellow passengers at the sight of her pet carrier — Rauch said, "It's absolutely worth it." 

Asked how the experience could be improved, she pointed to early boarding for pet owners as something that would help.

"If you can get in early, get a seat and settle down, that is an accommodation I don't expect to see anytime soon but I think it makes sense," Rauch said.

Safety and comfort

For the many Americans who see their pets practically as family members, one of the most challenging aspects of flying is ensuring their animal's comfort and safety. 

"The increasing humanization of pets, which involves treating them as part of the family rather than as mere animals, has increased the demand for pet travel services that are of high quality and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each pet," LinkedIn reported in December.

Among other tips, the U.S. Department of Transportation  and animal experts recommend that you not feed your pet four to six hours before a flight and limit their water intake. Others also suggest keeping bottled water on hand at all times. Additionally, most airlines require certain vaccination and vet certification that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Individual countries also have their own requirements for pets to enter.  

Not surprisingly, some airlines do better than others at handling pets. One of the best-rated carriers for pet travel is Alaska Airlines, which has repeatedly topped rankings, such as NerdWallet's Most pet-friendly airlines of 2024.  In recent years, the airline also has maintained one of the industry's lowest incident ratings, according to Veterinarians.org. United Airlines and Delta are among the airlines with the highest incident rates, according to the pet information website. 

On Rauch's first plane trip with Soda traveling home to New York, a layover in Miami led to the flight sitting on the tarmac for two hours. Calming treats are something that helps keeps her dog relaxed on flights. She also withholds Soda's food and limits his water intake up to five hours before a flight, which is also helpful given that he doesn't like using pet relief areas, which she said generally smell of urine and can be overwhelming for dogs. Flights between New York City and St. Croix are generally under six hours. 

"I'm not sure how I'd handle a flight to Singapore," Rauch said.

Here's a rundown of U.S. airlines' pet travel policies, along with fees and and restrictions:

Alaska Airlines

Pet fee: $100

Pets allowed: Dogs and cats are the only pets allowed in-cabin on international trips and flights to Hawaii. Domesticated rabbits and small household birds are allowed as carry-on on domestic flights.

Destinations: Domestic and international, with additional requirements and documentation required for  pets traveling to Hawaii  or  internationally .

See Alaska's full pet policy here .

American Airlines

Pet fee: $150

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats

Destinations: 

• Within the 48 contiguous U.S.
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply. See American's full pet policy  here .

Pet fee: $75-$200, depending on destination

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, household birds

Pet friendly destinations: 

• U.S., Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
• International destinations with the exception of Australia, U.K., Republic of Ireland and others .

Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii. See Delta's full pet policy here .

Frontier Airlines 

Pet fee: $99

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and household birds

Destinations: Domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

See Frontier's full pet policy here .

Pet fee: $125

Destinations: Domestic and international. See exceptions for international flights here .

See JetBlue's full pet policy here .

Southwest Airlines

Pet fee: $125 per pet carrier on the U.S. mainland; $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands

Destinations: Domestic U.S. flights only. For travel to Puerto Rico, specific requirements may  apply . For Hawaii travel, see rules and regulations here.

See Southwest's full pet policy here .

Spirit Airlines

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, birds (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) or rabbits (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Destinations: Domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

See Spirit's full pet policy here .

United Airlines

Destinations: Domestic and international flights with a list of exceptions. United does not allow pets to fly to, from or through certain states and countries. View the list here .

See United's full pet policy here .

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BarkBox’s next big delivery: Charter flights for dogs

Starting in may, bark air will fly dogs and their owners from new york to l.a. or london.

BarkBox, the service that assembles and ships care packages for dogs to millions of subscribers each month, is expanding into a new market: pet-friendly charter flights. This spring, the company will begin transporting dogs (and their owners) on private planes via Bark Air.

Starting on May 23, Bark Air will fly weekly between Westchester County Airport in White Plains, N.Y., and Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles. The following week, it will kick off bimonthly service between Westchester and London Stansted Airport. Reservations at dogsflyfirst.com will go live Thursday, on National Pet Day. The one-way cross-country flight costs $6,000 for one dog and one owner; the transatlantic flight goes for $8,000.

By comparison, for the same date as the launch, nonstop air on a major carrier starts at $220 one way from New York to Los Angeles and from $525 to London. Adding a dog would cost more.

Bark chief executive and co-founder Matt Meeker said the inspiration for Bark Air came from his Great Dane. Hugo visited nearly two dozen states and Canada during his 12-year lifetime, but he never pranced around the West Coast or Europe because of the challenges of flying pets, especially of his size.

Options are limited for pets too large for the cabin. Depending on the season, destination and airline, owners can transport their dogs as checked luggage or cargo, an arrangement that comes with risks. According to Transportation Department data, U.S. carriers reported nine incidents involving animals, including seven deaths, in 2022. (The agency has not published its annual 2023 numbers for these incidents).

To understand the experience of traveling as baggage, Meeker packed himself into a crate and was rolled across the tarmac and loaded onto a plane, where he stayed in his enclosure for 45 minutes to an hour. His experiment confirmed his suspicions: Flying in the belly of a plane can be traumatizing.

“It was very cramped, very dark. Loud noises. Disorienting. No food or water. Nowhere to go to the bathroom,” said Meeker. “It was very, very terrible.”

Moneyed travelers can book a private or charter plane. However, noncommercial air can be prohibitively expensive or unpredictable. K9 Jets , a private charter operator that started offering pet-friendly flights last year, flies to 13 destinations, including Dallas, Paris and West Palm Beach, Fla. It has similar prices to BarkAir — $6,650 from New Jersey to Los Angeles — but will cancel the flight if it is not at least 75 percent full.

“There’s a huge amount of interest and demand, and really frustration,” Meeker said. “People are looking for a reasonable solution to transport their dog if they’re moving or taking a summer vacation or weekend trip.”

Meeker said the company partnered with Talon Air , a New York-based charter company that will fly two Gulfstream G550s under the Bark Air banner. The plane can accommodate 14 passengers, but the company will cap the number at 10.

After the traveler books the flight, a concierge will contact the family to learn about the dog’s temperament and to help with logistics, including the documents required to enter England. The fare includes complimentary car service within a 30-mile radius of the arrival destination.

Meeker recommends passengers arrive 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Guests will wait in a private area inside the terminal, where a chef will prepare a hot meal for the human travelers to avoid any in-flight tray-table surfing. Before boarding, the dogs will have a chance to sniff each other out.

Onboard, pets can fly without a leash as long as they behave. During a test run, Meeker said the dogs were very courteous, with no unruly outbursts.

“They would say hello to the other dogs and say hello to the other people. Everyone was very calm about it,” he said. “For dogs who were a little more nervous, or people who were more nervous for their dogs, we have a place on the plane for them to sit without anyone bothering them.”

Since the pups are the top dogs onboard, the carrier will cater to their tastes. The menu will feature “Doggie Champagne” (actually chicken broth), doughnuts made for dogs and meaty snacks served on a silver tray. The flight crew will include professionals trained in veterinary care and dog behavior. At the end of the trip, the four-legged fliers will earn their wings, which they can proudly pin to their collar or harness.

If Bark Air does well, Meeker hopes to add larger planes to the fleet, which could help lower the fare. He also dreams of building the world’s first in-flight dog park.

“The dogs for those longer journeys will have a park where they can play with other dogs while their humans enjoy a drink at the bar around the edge of the park,” he said.

Henry Harteveldt, a travel industry analyst with the Atmosphere Research Group, said pet airlines are more apt to fail than succeed. (RIP, Pet Airways.) However, Bark Air has a few advantages. It is not building an airline from scratch. It has brand recognition. And it oversees a mailing list with the names of millions of pet lovers willing to drop a small fortune on their pooches.

“Some people will absolutely do this,” Harteveldt said. “The question is: Will there be a enough people who love their pets enough to pay $6,000 or more to transport them coast-to-coast or from New York to London?”

More on air travel

Leave flying to the pros: Think you could land a plane in an emergency? Experts say you’re wrong . Here’s what you should actually do if something goes awry during a flight .

Pet peeves: Why do “gate lice” line up early for a flight ? Psychologists explained for us. Another move that annoys airline workers: abusing the flight attendant call button . For more on how to behave on a flight, check out our 52 definitive rules of flying .

Plane mess: Stories about extremely disgusting airplanes have been grossing out travelers. The question of plane cleanups became the subject of a recent debate after a flight attendant allegedly told a pregnant passenger to pick up the popcorn spilled by her toddler.

Frequent flying: Airline status isn’t what it used to be, but at least there are some good movies and TV shows to watch in the air. And somewhere out there, experts are trying to make airline food taste good.

Beautiful - Loyal - Intelligent

German shepherd dogs "vom pegasus".

Travel with your dog / puppy::

Travel Tips

If you plan a trip make the decision if you take your puppy along or if you know a good facility which will care for your puppy.

Leaving your puppy behind

Ask your veterinarian, breeder, or other pet owners to recommend reputable boarding facilities.

Make reservations in advance of your trip. Many facilities book up early, especially over holidays.

Make sure that your puppy is current on all of his vaccinations.

Make sure that you give the boarding facility a supply of things your dog needs during his stay.

Leave feeding instructions and a supply of your puppy's regular dogfood.

Make sure the boarding facility has an emergency contact number. 

Traveling with your puppy

Make sure that the hotel will take dogs.

Your puppy needs to be up to date on all of his vaccinations. 

Take your puppy's dogfood along.

Make sure you buy bottled water during your trip for your puppy, never use tap water .

Make sure that your puppy has identification on his collar.  

Micro-ship your puppy with Home Again.

Keep your puppy in a safe traveling crate on longer trips.

Never leave your puppy in the care alone.

Make frequent stops for your puppy.

Never leave your puppy free in the hotel room.

Make sure that you know a veterinarian in the area you are visiting.

Have your vaccination records with you.

Have an up to date Rabies Vaccination for that state.

Hardy and Homer

enjoying a walk

Molly and Shadow relaxing 

Tobi and Gus posing for

a picture for mom

Governor McAuliffe's

little Daisy

Wallis during

Miles with his

girlfriend Rylee

Miles enjoying

his am walk

Oreo posing for

Atlas the little Corgi

The world's first doggy jet service will cost you $6K for a one-way ticket

Dogs will soon be able to experience their own “ fur st” class flight with the launch of the world’s first jet charter company specifically designed for man’s best friend. 

BARK, the dog toy company that coordinates the popular treat subscription BarkBox, is partnering with a jet charter service to take away the challenges of long-distance traveling with dogs, according to a press release. BARK Air, as the company calls it, offers the “white glove experience typical of a human’s first-class experience and redirected all that pampering to pooches.”

Taking dogs on airplanes is, typically, a stressful endeavor with different airlines having different policies for pet travel. For example, American Airlines allows small dogs in a carrier to be placed under the seat in front, but larger dogs are put in the cargo space, which has been found to be stressful for the pet. For United Airlines , pets can fly in the cabin if there’s enough space, but they must fit in a carrier under the seat in front.

“We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs – from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK, in a statement. 

First-time Fido's taking to the sky? Here are tips from my flight with a dog

Learn more: Best travel insurance

However, you’ll need to pay a hefty fee for the dog-friendly flight. For now, a ticket for just one dog and one human will run you at least $6,000 one way. 

The first BARK Air flights will take off on May 23, and so far, there are only two flight routes available, both from New York’s Westchester County Airport. From New York to London’s Stansted Airport, it’ll cost $8,000 one-way and to Los Angeles’s Van Nuys Airport will cost $6,000 one-way. Tickets are available for purchase on April 11.

Not only does BARK Air allow dogs, it also focuses on the furry friends by treating them like VIPs, the press release said. BARK Air passengers can skip TSA checkpoints and screenings and instead experience a simple check-in process where they can meet the other dogs on the flight and the humans are served a meal cooked by on-site chefs. 

When boarding, a BARK Air concierge is on-hand to ensure the dogs are socializing and adjusting to the environment well. 

Each flight will undergo “Dogs Fly First” flight prep that includes “calming pheromones, music, and colors that pups prefer.” To make the flying experience easier and more enjoyable, dogs have access to various aids such as calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs, and calming jackets.

During takeoff and descent, dogs are given a beverage of their choice to help their ears adjust to cabin pressurization. Of course, there will be plenty of treats on the flight.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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Dog Company Announces New Air Travel Experience Designed Specifically for Canines: They 'Will Be the VIPs'

Routes will currently serve the New York City metro area with flights to Los Angeles and London

Man's best friend will soon be able to get the VIP treatment when taking to the skies!

Earlier this week, BARK , a dog-focused company that provides products, services and content for canines, launched BARK Air , the "world’s first air travel experience designed specifically for dogs first, and their human companions second," according to a press release obtained by PEOPLE.

Currently, routes will serve the New York City metro area through Westchester County Airport (HPN) with flights to the Los Angeles area via Van Nuys (VNY) and London, by Stansted Airport (STN).

According to the release, an Argus Platinum-rated charter company is "responsible for all aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance-related matters." BARK, meanwhile, the release said, is "focused on creating and delivering a world-class air travel experience for dogs and their people."

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After booking a trip online, users will be contacted by a BARK Air concierge, who will gather information about each dog and their human’s travel plans.

On the day of travel, pets and their human counterparts will arrive at the airport 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff, when the dogs will mingle with other canine companions as their owners dine on meals prepared by onsite chefs.

Next, dogs will be greeted by BARK Air concierge, who will "help them settle into their experience through socialization and dog-centric cabin preparation," per the release. They will also have access to various aids, the company added, including "calming treats, noise-canceling ear muffs and calming jackets to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable flight."

Once onboard, BARK-branded treats, snacks and "surprises" will be offered to the dogs, and they will be "served their beverage of choice during ascent and descent to ensure they do not experience any ear discomfort commonly caused by changes in cabin pressure," BARK said.

“When we started BARK in 2011, we were on a mission to disrupt the dog space and create products designed for dogs and their humans. We are excited to take the insights we’ve learned over the years to create an experience that is truly dog-first, which is drastically different from just accepting dogs — from the ground to the skies,” said Matt Meeker, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at BARK.

“We believe this initiative will elevate awareness of our brand’s mission and values, introduce more dog lovers to the BARK family, and help enrich the lives of dogs and their people around the world," he added.

In a statement of his own, Zahir Ibrahim, Chief Financial Officer at BARK, echoed those sentiments, stating, “We believe this initiative will raise awareness of BARK’s mission in a cost-effective manner. Given we are not committed to booking flights far in advance, we have a lot of flexibility to opportunistically charter flights during times of high demand."

"In parallel, we believe the additional traffic to BARK.co will raise awareness of our full offering, benefiting our core business in the long term," he continued.

Related Articles

Palouse River Kennels

Premier boarding facility, gun dog, and obedience training on the Palouse!

Set on a ridge overlooking the scenic Palouse River is Southeast Washington’s most spacious and inviting dog training and boarding facility.

Located just two miles from the Idaho border, Palouse River Kennels is the kennel of choice for people who love their family pets. And while we’re just 20 minutes from the towns of Moscow ID, Pullman WA, and Colfax WA, we have regular and loyal customers from Lewiston, ID, Orofino, ID, Clarkston, WA. and Pomeroy WA who trust us with their dog boarding needs.

Situated on 30 acres, our facility includes a pond, expansive training grounds, and a large, fenced exercise yard. Our indoor and outdoor dog runs are spacious, stretching a full 7 X 20 feet long. They are heated in the winter and cool in the summer. Your dog’s comfort and peace of mind is our mission.

Owner and trainer, John Sykes, has been a professional dog trainer for over 20 years. His expertise includes pointing dogs, retrievers, and behavioral modification for the family pet.

We can’t wait to talk to you! Give us a call at:

(509) 339-5344  or  [email protected]

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This All-villa Property in Europe Is So Remote You Have to Hike to It — and It's on a UNESCO-protected Island

Lace up your boots, as this remote property requires a hike in.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Courtesy of Pegasus Lodges

Roughly 1,000 miles off the coast of Portugal sprawl the Azores , a remote, nine-island volcanic archipelago that’s a world away from the European mainland. Within the island chain is São Jorge, a UNESCO-protected isle with tall cliffs that drop dramatically to flat extensions of land that stretch from the base of the cliffs to the ocean. These unique oceanside plains, called fajãs , were originally created by lava or landslides and are the setting of São Jorge’s most recent addition: Fajã Do Belo.

Fajã Do Belo is an all-villa property that opened in January 2024 under the Pegasus Lodges brand, a company with a mission to provide guests with the chance to witness untouched beauty and find true adventure. 

To that end, Fajã Do Belo relishes its remote locale and untamed setting. For guests to get to the lodge, they must hike in. That, and the fact that it takes several flights to reach São Jorge, sets the tone for guests.

Once on the property, guests are welcomed into one of eight meticulously crafted villas. Each standalone home is made from local volcanic stone and features traditional wooden beams, high ceilings, and bright red doors and windows. The authentic Azorean villas can accommodate between three and five people in one to two bedrooms — all set alongside the sea. 

Rui Silveira/Courtesy of Pegasus Lodges

Outside the villa’s bright-red door, Fajã Do Belo guests will find one of the most remote surf spots in the Atlantic — a break with views of the unique fajãs and the rugged cliffs that border them.

Beyond the quiet beach and undiscovered surf , visitors can explore the UNESCO Fajãs de São Jorge Biosphere Reserve, which covers the entire isle and protects the island’s unique landscape of rugged coastal cliffs, flat fajãs, highland meadows, and peat bogs. It’s a wild and untouched paradise with quiet hiking trails leading to hidden lakes and waterfalls, deep canyons that can be explored with the help of a rope, and endless fishing and diving. 

With these adventure-focused programs, typically led by knowledgeable guides, “the brand remains dedicated to providing discerning guests with authentic encounters, embracing a boundless passion for adventure that defines every unforgettable stay,” according to a press release shared with Travel + Leisure .

To fuel their adventures, Fajã do Belo guests are treated to a daily continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all of which are prepared and delivered by the resident chef who specializes in traditional Azorean and Portuguese dishes.

To learn more or book your stay, visit pegasuslodges.com .

What methods of transport does Pegasus Airlines (PC) provide for my pet?

• Transportation in the cabin
• Transportation in the aircraft hold
• Transportation as cargo

Does my pet qualify for travel in the passenger cabin?

Up to three pets will be allowed to travel in the cabin provided they meet the following criteria:

• The total weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 8kg
• The animal is a cat, dog, or bird
• If the pet is a bird, the flight is domestic
• There is a maximum of two pets to a carrier
• The flight is not to the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, or Bahrain

Pets traveling in the cabin require a reservation. You should contact the Pegasus Airlines Call Center for your location.

Does my pet qualify for travel as checked baggage?

Pets can travel as checked baggage on domestic flights and flights to Cyprus only. There is a maximum of four animals carried in the hold on each flight.

What are the fees associated with pet transport?

The following fees are charged for pets travelling in the cabin:

• Domestic flights: 60 TRY
• International flights: 45 USD

The following fees are charged for pets travelling in the hold:

• Domestic flights for animals between 8 and 15 kg: 120 TRY
• Domestic flights for animals heavier than 15 kg: 180 TRY
• International flights for animals between 8 and 15 kg: 70 USD
• International flights for animals heavier than 15 kg: 90 USD

What health documentation is required?

The following documents are required:

• For flights to Cyprus: an Import License
• Documentation of rabies vaccination
• Health certificate
• For flights to EU countries: the pet's passport
• For flights from Anatalya and Gazipasa: Veterinary Health Certificate

Are there any other restrictions?

 The following pets are prohibited:

• American Pit Bull
• Fila Brasileiros
• Japanese Tosa
• Pit Bull Terrier
• Togo Argentinos
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Presa Canario
• Doberman Mastiff Bulldog
• Caucasian Breeds
• Mastino Napoletano
• Kangal dogs under 6 months old
• Any pet under 3 months old

Please contact the airline directly for information about traveling with a service animal.

• Best for Senior Pets
• Best for Customization
• Best for Bundling
• Best for Preexisting Conditions
• Best for Alternative Therapy
• Best for Exotic Pets
• Best for Unlimited Coverage

How We Rate Pet Insurance

Best cheap pet insurance companies of april 2024.

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Many pet owners may be reluctant add the cost of pet insurance to their monthly budget. However, most pet owners will experience at least one pet emergency and spend between $2,000 to $4,000, according to the North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA). While the most comprehensive pet insurance may be out of your budget, there are cheap pet insurance options available that will give you peace of mind without breaking the bank.

Best Cheap Pet Insurance Companies of 2024

Best price: pets best pet insurance, best for senior pets: figo pet insurance, best for customization: spot pet insurance.

Best for Bundling: Best for Bundling: Lemonade Pet Insurance

Best for Preexisting Conditions: ASPCA Pet Insurance

Best for alternative therapy: healthy paws pet insurance, best for exotic pets: nationwide pet insurance, best for unlimited coverage: trupanion pet insurance.

If you're looking for pet insurance at a cheap rate, Pets Best Pet Insurance has some of the lowest prices in the industry. You can go to any licensed veterinarian. However, it should be noted that in Insider's staff experiences with Pets Best policies, the reimbursement rate is also applied to your deductible.

So if you had a $500 deductible with 90% reimbursement, a $500 claim would leave you with another $50 left on your deductible, with charges applied based on the 90% reimbursement rate. This is not unusual, but it should factor into your budget and policy choices.

Pets Best offers three types of plans: accident-only, accident and illness, and a wellness plan. With highly customizable options, you can further lower your rate. Plus, the insurer doesn't have an age gap on pet insurance.

Unfortunately, if you're looking for alternative treatments like herbal and holistic treatments, consider searching elsewhere.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%
• Deductible options: $50, $100, $200, $250, $500, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $20; Cats - $12

Read our Pets Best Pet Insurance review here.

Many pet insurance providers will only insure pets younger than 14. Insurers may put an age cap on eligibility because pets, like humans, tend to develop health conditions as they age. However, Figo Pet Insurance will insure your furry friend, regardless of age. Whatever plan you consider, understand pet insurance companies will not cover preexisting conditions . For dogs or cats with a history of allergies, cancer, diabetes, or other conditions, this would still leave pet parents on the hook for related bills if diagnosed before buying your plan.

Figo offers three plans: the Essential plan, the Preferred plan, and the Unlimited plan. This insurer provides ample coverage choices to customize your policy based on your pet's needs and your budget.

Unfortunately, Figo doesn't sell a basic, accident-only plan, which is generally cheaper than an accident-illness or wellness program. Additionally, while it reimburses you, you must pay your vet bills upfront. Many pet parents resolve this issue using services like CareCredit, which can be paid off after completing the claim. If you're interested in Figo, we recommend Costco members go through the retail giant's partnership with Figo as you get 15% off standard premiums.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, $10,000, unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 70%, 80%, 90%, 100%
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500, $750
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $26; Cats - $14

Read our Figo Pet Insurance review here.

With Spot Pet Insurance , you have nine annual coverage limits, three reimbursement, and five deductible options. This insurer offers an excellent range of policy coverages to mix and match as you choose. Of course, your monthly premiums will vary accordingly.

Spot pet insurance also offers an accident-only and accident-illness plan. The company as a wider range of pet coverage that many competitors lack, like prescription food and behavioral modification. Based on our research at the time of this guide, Spot doesn't sell wellness plans. However, you can add the gold and platinum preventative care plan to supplement your policy.

• Annual coverage options: $2,500, $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000, $15,000, $20,000, unlimited
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $28; Cats - $14

Read our Spot Pet Insurance review here.

Best for Bundling: Lemonade Pet Insurance

Lemonade Pet Insurance is a relatively new pet insurance company. Aside from pet insurance, it also offers home, car, and renters insurance (which received high marks for customer satisfaction). So you can bundle your pet insurance with other products for 10% additional savings.

If you're a tech-savvy shopper, you may appreciate Lemonade's highly-rated mobile app and user-friendly digital platform. You could purchase a policy, manage your claims, and access your insurance ID at the touch of your fingertip. Unfortunately, Lemonade is not available in all states yet. So be sure to check and see if Lemonade is available to you. But with up to $100,000 in annual coverage, Lemonade covers most significant health events for pets.

• Annual coverage options: $5,000, $10,000, $20,000, $50,000, $100,000
• Deductible options: $100, $250, $500
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $28; Cats- $14

Read our Lemonade Pet Insurance review here.

Unfortunately, all pet insurance providers exclude preexisting conditions from coverage. This is because pet insurance companies have to mediate risk to keep premiums low for everyone. However, several companies will cover preexisting conditions if your pet has been symptom- and treatment-free for some time. ASPCA Pet Insurance is one of those providers.

ASPCA pet insurance will cover curable preexisting conditions if your cat, dog, and even horses if your pet has been symptom-free for over 180 days (excluding ligament and knee conditions).

With ASPCA pet insurance, you choose an accident-only, accident and illness, and preventative care plan. ASPCA pet insurance's comprehensive programs cover alternative therapies, behavioral issues, and congenital and hereditary conditions. The provider even covers pet microchipping. When going through the quoting process online, we were told we must speak to a live representative to obtain a quote for unlimited annual coverage.

• Annual coverage options: $3,000, $4,000, $5,000, $7,000, $10,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $33; Cats - $17

Read our ASPCA Pet Insurance review here.

Only a few providers offer alternative medicine if you prefer to take the holistic and herbal route when seeking treatment for your pet. Healthy Paws Pet Insurance offers a comprehensive list of non-invasive forms of therapy, including acupuncture, hydrotherapy, physical therapy, laser therapy, and massage care, as long as a licensed veterinarian provides the treatment.

The trade-off, however, is Healthy Paws won't cover preventative and wellness care. Its site specifies Healthy Paws believes wellness costs can be planned for. For example, you expect to do a yearly exam and get updated vaccines, and even if you save a little bit each month, you can plan accordingly. However, accidents and severe chronic illnesses are difficult to plan for, and costs are frequently unreasonable. So Healthy Paws focuses on the most significant area of need it sees.

• Annual coverage options: Unlimited
• Reimbursement options: 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%
• Deductible options: $50, $100, $250, $500, $750, $1,000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $37; Cats - $18

Read our Healthy Paws Pet Insurance review here.

Finding cheap pet insurance may be challenging if you have an exotic pet like a bird, rabbit, or reptile. Nationwide Pet Insurance is currently the only pet insurance company to offer wide-reaching coverage for many exotic pets. Other companies offer "discount plans," much like human prescription discount plans. However, you'd have to work with specific vets, and coverage would be specific to the treatment provided.

Nationwide pet insurance offers three pet insurance plans:

• Major Medical (accident and illness plan)
• Whole Pet (more comprehensive accident and illness plan)
• A wellness plan

Nationwide offers various conditions in its plans. However, the coverage is set. Nationwide's sample accident and illness policy broke down many potential diagnoses with primary and secondary diagnoses allowances. Ultimately, each buyer will receive a policy breakdown. However, Nationwide is a more expensive pet insurance provider with limited flexibility.

• Annual coverage options: Per condition
• Reimbursement options: 50%, 70%, 90%
• Deductible options: $250
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $35; Cats - $14

Read our Nationwide Pet Insurance review here.

Trupanion Pet Insurance is one of the pricier insurers on this list. Also, it offers a limited selection of policy options. However, if you're looking for a plan with unlimited coverage, Trupanion may be your winner. Unfortunately, we've all heard of the unexpected accident or illness in an otherwise healthy pet calling for emergency care.

Some emergency surgeries can easily surpass $20,000, and you might be on the hook for follow-up care, rehab, and even further surgeries. These are the times when unlimited care could be the saving grace to save your furry friend.

Trupanion offers deductibles ranging from $0 to $1,000. What's unique about this insurer is you'll only have to pay the deductible once per condition. For example, say your pet develops an illness requiring ongoing treatment. While most insurers will need you to pay a deductible yearly, you'll only have to pay your deductible once when the condition appears, potentially saving you money. This is handy for chronic conditions like allergies, diabetes, and cancer.

• Reimbursement options: 90%
• Deductible options: $0 to $1000
• Average monthly cost: Dogs - $50; Cats - $22

Read our Trupanion Pet Insurance review here.

We review a company based on several benchmarks and compare it against the industry standard.

• Affordability: We consider an insurer cheap if it meets or is below the industry average premiums. We also compare the prices against its competitors.
• Policy customization: We look at the breadth of an insurer's policy options. Policy options include the number of annual coverages, deductibles, and reimbursement options. The price is not the only determining factor if you compare a $50 for unlimited coverage with 80% reimbursement with a $10 policy with a $5,000 annual cap.
• Waiting period: A waiting period is the time between purchasing a policy and when coverage kicks in. The average waiting period for accident coverage is three days, and fourteen days for illness coverage. However, waiting periods for genetic conditions and serious illnesses could last a year.
• Types of policies available: The best pet insurance companies typically offer three types of plans: accident-only, accident-illness, and wellness plans. We look through an insurer's website to determine if it sells some variation of those three plans.
• Exclusions: Pets come in all shapes and sizes. Unfortunately, insurance companies will exclude some pets from coverage, like older pets or even those with curable preexisting conditions.
• Company offerings: We look at the extensiveness of a company's policies. Some insurers offer coverage for microchipping, alternative medicine, and other unique conditions.

We go into further detail in our insurance rating methodology .

Which dog breed qualifies for the cheapest pet insurance?

Small, spayed, female mixed-breed dogs are the cheapest to insure, according to North American Pet Health Insurance Association (NAPHIA).

How much is a reasonable deductible for pet insurance?

Consider your needs before choosing a deductible. Choosing a high deductible may lower your monthly premiums. However, to start your coverage as soon as possible, consider choosing a low deductible, like $100 to $500.

When should you use pet insurance?

You'll decide what coverage you're willing to pay for upfront. However, whenever you have a qualifying claim, you should file a claim with your pet insurance provider. Insurance providers may have a time limit on claims, and you have to fulfill your annual deductible before full coverage will kick in.

What is the cheapest pet insurance?

Pets Best pet insurance costs an average of $20 for dogs and $12 for cats, the lowest prices among its competitors. Prices will vary based on your pet's age and breed. 

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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Istanbul airport provides anxious travelers with paw-sitive experience by hiring 5 therapy dogs

Five furry companions have been by the aviation hub hired to provide anxious passengers a ‘paw-sitive’ experience (AP Video by Mehmet Guzel; production by Ayse Wieting)

A traveler pets the dog Kuki while walking with handler through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

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The airport therapy dog Alita wears a uniform while walking with a handler through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

A traveller pets the airport therapy dog Kuki while walking through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

A child plays with airport therapy dogs Alita and Kuki at Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Airport therapy dog Alita looks at her handler while walking through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

A traveller pets the dog Alita while two handlers walk airport therapy dogs Alita and Kuki through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

A traveller pets the airport therpay dog Alita in Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

A traveller pets the airport therapy dog Alita while walking through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Two handlers walk with airport therapy dogs Alita and Kuki through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

The official ID badge of airport therapy dog Kuki is displayed on her showing a photo and her information at Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Travellers pet the airport therapy dog Alita while walking with a handler through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. Istanbul Airport has made five new hires to provide stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers: therapy dogs that are ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

ISTANBUL (AP) — Five new hires are selflessly roaming the halls of one of the world’s busiest transportation hubs, hoping to provide a paw-sitively stress-free travel experience for anxious passengers.

Meet Istanbul Airport’s therapy dogs — always ready to offer support with snuggles, belly rubs and sloppy kisses.

The official ID badge of airport therapy dog Kuki is displayed on her showing a photo and her information at Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

The Associated Press caught up with Kuki and Alita, two of the dogs taking part in the pet-friendly airport’s new pilot project aimed at easing stress and anxiety among travelers.

All four-legged members of the program are certified therapy dogs, professionally trained and conditioned to comfort humans.

The “Therapy Dog Team” has been on duty since late February following months of preparation and intensive training, learning desensitization to distracting stimuli, like sounds and people.

“We have to ensure that they are safe and they are 100% adapted to all environments,” said Kadir Demirtas, Istanbul Airport’s customer experience manager.

A child plays with airport therapy dogs Alita and Kuki at Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Kuki, a Lagotto Romagnolo, an Italian retriever breed, is team captain. He works hard to please but likes his breaks and sometimes plays hooky.

That’s OK, however.

The team’s veterinarian said each dog’s temperament dictates their hours on the job each day.

“They walk around the airport led by their handlers who are also responsible for their care,” said Volkan Arslan.

A traveller pets the airport therapy dog Alita while walking through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

The dogs, who are airport employees with official badges and uniforms, have a set schedule and work during peak travel hours, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Alita, a border collie, is Kuki’s teammate. Her intense gaze and dedication to her handler are striking, as is her ability to soothe and calm nerves.

“We are always surrounded by people who are constantly petting her,” said Volkan Gul, Alita’s dedicated handler, adding that she helps them relax.

A traveller pets the airport therapy dog Kuki while walking through Istanbul Airport in Turkey, Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

Airport officials said they already have plans to expand the pilot project following initial positive feedback from travelers.