travel airplane dog

Everything to Know About Flying with a Dog 

By Matt Meltzer , Katherine LaGrave , and Sarah Kuta

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If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably considered flying with a dog. While it might seem like the best option to keep your furry friend with you on all of your travels—not to mention more appealing than organizing dog-sitting or a stay at a boarding facility—it’s far from a straightforward decision.

Flying with a dog for the first time can be stressful and overwhelming for both you and your pet. There are many details to figure out: What are your airline’s specific rules for non-service pets? How much does bringing along a dog cost? Is your dog’s breed allowed in the plane cabin? Do you have the right equipment and pet carrier? And—above all else—is flying safe and comfortable for your pet?

There’s so much to consider before you take the plunge and show up at the airport to board a plane with your dog. However, traveling with your dog is certainly possible with the right research to inform your decision.

Below, we’ve rounded up everything you need to think about before flying with a dog, from airlines’ different policies and the required paperwork, to how to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible throughout all legs of the journey.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Can I fly with a dog on a plane?

Can my dog fly with me? Yes, in many cases, your dog can fly with you on a plane, either in the cabin or the cargo hold. However, as you might imagine, airlines have tons of specific guidelines for travelers with pets to read up on. It’s important that you read them all thoroughly, well in advance of your trip, so you know exactly what to expect and can prepare for how to fly with a dog ahead of time.

First, you’ll need to check with your airline to see what type of breeds they allow in the cabin or the cargo hold. Often, certain types of dog breeds are barred from flying in one place or another. For instance, brachycephalic dog breeds with short or snubbed noses (like French bulldogs and pugs) usually can’t fly in the  hold due to breathing issues. Most larger dogs aren’t allowed in the cabin (with exceptions for trained service animals) and will have to fly in the cargo hold. Many air carriers have completely banned specific breeds—like pit bulls—from flying at all.

Always book flight reservations for you and your pet at the same time: Most airlines only allow a handful of pets per flight—typically two to six, depending on the type of plane and whether it is a domestic or international flight .

Be sure to call and make there’s still room for your pet. You might also have limited seating options when flying with a dog. Airlines usually do not allow passengers flying with dogs to sit in bulkhead rows, business or first-class cabins with lie-flat beds , or emergency exit rows. Also keep in mind that airlines will not accept pets on the plane if temperatures are forecasted to be too hot or too cold at any destination along the route. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, so if this happens, you’ll have to scramble to make other plans.

How stressful is flying for dogs?

Flying is an incredibly stressful experience for all dogs, but it can be especially upsetting for elderly dogs, as well as pups with health or behavioral challenges.

Think about it: Flying removes pets from the surroundings they are most comfortable and familiar with, then forces them into a situation with loud noises, bright lights, thousands of people, a dizzying array of new smells, changes in air pressure and cabin temperature, and limited access to places where they can use the bathroom. Dogs who must fly in the cargo hold are also away from you, their favorite person, in a scary environment.

In addition, consider whether your dog will be able to participate in all the activities you have planned once you arrive. “If the destination is somewhere where the pup will be alone inside all day, boarding or hiring a dog sitter may be better options to consider rather than subjecting the pet to the stress of flying,” says Jennifer Bruns, a veterinarian at PetSmart.

With all of that in mind, it’s probably best to leave your dog at home unless you have a pressing reason to bring them on the plane with you. Even though this might feel disappointing, it’s likely a decision that will be better for your dog in the long run. If you do decide to leave your dog behind, you can hire a dog-sitter, have a reliable friend or family member look after them, or book a stay in a reputable boarding facility.

Another option could be road-tripping to your destination instead of flying. But that would depend on whether your dog handles car travel well and if your destination is within a reasonable driving distance.

Bottom line: Before you book a trip, think long and hard about whether it’s essential to bring your dog along for the journey. “In general, I recommend not flying with a pet unless absolutely necessary,” says Justine Lee, veterinary expert for Pumpkin Pet Insurance . “Ideally, pets should not fly unless an owner is moving permanently or taking a long trip—two to four weeks minimum.”

And if you do decide to proceed with flying with a dog, consult with your vet about food, water, exercise, and medication ahead of time. Experts are divided on whether travelers with pets should sedate or tranquilize their dogs before a flight (even the American Veterinary Medical Association offers a slightly murky answer to this question), so weigh the pros and cons with an expert who is familiar with you and your animal. Also know that there are health risks involved with sedation, and some airlines prohibit this practice or require a veterinarian’s note.

To minimize your pet’s discomfort, look for non-stop flights with no transfers, and avoid traveling over holiday periods when airlines—and airports—are busier than normal, to help reduce the risk of anything going wrong. If your pet has to fly in cargo, also be mindful of the weather at your destination. For trips to warm-weather destinations, look into early morning or late evening flights when the temperatures won’t be quite so high; conversely, in cooler climates, book flights in the middle of the day, when temps are warmest.

Can I buy my dog a seat on a plane?

Most airlines do not allow passengers to buy their dogs a seat on a plane. However, depending on the dog’s size and breed, as well as the specific airline’s rules , you may be able to pay to have your dog fly with you in the cabin.

Emily Zemler

Lauren Dana Ellman

Usually dogs are only allowed to fly in the cabin—known as carry-on pets—if they can comfortably fit in a carrier that you can stow under the seat in front of you. A small number of airlines, including JetBlue, Alaska Airlines, and Etihad Airways, allow passengers flying with dogs to buy an extra seat for their pet. Dogs must still fly in a carrier and fit under the seat to be stowed for taxi, takeoff, and landing (on Etihad, carriers can take up more space if being used with an additional seat); outside of those flight phases, passengers are generally allowed to put the dog carrier on their lap or in the seat next to them that they purchased.

Unfortunately, larger dogs (with exceptions for trained service animals) have to travel in the cargo hold, along with all the luggage and freight. Most airlines describe this as “shipping” your pet. (Yikes.)

While airlines say they try their best to make dogs comfortable in the cargo hold, it’s bound to be an unpleasant experience for your pet nonetheless (and that’s likely an understatement). Plenty of animals fly in cargo every year without incident, but travelers have also shared horror stories about their pets being injured, becoming very sick, or even dying.

Are the potential risks of “shipping” your dog in the cargo hold worth the benefits? It’s something to seriously consider. Additionally, once you check in your dog for the flight, they are completely in the hands of airline personnel until you get to your destination. Your dog will be loaded by baggage handlers who are trying to get all of the luggage and other items onto the plane in an efficient manner. Although they may love pets, they’re not there to pay special attention to your dog. “There are many situations that are beyond your control when your pet flies in cargo,” says Bruns. “Putting your dog in cargo, even on a pet-friendly airline, can be a very risky situation.”

What are the rules for flying with a dog?

The rules for traveling with your dog will vary widely based on your airline, where you’re traveling, and what type of dog you have. Always do research in advance of every trip—even if it’s not your first time flying with a dog—to ensure you have all of the latest information and regulations. If your dog is a trained service animal, then a totally different set of regulations will apply. Look at airlines’ websites carefully to be sure you’re reading the correct information you need. You can also try calling an airline customer service line to get more detail on their specific rules. Here are the pet travel pages for Delta , American Airlines , United , JetBlue , Southwest , and Alaska Airways .

Airlines typically require a health certificate —issued by an accredited veterinarian following an office visit that includes a physical examination—stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on her vaccinations. The certificate is only good for 30 days, and you’ll need it for both your departure and return. (Many airlines require that your dog's clean bill of health be no more than 10 days old.) If the duration of your trip is longer than your certificate will be valid for, you’ll also have to schedule a vet visit while on your trip to meet the return flight requirements. Dogs must also typically be at least eight weeks old to fly, says Bruns.

You’ll typically pay between $95 to $125 each way for your pet to fly in the cabin with you, though the pet fee varies by airline. The cost of shipping your pet in the cargo hold depends on the combined weight of your dog and their crate, as well as how far they’ll be flying—most airlines offer online calculators for getting an estimate.

Wherever your pet will spend the flight, airlines typically require an appropriate pet carrier or crate. The International Air Transport Association, whose guidelines most airlines follow, has a list of pet carrier requirements (we've also rounded up our favorite airline-approved pet carriers) .

Generally speaking, the crate needs to be durable and have plenty of ventilation, strong handles, and a leak-proof bottom. Clearly mark the pet carrier with the words “Live Animal” and arrows that show which way is up, with a label containing your name, phone number, address, and destination contact information.

Another important thing to research? Local animal import laws for each airport you’ll be stopping at along the way. This is especially important if you’re traveling internationally or somewhere like Hawaii , which has strict customs rules. Many places have painfully complicated processes and long quarantine periods—which could mean you'd be separated from your pet for most or all of your trip.

Some destinations do not allow pets to fly in the cabin, even if your dog is small enough to be a carry-on; there are even some countries and states that prohibit pets from flying to, from, or through on a connection, period. Others have specific requirements that may take a while to coordinate, so it’s best to start your trip-planning process extra early if you want to bring your dog. “Some countries require testing and treatment for disease months in advance of travel, so timing is of the utmost importance,” says Bruns.

Also note there are currently special requirements for dogs traveling to the U.S. from a country the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) deems high risk for rabies . For example, dogs who have been vaccinated against rabies in the U.S. by a U.S.-licensed veterinarian may return from a high-risk country if they have proof of rabies vaccination and a microchip; are at least six months old; are healthy upon arrival; and arrive at one of 18 specific airports with CDC quarantine facilities.

Before your trip, thoroughly research the departing and arrival airports, paying close attention to any pet relief areas. Familiarize your dog with their crate well in advance of your trip so they are comfortable spending long periods of time inside it. You might even consider taking your dog to the airport’s departure area a few times so they become slightly more familiar with this strange place. “Every time I fly with my dog, I look at the terminal map—both the one I'm leaving from and the one I'm landing at—to see if there is a pet relief area,” says Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer with Rover . “This way, if my flight is delayed, I can give him another chance to go. And as soon as we land, I know where to head.”

Flying with a dog: Day-of travel

On travel day, be sure to get to the airport extra early so you don’t feel rushed or stressed. If your pet is flying cargo, most airlines require you to arrive at least three hours before departure for domestic flights and at least five hours before international flights. You’ll likely need to take your pet to a separate cargo drop-off location at the airport. These are usually special hangars on the outskirts of the airport property. Your airline should have a list of locations and hours of operation of the facilities at each airport. This is also where you’ll pick up your pet after the flight, too, so review your departure and arrival airport maps ahead of time to know where to go.

If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, go to the passenger check-in desk, where an agent will ask to see all of your dog’s required paperwork. Once you’ve got the all-clear and paid the pet carry-on fee, you’ll head to security. Deal with your shoes, liquids, laptop, and other items before tending to your dog. Then, remove the dog from the kennel and place it on the conveyor belt; it needs to go through the X-ray machine. Place a leash on your dog in the security line until it’s your turn to go through the metal detector. When it’s your turn to be scanned, TSA says to remove your dog’s leash and collar (so they don’t set off the alarm) and carry your dog through the metal detector.

You’ll also want to read up on the TSA’s rules around dog food , especially if you want to bring a little wet food in your carry-on bag. The agency considers both dry and moist dog food as solid food, and therefore they allow it in carry-on bags. As with all food items , however, a security officer may ask you to remove the food from your bag to get a clearer picture of the other contents in your carry-on.

If the dog is flying as cargo, make sure to attach a current photo of her to the outside of the carrier, as well as a small bag of food so airline personnel can feed it in case of a long delay . Keep a current photo of your dog handy on your phone, too, in case the airline accidentally “misplaces” your pet—it's not likely, but it’s better to be prepared. (Getting your pet microchipped can also help in the event that your pet gets lost.)

Once you touch down at your destination, grab your checked baggage (or, to speed things up while traveling with dogs, only bring a carry-on ) and head straight to the airline’s cargo location. Dogs who fly cargo are typically available two hours after the flight’s arrival, and you must pick them up within four hours or airline staffers will take them to a veterinarian or boarding facility.

Whether your pet flew in cargo or the cabin, take your dog for a walk right away and be sure to give them lots of praise, cuddles, treats, toys, or whatever other positive reinforcement rewards they prefer. (If you're flying with a dog in the cabin and have a layover, stretch your legs—and your pup's—at a pet relief area in the airport .) Though the journey can be complicated, you'll breathe easier once you've both arrived safe and sound.

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Flying with Pets

If you intend to fly with a pet or service animal, the links below provide information to help ensure a smooth and enjoyable traveling experience.

• Can I take my pet through security?
• I have a service animal; what type of screening should I expect?
• Traveling with Animals
• Traveling with Pets (USDA)

What you need to know about traveling with dogs on a plane, including where they can sit and how much it costs

Traveling these days can be complicated at best between navigating pandemic protocols and increased flight delays and cancellations for human passengers. Adding a dog to the mix has the potential to add frustrations to an already stressful situation.

Whether you travel with your four-legged friend frequently or are considering doing so for the first time, here's everything you need to know.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

As you might suspect, not all dogs are allowed on planes, and those that are allowed are restricted to certain spots on a plane. Think of it like pet classes, if you will.

The right to fly primarily depends on a dog's weight, breed and the airline you intend to fly.

Where in the plane can your dog sit?

"Your pet can travel in three ways: as hand luggage in the cabin with you, as excess luggage in the cargo hold of the aircraft or as cargo in the hold of the aircraft," according to Zoo Logistics , a company based in the Netherlands that helps people coordinate travel with pets. "The options for your pet depend on a number of factors, such as the breed and size of your pet, the airline company, the type of aircraft, the destination and whether you will travel on the same flight as your pet."

Most airlines will allow pets to fly in the cabin as luggage or in the hold as excess luggage so long as you'll be flying on the same flight and they meet size and weight restrictions. However, some do require all pets to fly as cargo. You'll want to double-check the airline's policies on traveling with pets before you book your tickets.

If your pet is flying with you as luggage, you'll either be able to keep them in the cabin with you or they will be flown as excess luggage in the hold of the aircraft. Aircraft holds are ventilated and heated to help keep pets comfortable, according to Zoo Logistics. If your pet cannot accompany you (or if they are flying solo), they'll be treated as cargo. Flying with your pets as cargo is doable, but certainly not recommended by most pet owners.

Before you decide to bring your dog on board, make sure to "find a good pet carrier that's sturdy and small enough for all the airlines you fly," says TPG senior writer Katie Genter .

Not only does it need to be the right size, but make sure it's also strong enough to weather flights, especially if your pup tends to chew through carriers.

"I've flown with Murray a handful of times and it's always been fairly easy, aside from the one time he tore his carrier case — we had to jury-rig it shut with a shoestring," TPG senior aviation business reporter David Slotnick recalled of his 4-year-old miniature goldendoodle. "He weighs 18 pounds, so we always fly pet-in-cabin following all of the airline's procedures, and we typically fly Delta."

Related: Can you cruise with your dog, cat or other pets?

Which dog breeds can fly?

Some dogs (and cats) are prohibited from flying altogether, including snub-nosed breeds , brachycephalic breeds of dogs that include the French bulldog and Boston terrier and are prone to heavy breathing. These dogs are banned on certain airlines, including United and Delta, and restricted on others, including Lufthansa , Swiss Airlines and KLM .

To ensure your dog is eligible to fly with a commercial airline, double-check an airline's pet-in-cabin policy, says pet transport service Pets2Fly , which also notes that "flying in-cabin is most likely the safest way to travel" for some breeds.

American Airlines, for example, allows cats and dogs to be carried on if they meet specific size, age and destination requirements, on most flights not exceeding 12 hours to and from select locations. The airline also charges $125 as an extra carry-on pet fee, and the animal must stay in the kennel underneath the seat in front of you throughout the flight.

"If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo," says AA, for which fees vary. Note that many people do not recommend flying your pet in cargo if you can avoid it, particularly during the summer months.

Thanks to these breed restrictions, TPG senior writer Vikkie Walker usually takes Amtrak when traveling with her 4-year-old pug, Migo Jameson Walker .

"Migo can't fly on some airlines, so we take Amtrak. He's a nervous traveler so I have to drug him, feed him peanut butter and have him in my sight on the train," Walker told me. "When we took Amtrak on Thanksgiving, he tried to make a run for it on the train. Generally, I do not enjoy traveling with him and will leave him with a sitter anytime I can."

Related: A comprehensive guide to traveling with pets

Weight limits for flying with dogs

Some airlines have weight limits on pets traveling in the cabin, usually capped at 20 pounds.

"Traveling with my 24-pound dog Chilly Willy is super stressful," says TPG senior editor Clint Henderson. "I'm always worried Chilly won't be allowed to board, but fortunately, Delta and Alaska don't have official weight limits."

If you do have a larger dog, it may be harder to find an airline that will let you keep your dog in the cabin with you. But there are some options available.

Last week, TPG senior aviation reporter Ethan Klapper and his girlfriend flew with their Labrador rescue for the first time on JSX , a semiprivate air carrier.

"For a forthcoming TPG review, my girlfriend and I took Patty from Houston Hobby (HOU) to Dallas Love Field (DAL). I was nervous about this flight because Patty can be a bit anxious — she hates going in the elevator and the noise from garbage trucks. But JSX has a great pet policy and accepts out-of-crate medium- and large-size dogs for the cost of a second seat — with just a very simple form to fill out. Every staffer we encountered, from the staff at Hobby to the flight attendant and the staff at Dallas Love, were wonderful with dogs and really into her. She even got a JSX pet bandana! While JSX has a somewhat limited (but growing) network, I highly recommend using them if you have a larger dog."

Keep an eye out for Klapper's full review of JSX coming soon.

Extra paperwork and fees

"The thing most people may not realize is that when you travel with your pet, some airlines require you to check in at the airport so they can collect your pet travel fee and check your paperwork," said TPG director of content Andrea Rotondo . "So you need to leave plenty of time to do that."

American , Delta and Alaska each state on their website that you'll need to check in before boarding your flight to pay your pet fees, which range from $100-$125.

"The one hassle is that you can't check in online, you need to go to a counter to pay the pet-in-cabin fee and get a tag for the carrier," says Slotnick. "I will say it's frustrating that we need to pay the fee since the pet is part of your regular checked bag allowance."

Additionally, you'll need to show proper identification for your pet .

Increased scrutiny

If you've traveled with a pet recently, you may have experienced increased scrutiny of paid-for pets in carriers.

"Airlines have definitely cracked down on dogs being too big for carry-on since the pandemic," says Mark Lindsay, a senior software engineer at TPG. "My wife was very nearly refused boarding (once on Delta, once on United) for transcontinental flights last fall. The dog was allowed to travel after a good amount of pleading, but we're not taking the risk ever again!"

Bottom line

Only you can decide whether traveling with your pet is worth it. There are quite a few additional hoops you must jump through to ensure they can successfully board the plane.

If you're nervous about traveling with your pup, Slotnick encourages talking to your vet.

"There are options for anti-anxiety medication or even just a dose of children's Benadryl, that can help make the experience easier for your pup," he said. "Another thing that makes the travel experience better for Murray — the in-cabin snacks. We're always sure to share our Cheez-Its and pretzels by popping a couple into the carrier."

Related: Perks for pets, convenience for flyers: Your guide to airport pet boarding facilities

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A guide to traveling with pets

Whether it’s on the road or up in the air, be in the know before you make travel plans for you and your furry friend.

— Medically reviewed by Dr. Erica Irish

Everything we create is factually accurate and biased toward science → meet our team of experts

Dr. Dwight Alleyne

Updated October 31, 2023

Planning for your trip

Traveling with pets by plane, traveling with pets by train, traveling with pets by car, cruises and boating with pets, traveling internationally with your pet, lodging with pets.

• Frequently Asked Questions

The essentials

• Know before you go — Certain destinations and airlines may have travel restrictions and additional health requirements for your pet. Your pet may need a veterinarian exam within ten days of your departure — or sooner, depending on your destination.
• Flying with pets means you have choices to make — Cats and dogs under 20 pounds may qualify to ride in an airline passenger cabin for an extra fee. Larger animals must be checked as baggage or secure a separate cargo flight.
• Help them rest easy on their travels — Finding a comfortable pet carrier and harness allows your pet to have a safe, less stressful experience.

Plenty of pet parents like to bring their furry friends wherever they go, including on vacation. After all, they’re with us while we’re working at home, so why not reward them with a holiday? Whether you’re bringing your furry BFF along on a road trip or taking to the skies in an airplane, it’s important to have a travel to-do list for your pup or kitty to keep them safe and comfortable. 

Before making plans for you and your pet, it’s important to visit the veterinarian to check for any underlying health issues that could make travel dangerous. Additionally, many rules and regulations have shifted after the COVID-19 pandemic. Many airlines no longer allow pets to fly as cargo, so check your particular airline information Trusted Source American Kennel Club (AKC) Registry of purebred dog pedigrees. Go to source before booking your seat.

Read on to learn about everything else you should consider if you’re planning to take your pet with you on your next travel adventure.

Before hitting the road or going up in the air, pet parents should include a pre-travel to-do list for their furry friends, especially for long-distance trips. Just like a packing list, your canine or feline friend will need to be prepared to go on vacation, and prepping your pets in advance is a good idea even for short trips. 

Check with your vet

If you’re nervous about how well your pet will handle air or car travel, ask your veterinarian if they recommend using any medications to help with stress or even motion sickness. However, it’s important to know when flying with your pet that the International Air Transport Association no longer recommends sedatives or tranquilizers as a good option. There’s a risk they can put added stress on your animal’s breathing.

Don’t wait until the last minute to call your vet — it may take their office some time to gather the necessary paperwork for your pet’s travel health certificate. You might also ask them about any holistic methods or products available to calm your pet that are safe for travel and your pet’s specific needs.

Research travel guidelines

Although we wish we could bring our furry friends everywhere we go, there are restrictions for traveling with pets. Some airlines, such as Delta and Southwest, no longer provide cargo shipping or checked baggage as an option for pets. They only allow animals in the cabin, generally ruling out larger dogs (excluding service animals ). American Airlines does allow pets to fly as cargo. If you want to take a train, Amtrak only allows dogs up to 20 lbs., and they must be in a carrier. Not all hotels are pet-friendly either, so be sure to research which hotels allow pets in the room before booking. 

As always, check before you go. Guidelines about traveling with animals have remained constantly in flux, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. We also recommend calling any airlines, hotels, or other travel accommodations separately to verify any published information on their website, giving you extra peace of mind before takeoff.

Make sure your pet is safe and secure

Whatever way you choose to travel, your dog will need a well-ventilated dog or cat carrier in the appropriate size. Many pet parents make the transport device as comfortable as possible, lining it with a light mat. Keeping a toy in the pet carrier to help comfort your pet is also a good idea. Just make sure if you’re traveling on an airplane, the toy won’t disrupt the other passengers! 

When traveling, keep your pet leashed at all times unless they’re in their carrier or another secure area. Making sure your pet is properly leash-trained will make the long periods on a leash easier for everyone. If you’re traveling by car, you may want to take some time pre-trip to train your pet on riding in the car with a pet-friendly seatbelt. 

It’s also important to keep your pet identifiable in the worst-case scenario if you both get separated. In addition to microchipping your pet , you should make sure they have an ID tag with your information on it to contact you.

Stress less - keep your pet safe while moving!

Amber alert for pets, choosing the right pet carrier.

Pets who are going to be constrained in a carrier for an extended period of time should be as comfortable as possible. The ideal pet carrier should be well-ventilated and the correct size for your pet. The best way to gauge the appropriate size? If your furry friend can stand up and turn around without touching the top or sides, the carrier is a good fit. 

Cat owners who are traveling with their kitties will also want to choose a carrier with both a top and side opening. Giving your cat options and being able to lift them up out of the carrier is less stressful for them. If you’re traveling by car, keep the carrier or cat backpack level in the vehicle to help ease stress and prevent nausea for your cat. If you’re traveling by plane, make sure your cat wears a leash or harness, as they’ll need to get out of the carrier during the TSA pre-check. 

👉 If you’re flying with your pet, airlines may have rules about the type of carrier they can travel in, such as hard-sided or wooden. It’s always best to check in with your airline of choice to make sure your transportation tool is in line with their specific standards.

Training your pet to wear a harness

Many dogs are already trained to wear a harness before they go on a big trip with their humans. All those walks and outdoor playtimes mean your pup is pretty used to their dog harness . Cats, however, are less commonly harness-trained, and it may take them a little time to get used to it. Because it’s essential to keep your pet harnessed and leashed while out traveling, if your pet isn’t harness trained you’ll want to take care of that before your trip.

Preparing your big dog for traveling

It’s naturally much easier to travel with a smaller dog than some bigger breeds. But i f you want to have your large dog with you at all times, you’ll probably want to stick with road trips Trusted Source VCA Hospitals Community of veterinarians with up-to-date veterinary information. Go to source . Dogs larger than 20 lbs. are typically not allowed in the main cabin of an airplane or train unless they’re certified service animals.

Larger dogs can travel by plane, but will often need to be shipped on a special pet cargo freight flight, and only certain airlines (such as Delta) offer this service. Pet parents will have to make sure the flight times of the pet cargo plane align with their own travel itinerary, which can make things a little more difficult.

When traveling with your big dog in the car, get them set up with a kennel or a doggie seatbelt that is comfortable for them. Make sure your larger-sized pup has room to stretch their paws and turn around. It’s OK to let your pup enjoy some fresh air out of an open window, but always make sure they’re secured when doing so.

Traveling with anxious pets

Some pets are more susceptible to stress than others, and this can cause potential issues when traveling. It’s a good idea to set up an appointment with your veterinarian if your pet gets tense when traveling. Your vet can recommend supplements or medications to help make the travel more pleasant for your pup or kitty when bringing them out of their comfort zone. 

Per Dr. Dwight Alleyne, “Pets that are too anxious may not be able to travel because of increased risk to health, especially if they have underlying health conditions such as heart or respiratory disease. Anxiety medications can help with traveling, but there are some airlines that may not allow you to travel with any type of medication that can cause sedation. Your veterinarian can help assist you to determine what is best for your pet based on their circumstances.” 

👉 C onsider if your pet should be traveling with you. We love having our furbabies with us, but there are times where it may be better to leave your pet at home with a trusted pet sitter or at a boarding facility.

Pet owners who want to take to the skies with their dog or cat have a lot to think about when planning their trip.

• Generally speaking, all dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old before going on their first flight, and they must be fully weaned for at least five days for their comfort (and your sanity!) Typically pets must be 20 lbs. or less to fit in an airline-approved pet carrier.
• All airlines will ask for a health certificate from your veterinarian before your pet is allowed onboard. Ideally, it should be written within ten days of your departure, stating that your pet is up to date on core vaccines (especially rabies!) It’ll also outline your animal’s overall health, listing any medical conditions and whether they seem fit to fly, which is determined by your pet’s veterinarian.

When pets are allowed in the main cabin

When possible, arrange for your pet to fly with you in the main cabin. Small pets, like cats and dogs under 20 pounds, are often considered carry-on pets and are generally allowed for an additional pet fee if they remain in their dog carrier or cat carrier.

Airlines must accommodate certified service dogs at no extra charge. However, airlines are no longer required to give emotional support animals the same level of accommodations even if they are certified. If accepted, they’re considered pets and must still follow the 20-pound rule. You can expect to pay around $200 or less for your pet to ride in the cabin with you versus the $1,000 average for a cargo ticket.

Traveling with your pet in the domestic United States

Flying within the country usually isn’t as big of a hassle as international travel. For example, your pet probably won’t have to undergo quarantine unless you’re traveling to Hawaii, where your pet will be required to quarantine for 120 days if they haven’t received a rabies vaccination within the last 30 days. If they have, they still must remain under watch for five days once they arrive. Hawaii is 100% rabies-free, so it maintains stringent preventative measures.

Individual states may have rules that differ from where you live, so you should contact a veterinarian in your destination state before you travel.

Traveling with your pet overseas

International flights pose extra challenges when it comes to traveling with pets. Some foreign countries have strict limits, such as not allowing your pet to arrive in-cabin. A commercial shipping company may be a better option or even required by your destination country. 

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, most airlines no longer allow live animals as checked baggage or to be shipped as cargo on a separate flight, which means they’ll have to ride with you or get shipped commercially through a third party.

In addition to the health certificate we mentioned earlier, your pet may require additional certificates plus an International Organization for Standardization (ISO) microchip. Certain locations outside the continental United States may also require a quarantine for your pet once they reach the country.

Check with your airline and destination country before you book your pet’s flight so you know what to expect. Ask about necessary vaccines, certifications, and quarantines.

Other tips for traveling by plane

Here are some other factors to consider beyond your pet’s comfort level and social skills:

• Pets prone to anxiety or aggression shouldn’t fly. The added stress of flying will exacerbate these issues, and make the experience unpleasant for all involved.
• Never fly with any animal with cardiac or respiratory issues. Stressful situations elevate your dog’s body temperature. Panting cools them down, but flat-faced brachycephalic breeds can’t pant efficiently, which makes them susceptible to heatstroke , even if it isn’t that hot outside. It is not recommended to fly with these breeds under any conditions, due to the risk of respiratory distress Trusted Source VCA Hospitals Community of veterinarians with up-to-date veterinary information. Go to source .
• Elderly or pregnant animals are high-risk passengers. Certain airlines won’t allow them on board, and health complications are more prone to arise in these animals.

Risks of traveling with pets

U.S. airlines transported more than 256,114 dogs and cats in 2021, according to our analysis of the Department of Transportation’s Air Travel Consumer Reports . While the vast majority arrived safely at their destination, 21 died, another 7 were injured, and 14 lost.

When examining several years’ worth of reports, large dogs such as labrador retrievers and Siberian huskies were most at risk for chewing through their kennel in the cargo hold, which often resulted in injury but rarely death. Owners of brachycephalic breeds such as the English bulldog reported instances of suffocation, and the few cats that flew as checked pets and reported fatalities experienced cardiac failure amidst other underlying health conditions.

Flying can stress your pet’s heart and lungs, which can have fatal consequences if they’re in poor health. This is another reason your pet needs a thorough exam by a veterinarian before traveling.

Cost of flying with a pet*

Consider the time of year.

Some cargo holds aren’t climate-controlled in the same way as airplane cabins. As a result, many pet parents avoid booking their flights during the hottest or coldest times of the year.

If that’s not possible, you can take as many steps as you can to keep you and your pet comfortable. For example, if you must fly in January, secure a flight in the middle of the day when it’s warmer. In July, travel at night when the summer sun won’t be as scorching. Whenever possible, try to book a direct flight to avoid unnecessary exertion. 

Airlines will probably have temperature guidelines as well — and you can always bring plane-safe temperature devices (like personal fans or heaters) as is allowed by your airline and the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA).

Some good news for pet owners who live to travel by train is that Amtrak does offer pet-friendly travel options. Similarly to airplanes, your pet must be in a pet carrier and must remain in the carrier throughout the trip. Amtrak only allows pets to travel on trips up to seven hours – any longer and they’d definitely need a potty break! Only certain routes allow pets, and pets are only permitted to ride in coach or Acela business class compartments. 

The fees for pet travel via train are very reasonable and anywhere between $29 – $39 depending on the route. One important thing to note with Amtrak travel is that the pet carrier and pet must be no heavier than twenty pounds put together. 

Pet carriers can be hard or soft, but must be leakproof and well-ventilated. The maximum size for pet carriers is 19″ long x 14″ wide x 10.5″ high. All pets need to be at least eight weeks old and up to date on all vaccinations. Be sure to get to the train station at least 45 minutes before departing so that your dog or cat’s paperwork can be checked.

Taking your pet on the open road can be a lot of fun if you’re well-prepared. Many dogs love car rides, so for some pet parents, this will be an easy feat. Other dogs and cats aren’t always so keen to be in a car for long.

• If you cat or dog are highly anxious travelers , they may need anxiety supplements or medication that your veterinarian can provide. 
• Pack a go-back for your dog or cat with their food, toys, bowls, fresh water, and any medicine or supplements. It’s also a good idea to have a pet first aid bundle to plan for all possible contingencies. Be sure to keep treats and a favorite toy or two close at hand to keep your pet happy and entertained during the long drive. 
• Time your bathroom breaks with your pets’ potty breaks. While dogs can do their business anywhere outside, a cat will need access to their litter box. Keep a litter box in the back or trunk of your car, then harness and leash your cat and bring them to their litter box when it’s time for a bathroom break. The leash will prevent them from running out of the car while still giving them space to take care of business.
• Choose how you want your pets to travel – Cats will probably do best in a pet carrier, and many dogs will feel most comfortable in their crates or carriers. If pets are used to riding in the car with a pet-friendly seat belt and harness, there’s no reason to switch it up for a longer trip.

While taking your dog on the open waters sounds like a fun adventure, there aren’t too many options available. Cunard Cruise Lines does allow dogs 20 lbs. or less on their ships, though pups must be in a kennel at all times they’re not in your cabin. If you have your own boat, boating with your dog can be a ton of fun. Just be sure to pack plenty of fresh water and a doggy life jacket !

Traveling internationally can be trickier than domestically. If you’re traveling to any part of Europe, all pets must be microchipped and up to date on all vaccinations. Pets also require a health certificate that is countersigned and stamped by Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Your veterinarian must be USDA accredited in order for APHIS to accept their certificate. 

Travel to Mexico from the United States is much less restrictive in regard to pets. Pets don’t need to be microchipped or have a health certificate. Upon entering the border or going through airport customs, your pet will be inspected to ensure they are healthy and not visibly wounded upon arrival. 

No matter where you’re going, make sure you carry copies of your pet’s vaccination documents and health certificate and have them handy to present if asked by local authorities.

Once you get to your destination, you’ll want to make sure your pet is safe and comfortable in their home away from home. Set up any litter boxes right away, or doggy pee pads if you use them. Figure out the route your dog will take to go potty and try to take the same route each time to get your dog comfortable with a routine.

Set up your pet’s carrier or bed in a place they’ll be comfortable. Leave out some toys to make the space more fun. If you have to leave your pet in your hotel room, take steps to ensure they’ll be calm and quiet so as not to disturb other guests. You may need to give them a calming supplement to help reduce the stress of being alone in a foreign place. 

👉  It’s a good idea to bring cleaning supplies with you on your trip. In the chance a pup or kitty has an accident, travelers shouldn’t rely on the cleaning staff to clean up after those messes. 

Traveling with pets has a lot of steps involved to ensure a smooth experience. Plenty of pre-planning and preparations are involved to keep your dog or cat safe and as comfortable as possible on their trip. But getting to share in your adventures with your furry best friend can make all the legwork worth it.

Frequently asked questions

Can i fly with my newborn kitten or puppy.

For their safety, all dogs and cats must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before they can fly. In practicality, they might need to be even older than that since most puppies and kittens don’t yet have their required vaccines at such a young age. You’ll need to wait until they grow up a little more before they can join you on your airplane adventures.

How much does it cost to fly with a dog or cat?

In-cabin accommodations are much cheaper than checked baggage or cargo. The price is usually less than $200, which is usually closer to an add-on cost than an extra ticket. Checked baggage costs a little more but still stays in the economical range. Cargo can cost as much as a human plane ticket and may not be an option with many commercial airlines. You’ll probably have the choice of flying with your pet in-cabin or hiring a commercial shipping company to transport your pet. Most airlines no longer allow animals as checked baggage or on their cargo flights.

How do you travel long distances with a cat? 

Cats typically do very well in their carriers and will not mess in them as they want to avoid sitting in their own mess. While cats can hold their urine for a long time (up to 24 hours!), it’s recommended to have a litter box in the trunk of your car. Bring your cat out to it while on a leash to let your cat relieve themselves during a long drive. 

Is it safe to fly with your pet?

When taking the proper precautions, yes. While the accounts of dog and cat deaths over recent years have made us think twice about how to travel safely with our animals, these incidents account for less than 0.05% of all animals transported. Hundreds of thousands of animals fly safely every year. That said, you should always take your pet to the veterinarian within 10 days of your flight for a health assessment and refrain from flying a sick, pregnant, or elderly pet. Animals with a history of aggression, anxiety, or brachycephalic dog breeds may not make good travelers. Talk to your veterinarian if you have any concerns about traveling with your pet.

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How to travel with a dog by plane

Everything you need to know about how to travel with a dog by plane with expert advice from a professional pet relocator

Can I fly with a dog on the plane?

Is it expensive, can a dog sit in the cabin, how to prepare a dog for the day of flying, what about anxious dogs.

How to travel with a dog by plane is a question asked by more canine owners than you may think. Our dogs are considered part of our families. When our lives give us opportunities to work and travel in different cities or countries, it often requires air travel to get there. As we prepare our visas and travel documents, advance preparation is also necessary to fly with a dog by plane. 

Dog owners may be feeling overwhelmed with all the details involved in the dog’s flight. There is the daunting thought of how your dog will react to being on a plane, especially if it’s a longhaul flight where some of the longest lasting dog chews won’t go a miss, and there are the logistics of it all such as the costs and travel requirements that owners will want to understand better.

It's helpful to heed the advice of an expert, so we spoke to Bellina Tan, a professional pet relocator who has successfully transported hundreds of pets, specializing in Australia, Asia, UK and the US travel. Tan from Pet Embassy, shares her expertise with Pets Radar, giving us valuable advice for flying with our beloved dog.

Whether you’re flying to another city or to a distant country, just keep reading to find out how to travel with a dog on a plane.

Initially working in hospitality and culinary, Bellina Tan has been in the Pet Relocation industry for more than a decade. She is the woman behind Pet Embassy based in Singapore. She has successfully facilitated transporting hundreds of dogs and cats, specializing in Australia, Asia, UK and the US. She treats all the pets in her care like her own, and delights in receiving postcards from their owners in their new homes.   

“Some countries permit pets to arrive with passengers as checked baggage or in the cabin. This is largely dependent on the country and the airline’s regulation,” Tan points out.

The first thing to do is to check the airline regulations as well as the rules enforced by the country you are leaving and the country of destination. It is also important to consider the breed, size, and age of your dog.

There have been many concerns about brachycephalic breeds or snub-nosed dogs. There are often higher risks for these types of dogs than other breeds, and you will need to take special precautions when flying them. Many airlines will refuse to fly snub-nose breeds due to the risks involved. There are certain countries where certain breeds like the American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, and Pit Bull Terrier are prohibited.

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A pet can also travel without its owner as manifest cargo. “Manifest cargo is the best option for pets traveling without their owners, as they do not require their owner to be on the same flight,” says Tan. “This allows pet owners to travel ahead to their new destinations and make sure everything is prepared for their furry family’s arrival. Pets traveling as manifest cargo and excess baggage travel in the baggage compartment in a pressurized, temperature-controlled area reserved just for pets.”

Unlike pets traveling as excess baggage, pets traveling as manifest cargo can be tracked throughout their trip by an Air Waybill. Shipping pets as manifest cargo is more expensive than transporting them as in-cabin and excess baggage.

“When a pet travels as manifest cargo, the airline takes over the pet during the travel, not just for the container. Your pet will travel on an Air Waybill (AWB) and the airline may require the consignee at destination to acknowledge an ‘OK-to-Forward’ before we can even load the animal on the plane at departure,” emphasizes Tan.

As the cost of travel has increased for passengers, the cost of relocating a dogs is substantially expensive. “The cost varies depending on the size, breed of pet, flight routing, and destination,” Tan emphasizes.

When considering air travel for your dog, it's essential to be aware of the associated expenses. As Tan points out, the cost can vary depending on factors such as the airline's policies, whether your dog will travel in-cabin or in the cargo hold, health certificates and vaccinations, the price of an airline-approved travel crate, additional fees for pet handling and services, and the option of hiring a pet travel agent. Pet travel insurance is also worth considering to cover unexpected veterinary expenses. 

Plan ahead, book well in advance, and price up different airlines to secure the best rates. Always prioritize your dog's safety and comfort, and if necessary, explore alternative transportation methods if plane travel isn't suitable for your pet.

While many people dream of sitting in the cabin with their dogs, this is not possible for all dogs.

“Some countries permit pets to arrive with passengers in the cabin. This is largely dependent on country and airline regulations,” Tan explains.

Airlines set limitations on the size and weight of the pets allowed in the cabin. Small dogs must meet the measurements specified by the airlines and fit in the approved carriers in front of the passenger seat.

In addition, there are countries like Australia where animals cannot fly in the cabin. Animals must travel in the temperature and noise-controlled cargo to enter Australia and adhere to the rules, documentation, and quarantine required.

Making the dogs comfortable on their flight is the ultimate concern of dog owners. A seasoned pet relocator like Tan is experienced in putting them at ease, with a list of things dog owners should prepare before the big day of flying:

“Days before flying, it is important to work on the veterinary requirements. This varies and is dependent on the country’s regulation and the pet’s needs.”

“Exercise is crucial preparation for dogs before their trip. Tired pets make for better travelers and help to work off nervous energy.” Tan cannot emphasize this enough. A walk before boarding the plane helps them travel comfortably.

“Some pets may suffer from air sickness," says Tan. Therefore, you will want to consider how far in advance your dog will eat before boarding a flight and discuss it with your vet to make sure you aren't under or over feeding your dog before traveling.

Tan adds, “Water is always encouraged. Hydration is important and each crate is always fitted with a container with drinking water.”

“Start early with crate training. Get your pet used to the crate at least four weeks before departure.”

“A visit to the groomers before the flight is a good idea. Keeping the coat clean and short will prevent any matted furs should it get soiled. Keeping nails short will prevent potential injuries too.”

“We usually strongly advise against any sedatives. I only ever recommend using natural calming methods such as rescue remedies, calming collars, calming sprays etc. Using sedatives can actually be much more harmful for pets when travelling. These usually make them unable to control their heart rate which can cause health problems whilst traveling. 

"It is too dangerous as the medication goes into the animal’s blood system, slows down the heartbeat, animal has difficulties controlling body temperature and movement. Sedatives have a different impact when traveling in a pressurized airplane at high altitudes and can therefore be very dangerous to the pet's health," explains Tan.

With the many details and moving parts involved in a dog’s plane trip, many people opt to enlist the services of a pet travel specialist. Agents like Tan handle the entire relocation from vet checks, documents, right down to flight booking, and working with a destination agent who will handle the import clearance on arrival.

It is worth noting checking if the relocator is an IPATA member. IPATA members are registered with the applicable organizations within their own country and adhere to the rules and regulations of the Live Animals Regulations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). A pet travel professional facilitates the travel process with their knowledge and expertise in flights, flight regulations, airways pet policy, flight container requirements, pickup and delivery arrangements, quarantine, boarding, import and export arrangements, and proper identification. As requirements, regulations and restrictions change, the pet travel professional stays abreast of these changes and makes the necessary adjustments to your pet's travel arrangements.

With advanced planning and preparation, dogs can comfortably fly on a plane. The ultimate reward is the joy of going for walks and adventures in the new city you are moving to.

Maida Pineda is a freelance food, travel and lifestyle writer and author of two books.

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The best in health, wellness, and positive training from America’s leading dog experts

Can Dogs Eat French Fries?

Chicken-free dog food, finding the best large-breed puppy food, can dogs eat cat food, how to ace dog adolescence, why is my dog aggressive with other dogs, how to tell if a dog is depressed, why do dogs eat dirt, who is the dog trainer training, scent training for dogs, what is a dog training platform, how to get a dog to listen when distracted, cerenia for dogs, are ticks active in the winter, leptospirosis in dogs, rocky mountain spotted fever in dogs, help for dog urine killing grass, can all dogs swim, how to introduce a cat to a dog, how to travel with a dog on a plane, there are many things to know and do in advance of flying with your dog in cabin or in a carrier in cargo. here’s what you need to know about bringing your dog on a plane..

Statistically, it’s safer to fly than drive across the country, so if you have a long-distance journey to make with your dog and want to save time, you may decide to book a flight for the two of you.

Flying with a dog in cabin

If your dog is small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you, he can accompany you in the cabin as your carry-on item. You’ll need to notify the airline that you’ll be traveling with a pet, and you’ll be charged a pet fee, usually around $100 each way. Book the flight and make these arrangements early, as most flights will accommodate only a few pets in the cabin.

Be aware that there is no cut-and-dried rule regarding the size of dogs who can be carried on a plane. Most accurately, the limiting factor for which dogs can be carried onto a flight is the size of the dog’s carrier, and how well the dog appears to fit inside it. Every airline has different maximum dimensions for carriers – and airlines sometimes even have different maximum dimensions for the various types of airplane that may be employed on your journey. Confirm that your carrier meets the airline’s requirements for under-seat pet carriers.

The airline will have other rules and regulations regarding vaccines, a health certificate from a veterinarian, and other paperwork for your dog. Read the rules carefully and get all your ducks (dogs!) in a row well in advance; health certificates can’t be prepared too far in advance of travel, so you’ll to schedule a vet visit within a certain time frame before your trip.

On your travel day, allow plenty of time to check in with your pet. In some cases, you’ll need to drive your pet to a special cargo area first, and then proceed to the passenger terminal to check in yourself. Make sure to have all required paperwork ready and accessible.

In addition to guidance you’ll receive from the airline, air-travel-savvy dog owners we spoke with recommended the following:

• Consider your dog’s temperament. Air travel can be stressful for humans, and we understand what’s going on! If your dog struggles with “stranger danger,” is sensitive to unknown sounds, or is generally fearful and anxious, we’d recommend flying the dog only if no other options exist.
• As with car travel – and just plain old common sense – make sure your dog has current identification and a working microchip registered with your current information.

Should you medicate your dog before flying in cabin?

Do not sedate your dog prior to air travel. Sedatives can affect heart rate and respiration and can throw off a dog’s equilibrium. Also, most airlines will not accept a pet that has been knowingly sedated.

Flying your dog as cargo

If your dog does not meet the in-cabin size requirements and is not a task-trained service dog, she’ll need to travel in the cargo hold. Live animals flown as cargo are loaded into a pressurized and temperature-controlled area.

Not all planes are designed to transport live animals and space is limited. In addition, different airlines have different policies and restrictions for how larger pets are transported. For example, in the United States, Alaska Airlines will transport larger dogs as “luggage” (in the temperature-controlled section of the cargo hold) for $100 each way. American Airlines accepts checked pets only for active U.S. military – all other large dogs must be transported through American Airlines Cargo, which is considerably more expensive – often more than the cost of the human’s ticket. United Airlines no longer transports pets that don’t meet in-cabin travel requirements.

Once you’ve made the decision to ship your dog as cargo, prepare for the big day with these tips:

• Triple-check crate regulations well in advance of travel. Airlines often require that dogs fly in crates that are large enough for dogs to stand up and turn around comfortably. Make sure your dog is very calm and comfortable in a crate long before he’ll need to fly in one.
• Bring nylon cable ties to further secure the door of the crate after airline personnel have inspected the dog and crate. Many airlines do this anyway, but if not, it’s good to be prepared.
• Airlines require crates have a food and water dish attached on the inside of the crate. Freezing water in the dish makes it more likely your dog will be able to enjoy hydration during the flight, rather than having most or all of the water being spilled in transport.
• Airlines require that you have “LIVE ANIMAL” and “THIS END UP” stickers and the dog’s and/or owner’s itinerary/s affixed to the dog’s crate. Consider adding some additional stickers or photos to make your dog’s crate easier to spot if you’re watching from the airport or airplane window. Fun decorations or amusing information about your dog are also likely to put a smile on the faces of the ground crew transporting your pet. If something about your dog makes them smile, they might be more likely to go the extra mile while she is in their care.
• Remind the gate agent that you’re traveling with a pet in cargo and ask to see your dog loaded into the plane. Consider including a cute photo of your dog and a $5 Starbucks gift card as part of your “ask” to encourage cooperation!
• If you can’t personally see your dog loaded into the plane, ask flight crew to radio ground crew for confirmation. Again, it never hurts to pair the your request with a cute photo and a gift card.

Importance of Early Planning

In short, you’ll want to do your research ahead of time and plan carefully. Things can get tricky, especially when you’re trying to coordinate a significant relocation of your own. If the rules, regulations, and challenges related to flying your dog leaves your head spinning, consider working with a reputable pet relocation company whose employees are well-versed in the ins and outs of pet transport, and who can take charge of helping you safely get your four-legged friend from Point A to Point B as part of your move. Visit the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association for more information about working with a pet relocation company.

And if you decide that flying is too dicey, see “ Driving Long-Distance With Your Dog ” for tips on safe car travel with your canine companion.

Under the federal Air Carrier Access Act, service dogs (dogs trained to perform tasks to assist a qualified individual with a disability), regardless of size, may travel in-cabin with their disabled handlers, free of charge. In contrast, emotional support animals (ESAs) whose primary function is to provide emotional support, comfort, or companionship via their presence – as opposed to performing specific trained tasks that mitigate a disability – are no longer covered under the Air Carrier Access Act and must travel as pets.

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Flying with your dog here’s what to do.

Traveling anywhere by plane for a dog owner once meant a painful farewell, but thanks to a surge in the number of pet-friendly hotels and airlines, more people are taking their faithful friend with them when they fly.

But cases involving tragedy and confusion when transporting animals have raised questions over the best way to fly with a dog or other pet – and whether animals should travel by air at all.

Some, such as TV’s “Dog Whisperer” Cesar Millan, advocate traveling everywhere with your dog. Organizations such as the Humane Society of the United States urge caution.

Health check

Kitty Block, CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, says flying with dogs and other pet animals should always be a last resort.

“If you have to fly […] don’t take your animal unless obviously there aren’t any options,” she says. “It’s not an ideal situation for an animal, and it can be stressful for the animal.”

If you don’t have a choice, she says, the key is to be as prepared as possible.

In the weeks leading up to the flight, the animal needs a veterinarian health check to make sure its fit to travel and its immunizations are in date.

Which airline?

As soon as you’ve decided to fly with your pet, call the airline, advises Block. Not all carriers take animals, and rules for flying with them varies.

Website Petfriendlytravel.com has an extensive round up of global airlines and their policies on pets.

Among the most pet-friendly of the pack is Virgin Atlantic, with its Flying Paws plan that gives pets their very own reward scheme.

Sorry, no free flights though. Pets collect “paw prints,” which can be redeemed for gifts such as Burberry, Prada and Gucci pet clothing.

Fancy dress delights aside, pet owners do need to pay attention to the small print when booking flights for their animals.

For instance, Air France says some pets are accepted in the aircraft cabin and in the aircraft hold. But certain “attack dogs” similar to Staffordshire terriers or pit bulls, mastiffs and tosas, will not be carried.

Singapore Airlines requires that your pet has a certificate of good health but does not allow pets to travel in the cabin of the aircraft.

Most North American airlines, however, do let small pets travel in the cabin with you on flights provided you let them know at the time of booking. Fees can be steep, and some allow only domestic travel.

“We don’t recommend one [airline] over the other,” says Block. “What we say is call ahead, be the best advocate for your animal.”

Dog passports

So you’ve found an airline that will accommodate you and your pooch. Next comes the hard part. Red tape.

Pet immigration laws are specific to each country, but one way to cut down on some of the headaches is to create a pet passport, which is “a collection of all identifying and required documents for entering a given country,” advises Pettravel.com .

A pet passport is an essential part of the Pet Travel Scheme (“PETS”), a system that allows animals to travel into the United Kingdom without undergoing quarantine if all the regulations are followed.

It was originally introduced in 2001 for animals entering or returning to the UK from other European Union countries, but has since rolled out to other countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Pettravel.com has a full list of country-specific pet immigration rules, with an option to purchase the necessary forms online.

Pet preparation

Next step: pee control.

Though probably a little easier than flying with kids, heading out on an epic journey with your dog isn’t as simple as throwing it into a pet carrier and taking off, warns Cesar Millan.

You need to prepare them for the long journey and let them get used to their carrier.

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“Don’t just put them in a crate the day before. It should be a transition,” he told CNN in a 2012 interview. “You have to teach your dog to hold its bladder – it’s almost like training for a marathon.

“Go through the process before you fly. For example, flying from Los Angeles to Spain is 14 hours.”

Before you buy a pet crate, check out the International Air Transport Association’s list of pet carrier requirements , which most airlines adhere to.

What to do on board

When it’s time to fly, your pet should either be checked in as cargo or stowed in a cage under the seat in front of you, depending on its size.

Cargo has risks, says Block. Potential hazards include poor ventilation and extreme temperatures.

“You just have to make sure that you keep in mind if you’re traveling in the summer months how hot it is, you want to avoid any layovers so your dog is not in cargo holds or sitting in tarmacs and then having multiple transfers,” advises Block.

Taking your animal in the cabin? Bear in mind the size restrictions for animals. Some airlines also have limits to the number of animals allowed per cabin.

Each airline has its own regulations and procedure, which Block advises familiarizing yourself with before the flight.

Keep communicating

The Humane Society advises that you should be vocal about your animal and its needs – whether it’s with you in the cabin or in the hold.

“It never hurts to let as many people know [that your animal is on board],” says Block. “There can always be break down of communication.”

She also voices her concern over an recent incident in which a dog was mistakenly shipped to Japan instead of Kansas.

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“We can’t stress enough that when you have an animal in commercial travel, you really have to keep making sure that everyone’s aware of it and that it’s proceeding correctly.”

Rules for so-called assistance and emotional support animals (which recently made the headlines when a woman attempted to bring her “ emotional support peacock ” on board a flight) are slightly different.

“Because these animals are emotional support they stay with the passenger,” explains Block. However, she stresses there are no universal rules – and passengers should still check with the airline before traveling.

Changing rules

Block and her team at the Humane Society are currently advocating against animals being placed in the overhead locker, which caused recent dog death on a United Airlines flight.

“We’re looking at legislation that would prohibit […] a small carry-on animal ever being put in the overhead bin – clearly that was a disaster, with dire consequences,” she says.

But Block is hopeful for the future, describing the incident as a potential “watershed moment.”

In an ideal world, commercial air travel would be introduced specifically for animals, catering for their needs.

India by train -- with dogs? One couple shares their story

“The statistics are not good of how many die each year, and so that should not happen,” she says. “There are always going to be some accidents, but this many is a problem, so we’re really looking at this as it’s time to clean this up and it’s not an afterthought.”

Ultimately, Block says as much care should be taken with animals traveling as humans.

“These are not cargo, they’re not suitcases, they’re living beings and they’re our family members. So we really have to make sure that it’s safe for our animals.”

Saying goodbye

If you do have to leave your dog behind, don’t worry about separation anxiety. Millan says that with proper training your pet can handle the time apart – even if you can’t.

But it’s also an issue that needs to be worked out if you’re traveling with your dog, as there will be times you want to leave it in the hotel room without having to worry about it barking and clawing at the door or chewing things up when you’re out.

“Separation anxiety is created by humans because they feel closer to the dog the more they bond. That’s not realistic for the dog, which doesn’t understand.”

“I have to help people and show them how we create separation anxiety. In Mexico, a dog is not allowed in the intimate space. We don’t have a living room. Dog lives outside. Detached from humans.

“In America, a dog lives on top of the human. The human goes to work, the dog doesn’t know how to separate from them. It’s easy to rehabilitate, but you have to understand the concept of proximity for training to work.

“It’s not good to let your dog follow you everywhere. Tell them when they can be near you, then tell them to go away,” suggests Millan as a method of lessening your dog’s attachment to you.

The Humane Society offer more detailed tips for animal travel on their website.

Other useful sites: Dogfriendly.com , Pettravel.com , Bringfido.com , Cesarsway.com

Show all

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Hello World!

Traveling with pets

Bringing your cat or dog with you on your trip is fun, but there are some rules you’ll have to follow. If you’re looking for information on traveling with service animals , we can also help with that.

Getting ready

At the airport, on the plane.

Traveling with pets in-cabin is only allowed for cats and dogs when there’s space available. Each customer can travel with up to two pets. If you’re traveling with two pets, you must purchase two seats on your flight. Your second seat needs to be next to your assigned seat so you can care for both pets. Here’s what you need to know, regardless of which type of furry friend you have.

Or, if you’re ready to book a trip for you and your pet you can do that now.

Make sure your pet fits

While there are no weight or breed limitations for pets, they must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier. This carrier must fit under the seat in front of you or you cannot fly with your pet. The only animals allowed on planes without a pet carrier are service animals .

Hard-sided carrier

Soft-sided carrier

Prepping to fly

Gather paperwork.

Some countries don’t allow pets to travel at all. Others have strict rules for rabies vaccines . Make sure you have all your paperwork and proof of vaccination in order before you leave.

Booking pet tickets

All you have to do is select “Travel with a pet” as a traveler during booking on united.com. Or, you can go to My Trips to add a pet to an existing trip. You cannot add a pet to your trip on the United app.

There is a $125 fee each way for traveling with your pet. There is also a $125 fee for each layover of more than four hours for flights within the U.S. and more than 24 hours internationally. You cannot use travel credits to pay this fee.

Traveler pro tips

We have a few recommendations to help you pack a pet-friendly travel kit:

• Remember to bring all the essentials to care for your pet while you’re still at the airport, including a collapsible water bowl, leash, treats and plastic bags.
• To keep them calm on the flight, it always helps to have a favorite toy, blanket or pillow that smells familiar.

Here’s what you need to know once you get to the airport.

Checking in

Check in for your flight at the ticket counter. You’ll need both your own and your pet’s confirmation numbers, which you can find in your email or in My Trips . We’ll also give you a special bag tag for your pet’s carrier.

Pet relief areas

Many airports have places you can take your pet to use the bathroom while you’re there. Use the airport maps feature on the United app to see where they’re located.

Once you’re on your flight, there’s only one rule you need to follow. Your pet must stay in their carrier with the door closed, and under your seat at all times.

Traveling with pets FAQs

What are the u.s. rabies vaccination and travel restrictions.

We require rabies and health certificates for dogs and cats traveling internationally on United. The rabies vaccinations must be completed at least 28 days before arrival in the U.S. for both dogs and cats. Any additional rules for traveling to the U.S. depend on whether or not you’re traveling from a country the CDC considers to be high risk for rabies. We closely follow CDC guidelines on these specific country requirements and recommend checking them to make sure you meet them at least two months before your trip.

If you’re traveling within the U.S. with your pet, we encourage you to get a certificate of health from your vet. Some destinations may request this certificate on arrival. It should include:

• Your name, phone and address
• Info about your pet, including breed, sex, age, color and markings
• List of recent vaccines, including names, dates issued and expiration

Where can I fly with my pet?

As long as your destination allows pets, you can take them with you on any flight operated by United or United Express. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll need to call 1-800-864-8331 to add a pet to your reservation. If you’re traveling on multiple airlines, including our partners , you’ll also need to check with each one to see what their pet policy is.

United does not allow pets to fly to, from or even through the below list of states and countries.

• French Polynesia (Tahiti)
• Marshall Islands
• Micronesia, Federated States of
• New Zealand
• Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)
• Philippines
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• South Africa
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
• United Kingdom

* You can bring a pet on flights from Guam to Tokyo-Narita. You cannot bring your pet on the flight back to Guam.

Where can I sit with my pet on the plane?

Where you can sit with your pet depends on the type of plane you’re on. Keep in mind that while you can only bring one pet with you, each plane limits the total number of pets allowed on the same flight.

1 If you’re traveling on a Boeing 737 MAX 9, your pet carrier can be no more than 10 inches tall. 2 If you’re traveling with a pet in Economy on this type of plane, you must be in a window seat for a carrier to fit under the seat in front of you.

Please note, you cannot sit with a pet in an emergency exit row, a United Premium Plus seat, or in the front row of each cabin. Also, these guidelines are only for United flights. Contact us for information on United Express flights.

Do you have military or State Department pet exemptions?

We do have pet exemptions for members of the U.S. military on permanent change of station and their spouses, as well as State Department foreign service officers and their spouses.

Do you still offer PetSafe?

We no longer offer PetSafe , except as part of our military and State Department pet exemptions .

How old do my pets have to be to fly?

13 of the Most Pet-Friendly Airlines: Stress-Free Flying with Your Dog!

WRITTEN BY:

Kelsey Leicht

January 5, 2023

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K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Here’s how it works .

Flying with your dog can be as daunting as it is exciting. From veterinary health clearances to carrier requirements, your to-do list may feel endless, especially given the differences between the rules of different airlines.

But don’t worry – we’re here to help! 

We’ve fetched the basic requirements for traveling with your dog on all of the major U.S. airlines, and highlighted our favorite features. Check out the best pet-friendly airlines and some tips for flying with your pup below.

Quick Picks: Best Pet-Friendly Airlines

• JSX Airlines [Best for Traveling In-Cabin] JSX airlines offer public charter flights that come with a hefiter price tag, but even 60lb dogs can fly in the cabin right at your feet .
• American Airlines [Best Pet-Friendly Major Airline] This airline’s vast coverage area and reasonable fees make it a top-tier pick for those traveling with pooch passengers.
• Allegiant [Most Affordable Pet-Friendly Airline] Protect your travel budget by booking with this low-cost canine-friendly carrier offering cabin fees as low as $50.
• Lufthansa [Best for International Travel] Jet off to your next worldwide woofin’ adventure with this German-based carrier allowing cabin travel for small canines.

Pet-Friendly Airline Info: The Basics We’ve Covered

Every airline has its own set of rules for canine travel, but we’ve tackled the basics to give a snapshot of each. Hopefully, this makes narrowing your options a tad easier.

Some of the things we cover below include:

• Flying with your dog in the cabin . Not every airline allows dogs to travel with passengers in the plane’s cabin. Some limit canines to the cargo area only, while others allow for cabin travel if canines meet specific size, behavior, or containment requirements. Typically, well-behaved, small dogs that can be stowed in an airline-approved pet carrier under an airline seat are allowed, though there are also a very few airlines that allow large breeds to travel via cabin too.
• Flying with your dog in the cargo hold . Some airlines allow dogs to travel in the cargo hold. Housed in a carrier that meets strict safety standards, cargo-held canines generally have less strict size requirements than cabin-dwelling doggos, allowing larger breeds to fly. However, current travel trends have made cargo travel hard to come by for dogs.
• Banned breeds . Many airlines ban certain breeds from flying in the cabin or cargo area. This typically includes brachycephalic (short-headed) dogs, though some providers may prohibit other breeds from flying.
• Rules for emotional support animals and service dogs . Previously many airlines allow ESAs to travel differently than everyday pet dogs, but the vast majority of airlines have done away with ESAs on flights. However, per federal law, service dogs are granted access to planes with their handler, regardless of the airlines’ pet policy. Not sure about the difference between service dogs vs ESA dogs – let us explain!
• Pet flying fees . The cost of traveling with your dog varies significantly from airline to airline, with some pet passes costing little more than a checked-bag fee while others can be a few hundred dollars or more. These fees may change according to your dog’s size and travel method too.
• Weight restrictions for flying dogs . Weight restrictions can be a real bite, particularly if you plan to have your pooch travel in the cabin. Cabin weight limits tend to be much lower than cargo limits, but it’s important in both scenarios to weigh your pup and factor in the weight of his travel crate. This eliminates potential airport surprises, as your pooch is weighed in his carrier before boarding. Generally speaking, flying in the cabin won’t be a viable option unless your dog is under 20 lbs.
• Dog crate size for riding in the cabin . Most airlines require kenneled canines to be stowed under an airline if traveling in the cabin, meaning your dog’s crate needs to meet specific size criteria. These sizing guidelines vary from airline to airline, so always double-check the rules, especially if you have connecting flights with different airlines. In addition, your dog should be able to stand, sit, and turn around in his carrier.
• Dog crate size for flying in the cargo hold . Cargo crates must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements , which include strict size, locking, and ventilation standards. As with cabin carriers, your dog must be able to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably in the kennel.
• Maximum number of pets per person . Most airlines allow one pet per passenger, but some allow two. Sometimes, this means two pets in the same carrier or two pets housed in separate carriers. But just because you can fit two dogs in a carrier, that doesn’t mean you should . Not every dog likes being crammed with a friend while already enduring the stress of travel.
• Maximum number of pets per airplane . Airlines typically limit the number of animals on a flight, which can lead to travel nightmares if you don’t book early. A six-pet limit is most commonly seen, but some have limits as low as two. Yikes!
• Dog age requirements for flying . Like destinations, each airline sets its own rules regarding how old a dog must be to travel. Most of the time, this pertains to puppies, but senior dogs may also face scrutiny, particularly those in poor health.
• Special notes and miscellaneous four-footed flying facts . We’ll note if an airline has any special rules or pet perks. This might include things like special document requirements, restrictions, and more.

While we’re covering the basics in this article, you should still discuss your travel plans with an airline representative to ensure you and your pooch fly without issue. Rules are ever-changing, so it’s best to err on the side of caution.

13 Most Pet-Friendly Airlines 

Ready to take off with your terrier? Check out these pet-friendly airlines and see which works best for your woofin’ wanderlust.

1. American Airlines

Straightforward requirements and a wide service area make this airline our #1 pick.

About : American Airlines is a canine-friendly carrier for most people looking to travel with a dog. Not only do they offer service around the U.S and abroad, but they also clearly spell-out their requirements for pets , making flying with your pup easier.

• Cabin-traveling dogs must remain in stowed beneath a seat in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets are not allowed for most international travel or when flying to Hawaii
• American Airlines does not allow dogs that are sedated or tranquilized to fly
• Carry-on pets aren’t allowed in first class or business class if traveling in specific aircraft, including Boeing’s 777-200, 777-300, 787-8, and 787-9
• Dogs in Cargo : Only for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders.
• Checked-in pets must have health certificates dated within 10 days of travel
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic and brachycephalic mixes cannot fly with American Airlines.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel as pets and pay the required fees.
• Fee : Cabin fee is $125 per carrier. For active service members or U.S. State Department personnel, the cargo fee is $200 per kennel regardless of destination, except for Brazil, where the cost is $150 per kennel.
• Weight Limits : Cargo travelers cannot have a weight that exceeds 100 pounds for both the pet and crate. For carry-on canines, the carrier cannot exceed 20 pounds if traveling in first class.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions for a hard-sided carrier are 19” x 13” x 9”, while a soft-side carrier can be 18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Maximum dimensions vary by aircraft.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : Up to 2 check-in pets (cargo), Up to 1 carrier per passenger (May contain 1 or  2 pets.) Pets traveling in the same carrier must be of the same species, under 6 months old, and of similar size.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : For carry-on, the limit is 7 on American flights and 5 on American Eagle flights.
• 8 weeks or older to fly domestically. 
• Age varies for international locations. 
• If you’re traveling with connecting flights, checked pets (cargo) can only connect in limited cities .
• Weather extreme restrictions are in place that may bar pet travel in cargo if destinations are over 85℉ or below 45℉.

Big or small, your canine cany enjoy worry-free traveling with this carrier.

About : JSX provides the comfort of private flights at an affordable rate to travelers across a limited portion of the United States. With its relatively relaxed pet policy , it’s a top-notch pick for low-stress flying with your dog.

@rigatoni_reacts It was kinda private. 😅 #jsx #privateflight ♬ swing lynn – lovdfilmz

Keep in mind that JSX functions as a public charter operator — it basically shared private air travel. On top of being able to bring your larger-sized pet into the cabin with you, that also means you get a host of other perks that come with private flights, such as:

• Private terminals and separate security
• Business class legroom with roomy seats
• Intimate 30-seat jets
• Plane-side baggage retrieval immediately after unloading passengers

Sounds amazing, right?

The downside is that tickets are pricier than your normal flight — expect to pay 2-3x what you’d pay with a standard airline. Plus, JSX has a very limited number of flight paths, primarily in the southwest region of the United States.

Still, if you’re going where JSX flies, it can’t get much better for you and your pooch.

• Small dogs must be kenneled at all times, while medium and large-sized dogs must be leashed and stowed in the footwell of the seat beside you 
• Pets and carriers aren’t allowed on airline seats
• Only well-mannered dogs are permitted to fly
• Dogs in Cargo : No.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No listed breed restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, with limitations. ESAs must have the required documentation and demonstrate safe and appropriate behavior in a flight setting (no lunging, barking, growling, jumping, pottying accidents, etc.) ESAs must be reported to the airline in advance to ensure proper seating arrangements and documentation.
• Fee : Free for small dogs riding in a carrier stowed beneath a seat; large dogs incur a fee equal to the advertised rate of your adjoining seat. 
• Weight Limits : 65 pounds or less
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 13″ wide x 11″ tall x 17″ long
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 5 pets maximum per flight.
• Age Limits : None listed.
• JSX has a limited service map across the U.S.
• JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be completed before boarding.
• Only 1 pet per carrier is permitted.

3. United Airlines

A broad coverage map and simple rules for flying with your pet make this airline great for those with canine passengers. 

About : United Airlines’ pet policy makes things easy on pet parents by spelling everything out without much fluff. The coverage area is impressive, too, with tons of domestic and international destinations to choose from.

• Seating options for passengers with pets can vary by aircraft
• Pets must stay in a carrier stowed beneath a seat at all times
• Passengers with pets cannot sit in an emergency exit row, a United Premium Plus seat, or in the front row of any cabin
• Dogs in Cargo : United has discontinued other pet cargo shipments via PetSafe except for U.S. military members on current Permanent Change of Station orders and State Department Foreign Service Personnel on current reassignment. In these cases, you can fly with your pets as checked baggage, but only on flights between Guam and Honolulu and under specific conditions. 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to fly via United.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Yes, but they must travel in accordance with United’s pet guidelines and pay the required fees.
• Fee : $125 carry-on fee, with a $125 charge for each stopover of 4 hours in the U.S. or 24 hours internationally.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits for carry-on pets. Your dog just has to fit comfortably in his carrier.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Hard-sided kennels are permitted and must be 17.5” long x 12” tall x 7.5” wide or smaller, while soft-sided kennels are allowed to be 18” long x 11” wide x 11” tall or smaller. Your dog must fit comfortably inside the kennel with enough space to stand and turn around without crouching. If flying on a Boeing 737 MAX 9, your pet carrier cannot be taller than 10 inches and if traveling in Economy with a pet on this type of plane, you must sit in a window seat.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Crates cannot exceed 34 inches in height when traviling in the cargo hold. Your dog must be able to stand, lie down, and turn around naturally.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : Varies by aircraft. Some allow a max of 2 pets in premium cabins and 4 pets in economy seating, while others allow up to 6 pets in economy seating.
• Age Limits : Older than 8 weeks to travel domestically and at least 16 weeks or older to travel internationally
• United only allows one pet per carrier.
• A health certificate for your pet dated within 30 days of your trip is required when traveling domestically. This should include your name, phone number, and address, along with your pet’s breed, sex, age, and markings. The certificate should also include your dog’s vaccination information, including the name of the vaccines, the dates administered, and the expiration dates. 

Loads of East Coast destinations make this a top pet-positive airline.

About : Delta makes flying up and down the eastern seaboard with your pooch easy with heaps of destinations. Delta’s rules surrounding pet travel are convenient to navigate, too, making your flying Fido expeditions all the more tail-wagging.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carry-on pets cannot travel in any cabin with flat-bed seats
• Carry-on pets are not permitted for international travel for passengers in Business Class, Delta Premium Select, or Delta One due to insufficient space. This may also be limited for domestic travel, depending on the flight.
• Carry-on pets cannot be seated in bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, and no-stowage seats
• All animals traveling via cargo must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of flight from a licensed veterinarian. 
• Delta does not accept animals as checked baggage during periods of extreme weather. This is defined as temperatures exceeding 80˚F below 20˚F.
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds and mixes cannot fly with Delta.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel as pets, follow applicable rules, and pay necessary fees.
• Fee : $95 carry-on fee each way domestically, $200 carry-on fee each way internationally, and $75 carry-on fee each way for Brazil. For military mutts traveling with their families, the fees are $200 for traveling to the U.S. or internationally and $150 for flying to Brazil.
• Weight Limits : No weight limits are listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Varies by flight. For most flights, Delta recommends a soft-sided carrier that is ​​18” x 11” x 11”. 
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : Varies significantly by aircraft.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Only 1 unless a mother dog is traveling with puppies less than 6 months old or if 2 puppies less than 6 months old can comfortably fit in a kennel.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 2 in Business Class, 4 in the Main Cabin.
• Age Limits : Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic air travel.
• Sedation of household dogs is forbidden for travel with Delta.
• Delta asks passengers to have kennel dimensions available at booking.
• Pet parents must check-in at the Special Service Counter.

5. Southwest

An affordable dog-friendly flier with numerous destinations across the southern U.S. and beyond.

About : Flying around the southern United States with your dog is easy with Southwest. Southwest’s pet policy is pretty easy to digest too, allowing you to focus on the more enjoyable parts of your four-footed excursion.

• Pets that are aggressive, excessively whining or barking, or soiling the cabin or gate area may be denied boarding
• Pets must remain in carriers at all times
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in exit rows or seats without stowage
• Vaccinations are required, but Southwest doesn’t require proof of vaccination
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions given.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy rules.
• Fee : $95 per pet carrier, $35 for carriers flying with passengers between Hawaiian islands between September 6 and December 31.
• Weight Limits : None noted besides “small dogs only”
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Maximum of 18.5” long x 13.5” wide x 9.5” tall
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier per passenger which may contain up to 2 small dogs as long as they fit comfortably together
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : 6 pet carriers per flight
• Age limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pets cannot fly to and from Hawaii and other destinations but can fly between the Hawaiian islands.
• Southwest doesn’t allow pets to fly internationally.
• Pet crates and strollers are accepted as checked luggage.

Escaping to the tropics with your sunny sniffer is easy with this airline.

About : JetBlue has destinations across the Caribbean from multiple points across the U.S, making it an excellent choice for those looking to soak up the sun with a pup. JetBlue’s pet policy is similar to most major airlines, though it does have its differences.

• Pets must remain in a carrier at all times in the airport and on the plane
• Carriers must remain stowed beneath a seat during takeoff, landing, and taxi
• Passengers with pets can’t sit in emergency exit rows, bulkhead seats, Mint seats or any seat without under-seat stowage
• Pets can’t fly to Trinidad and Tobago or London
• Pets aren’t allowed on interline or codeshare bookings
• Vaccination requirements vary by destination 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : None listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under the airline’s pet policy rules.
• Fee : $125 each way for cabin travel.
• Weight limits : 20 pounds total for your dog and carrier combined
• Cabin crate size limits : 17″ length x 12.5″ width x 8.5″ height
• Maximum number of pets per passenger : 1 (A second pet can travel if an additional seat is purchased along with paying another pet travel fee.)
• Maximum pets per flight : 6
• Only one pet per carrier is permitted.
• Compliant pet carriers can be purchased at the ticket counter.

7. Alaska Airlines

Air travel with big barkers up to 150 pounds is possible with this cool carrier.

About : Jetting with a giant breed is possible with Alaska Airlines, with their 150-pound weight limit for pets and carriers combined leaving room for many breeds barred from other carriers. The airline is one of the most popular with pet owners, with Alaska Airlines pet policy allowing most sniffers to take to the skies.

• Cannot sit in emergency exit or bulkhead rows
• Must remain in a carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under a seat during taxi, takeoff, and landing
• Loud or odorous pets can be refused cabin travel and moved to cargo
• Doesn’t transfer pets traveling in cargo to other carriers
• Cargo travel discontinued between November 15 and January 10 for flights 2000-2999 and flights 3300-3499
• Extreme temperatures may lead to suspended cargo pet travel
• Aggressive pets may be refused entry
• Pets cannot travel via baggage on the Airbus fleet
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds may not travel via cargo but are permitted to travel in the cabin if they fit into the required carrier.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the airline’s pet policy guidelines.
• Fee : $100 each way for dogs traveling in cargo or cabin. $105 if departing from Canada.
• Weight Limits : Up to 150 pounds for crates and canines combined in cargo.
• Hard-sided  17″ x 11″ x 7.5″
• Soft-sided 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 26″ X 24″ x 36″, Boeing 737, Horizon Air Q400 and E175, and SkyWest ERJ-175 aircraft may allow 30″ x 27″ x 40″
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : Maximum of 2 carriers per paid passenger, but you must purchase the seat adjacent to you. Up to 2 pets of the same species per carrier for cabin dwellers, only 1 per cargo carrier unless they’re similarly sized puppies less than 6 months old.
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : First class can accommodate 3 carriers, while the main cabin can handle 5 carriers.
• Age Limits : Must be older than 8 weeks.
• Health certificate dated within 10 days required for checked pets.
• Aggressive pets may be denied entry.

8. Hawaiian Airlines

Best Pet-Friendly Airline for the Hawaiian Islands

About : Say aloha to the islands with your pup by flying Hawaiian Airlines, a carrier that jets between islands as well as to and from North America and other destinations. Their pet policy is spread around their FAQs, but tracking down answers isn’t too tricky, though the limitations require close attention.

• Not permitted in First Class between Hawaii and North America
• Not allowed between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted internationally
• Not permitted between Hawaii and Pago Pago
• Passengers with pet carriers cannot sit in emergency exit rows, seats adjacent to emergency exit rows, or in the bulkhead
• Not permitted between Hawaii and JFK, BOS, MCO, or AUS airports
• Not permitted during yearly embargo period due to weather (April 15 to October 15)
• Not permitted internationally (May not apply between Hawaii and Japan for active duty personnel)
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Brachycephalic breeds are discouraged but not banned.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must travel under the pet policy guidelines.
• $125 for cabin travel if traveling from North America
• $35 for cabin travel if flying from within the limits of Hawaii
• $60 if traveling in cargo between Hawaiian islands.
• $225 for cargo travel if traveling to and from North American continent
• Cabin: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 25 pounds.
• Cargo: Carrier and pet combined cannot exceed 70 pounds. If your pet is heavier, contact support for potential options.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : Carriers must be soft-sided and cannot exceed 16” length x 11” width x 9.5” height.
• Cargo Crate Size Limits : 36″ length x 25″ width x 27″ height maximum
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet carrier per pet. 
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older.
• Pet carriers may contain up to 2 pets if they’re less than 6 months old and of the same species.
• Travel between Hawaiian Islands does not require a health certificate, but those traveling to and from elsewhere need a health certificate dated within 14 days of flying.
• Hawaiian Airlines does not offer carriers if yours does not comply. Your pet will be refused flight.
• The state of Hawaii has strict rules surrounding rabies and vaccination status.

A 40-pound weight limit allows most small dogs to fly in the cabin with this carrier.

About : Spirit’s pet policy allows dogs up to 40 pounds to fly as long as they fit comfortably in the assigned carrier size, leaving wiggle room for pups who exceed the strict weight limits of other airlines. Pricing is reasonable, too, and there aren’t any breed-specific bans in place.

• Passengers with pets can’t sit in the first row or emergency exit seats
• Pets are only permitted on domestic flights, not international
• Traveling dogs cannot be odorous, disruptive, or in distress
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No breed-specific bans.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must follow Spirit’s pet policy.
• Fee : $110 each way
• Weight Limits : Carrier weight cannot exceed 40 pounds.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ long x 14″ wide x 9″ tall
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 1 carrier pet passenger, which can contain up to 2 pets if housed comfortably.
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 6
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Pets must check-in at a service counter, not a self-serve kiosk.
• Health certificates aren’t required for boarding, but always check destination requirements to ensure compliance.
• Proof of vaccinations isn’t required by the airline, but may be needed depending on your destination.

10. Allegiant

A $50 pet fee makes Allegiant one of the cheapest options for flying with your pooch.

About : Low-cost airline Allegiant has a bare-bones pet travel policy compared to others, taking the squeeze off paperwork-wary pet parents and saving your treat money for fun things. That said, you still need to comply with destination document requirements.

• Sick, violent, distressed, or disruptive animals aren’t permitted to travel
• Pets can’t travel in exit rows, bulkheads, or one row before or after exit rows
• Animals must remain in the carrier at all times
• Carrier must remained stowed under the seat during takeoff and landing
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions listed.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : Emotional support animals must follow the pet guidelines.
• Fee : $50 per carrier each way
• Weight Limits : Only small pets that can fit into the designated crate size are permitted.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 9” high x 16” wide x 19” deep
• 1 carrier per passenger
• No more than 2 pets per carrier (pets must get along and be able to fit comfortably)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : None listed.
• Age Limits : 8 weeks or older
• Allegiant requires no health certificate for traveling pets, but they also assume no responsibility for your dog’s health or well-being in the cabin.
• All pet travelers must arrive one hour before their designated flight time to check for compliance.

A lack of a health certificate requirement might save you time, but it also leaves your pet vulnerable to traveling around animals that may not be in tip-top shape.

11. Frontier

At $99 per pet, this airline’s pet fees let you save your doggy dough.

About : Budgeting for your fur-flying trip is made easier with Frontier’s low-cost pet fees. They may not be the most affordable option, but they’re certainly worth considering if you’re trying to keep your travel costs low. Frontier’s pet flight policy is straightforward too, saving time on research.

• Dogs that bark or whine excessively, smell offensive, or act aggressively may be turned away
• Passengers traveling with a pet cannot sit in row one or exit rows 
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : No restrictions.
• Are ESAs Allowed? : ESAs must fly under Frontier’s pet guidelines.
• Fee : $99 per pet, per flight.
• Weight Limits : None listed.
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : 18″ length x 14″ width x 8″ height
• Maximum Number Of Pets Per Passenger : 1 pet per passenger.
• While Frontier doesn’t require health certificates, your destination may, even domestically, so always triple-check to be sure you’re in compliance.
• Coverage includes all U.S. domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
• Pre-assigned seating eliminates the stress of landing the right seat.

12. Air Canada

A Canadian carrier offering service to pet parents to a variety of destinations across Canada.

About : Visit Canada with your canine on Air Canada, an airline whose rules for pet flight are long yet thorough. Rules vary by season for safety’s sake, so keep a close eye on dates and check with customer service to avoid any surprises.

• Pets cannot travel in Business class on Boeing 737 Max 8 aircrafts
• Pets cannot travel in Premium Economy
• Only 1 pet is permitted per carrier
• Cannot be seated in a bulkhead or exit row
• 2 pets may travel in the same carrier in cargo, but they can’t weigh more than 31 pounds each. (You’ll still have to pay 2  fees)
• Brachycephalic breeds are not permitted to travel in the cargo hold.
• “Strong dog” breeds and crossbreeds must be transported via special carriers in cargo. This list includes the Caucasian shepherd, kangal, pit bull-type breeds, all mastiffs, Rottweilers, and wolf hybrids. This restriction doesn’t apply to puppies between 3 and 6 months old.
• Pit bulls are banned in Ontario and cannot fly to the province.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow pet rules.
• Fee: Varies by minimum and maximum tax that’s based on your itinerary which ranges between $50 and $59 for a one-way fee for flights within Canada, and $100 to $118 for a one-way fee for international flights. 
• Cabin weight limit is 22 pounds for your dog and carrier
• 100 pounds for the carrier and pet if traveling in cargo (If heavier, contact support to discuss possible options)
• 8” H x 16” W x 17” L for Boeing 787-9 
• 8” H x 16” W x 14.5” L for Boeing 787-8 
• 8.25” H x 15” W x 17” L for Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing-200LR 
• 7.75” H x 15.75” W x 17” L and soft-sided for Airbus A321, Airbus 220, Airbus A320, Airbus a319, and Boeing 737 Max 8
• Cargo Crate Size Limits: 115” in linear dimensions max (If larger, contact support to discuss options)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 1 per passenger
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: Between 2 and 4, depending on flight
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older and fully weaned
• Travelers with pets must arrive at least 30 minutes before their recommended check-in time and speak with an agent, as pets cannot be checked-in via kiosk.
• Pets are allowed in Maple Leaf Lounges but must remain in a carrier.
• Aggressive dogs may be refused for travel.
• Winter travel restrictions bar dogs less than 10 pounds from traveling in cargo and can’t travel in certain aircraft. No pets are accepted for any travel between December 18 and January 4.
• Pet travel to warm climates is banned during certain periods, depending on destination.

13. Lufthansa

A German-based, fur-friendly flier with loads of international routes.

About : Traveling abroad with your best fur friend is possible with Lufthansa, a German airline that flies to cities around the world. Lufthansa’s pet travel policy is comprehensive, but certain aspects vary by flight, so always double-check requirements before booking.

• Must be kenneled and stowed under the airline seat at all times
• Pet cannot be disruptive or aggressive
• Must book no later than 72 hours before departure
• Dogs in Cargo: New cargo bookings have been discontinued.
• Brachycephalic dog breeds cannot travel in cargo
• Dogs classified as “fighting breeds” can only travel via the cargo in special crates. These breeds include the American bulldog, dogo Argentino, Kangal, Caucasian shepherd, and Rottweiler. The only exception for cabin travel is for dogs aged three to six months.
• Are ESAs allowed?: ESAs must follow Lufthansa’s pet policy.
• Fee: Varies by flight 
• Weight Limits: Pup and carrier must weigh less than 8 kg (17.6 pounds) combined
• Cabin Crate Size Limits: Soft-sided carriers must measure 22” x 16” x 9” or less
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger: 2 pets per passenger (if traveling via cabin, must be in same carrier)
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight: None listed, but bookings are issued on a first come, first serve basis.
• Age Limits: 12 weeks or older
• Health certificate issued within 10 days of flying required.
• Pets are allowed in Lufthansa lounges but must be contained in a carrier.
• Pet parents must complete 2 copies of Lufthansa’s transporting an animal in the passenger cabin form.
• All pet carriers must be lined in an absorbent material (puppy pad).
• 2 pets must travel in separate carriers unless they’re puppies or adults of comparable size or a mother and her pup aged 6 months or younger.

14. Avolar Pets

About : Avolar Pets is a public charter operator that takes you and your pooch to the skies in style by utilizing a network of private jets for shared travels with other pet parents wanting more than standard service. You won’t need to navigate throngs of travelers, as its flights depart from private terminals to make boarding as stress-free as possible. Best of all, your barker isn’t relegated to a carrier or cargo — leashed pups ride right in the cabin!

• Dogs in Cabin : Yes, leashed dogs are welcome
• Dogs in Cargo : No
• Breeds That Can’t Fly : Dependent on destination (Example: The UK has a ban on American pit bull terriers)
• Fee : Varies by flight
• Weight Limits : None
• Cabin Crate Size Limits : N/A
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Passenger : 2 pets per passenger, with restrictions
• Maximum Number of Pets Per Flight : 20
• Age Limits : Minimum canine age requirement varies by destination
• Each passenger is permitted one pet over 50 pounds or 1 leashed dog under 50 pounds and 1 pet under 50 pounds in a travel carrier
• Arrive 1 hour prior to departure
• Pup passengers lie on the floor next to their owners during the flight
• Flights are confirmed once a 75% passenger and pet threshold is met for the route
• If threshold is not met at least 21 days before departure, your flight may be canceled and issued a full refund
• No refunds are issued unless your flight is canceled by the airline
• Limited flight routes are available, but more may be added in the future
• Service reviews pet travel documents four to six days before departure to ensure clearance
• Overly aggressive dogs are not permitted

General Tips for Flying with Your Pet

Flying to a destination with your furry adventure buddy is loads of fun, but to keep it that way, you should follow a few rules of the skies, including: 

• Book early. Most airlines limit the amount of pets allowed per flight. To snag one of these coveted spots for your sniffer, book your trip as soon as possible.
• Double-check all of the details with the airline. When in doubt, ask. Airline rules are ever-changing, especially with continued complications in a post-pandemic world. It’s better to dot all of your Is and cross your Ts than to be surprised at check-in.
• Select an airline-ap p roved crate when flying cargo . Carriers come in all shapes and sizes, many of which aren’t airline compliant with their gadgets and gizmos. Check size requirements with your airline and other concerns, such as acceptable materials or rules about crate locks. Also, note that these can vary by dog breed.
• Talk to your vet. Square away vaccination updates and health checks before planning any trips with your pup. It’s important to determine if your dog is fit to fly and to have your ducks in a row paperwork-wise for vaccinations.
• Pack medications. Sometimes travel brain gets the best of us and we forget the most important everyday items like underwear or your dog’s medications. If possible, these should be among the first supplies you pack. They should be in their original containers with your vet’s information too to avoid any transparency problems.
• Consider your pet’s needs over yours. Not every dog likes to fly or is well-suited for flight. Health issues and personality quirks can put unnecessary stress on your canine. While you may be looking forward to taking in the sights and sounds of an exotic locale, your dog may be too anxious to enjoy such a trip. Sometimes staying home with a trusted petsitter is best.
• Can’t fly? Consider ground transportation . If your dog isn’t a good fit for flying, there are plenty of great pet ground transportation services that can drive your dog to your final destination. With shared van and private van options, you can usually find a service that won’t break your budget (although overall, pet ground transport is definitely pricier than flying, as it takes longer and requires more manual labor on the driver’s part).

Check out our top tip s for flying with your dog . We explain everything you need to know to make your upcoming trip a blast!

Pet-Friendly Airlines: FAQ

Flying with your dog can be a head scratcher sometimes. Check out these commonly asked questions to brush up on your knowledge about traveling by air with your dog.

Is it safe to travel with your pet?

In many cases, yes.

Most healthy dogs fly in an airplane’s cabin without issue, especially the most travel-friendly breeds .

Risks increase if your dog is brachycephalic (short-faced,) medically frail, or traveling in the cargo area. Most airlines do not even allow any kind of plane travel for brachycephalic breeds or breeds that are prone to issues like overheating.

Traveling by air with young puppies or seniors is also not advised and often not allowed by major airlines.

If you have any concerns about your dog’s safety during travel, contact your vet to discuss if flying is the best option or if a staycation is a better pupper plan.

What is the safest airline for pets?

According to a 2018 report by the Department of Transportation detailing incidents involving the loss, injury, or death of animals during air transportation, airlines reporting zero incidents include Horizon Air, Republic Airways, Endeavor Air, Mesa Airlines, ExpressJet Airlines, GoJet Airlines, Compass Airline, CommutAir, Envoy Air, and Sun Country Airlines.

However, it’s worth noting that these airlines transported far fewer animals than major carriers, with the majority flying less than 10,000 animals annually.

Alaska Airlines reported the least incidents among major airlines, with 1 injury per 143,634 pets flown. SkyWest Airlines and American Airlines also experienced fewer incidents. The worst-performing major airline was Hawaiian Airlines, with 3 deaths in the 9,505 pets flown.

Despite the media hyper-focusing on pet deaths while flying, these occasions are very rare. Pet travel by plan is generally quite safe.

What documents do I need for my pet to fly?

The documents needed vary by airline and destination. Some ask for nothing, while most require a health certificate.

Completed by a vet, this certificate states that your dog is healthy enough to fly and free of infectious diseases. Shot records may also be required, depending on the airline and destination. International flights generally have the strictest document requirements.

What are some of the new airline pet restrictions after the pandemic?

The pandemic greatly affected pet travel with employee shortages and an uptick in flight cancellations. In response, airlines have limited cargo shipment of animals, some have banned emotional support animals, and others increased fees for pets traveling in the cabin.

The CDC has also tightened the rules surrounding dogs coming to the United States , with new age, vaccination, microchipping, and location restrictions. This is in response to several rabies-infected dogs arriving in the U.S. during the pandemic.

Which airlines allow dogs on the plane?

Several airlines allow dogs to fly, including American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and JetBlue. However, airline canine travel rules vary, so always call ahead to ensure your pooch can take to the skies.

Does federal law allow dogs on airplanes?

Federal law leaves it up to airlines if pets are permitted to travel via cabin with passengers or as cargo. These restrictions do not apply to service animals. Federal law states that service animals are allowed in the cabin of any airplane and aren’t subject to carrier or health certificate requirements. There’s also no limit on the number of service animals on a flight.

Can my dog sit on my lap during a flight?

Probably not. Most airlines require dogs to stay kenneled in an airline-approved pet carrier and under the seat in front of you for the flight duration. This keeps you, your pet, and other passengers safe in case of turbulence and other airtime events.

Can pets fly alone?

Maybe. Some airlines allow pets to fly alone while others do not. There are many pet transport services that can aid in canine travel if you can’t travel with them.

What is the best airline for traveling with a pet?

Our top pick for the best airline to travel with a pet is JSX. Since the flights are semi-private and you can take any sized dog onto the plane without a crate, it’s the ideal flying experience for you and your pooch. The only downside is that there aren’t many flight destinations, and the tickets can be pricey.

Have you flown with your dog? Did you fly with any of the airlines on our list or another? Any tips for other travelers with pups? Share your experiences with us. We’d love to hear!

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7 Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [2023 Pet Policies]

Traveling with pets can be a rewarding and memorable experience, but it requires careful planning and consideration. When it comes to flying with a large dog, many pet owners wonder about the feasibility and logistics involved. Unfortunately, many public airlines will only allow very small and light dogs to fly in the cabin. However, fortunately, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with a large dog in cabin. This of course will cost you a little more, however it may be worth it for stress-free travel.

In this article, we will list the airlines that allow flying with a large dog in cabin and provide some travel tips. 

Which airlines allow flying with a large dog in cabin?

The following luxury, semi-private airlines will allow flying with a large dog in the cabin. However, as expected, they will cost you a lot more than commercial airlines, which sadly often only permit very small and light dogs in cabin.

1. Aero Pet Policy.

Aero is a US based semi-private airline that currently books flights from L.A. to Aspen, Las Vegas, Jackson Hole and Sun Valley. 

Well-behaved dogs are welcome to fly on all Aero jets flying in the US. Medium or large dogs are considered those weighing over 20Ib. When flying with a large dog in cabin, you must purchase an extra full-priced seat next to you. Bookings can be made via their Concierge team. 

Following are the Aero’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• There is no maximum weight limit for large pets however you must ensure they can remain in their seat for the duration of the flight.
• Dogs must be at least 4 months old.
• Dogs must be capable of not relieving themselves for the entire duration of the flight.
• Each guest may only bring one pet on board (maximum two per household), and they only permit two pets per flight.
• Pets will be booked on a first-come, first-serve basis until the limit is reached on board. Should the pet capacity be reached, this will be communicated on the website or by Concierge during booking.
• One passenger may not bring both a pet and an infant onboard without the assistance of a travel companion.

For more information check their website here.

2. BLADE Pet Policy.

BLADE is a semi private technology-powered, global urban air mobility platform that flies helicopters, seaplanes and jets.

They have services that fly between Manhattan and JFK or Newark airports, between Vancouver and Victoria in Canada and between Nice and Monaco in Europe. Alternatively, you can charter or crowdsource a flight anywhere in the world. 

a) Pets on BLADE Helicopters, Seaplanes and Turboprops.

On by-the-seat BLADE Airport flights, dogs under 25 pounds can sit in a carrier on their owner’s lap for a pet fee of $50. On all other by-the-seat rotorcraft flights, dogs under 25 pounds can sit in a carrier on their owner’s lap for a pet fee of $95.

When flying with a large dog, heavier than 25 pounds, in cabin the owner must purchase the dog an additional seat.

There is a maximum of two pets per passenger. For a single passenger with more than one pet, an additional seat must be purchased for the second pet, regardless of the pet’s weight.

If there are two unrelated larger dogs boarding a flight, the pilot may request that the two dogs stand leashed on the tarmac prior to boarding to familiarize themselves with each other, as to not cause any in-flight issues.

On chartered flights, pets can fly at no additional cost.

b) Pets on BLADE Jets.

On Jet flights like BLADEone , each passenger is entitled to bring one dog under 35 pounds for an additional $300 fee. For a single passenger with more than one dog under 35 pounds, an additional seat must be purchased (maximum of two dogs under 35 pounds per additional seat purchased).

An additional seat must be purchased for each dog over 35 pounds. Dogs do not require a carrier, but must be on a leash. 

On chartered land plane flights, pets can fly at no additional cost.

For more information check the BLADE website here.

3. JSX Pet Policy.

JSX is an independent air carrier in the US. They have domestic flights concentrated in the southern region of the country, but also have flights from the east to west coasts. Currently, there are flights to/from Arizona, California, Florida, Montana, Nevada, New York, Texas, Utah, and Washington.

JSX allows flying with medium to large dogs in-cabin with their owners. Customers are responsible for complying with any applicable laws and/or governmental regulations for both the departure and arrival destinations, including furnishing valid health and rabies vaccination certificates when required.

For dogs that are too large to occupy an approved under-seat pet carrier, customers are required to purchase an adjoining seat at the advertised rate, and the dog will be permitted to lay on the floor directly in front of the seat. To purchase your seat and your medium-to-large dog’s space, you can call their customer support line on (800) 435-9579 . You must inform the Airport Services Concierge upon check-in if you are traveling with a dog that requires an adjoining seat.

Customers with big dogs must fill out the  attached form.  A printed copy is required at check in.

Following are the JSX’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• One additional seat must be purchased by the customer, and one dog is permitted to occupy the floor space in front of an adjoining seat. Seat pricing varies by market and must be purchased at the current available rate for both Hop on and All in fares.
• Dogs must be leashed at all times.
• Dogs must weigh 79 pounds or less.
• Dogs must be well-behaved; and the JSX Pet Acceptance Liability Form must be presented before boarding. ASCs are to keep one copy with the flight paperwork. Customer must provide one completed form for booked segment of travel.
• Barking excessively and not responsive to an owner’s commands
• Aggressive behaviors towards other guests or animals (e.g. biting, growling, snapping, lunging, etc.)
• Freely wandering or running around without a leash
• Relieving themselves in the aircraft cabin or places other than designated pet relief areas
• Jumping on guests or JSX crew members
• Occupying an aircraft seat or seatback tray table
• Eating off seatback tray tables
• Leashed dogs may only occupy the space in front of the window seat (C), and the owner must sit in the adjoining aisle seat (B) of any row except for the bulkhead or emergency exit rows. Seats together must be available at time of booking.
• Dog carriers and pets are not allowed on aircraft seats. 
• A maximum of five pets total may travel in cabin on any one flight. JSX reserves the right to deny boarding to any additional pets, or to any pets that do not meet the requirements stated here.

For more information check the JSX website here. 

4. Surfair Pet Policy.

Surf Air is a jet membership service that flies all across the US. They include both scheduled semi-private flights and on-demand jet service. Memberships range from $199 per month to access their inventory of scheduled flights to $3,000 per month to unlock unlimited flight plans. Surf Air is LA-based, with many hubs in California and Texas, as well as a few in other states. They have plans to expand to Europe in the near future.

Flying with a large dog is permitted on Surfair as long as they are harnessed and well behaved. You will need to purchase an additional seat for your dog. 

Following are the Surfair’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• All dogs must be at least four months old, weigh not more than 100 pounds, and be clean, well-behaved, and have current vaccinations, e.g., for rabies and distemper.
• If Surf and/or the Operator in their sole discretion permit a second animal on a flight arranged by Surf, the combined weight of both animals must not exceed 100 pounds.
• Approval for travel with a dog will not occur until the animal arrives at the airport and Surf personnel and the Operator’s representative(s) inspect the dog.
• You must ensure that your dog does not engage in any disruptive, threatening, damaging, destructive, or other inappropriate behavior.
• You must ensure that your dog are properly secured at all times.
• Dogs that are not secured within a kennel must be secured with a quick-release leash.
• On board the aircraft, animals may not protrude into or block aisles or exit routes.
• If a Single-Use Flight Pass has been purchased for a large dog, and if requested by the Passenger in writing at the time the Passenger books the flight for the animal, the animal may occupy a seat so long as it is harnessed.
• Unless kennelled in the baggage area of the cabin, a small animal must rest on the lap of its Passenger while on board the aircraft.

For more information check the Surfair website here.

5. Tradewind Aviation Pet Policy.

Tradewind Aviation is a Connecticut-based air service that operates both on-demand and scheduled flights throughout the US and Caribbean. Within the US, they fly to a number of places such as Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Newport, Rhode Island and Stowe, Vermont. They also fly to more exotic locations in the Caribbean such as San Juan, St Barthes, Anguilla, Antigua and St Thomas.

Following are the Tradewind Aviation’s pet policies for flying with a medium-to-large dog in the cabin:

• They allow flying with pets of all sizes, including a large-breed dog.
• They limit one party with pets per flight.
• If flying with a large dog over 100 pounds, you must purchase an additional seat.

For more information check the Tradewind website here.

Do any commercial airlines allow flying with a large dog in cabin?

Unfortunately, the majority of commercial airlines only allow flying with small dogs in cabin. However there the following airlines allow more than the average 8kg/20lb threshold.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy.

Spirit Airlines specifies that the combined weight of the pet and carrier may not exceed 40 pounds (18.14 kg).

Spirit Airlines’s pet policies for flying with a dog in the cabin are as follows:

• Spirit Airlines does not require a health certificate for dogs traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin, except for passengers traveling to USVI.
• Spirit Airlines does require a rabies vaccination certificate for dogs traveling with guests in the aircraft cabin to Puerto Rico.
• A maximum of 2 pets per container is permitted, but only one container per guest is allowed. 
• Dogs must be able to stand upright and move about comfortably in the container. 
• Dogs must remain in the carrier for the duration of the flight.
• Your dog should be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned. 
• Your dog must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and require no attention during the flight. If your dog becomes offensive or causes a disturbance prior to leaving the gate; it will be removed.
• Your dog cannot be ill, violent, or in physical distress. 
• The combined weight of your dog and its carrier may not exceed 40 pounds (18.14 kg).

Spirit Airlines will deny boarding to any passenger accompanied by a pet that does not comply with all the above rules.

La Compagnie Pet Policy.

This French boutique airline, allows small dogs and cats (under 15 kg, or 33 lbs) who can travel with you in the cabin at a fee equal to 10% of your ticket fare. 

La Compagnie’s pet policies for flying with a dog in the cabin are as follows:

• Your dog must be microchipped (this must be done before the rabies vaccination). All vaccination shall be up to date and effective. The anti-rabies vaccination is mandatory. In the case of a first anti-rabies vaccination, the vaccine is effective from 21 days after inoculation (vaccination counts as day 0 and not day 1) until 1 year.
• Your pet passport , including the certificate of good health, must not be issued more than 5 days prior to the outbound journey and more than 15 days prior to the return journey. The certificate of good health is included in the passport and shall be filled before departure.
• Dogs must follow a tapeworm treatment no less than 24 hours and no more than 120 hours (5 days) before entry.
• Your dog must travel in an aerated pet carrier (21 ⅔ /13 ¾/ 9 ⅚ in) that will be stowed in front of your seat and remain inside of it during the whole flight.
• A maximum of 3 pets are allowed on any given flight. 

La Compagnie will deny boarding to any passenger accompanied by a pet that does not comply with all the above rules.

Related post:  15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In Cabin [Pet Policies]

What commercial airlines do not have a weight limit for dogs?

There are a few commercial airlines that do not state a specific weigh limit. Instead, they specify that the dog must be able to fit in the kennel comfortably. This means that they must be able to sit, stand, and turn around comfortably. However, while the weight of the dog and carrier doesn’t matter, the size and dimensions do.

The following commercial airlines don’t have a weight limit for dogs and their carrier:

American Airlines Pet Policy.

• Pets must be able to stand up and turn around, fitting comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Hard-sided kennel restrictions:

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 cm 
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 cm 

Soft-sided kennel restrictions:

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 cm 

Contact reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Delta Airlines Pet Policy.

• Your pet carrier must be able to fit under the seat in front of you.
• Be small enough to fit comfortably in a kennel without touching or protruding from the sides of the kennel and have the ability to move around.
• The soft- or hard-sided kennels must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on three sides (four sides for international travel).

Kennel restrictions: 18” x 11” x 11” will fit most flights however maximum carry-on kennel dimensions vary on different flights as the space under seats will difer.

Please check your flight’s aircraft dimensions   to ensure your kennel will fit.

Southwest Airlines Pet Policy.

• The cat or dog must be completely inside the pet carrier and be able to stand up and move around the carrier with ease.
• Acceptable pet carriers must be s pecifically designed as pet carriers (can be soft or hard). They must be l eak-proof and well ventilated.

Pet carrier restrictions are as follows:

• Southwest Airlines® Pet Carrier – dimensions: 17” x 10” x 9.5”
• Other pet carriers with maximum dimensions of 18.5” x 13.5” x 9.5” 

United Airlines Pet Policy.

• Dogs must travel in either a hard-sided or soft-sided carrier.
• This carrier must fit under the seat in front of you or you cannot fly with your pet.
• There can only be one pet per carrier.
• They must be able to stand up and turn around while inside. 

17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches / 44 x 30 x 19 cm

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 cm

For a extended list check  15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin [Prices & Policies] .

How do I prepare for flying with a large dog in cabin?

There are many things you can do to help prepare for flying with a large dog cabin. Remember, these airlines, whether commercial or not, will only allow well-behaved dogs on flights. You don’t want to risk being banned from flying with your dog, or having him shipped in the cargo area. Here are a few tips:

1. Get your dog used to it’s travel carrier.

If your dog will need to stay in its travel carrier during the flight, it’s important that you spend some time to get him used to it.

When first introducing your dog to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your dog into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

2. Train your dog to stay calm.

Your dog will need to stay calm on the flight otherwise they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane. Being obedient to orders is a requirement when flying with dogs.

3. Exhaust your dog before the flight.

Try to exhaust your dog a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy animal will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

4. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

Limit your dog’s access to food. Therefore, it’ll be less likely that they will need to ‘defecate or urinate’ on the flight.

Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before.

Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

5. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

Bottom Line.

Unfortunately flying with large dogs in cabin is rather tricky, as most commercial airlines will only allow small and light dogs in cabin. However, there are some semi-private airlines that will allow flying with a large dog in cabin. This of course will cost you a little more, but it may be worth it for stress-free travel.

Related posts: Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe? 15 Airlines That Allow Flying With Dogs In-Cabin Flying with an Anxious Dog? [15 Top Tips!] 21 Dog Breeds That Can Fly in Cabin Dog Sedatives for Flying: Should I use them?

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U.S. Airline Pet Policies: A Complete List of Travel Requirements

Planning to fly with your pet soon? Read our expert guide to airline pet policies for travel within the United States. Fully updated for 2019.

Editor’s Note (June 1, 2020): Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some airlines (for example, American Airlines) have temporarily suspended checked pet service. Please check with your airline in advance for the most up-to-date information relevant to your circumstances. Even if your airline is currently not taking pets, they still must allow service and emotional support animals.

Flying with a pet can be a stressful experience, particularly if it isn’t something you do often.

Each airport has its own policies and quirks. And on top of that, each individual airline enforces different procedures.

In an effort to streamline the information, we’ve create this updated list of the airline pet policies for all major U.S. airlines, as well as some helpful general knowledge, so flying with your pet isn’t such a headache.

Humane Travel

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has compiled a list of requirements to ensure humane travel conditions for pets on all flights, regardless of the airline.

These requirements address food, water, crate or carrier size and condition, ventilation, temperature and more. Airlines will refuse to allow your pet to fly if they feel the pet will be in unsafe conditions.

Most airlines will not allow your pet to fly if they are in a kennel that is too small or the pet is obviously sick or injured.

Airline Pet Policies

Alaska air group.

1-800-252-7522  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 1 carrier in the First-Class cabin, 5 carriers in the main cabin; 1 per passenger unless an adjacent seat is purchased, then a passenger may have 2.
• Price: $100 each way (cabin or baggage).
• Advance reservations: Recommended (holiday travel restrictions apply).
• Temperature restrictions: Pets may be refused if temperatures at any location on your itinerary “exceed certain limits,” which Alaskan Airlines does not specify. Other airlines have set limits of no hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) and no colder than 45 F (7.2 C).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits and household birds are allowed in the cabin. Cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, nonpoisonous reptiles, pot-bellied pigs , rabbits and tropical fish are allowed in cargo/baggage. Other pets must receive advance approval. Only dogs and cats are permitted to be flown to Hawaii. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for travel in the cargo compartment on Alaska Airlines flights, but they may travel with you in the cabin as long as you have a carrier that fits under your seat.
• Carrier maximum size: 7.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (hard-sided); 9.5″H x 17″L x 11″W (soft-sided); up to 150 pounds. Full list of kennel requirements for cargo here .

Pets are not permitted in the First-Class cabin or baggage compartment on Alaska Air’s Airbus planes.

Also, Alaska Airlines does not transfer pets to other airlines. You will need to pick up your pet after deplaning and recheck your pet on the new flight.

Fur-st Class Care  is an animal flight program with this airline that offers free pet health examinations and discounted health certificates at Banfield Pet Hospitals located in PetSmart stores.

American Airlines

1-800-433-7300 |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 5–7 carriers per flight (depending on plane), 1 per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); $200 each way (baggage).
• Advance reservations: Required.
• Destination restrictions: Domestic travel may not include Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) during the period of May 1–Sept. 30.
• Temperature restrictions: No hotter than 85 F (29.4 C) at any location on your itinerary; no colder than 45 F (7.2 C). The cold-weather restriction may be waived at temperatures as low as 20 F (-6.6 C) if you bring a signed note from your veterinarian. Talk to the airline about this possibility.
• Allowed animals: Cats and dogs. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs and cats are not accepted for the cargo compartment (checked pets).
• Carrier maximum size: Depends on the plane, so contact the airline in advance. The usual dimensions seem to be 9″H x 19″L x 13″W (with larger carriers allowed in cargo).

Delta Air Lines

1-800-221-1212  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2 pets in the First-Class cabin, 4 pets in the main cabin, 1 per person. Space is limited.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin). Cargo price is determined by the size of the carrier. Animals are not included in the free baggage allowance.
• Advance reservations: Required but cannot be booked before 14 days before departure.
• Allowed animals: Small dogs, cats and household birds (no birds allowed to Hawaii). No pit bull–type dogs in the cabin.
• Carrier maximum size: Determined by flight/type of plane. Contact the airline to determine cabin carrier size requirement. Baggage allows carriers of the dimensions 40″L x 28″W x 30″H, and cargo up to 32″L x 35″W x 48″H and 51 pounds.

Frontier Airlines

1-800-432-1359  |   Website

• Price: $75 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Recommended.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and small household birds.
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 8″H

Hawaiian Airlines

1-800-367-5320  |   Website

• Prices:  Cabin inter-island travel: $35. Cabin departing Hawaii travel: $175. No pets are allowed to travel in the cabin when arriving in Hawaii. Checked baggage: $60 (within Hawaii), $225 (when arriving or departing from North America). Cargo: Varies depending on weight of animal(s) + carriers. Call 1-800-367-5320 to discuss your specific needs.
• Advance reservations: Strongly recommended. For cargo, advance reservations are required.
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds.
• Carrier maximum sizes:  Cabin: 16”L x 10”W x 9.5”H; animal and carrier combined cannot exceed 25 pounds. Checked baggage: From 21”L x 16”W x 15”H and 18 pounds to 36”L x 24”W x 26”H and 70 pounds. Cargo: From 21”L x 15”W x 16”H and 26 pounds to 48”L x 32”W x 35”H and 277 pounds.

Note: We strongly recommend that you call Hawaiian Airlines directly to discuss your specific animal. Some animals cannot be shipped as cargo; others are prohibited from entering Hawaii.

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JetBlue Airlines

1-800-538-2583  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 per flight.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs and cats.
• Carrier maximum size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H, and the combined weight of pet and carrier must not exceed 20 pounds.

Note: Currently, JetBlue does not ship pets as cargo.

Southwest Airlines

1-800-435-9792  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 6 carriers per flight; 1 per person (carrier may contain 2 pets of the same species provided they both have room to comfortably turn around).
• Price: $95 each way (cabin only).
• Advance reservations: Required with an in-person payment at the ticket counter.
• Carrier maximum size: 18.5”L x 13.5”W x 8.5”H.

Spirit Airlines

801-401-2222  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 4 carriers per flight.
• Price: $110 each way (cabin only).
• Allowed animals: Dogs, cats and household birds (no farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, birds of prey or flightless birds).
• Carrier maximum size: 18″L x 14″W x 9″H and cannot exceed 40 pounds.

United Airlines

1-800-864-8331  |   Website

• Maximum number of pets: 2–4 per flight, depending on aircraft, and 1 carrier per person.
• Price: $125 each way (cabin); baggage and cargo rates are determined by size and weight of the carrier. Call United to discuss your pet’s needs before booking your trip.
• Allowed animals: Cats, dogs, rabbits and household birds (excluding cockatoos) are allowed in the cabin. Some breed restrictions apply to baggage/cargo animals for safety reasons .
• Carrier maximum size: 17.5”L x 12”W x 7.5”H (hard carriers), or 18”L x 11”W x 11”H (soft carriers).

Note: See United’s PetSafe Program for shipping animals as cargo.

Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals

Almost all airlines allow properly documented service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) to fly for free.

Required documentation may include:

• Vaccination records (depending on where you are flying to/from)
• Letter from a mental health professional (ESAs only)
• Letter indicating animal’s ability to refrain from “accidents” while in flight
• Proper harnesses, leashes and restraints
• Correct visual aids identifying the animal as a service animal or ESA

Check with your airline to see its specific requirements, but be prepared to have the above documents in hand and answer questions at check-in. Most airlines require in-person check-ins at the ticket counter — you can’t use self check-in or curbside services. Also, ask your airline about boarding early.

Be aware that even if your animal is designated a service or emotional support animal, they may not be allowed or may be quarantined immediately upon arrival to your destination.

All airlines warn that if the service animal or ESA acts in an uncontrollable, aggressive or disruptive manner, they reserve the right to remove the animal and their handler from the flight. Be advised that because of the recent uptick in disruptive ESAs and so-called  “fake service dogs,” many airlines are taking a tougher stance on these animals.

Most airlines allow passengers to buy an extra seat for their service animal or ESA, but otherwise the animals may not sit in seats.

Exotic Pets

Most airlines do not accept exotic or unusual pets , regardless of their status.

These may include rodents, reptiles, arachnids, hedgehogs and ferrets, but this rule can apply to any animal. Call your airline and check the rules before booking a trip for you and your exotic pet.

Hawaii has restrictions of its own to adhere to because it is a rabies-free state and is stringent about what animals are allowed to enter.

Here are some more travel tips to follow when your pet joins you in the air:

Other Important Information

When transporting pets, there are some rules that are consistent between all airlines:

• Airlines will not transport pets as baggage or cargo if the temperature drops below or exceeds safe levels. Most list this as below 10 degrees F or above 85 degrees F.
• Brachycephalic (“short-nosed” or “flat-faced”) breeds of dogs and cats can’t fly as cargo or baggage on most airlines. These breeds tend to have more trouble  breathing in high elevations due to their shorter snouts.
• There are time limits as to how long an airline will allow a pet to be on a plane. If your flight is longer than 8–12 hours or has layovers or transfers, check with your airline to ensure your pet will be allowed to fly.
• Pets count as your carry-on baggage and are not covered under “free” policies. You will pay the pet fee, regardless of whether or not you have another carry-on item.
• You should give your pet food or water 4 hours before the flight. Most airlines do not allow you to feed or give water during the flight.
• We don’t recommend sedating your pet unless absolutely necessary. The elevation and sedation together may create health problems.
• You will be required to provide veterinary proof that your pet can fly. This can be a letter or certificate from a veterinarian and must be done within 10 days of departure and 30 days of return. If you are staying longer than 30 days, you need to have your pet recertified before boarding. Without this documentation, the airlines will not allow your pet to fly. (Service animals and ESAs are typically exempt from this policy, but check with your airline to be sure.)
• When traveling as cargo, your pet is not guaranteed to be shipped on your flight, and when traveling as baggage, pets can get lost — just like your suitcase.
• All your kennels or carriers should be clearly labeled with your name, phone number, address, your pet’s name and their pertinent medical information — and somewhere visible, make sure you write “Live Animal(s)” so airplane personnel know your pet is in there.
• In the event of an emergency, airlines will not provide oxygen to your pets.
• Anyone accompanying a pet must be at least 18 years of age.
• Always prepare to check in early when traveling with a pet. If you have the opportunity to reserve a spot for your pet in advance, take it. Many airlines only allow a few pets in the cabin area, and it’s usually first come, first served.
• Pets should be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
• Several airlines have “embargoes” throughout the year in which they will not transport pets as baggage or cargo. This includes when temperatures drop below or exceed safe levels and during the holidays .

Our Final Thoughts on Airline Pet Policies

There are many restrictions and regulations when it comes to transporting our pets by air, but accidents still happen.

The best defense your pet has is you :

• Educate yourself on what is expected from you, from your pet and from the airline.
• If text message updates are available, sign up for them.
• Keep abreast of what’s happening every step of of the way to ensure your pet’s safe journey.

Don’t leave your pet’s food safety to chance.

Sign up for petful’s recall alerts today. (it’s 100% free.).

Stay informed. Protect your pets.

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• Special assistance

Carry on or transport your pet

Depending on animal breed and size, they can travel as a carry-on or be transported through American Airlines Cargo. Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet the size, age and destination requirements.

We only accept checked pets at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Fees and restrictions apply.

Fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin at no charge if they meet the requirements.

Service animals

Which destinations allow travel with pets?

You can travel with a pet on most flights up to 12 hours or flights to / from select locations:

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

*Additional special restrictions may apply when traveling with pets to / from these destinations.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a temporary suspension of dogs (carry-on or checked), including fully trained service dogs, traveling to the United States (U.S.) from a country considered high-risk for dog rabies.

Only service dogs traveling to the U.S. from high-risk countries with an approved CDC Dog Import Permit, or that meet CDC U.S. vaccination and microchip requirements may fly on American. Contact Special Assistance to request travel with a cat or dog in cabin from a high-risk country.

CDC notice of temporary suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Dogs traveling to the U.S. from countries affected by ‘screwworm’ must meet specific requirements from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Veterinary Services (USDA APHIS VS), including fully trained service dogs.

USDA APHIS VS import requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

The Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources does not accept applications to import assistance or service animals of any species other than dogs.

An assistance or service dog which is accredited by an Australian State or Territory Government will also qualify. In most cases these animals are returning to Australia.

Australian requirements for assistance and service dogs Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

You’ll be responsible for fulfilling all entry requirements and must notify the department of the dog’s intended arrival at least 3 working days before export.

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a suspension on the import of commercial dogs from countries at high-risk for dog rabies.

Commercial dogs will not be permitted to enter Canada from the identified high-risk countries.

CFIA notice of suspension Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines

Carry-on pets

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to Jamaica.

Additional restrictions

When traveling with a pet to Trinidad and Tobago (POS), you cannot arrive on a flight before 8 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Continental U.S.

Within the u.s..

Pets traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico must be at least 8 weeks old.

To the U.S.

All dogs (carry-on and checked) traveling to the U.S. must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from Hawaii.

Checked pets

You can travel with your pet to Hawaii as a checked pet if you:

• Only connect via Honolulu (HNL)*
• Follow Hawaii’s quarantine rules

Animal quarantine rules in Hawaii Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

*No pets are accepted on departures out of Honolulu prior to 8 a.m. HT between March 5 and November 1.

You cannot travel with your pet to Hawaii:

• On nonstop flights to Maui, the Big Island of Hawaii or Kauai
• If your pet is pregnant and past 45 days gestation

All pets traveling to Mexico must meet government regulations on vaccinations.

Government regulations and vaccinations in Mexico Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

South America

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet when traveling to / from:

Transatlantic

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transatlantic trips.

When traveling to the European Union (EU) with a checked pet, you’ll be responsible for completing all entry requirements. Your pet must have a tattoo or implanted microchip that matches the ID number on their vaccination card.

Apart from service animals, you can't travel with a checked pet to the U.K. or Ireland, but you can transport dogs and cats to London (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) with American Airlines Cargo.

Transport your pet with American Airlines Cargo Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

Transpacific

You cannot travel with a carry-on pet on transpacific trips.

Japan exceptions

Although you can travel with a checked pet from Japan to Los Angeles (LAX) or Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), pets are not allowed as checked bags to Japan. According to USDA restrictions, animals should be offered water every 12 hours, so for travel with a checked pet to LAX or DFW, you must book a flight 12 hours or less.

If you’re traveling with a checked pet for travel from Japan, you’ll need to:

• Make sure your pet has a microchip and documents required by the country you are traveling to
• Notify the Japanese Animal Quarantine Service at least 7 days prior to departure to arrange an inspection

Japanese animal quarantine service Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

On flights with American you can bring one pet carrier as a carry-on if:

• You pay the carry-on pet fee
• Your pet stays in the pet carrier and under the seat in front of you the entire flight

You can bring only one additional item on board with your pet:

• A personal item like a purse or small handbag; or
• A carry-on bag that meets requirements and fits in the overhead bin

Carry-on bags

Remember, you can only bring one with your pet carrier, not both.

Pet strollers must be checked at the ticket counter, and all checked bag fees apply.

To add a carry-on pet to your trip, follow these steps:

• Find your trip on aa.com or the American app
• In the Special Services section, select ‘Add carry-on pets’
• Review and agree to the carry-on pet requirements
• Select the flights that you want your pet to travel on
• Confirm your carry-on pet to complete the changes

Find your trip

At the airport, go to the American ticket counter to pay the fee and ensure your pet and kennel meet the requirements.

We assume no liability for the health or well-being of carry-on pets. These rules are enforced:

• Pets must be small enough to fit comfortably inside the closed / zipped carrier.
• Non-collapsible kennels can’t exceed the under-seat dimensions of any aircraft included in your journey. Please contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.
• Soft-sided collapsible kennels are recommended and can be slightly larger but still need to fit under the seat without having to excessively collapse the kennel. They must be secure, padded, made of water-repellant material and have nylon mesh ventilation on 3 or more sides.

Carry-on kennel dimensions

Hard-sided kennel.

• Mainline flights on American: 19 x 13 x 9 inches / 48 x 33 x 22 centimeters (length + width + height)
• Regional flights on American Eagle: 16 x 12 x 8 inches / 40 x 30 x 20 centimeters (length + width + height)

Soft-sided kennel (recommended)

18 x 11 x 11 inches / 46 x 28 x 28 centimeters (length + width + height)

Contact Reservations to verify maximum dimensions.

Reservations and ticket changes

Flying in First / Business on an A321T?

• Pets must stay in their kennel during your flight and will need to be placed in a dedicated animal friendly compartment at the front of the plane during taxi, take-off, landing and turbulence
• The combined weight of the carrier and your pet can’t exceed 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs., weighed at check-in

We can only accept:

• 7 kennels on American flights, excluding service animals
• 5 kennels on American Eagle flights; 1 in First

Due to the lack of underseat storage space, carry-on pets are not permitted in First or Business on:

As recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), we don’t accept pets that have been sedated or tranquilized. Pets that have been given sedatives or tranquilizers are at a higher risk of respiratory and cardiovascular problems at high altitudes.

If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin, it must travel with American Airlines Cargo. Keep in mind, we only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders, and the pet carrier must meet all kennel guidelines for checked-pets. If you don’t meet these requirements, your pet may not travel. Fees and restrictions apply.

Kennel guidelines for checked pets

We only accept checked pets for active-duty U.S. military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to 2 pets may be checked and they must meet the minimum age and health requirements of the destination. Since capacity is limited, we accept checked pets on a first-come basis.

When checking a pet, you need to:

• Contact Reservations at least 48 hours prior to travel
• Check in at the ticket counter with your official orders
• Allow extra check-in time (at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight)
• Complete a checklist with an agent
• Provide a health certificate

To ensure the health and safety of your pet, the health certificate you provide must be issued by a vet within:

• 10 days of your travel
• 60 days of your return (travel on the same ticket)
• 10 days of your return (travel on a separate ticket)

All USDA health requirements Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

American PetEmbark™

American Airlines Cargo offers the American PetEmbark™ service for pets that don’t qualify to travel as carry-on or checked pets.

Ship your pet through American PetEmbark™ Opens another site in a new window that may not meet accessibility guidelines.

When checking in your pet, there are specific requirements for their kennel:

• Large enough for your pet to stand, turn, sit and lie down in a natural position (without touching any side or the top of the container)
• Must not exceed maximum size requirements of the aircraft you're traveling on
• Must not exceed maximum weight (combined pet and kennel) of 100 lbs. / 45 kgs.
• Be made of wood, metal, plastic or similar materials
• Have a door made of welded or cast metal
• Secured at the top and bottom with bolts or screws
• Secured by yourself with release cable ties on all 4 corners (we’ll provide complimentary ties)
• Be rigid and secure enough so the animal cannot escape through gaps or poke any body part through the container
• Be leak and escape proof with a secure fastened door
• Have ventilation on at least 3 sides for domestic U.S. travel and 4 sides for international travel
• Have separate food and watering dishes attached securely inside the kennel
• Have a small bag of food for a 24-hour period attached to the top
• Be clean and have absorbent material (no straw, hay or wood shavings)

If you travel with 2 of your pets in the same kennel, they must be:

• The same species (2 cats or 2 dogs)
• A similar size and weigh less than 20 lbs. / 9.07 kgs. each
• Between 8 weeks and 6 months old

Aircraft restrictions and acceptable kennels

Checked pets cannot travel on:

• A321, A321H, A321neo, A321S

Cat restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic cats of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Exotic Shorthair

Cats must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico.

Dog restrictions

We don’t accept brachycephalic or snub-nosed dogs of any 'mix' as checked pets, such as:

• Affenpinscher
• American Staffordshire Terrier
• Boston Terrier
• Boxer (all breeds)
• Brussels Griffon
• Bulldog (all breeds)
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel
• Japanese Chin
• Mastiff (all breeds)
• Presa Canario
• Pug (all breeds)
• Staffordshire Bull Terrier
• Tibetan Spaniel

Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you're traveling into the U.S., your dog's age and vaccine requirements depend on the risk of dog rabies where your trip starts. Dogs arriving from high-risk countries need to be at least 16 weeks old and have their rabies shots before traveling into the U.S.

Check if your trip starts in a high-risk country.

Flights with connections

If you’re traveling on a connecting flight, checked pets will only be able to connect through these cities:

• Charlotte, NC (CLT)
• Chicago O'Hare, IL (ORD)
• Dallas / Fort Worth, TX (DFW)
• Los Angeles, CA (LAX)
• New York Kennedy, NY (JFK)
• New York LaGuardia, NY (LGA)
• Miami, FL (MIA)
• Philadelphia, PA (PHL)
• Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
• Washington Reagan, DC (DCA)

Food and water

Due to Federal Regulations, you’ll need to provide written certification that:

• Your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours (with the specific time noted) before you deliver them to the airplane
• Is securely and visibly attached to the outside of the kennel
• Has your signature with the date and time you signed it

You’ll also need to provide feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period. Unless specified by a vet, you cannot leave instructions saying 'no food or water.'

If you’re flying with American Airlines, you can pay your pet travel fee at the airport or at a travel center with a credit card or paper voucher (where accepted). We don’t accept cash or checks for payment.

We don’t collect pet fees for other operating airlines on your trip (even if it has an American flight number). You’ll need to check in with each airline and pay your fees at check-in. To find out if you're on a partner airline, look for the words, "Operated by" on your ticket.

What's a codeshare?

*Fees shown apply for each destination without a voluntary stopover / connection of 4 hours or more. If your trip includes a voluntary stopover / connection of more than 4 hours, fees apply for each connection segment. All pet fees are non-refundable and apply per kennel, each way. Fees for transporting your pet with American Airlines Cargo may vary depending on the trip details and size of the animal and kennel.

**For tickets issued on / before February 19, 2024, the carry-on pet fee per kennel is $125 and for tickets issued on / after February 20, 2024, the fee is $150.

Temperature restrictions

We have temperature restrictions to make sure checked pets and pets traveling with American Airlines Cargo aren’t exposed to extreme heat or cold:

• In the animal holding areas
• At terminal facilities
• When moving the animals between terminal and the plane
• On a plane awaiting departure

You cannot travel with a pet if the current or forecasted temperature is above 85 degrees Fahrenheit (29.4 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

Pets not traveling in cabin cannot travel to / through / from Phoenix (PHX), Tucson (TUS), Las Vegas (LAS) or Palm Springs (PSP) May 1 – September 30.

You cannot travel with a pet if the ground temperature is below 45 degrees Fahrenheit (7.2 degrees C) at any location on the itinerary.

We may waive the cold temperature restrictions if you have a written letter from a licensed vet that includes:

• Your name and address
• Your pet’s name
• Your vet’s name and signature
• Your vet’s accreditation date and number
• The temperature your pet is acclimated to

The letter must be dated:

• Within 10 days of the first flight your pet will be on
• Within 30 days of any other trips in the same itinerary

You may need an additional letter for lengthy trips. If the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-6.6 degrees C), your pet cannot be checked even with a letter from your vet.

Flying on a partner airline?

Find helpful information if your trip includes 1 or more flights with our partner airlines.

• British Airways
• Japan Airlines
• Qatar Airways

Watch CBS News

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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The 9 best airline-approved pet carriers of 2024 + tips from experts.

Find the purr-fect travel carrier for your favorite furry travel companion.

The Best Airline-Approved Pet Carriers

Courtesy of Sleepypod

Flying with your pet requires its share of homework. Regulations on bringing your pooch or feline aboard an airplane include providing updated paperwork as well as picking a pet carrier that adheres to baggage requirements and size restrictions . (For other things to consider when flying with a pet and advice from animal experts, jump to the tips section .)

If you plan to bring your cat or dog with you on your next flight but aren't sure which pet carrier is best – or allowed – U.S. News is here to help. Start with this list of the top airline-approved pet carriers for your jet-setting four-legged friends.

Best Overall: Henkelion Pet Carrier – Medium

• Jump to features and traveler insights ↓

Best Overall, Runner-up: Sherpa Original Deluxe Pet Carrier – Medium

Best expandable: petsfit expandable pet carrier – medium, best convertible: natuvalle 6-in-1 pet carrier – small.

• Best Pet Carrier Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Best Luxury: Away The Pet Carrier

Best compressible: sleepypod air, best for dogs in cargo: sportpet rolling plastic kennel.

• Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate 2-Door Kennel

(Note: Prices were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

What sets this carrier apart: Designed with airline approval in mind, the medium size of this traveler-favorite carrier accommodates cats or small dogs with its spacious interior. Mesh panels zip open on three sides of the carrier as well as the top, ensuring a well-ventilated bag. The outer material is a lightweight and durable polyester. A removable, machine-washable woolen mat makes the interior comfy for your pet; there's also a safety leash you can use to secure your pet inside.

You can use the connectable loop handles and padded shoulder strap for easy carrying, and this carrier bag folds up when you're ready to store it away. The Henkelion Pet Carrier even comes in several fun colors, such as purple or green.

Travelers appreciate: "I have used the Henkelion soft-sided carrier many times," says Robbie Parker of travel blog Expat in Paradise , who travels with his small dogs. "These are great carriers as they are hardy for travel, collapse for storage, and fit perfectly under the seat for in cabin travel. Also, I like that they have one side that is mesh and the other side is solid with a pocket. You can face solid side toward the aisle so people walking around the plane don't upset your dog." He adds, "Overall, I would recommend it for in-cabin plane travel."

Frequent traveler and luxury travel advisor Ashley Les, founder of Postcards From , also appreciates that the design puts her cats at ease when flying. "I find that with more mesh, cats are exposed to more light and sight – it gets them more anxious," she says, adding: "There are multiple ways to get my cats in the carriers, from the sides or above, as well. I love that you can take out the bottom to wash it separately."

Price: $28.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Sherpa

What sets this carrier apart: Beyond a patented, crash-tested flexible wire frame that keeps your little buddy safe, Sherpa provides a Guaranteed on Board program that offers a refund for your flight and airline pet fee if you're denied boarding because of the small or medium sizes of this carrier. This mesh and polyester bag is an industry standard with good airflow. The front and top entries have locking zippers, and this collapsible carrier also features a removable (and machine-washable) faux-lambskin liner, a rear pocket for storage, and a seat belt safety strap that doubles as a luggage strap.

Travelers appreciate: This Sherpa carrier is renowned for its reliable functionality and amazing value. Recent travelers say the medium carrier fits well under the seat and keeps their pet comfortable in transit.

Price: $70 or less for medium

What sets this carrier apart: This Petsfit carrier's medium size adheres to most airline requirements (as does the small carrier). One of the mesh windows can be unzipped to form an extra compartment, expanding the carrier by 9.4 inches for an extended width of 20.4 inches. This product is a great option if you need a carrier for air travel but still want your pet to enjoy a bit more space to stretch out when not tucked under the airplane seat.

The sturdy solid wire construction ensures the bag won't collapse but is flexible enough to tuck into a small space, though you may need to remove the rods on either side if the carrier is too tall to fit easily underneath. There's a side pocket for storage, double zippers and a water-repellent inner cloth.

Travelers appreciate: "The Petsfit carrier was flexible enough to squeeze under most airplane seats, but still was sturdy enough to hold," says Alexandra Lauren of the travel blog The Bucket List Mermaid , who has used this carrier to fly with her cat. "My kitty could look around the airport with the built-in leash in the carrier. The expandable portion was an added bonus because it allowed for more room for my pet when on long layovers or when I had an empty seat on the airplane." Lauren also recommends Petsfit's expandable backpack-style carrier for a hands-free option.

Price:  $56.99 or less for medium

Courtesy of Natuvalle

What sets this carrier apart: For travelers seeking versatility, this Natuvalle cat or dog carrier can be used like a backpack, shoulder bag, tote with carrying handles or even – if worn on your front – a baby carrier. This convertible choice can also be used as a car seat crate with built-in seat belt loops, and you have the option of using it either in the upright or side position. Other features include zipper locks, mesh panels, reinforced stitching, two walk-through doors and a photo ID tag. The carrier is foldable and has reflective stripes for night travel. While there are medium and large size options, the extra-small and small sizes are your best bet when it comes to fitting under an airplane seat.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the versatility of this bag; some travelers say the carrier fits best under the seat when on its side, as the upright position can be too tall.

Price:  $119.90 or less for small

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Best Backpack: PetAmi Backpack Pet Carrier

Courtesy of PetAmi

What sets this carrier apart: Go hands-free with this PetAmi backpack-style carrier. A sturdy frame maintains its shape while you traipse through airport terminals, with chest and waist buckles for extra support. Four-sided access makes loading easy, and a rollaway mesh top means your furry friend can stick their head out the top when you're not in the air. The safety strap and buckle are designed to thwart even great escape artists, and a sherpa-lined bed entices fur babies to relax. The backpack carrier color options include red and purple.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the easy carrying this style provides, though they advise that you'll need to store this bag on its side in the plane cabin, and it won't fit on every airline.

Price: $39.99 or less

Courtesy of Away

What sets this carrier apart: It's a splurge, but this cat and dog carrier is made by Away, a popular luggage brand known for its sleek design and functionality. The same applies to this nylon and leather tote, which comes in black or a coast blue. The water-resistant lining is paired with sherpa bedding and exterior pockets that can hold a phone, keys or waste bags. If you already have an Away suitcase, this carrier will fit seamlessly over the handle with its trolley sleeve.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners who travel with this bag like that it's roomy, saying their pets seem comfortable inside. This carrier fits pets up to 18 pounds but is a bit on the larger side of an airline-approved carry-on, so be sure to research your airline's policies before taking it aboard.

Price: $225 or less

What sets this carrier apart: The Sleepypod Air is designed to compress to fit under the seat during takeoff and landing; when the seat belt sign is off, your pet can enjoy slightly more room (but be aware that it doesn't hold its reduced size in a freestanding position, only when tucked into a small space). This unique carrier employs sturdy luggage-grade ballistic nylon for its base, with a panel of mesh running along the front, top and back. A removable privacy panel can be slid over part of the mesh. Available in multiple colors, this crash-tested model also has a seat belt strap, a trolley sleeve and a comfortable shoulder strap for carrying it.

Travelers appreciate: Users like the carrier's many features and say it's a good option especially for larger cats traveling by air, but some pet owners felt there was not enough airflow (especially with the privacy panel) for longer flights.

Price: $199.99 or less

What sets this carrier apart: Any furry friends larger than about 20 pounds will likely have to travel in the cargo hold if they're not a service animal. You'll want a very sturdy dog crate for the journey that meets every regulation, and SportPet's kennel passes the test for many travelers. This carrier meets International Air Transport Association guidelines with two snap-on water dishes and four stickers that indicate a live animal is inside; a "floor gutter" contains messes for easy cleanup. The durable plastic frame is connected with metal nuts and bolts and features airline-required tie holes for bungees.

This travel crate comes in six sizes, from small up to XXX-large, so be sure to determine the right size for your pet. A cushioned bed is not included and costs extra. For more information on pets traveling in cargo, consult the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Travelers appreciate: Pet owners like the sturdy construction and the compliance with airline regulations, but the traveler-favorite feature is the removable wheels, which are included with the carrier (except with size small).

Price: Ranges by size from $76 to $385

Best for Cats in Cargo: Petmate Two-Door Kennel

Courtesy of Petmate

What sets this carrier apart: This option made of hard plastic and steel wire is tough enough to protect your cargo-contained cat, according to recent travelers. (Keep in mind that airlines do not recommend hard-sided carriers for in-cabin travel, and this kennel is too large to fit under airline seats.) The two front and top doors assist with entering and exiting, and color options like hot pink or blue will make this kennel easy to spot. The carrier comes in small (24-inch) and extra-small (19-inch) sizes, so choose accordingly based on the measurements of your cat. As with most hard-sided crates, you will have to purchase a plush bed separately.

Travelers appreciate: "I haven't traveled by air with this carrier, but I've owned it for years and really appreciate how sturdy it is," says Catriona Kendall, associate editor of travel at U.S. News. "The assembly of the carrier is straightforward, and my cats feel safe enough to hang out in it at home."

Price: $66.99 or less for 24-inch

How to choose the best pet carrier

There are a few major points to consider when choosing a carrier that will serve as your pet's safe space during a flight:

Size: Selecting the right carrier size for your pet is essential not only for your pets' comfort but also for their safety, according to Sara Hogan, hospital manager at Clarendon Animal Care in Virginia. "Please ensure the measurements for your carrier meet a standard that allows for your pet to comfortably turn around AND lay down," she says. But be aware that if the carrier is too large for your furry friend, they could end up injured in transit. The best way to determine the right size is to take measurements of your pet; to be as precise as possible, use the IATA's formula .

Keep in mind that only carriers able to fit under the seat in front of you are allowed in the plane cabin – a space that will vary by airline. Consult the next section on airline policies for more information.

Airflow: Don't underestimate the importance of adequate airflow. "Carriers and crates really need to have proper ventilation for short or long-term travel," Hogan says. "There IS a difference between taking your pet down the street to a friend's house or the vet and taking your pet on a trip with any sort of additional time involved."

Stability: Check the quality of all the zippers and materials − you want this to be an escape-proof carrier, and any malfunction can put your pet at risk. "If something has previously broken or fallen off the carrier or crate look to replace the piece or the entire crate/carrier," Hogan advises.

Soft-sided vs. hard-sided: If your pet is small enough to fly in the cabin, most airlines highly recommend a soft-sided carrier, which gives the most flexibility. Airlines are often slightly more lenient with the dimensions for soft-sided carriers in the cabin as long as they are able to fit underneath the seat without blocking the aisle of the airplane. Another bonus: Soft pet carriers often come with removable fleece bedding for extra comfort.

Note: Crates and carriers destined for the cargo hold of the plane must be hard-sided. Find more details on carrier specifications for the cargo hold in the FAQ section at the bottom of this page.

Airline pet carrier dimensions

Each airline sets its own specifications and safety rules for pets in the plane cabin with you, so be sure to check with your intended airline for dimension limits, breed restrictions and other guidelines. Be aware, too, that most major airlines based in the U.S. do not offer an option to transport animals in cargo.

Use the links below to find more information on the specific pet policies for the following U.S.-based airlines. Each airline's size limit for soft-sided pet carriers in the cabin is also listed, with dimensions given in length by width by height.

• Alaska Airlines : 17 x 11 x 9.5 inches
• Allegiant Air : 19 x 16 x 9 inches
• American Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Delta Air Lines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches
• Frontier Airlines : 18 x 14 x 8 inches
• Hawaiian Airlines : 16 x 10 x 9.5 inches
• JetBlue : 17 x 12.5 x 8.5 inches
• Southwest Airlines : 18.5 x 13.5 x 9.5 inches
• Spirit Airlines : 18 x 14 x 9 inches
• Sun Country Airlines : 16 x 10 x 8 inches
• United Airlines : 18 x 11 x 11 inches

How to prepare to fly with a pet

Help your pet acclimate.

When preparing to travel with your furry companion, planning ahead is key, especially if your pet isn't used to being confined in a crate or carrier. "I recommend buying the carrier as far in advance of travel as possible to allow your dog to become comfortable relaxing in the carrier in a familiar home environment before traveling," says Amanda Farah, CPDT-KA, national training and behavior coordinator for Best Friends Animal Society.

Some pets are sensitive to loud noises, so one way to prepare them for the journey is by playing recordings of sounds they might encounter in transit, Farah says. "I'd say a good general rule is that because so much of what they encounter during air travel will be new and potentially stressful, you should familiarize them to many factors as possible in the weeks or even months leading up to travel."

Book your travel far in advance

Keep in mind that airlines limit the number of pets allowed on a flight, so book early and try to secure a direct flight to cut down on travel time.

Familiarize yourself with your departure airport

Before you set off on your journey, familiarize yourself with the airport you're departing from – such as where to find a pet relief area – and how to go through security with a pet in tow. For example, you must never place your pet on the security conveyor belt (only the empty carrier goes through the X-ray tunnel).

Research your destination

This is a crucial step. Some countries will not allow pets in at all, while other destinations (such as Hawaii) may have strict rules about rabies vaccines or require all animals to travel in cargo. Christine Barton, a veterinarian with The Vets , recommends checking the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website to learn about requirements for health certificates, vaccines and more.

Other considerations will depend on what type of vacation you're planning; if it involves hiking or camping with your dog, Barton suggests checking the expected weather, making a small emergency kit for you and your pet, and considering a GPS tracker for remote areas. Wherever you're headed, locate the closest emergency animal hospital just in case and make sure to book pet-friendly accommodations .

Consult your vet

Once you've done your research, your veterinarian can help ensure your pet has everything you both need to travel, such as microchipping, required or recommended vaccines (and proof of them), testing, and health records, Barton says. A vet can also address any health concerns. "Doctors can discuss risks, precautions, and things to monitor while traveling," Barton explains, adding that you should make sure your pet is up to date on needed preventive medications, such as treatment for fleas or heartworm.

If your furry friend struggles with anxiety, your vet can prescribe them a medication to make the journey less stressful for both of you. "Talk to your veterinarian before administering any sort of medication to your pet, but definitely consider it for future travel," Hogan says.

Frequently Asked Questions

A carrier being "airline-approved" typically means it adheres to the airline's size requirements, is leakproof, provides adequate airflow and keeps your pet securely inside.

You can find a pet carrier on wheels, such as the  Snoozer 4-in-1 Roll Around Pet Carrier  or the  SportPet Rolling Plastic Kennel , but keep in mind that most wheeled pet carriers are too large to fit under the seat on most airlines, even with detachable wheels. Wheeled options can make your furry friend easier for you to transport, but they also tend to make for a bumpy ride for your pet, so consider carefully whether a carrier on wheels is right for your cat or dog, especially if they're easily frightened.

Most major airlines in the U.S. do not allow pets to travel in cargo; some, like American Airlines, only offer this service for active military or diplomatic personnel. Of the major U.S. airlines, only Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines currently accept animals in the cargo hold, so keep that in mind if you have a medium or large dog – or if your intended destination does not welcome in-cabin pets.

Most animals who fly in the cargo hold are fine, but there's still a risk of your pet being killed, injured or lost, according to the Humane Society of the United States. The most common dangers are excessively hot or cold temperatures, poorly ventilated crates, and rough handling. Be sure to follow all IATA guidelines for cargo crates to ensure your pet's safety. Before you book a flight, you may also want to research the airline's history with companion animals in the cargo hold.

The kennel you choose for cargo travel must allow your pet enough room to stand, sit upright, turn around while standing and lie in a natural position, according to the IATA. Carriers must made of rigid materials and include a solid roof, a leakproof base, a door with well-maintained hardware, working handles and ventilation on all four sides. Labels that say "Live Animal" and "This Way Up" are also required by the IATA.

A water dish must be securely affixed to the inside of the carrier, with open access for your pet to drink and for someone to refill it from the outside without opening the crate. A food container can either be inside the carrier if it's sealed or attached to the outside.

A pet carrier usually counts as either a personal item or a carry-on. Depending on the airline policy, you may be able to bring either a personal item or a carry-on bag (not both) in addition to your carrier. Check your airline's carry-on luggage allowance and pet policy to see what you can bring.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture requires puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old to travel, but airlines may impose their own age restrictions on top of that. On Delta, for example, companion animals must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic flights. United Airlines says your pet should be at least 4 months old for international travel to comply with rabies vaccine requirements.

Your furry friend will incur certain fees for flying, but the cost will vary by airline. American Airlines, as an example, charges a $125 service fee for a carry-on pet, while Allegiant's fee is $50. Cargo fees may depend on trip details: Hawaiian Airlines charges $60 in fees for domestic flights and $225 for flights between Hawaii and North America, while the cargo fee on Alaska Airlines is $100. Service animals typically fly at no charge as long as they meet the airline's requirements.

It depends on your pet, according to Hogan. "If they're quite anxious you may want to offer food with a bit more advanced time prior to the flight to avoid vomiting in the carrier or on themselves, however, not too much time where they'll be hungry throughout the travel day," she advises. "Water is important to offer as often as possible in any setting. Access to using the bathroom more than once prior to travel is also advised so as not to miss an opportunity for output!"

Conveniently, some airports may have pet relief areas your dog can use either before or after you go through security, but that's something you'll have to research beforehand.

No. Unless your pet is a service animal of a certain size, airlines typically require pets in the cabin to be secured in their carrier and stowed under the seat in front of you.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Catriona Kendall is a frequent traveler and longtime cat owner who knows the importance of a sturdy and secure pet carrier. Her cats haven't managed to damage or escape from the Henkelion and Petmate carriers she's owned for years (despite their best efforts). She also recommends this pop-up Pet Fit for Life carrier for road trips. Kendall compiled this list of airline-compliant carriers using her experience as a pet owner, advice from animal experts and extensive research.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Carry-on Luggage Pieces
• The Top Luggage Trackers
• What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?
• Can I Use My Own Airplane Seat Belt Extender?

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Erin Evans , Rachael Hood , Catriona Kendall , Sharael Kolberg , Amanda Norcross and Leilani Osmundson April 3, 2024

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Shipping Your Pet

Until further notice, we are only allowing the shipment of pets for active  U.S. Military or U.S. State Department Foreign Service Offices (FSO)  traveling with active permanent change of station orders. To make an active U.S. Military or FSO pet booking, please contact the Delta Cargo Customer Service Center at 1-800-352-2746 (dial 711 for relay services). Keep in mind that you will be required to provide a copy of your permanent change of station orders.

Please note that existing live animal policies will still apply to all animals transported with cargo.

If you meet the transport requirements above and your pet is too large to fit comfortably in a soft-sided pet kennel or crate, you may be able to ship your pet with Delta Cargo . Delta Cargo provides safe, reliable transportation with services to address the needs of all pets that are shipped. We invite you to review the following guidelines prior to contacting us to arrange your pet’s travel:

• A separate pet booking from the customer’s flight reservation must be made with the Delta Cargo Customer Service Center at 1-800-352-2746 (dial 711 for relay services). Additional fees and charges apply. Exceptions are made for service dogs that can’t be accommodated in the cabin.
• Pets shipped via cargo cannot be booked until 14 days prior to departure.
• Pets are not guaranteed to be shipped on the same flight or flight schedule as the customer.
• Pets must be dropped off and picked up at a Delta Cargo location that is separate from passenger check-in. Please arrive at the cargo facility 4 to 6 hours prior to scheduled departure for domestic travel and 6 hours prior to international travel.
• The cut off time for pet check in is 2.5 hours prior to departure for domestic travel and 4 hours prior to departure for international travel.
• Delta Cargo requires international customers to use a pet shipper approved by the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association.

Health Requirements

Requirements for cargo travel:.

• Pets must be transported in travel crates/containers that comply with Container Requirement #1 in the current version of the International Air Transport Association Live Animals Regulations (IATA-LAR) . The travel crate/container must allow the pet to stand, sit-upright, lie down and turn around without touching the top or sides.
• After obtaining a crate/container that complies with the IATA-LAR, your pet must be acclimated to confinement, which is a process that can take weeks to months.
• Your pet must have a health certificate deeming it medically fit for air travel via cargo from a USDA-accredited veterinarian or veterinary authority within 10 days of travel. When traveling internationally, an international health certificate is required, and it must be signed and/or endorsed by a USDA-accredited veterinarian or veterinary authority within 10 days of travel.

Understanding the Risks

Transport via cargo can be stressful for animals. Exposure to unfamiliar environments, people and movements impact each animal differently and poses risks that could lead to illness, injury, escape or, in rare cases, death. When you obtain a health certificate for your pet, please discuss the risks of air travel with your veterinarian. Consider your animal’s medical history and whether it has anxiety disorders that may be worsened during travel. Two major factors that should be discussed are your animal’s age and breed.

• Animal age: Since life expectancy varies among breeds, there is no maximum age set for air travel. However, impaired vision or hearing, heart, liver or kidney disease, cancer, arthritis, diabetes, senility and weakness can often impact older animals. Please ensure that you have discussed the stress of travel and its impact on your pet due to age with your veterinarian.
• Breed: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs, cats and their mixes are not permitted on Delta or Delta Connection flights. Visit Delta Cargo for a full list of restricted dog and cat breeds .

Live Animal Checklist & Feeding

When you check your pet in, you will be asked to complete a live animal checklist confirming that your pet has been offered food and water within 4 hours of check-in. You must also provide food, along with feeding and watering instructions for a 24-hour period if an in-transit feeding is necessary.

Tranquilizers & Sedatives

The use of pet tranquilizers or sedatives at high altitudes is unpredictable and the sedation of household dogs and cats is not permitted.  This also includes any medication that causes sedation of the pet.

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Bon Voyaged

20 Best Travel-Friendly Dog Breeds

Posted: April 9, 2024 | Last updated: April 9, 2024

Traveling with a dog can enhance the experience of exploring new places, bringing joy and companionship to your journey. Not all dog breeds are suited for the rigors of travel, whether it be by car, plane, or foot. The ideal travel companion is one that is adaptable, manageable, and comfortable with changes in environment and routine. From small breeds that fit snugly under airplane seats to energetic dogs that thrive on outdoor adventures, certain breeds stand out as perfect travel buddies. These dogs not only adapt well to new settings but also possess temperaments that make them easy to manage on the go. Here, we highlight twenty dog breeds known for their travel-friendly characteristics, ensuring your next adventure is enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.

French Bulldog

French Bulldogs are small, making them great companions for travelers with limited space. Their quiet demeanor ensures they’re well-suited for hotel stays and public transportation. Adaptable and easygoing, these dogs are perfect for urban explorations and relaxed vacations.

Labrador Retriever

Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly nature, making them ideal companions for family trips. They are outgoing and enjoy being active, perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking and camping. Their adaptability and easygoing nature make them suitable for various travel settings, from countryside to beach vacations.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are adaptable and affectionate, thriving in both quiet countryside and bustling city environments. Their small size and gentle nature make them excellent companions for long flights and car rides. This breed’s loving demeanor ensures they are always ready for cuddles, making every trip more enjoyable.

Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers are friendly, patient, and great for families, making them wonderful travel companions. Their love for adventure and outdoor activities makes them perfect for exploring new places. They are known for their adaptability and can easily settle into new environments, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Yorkshire Terrier

Yorkshire Terriers are small and easily adaptable, making them perfect for travelers who are always on the move. Their compact size allows them to travel comfortably in carriers, ideal for air travel. Despite their small stature, they are spirited and enjoy exploring new sights and smells.

Dachshunds are small, curious, and have a brave nature, making them great companions for those who love to explore. Their compact size makes it easy for them to accompany their owners on various adventures, from road trips to outdoor explorations. Despite their small size, they have a big personality and can be quite adventurous.

Chihuahuas are the perfect travel companion due to their tiny size and ability to fit in small carriers. They are adaptable and can easily adjust to new environments, whether it’s a cozy hotel room or a bustling city. Their loyal and affectionate nature makes them great companions, always ready to accompany their owners on new adventures.

Poodle (Toy or Miniature)

Poodles, particularly Toy and Miniature sizes, are intelligent, easy to train, and great for travelers looking for a well-behaved companion. Their hypoallergenic coats make them suitable for travelers with allergies. Poodles are adaptable and can enjoy both city sightseeing and countryside walks, making them versatile travel companions.

Boston Terrier

Boston Terriers are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them great companions for travelers. They are small and manageable, which makes traveling by public transport or staying in hotels easier. Their adaptability and easygoing personality make them well-suited for both city tours and relaxing vacations.

Maltese dogs are small, light, and easy to carry, making them excellent travel companions for those who prefer to keep their pets close. They adapt well to new environments, whether it’s a quiet countryside or a bustling urban center. Their affectionate nature ensures they’re always ready for a cuddle, making every trip more enjoyable.

Border Collie

Border Collies are highly intelligent and energetic, making them perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking. They are known for their agility and love for adventure, thriving in environments where they can explore and be active. Their loyalty and keenness to please make them excellent companions, always ready for the next adventure.

Shih Tzus are calm and adaptable, making them great companions for both short and long travels. Their friendly nature ensures they get along well with other pets and people, making social interactions during travels easy. Despite their small size, they have a robust personality and enjoy exploring new places with their owners.

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are highly energetic and love adventures, making them great for hiking and camping trips. Their intelligence and trainability make them easy to manage on the go, adapting well to new environments and situations. They are loyal and protective, ensuring a sense of security and companionship during travels.

Beagles are curious and friendly, making them ideal travel companions, especially for families. Their manageable size and robust health make them suited for various types of travel, from road trips to flights. Beagles are known for their keen sense of smell and love of exploration, adding an element of adventure to every trip.

Boxers are known for their high energy and playful nature, making them suitable companions for active travelers. They are loyal and protective, ensuring a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Their sociable nature makes them great at making new friends, whether it’s other dogs or people, during their travels.

Pugs are adaptable, friendly, and well-suited for both city and countryside settings, making them versatile travel companions. Their small size and easygoing nature make them ideal for travelers looking for a pet that’s easy to manage on the go. Pugs enjoy being with their owners and can make any trip more enjoyable with their playful and affectionate demeanor.

Cocker Spaniel

Cocker Spaniels are adaptable, friendly, and enjoy exploring new environments, making them excellent travel companions. They have a joyful and outgoing nature that makes them get along well with both humans and other animals. Their medium size and manageable temperament make them suited for various travel adventures, from long road trips to leisurely stays in pet-friendly accommodations.

Pomeranians are small, making them easy to travel with, and their adaptable nature allows them to settle into new environments quickly. They are lively and spirited, often providing entertainment and companionship on the go. Despite their size, Pomeranians have a bold personality, making them fearless adventurers ready to explore new destinations with their owners.

Vizslas are known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great companions for long trips. They are highly adaptable and enjoy being active, making them suitable for various outdoor activities. Their calm demeanor and eagerness to please make them easy travel companions, always ready for a new adventure.

Italian Greyhound

Italian Greyhounds are small, quiet, and love being with their owners, making them perfect companions for travelers. Their slender build and gentle nature make them well-suited for travel, especially in tight spaces like airplane cabins. They are adaptable and can easily adjust to new settings, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for both the pet and the owner.

Choosing the right dog breed for travel involves careful consideration of your pet’s temperament, size, and adaptability to new environments. Whether you’re embarking on a long road trip, flying to a new destination, or exploring the great outdoors, the companionship of a travel-friendly dog can make your adventure even more memorable. The breeds highlighted here are known for their ability to adapt and thrive alongside their human companions in various travel scenarios. By selecting a breed that matches your travel style and preparing them for the journey ahead, you can ensure a smoother, more enjoyable travel experience for both you and your furry friend. Remember, the key to a successful trip with your dog lies in understanding their needs and ensuring their comfort and safety throughout your travels.

For the Latest Travel News, Headlines & Videos, head to Bon Voyaged

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Breaking news, flight diverted after dog poops on board: ‘smell never quite went away’.

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A United Airlines flight bound for Seattle had to divert to Dallas on Friday because of a literal s–tstorm.

A Redditor blamed dog poop for the diversion of his flight from Houston, attaching a stinky photo to his messy missive on the social media platform. United Airlines later confirmed the incident to Business Insider.

“Dog had messy accident in the aisle right in first class. Plane diverted to DFW. Ground crew spent over 2 hours cleaning carpets with paper towels,” the Redditor recalled in a Sunday post.

“Smell made me ill. Gate agents kept yelling at passengers and the cabin crew. The smell never quite went away. First class toilet declared unusable as the dog mess was apparently unresolved in there. Food went bad while on the ground so very few snacks left,” the post continued. 

One commenter on the post claims to have spotted a woman and a service dog exiting the flight.

The Post reached out to United reps for comment. 

The airline allows dogs aboard domestic flights as long as they can fit in a carrier under the seat, where they are meant to remain at all times, the United website explains. 

Reddit commenters, meanwhile, made it their duty to share similar foul experiences.

“I was on a flight once where there was a service dog. (Chicago to Allentown.) Flight was turbulent. The moment that flight landed and got to the gate, and that exit door opened, that dog beat everyone off the plane and s–t all over the jetway,” one person penned. 

“We were delayed by 15 minutes getting off the plane as they had to clean it up,” the poster continued. “Kudos to the dog for holding it together.”

“I love my dogs and generally prefer dogs to people. That said, I am a firm believer that the only time a dog should be on a plane is when the owner is moving, and driving is not an option,” another declared. 

“And this is why dogs do not belong out in the open in public areas. You want to fly with your dog, put it in the carrier and keep it in the carrier from the minute you get to the airport until you get to your destination,” a third argued. 

This isn’t the only time an animal pooping aboard a plane has caused problems. 

A dog who got out of its crate on a United Airlines flight in February pooped on the plane, and people on board were sickened by the smell.

Flight attendants wearing “hazmat-type suits” eventually cleaned the mess. 

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Best overall

Best expandable, best stylish, best budget.

• What to look for
• How we tested

How to prepare a cat for flying

The 4 best airline-approved cat carriers of 2024, tested and reviewed.

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Air travel with a cat is stressful, but one of the best airline-approved cat carriers can make it easier. When a cat is flying at your feet in the plane cabin, a durable soft-sided carrier with some key features will ensure your pet's comfort and safety, and your peace of mind.

To select the best carriers for flying with a cat, we spoke with a veterinarian and pet travel experts and tested 24 different airline-friendly pet carriers. Our top pick, the Sleepypod Air , is as durable as it is comfortable for pets and humans alike. If you're looking for a more affordable airline cat carrier, the simple Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag will keep your kitty comfortable from the beginning to the end of your journey.

Keep in mind that carrier size requirements vary by airline. Delta , American Airlines , and United allow pet carriers up to 18 inches (L) by 11 inches (W) by 11 inches (H). Some airlines have smaller maximum sizes, so make sure to check the airline's website before embarking with your pet.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products .

Our top picks for the best airline-approved cat carriers

Best overall: Sleepypod Air - See at Chewy

Best expandable: Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier - See at Amazon

Best stylish: Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier - See at Amazon

Best budget: Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag - See at Chewy

The crash-test-certified Sleepypod Air has plush bedding, optimal ventilation, and a roomy interior to keep cats calm and comfortable in the air and on the ground.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Optional privacy screen
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Double-layered mesh
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Crash-test certified
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Ample storage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded carry handle
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior mat
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Unzips into bed or car seat
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Carry handle may cause discomfort for those with larger hands due to its small size
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expensive

Our cat testers weren't shy about expressing their clear preference for the Sleepypod Air. During a recent trip to the vet, they both piled into the carrier, opting for its cozy sanctuary over their other carrier. The Sleepypod Air's plush bedding, just-right ventilation, and spacious interior proved calming and comfortable. For skittish fliers, the carrier includes a privacy screen you can slide through the mesh top, though this significantly reduces your cat's access to fresh air.

The carrier stands out for its innovative design and commitment to pet safety — it's certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that researches and crash-tests pet carriers to ensure their safety. Rather than doors, it features one continuous zipper that runs end to end. With one pull of the zipper, the carrier transforms into an open bed, converts into a car seat, or rolls up for convenient storage. It's also designed to fold in approximately 2.5 inches at each end, meeting the size requirements of most major airlines. We recommend practicing compressing the bag before your trip. 

The padded cross-body shoulder strap felt supportive, and the carrier rested comfortably against the body without collapsing inward. With the luggage strap, the carrier easily stayed balanced on a suitcase when rolling over curbs and rough sidewalks.

The Sleepypod Air isn't cheap. However, given its versatility, comfort, and impressive safety features, we believe it's well worth the investment. You can return it, used or unused, within a year, and Sleepypod guarantees a replacement if it's damaged in an auto accident.

Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier unzips to almost double in size, providing a cat with extra room on long travel days.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Front and top-loading carrier
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Expandable compartment for more space
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Secure luggage strap
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Padded detachable shoulder strap
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Washable interior bed
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Easy to store
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited pocket space
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Expandable section can't be used in flight
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No warranty

On long travel days with time spent in airports, Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier offers jet-setting cats extra space to stretch out. It includes a zippered panel on its right side that unfolds into a mesh atrium that nearly doubles the carrier's interior space. While the expandable section can't be used in flight, this feature makes it the best airline-approved cat carrier for cross-country flights with layovers and extended stays away from home.

The spacious carrier is front- and top-loading with a roll-up privacy flap over the top door, and it offers plenty of ventilation to keep a cat from overheating. Inside, there is a soft plush bolster bed and safety tether. Outside, it has an adjustable padded shoulder strap and a faux leather carry handle. There is one 10-inch by 4-inch mesh pocket on the backside. 

With sturdy mesh screens and smooth zippers, Mr. Peanut's carrier excelled in our testing. It was easy to spot clean, and although the bed is labeled hand-wash only, it came out of the washing machine looking nearly new after air-drying.

When we tested the luggage strap, the carrier remained mostly balanced on our suitcase, slipping only about an inch to one side. Carrying it on the shoulder was comfortable, and the strap was easy to adjust to the correct length.

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier stands out for its eye-catching design that prioritizes safety in the air and at your destination, all without compromising on convenience or comfort.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Multiple pockets
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Side panel opening for easy access
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Offers the least ventilation of the carriers tested
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Interior mat is spot-clean only

The Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier not only looks great but also prioritizes safety. Like the Sleepypod Air, it is crash-test certified by the CPS . It also has an interior safety tether and a zipper-locking mechanism to prevent unintentional openings during transit.  

The cushy interior mat provides maximum comfort for your kitty copilot while the padded cross-body and secure luggage straps ensure that your precious cargo has a smooth journey from point A to point B. We also appreciate the thoughtful conveniences for human travelers, including three pockets for storing your or your cat's belongings, including a large 16-inch by 6-inch front zipper pocket. There's a D-ring to clip your keys too. 

In case of accidents, the carrier comes with one custom-fitted pee pad (more sold separately) that you can access via a side panel to minimize disturbing your pet. The nylon fabric carrier has a moisture-resistant quality that causes liquids to bead up on contact, so bigger messes won't readily adhere. However, the mat has a bolstered edge where gunk can get stuck, so you'll want to thoroughly spot-clean the interior cushion once you reach your destination. 

Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. Despite the carrier's 20-inch length, each side compresses by an inch, ensuring it meets most in-cabin airline regulations. The width of the carrier also exceeds airline regulations by a half inch but as long as you don't overstuff the side pocket, it can compress. 

This Frisco cat carrier is a cozy and budget-friendly option that holds up well to wear and tear.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Two loading doors
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Velcro-secured pocket
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Holds large cats
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Comes with ID tags and collapsible travel dish
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Shoulder strap lacks padding
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Luggage strap not as secure as other carriers
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Only one color option

Although this carrier is a fraction of the price of our other picks, it still performed well in durability testing. At home, it was also the carrier our tester cats consistently chose to lounge in time and time again. Simply put, the cozy Frisco Premium Airline Compliant Quilted Carrier Bag is an excellent budget airline cat carrier.

Susan Nilson , a cat and dog trainer and behavior specialist, recommends leaving a carrier with the doors open at home so your cat can get accustomed to it before travel. We did just that, and the carrier quickly became one of our cats' favorite spots to nap. Even after machine washing the interior fleece mat, it didn't lose its softness or cat appeal.

The carrier has two doors, top and side, and two storage pockets: a secure Velcro pocket to stash your keys and phone and a mesh pocket to keep your cat's treats and travel documents easily accessible. The included collapsible silicone bowl and ID tag ticks two essentials off your packing list.

The adjustable shoulder strap and carry handle lack padding and may become uncomfortable on longer journeys. Similar to pricier options, the Frisco carrier includes a luggage strap designed to attach the carrier to the telescopic handle of your suitcase. However, the strap doesn't keep the carrier well-balanced on curbs and sidewalks, so you'll want to have a free hand for added support. 

What to look for in an airline cat carrier

Cat carriers come in many different styles at varying price points. To ensure you get the best value for safety and comfort, our experts recommend considering the following factors when shopping.

Safety: Unlike child car seats, there are no universal safety standards or inspections for cat carriers. However, some brands go the extra mile by subjecting their carriers to rigorous testing by reputable third-party or nonprofit safety organizations. Among our recommended picks, the Sleepypod Air and Diggs Passenger Travel Carrier have been crash-test certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), a nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that studies the safety of pet products. 

Currently, CPS studies do not extend to air travel and flight safety. Despite the absence of standardized air travel safety tests, crash-test certification remains the gold standard. As Lindsey Wolko, founder and CEO of CPS, points out, you'll want to consider your entire journey, including driving from your home to the airport and transportation at your destination. 

Wolko says carriers are most susceptible to failure at seams where the mesh connects to the carrier body. She recommends inspecting carriers for any signs of loose threads, weak spots, or faulty zippers to ensure their overall safety and reliability throughout transit.

Size: A carrier should be roomy enough for your cat to comfortably turn around and lie down while still being compact enough to fit under the seat in front of you. Carrier size requirements vary by airline, so double-check your airline's specific requirements.   

Fortunately, size isn't usually a limiting factor for cats. More often than not, they prefer to curl up in a small ball and hide during the trip, says Dr. Jo Myers , a veterinarian with Vetster. She says extra room for playing, eating, drinking, or using the litter box during the flight is typically unnecessary. However, if you anticipate a long layover and want extra legroom for your cat, an expandable carrier like Mr. Peanut's Gold Series Expandable Carrier is a good choice.

Weight restrictions: Many in-cabin cat carriers are suitable for cats weighing up to 15 or 18 pounds. If your cat is on the heavier side, double-check the weight limit for the carrier you're considering purchasing and make sure your cat has room to comfortably move around in the carrier.  

Ventilation: Most carriers are designed with enough ventilation (at least 16%) to meet the International Air Transport Association (IATA) minimum requirement . Some carriers may have less or more, so the amount of ventilation you choose depends on you and your cat's preferences. 

Since Myers says most cats prefer to hide in stressful environments, carriers with privacy walls and flaps may be beneficial. Alternatively, she recommends bringing a towel or blanket that you can place over the carrier if your cat becomes stressed. "Even if you cover the carrier with a towel, it's far from airtight," she says. "Simply check on your cat occasionally, without disturbing them any more than necessary."

How we tested airline-approved pet carriers

We developed our selection and testing criteria for this guide to the best airline-approved cat carriers with advice from our experts. The 24 carriers we evaluated underwent the tests described here.

Feature comparison: After conducting interviews with our experts, we created a point rubric for scoring each carrier based on the following features:

• Shape and design
• Interior mat
• Loading doors
• Carrying straps and handles
• Ventilation
• Privacy flaps
• Interior safety tether
• Luggage strap
• Dimensions and in-cabin airline capability
• Safety certifications
• Ease of storage

Scrape test: We scraped a mesh section of each carrier 50 times with a fork to test its durability, noting any damage or discoloration. 

Zip test: To test the durability of each carrier's zippers, we completely zipped and unzipped one of its loading entrances 50 times. In the process, we observed changes in the zipper's ability to smoothly run its course.

Luggage test: If a carrier included a luggage strap, we evaluated how well it remained balanced on top of a suitcase. We placed a 10-pound weight inside and attached the carrier to a suitcase handle so it rested on top of our luggage. Then we rolled it over a curb, up a ramp, and along the sidewalk and street of a city block. 

Ventilation test: According to Wolko, ventilation is important to prevent a cat from overheating during travel. We measured the dimensions of each carrier's mesh panels and calculated the percentage of the total surface area they comprised. We favored bags with more ventilation. According to IATA live animal regulations, pet carrier bags must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Walk test: We took each soft-sided carrier containing a 10-pound weight on a 15-minute walk around a neighborhood. Each was carried using the shoulder strap and held at the front of the body the way a person would if they had a real cat inside. For the last block of the walk, we switched to using the hand-carry straps. The backpack carriers were taken on the same walk but were not carried by hand. With each one, we paid attention to how comfortable it was to carry, how much it bounced, and whether it collapsed inwards.

Goop test: We devised this test to determine how easy it would be to clean the carriers if a cat vomited or defecated in transit. We mashed together cat kibble, canned food, and water with a mortar and pestle to make the goop, then spread a tablespoon on an exterior wall and interior mat of each carrier. After 48 hours, we wiped the goop from the exterior using dish soap and water and cleaned the mats in the washing machine. 

Drop and stomp tests: We brought the carriers to a local park, loaded each one with a 10-pound weight, and threw them off of a 10-foot play structure, looking for any damage that occurred upon landing. We then rolled the bags several times on the ground with the weight still inside, looking for damage to the stitching, mesh, or zippers. Later, at home, we placed each carrier on a rug and stomped on it a dozen times with bare feet, noting whether its frame changed shape or the bag suffered any other damage.

Airline cat carrier FAQs

What is considered an airline-approved pet carrier.

To fly with a cat in the cabin of a plane, you'll need a soft-sided carrier that fits within the allowable dimensions of the airline, which vary a little from airline to airline. Regardless of the carrier you use, Wolko says to make sure your cat has enough room to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Additionally, there should be at least 2 to 3 inches of clearance from the top of their ears to the interior roof of the carrier.

How much does it cost to fly with a cat? 

Fees for flying with a pet in the cabin of a plane vary between carriers. At United Airlines , a one-way flight for your cat adds $125 to your ticket price. At Delta , there is a $95 fee for domestic flights. Flying a cat in the cargo hold on a domestic flight is typically about $300 per trip. Sending a cat on an international flight can cost up to triple that amount.

How much ventilation should a carrier have? 

For soft-sided carriers, Wolko says mesh ventilation should be on at least three sides of the bag. In cargo, airlines require that a kennel is ventilated on all four sides. According to the IATA live animal regulations, both soft- and hard-sided pet carriers must have a minimum of 16% ventilation. 

Do cats need to go to the bathroom on a flight? 

Unless a cat has a medical condition, they will be fine without access to a litter box for the duration of a flight. "Just based on the physiology of cats, they could probably go from Boston to Hawaii without needing to void," says Dr. Bob Murtaugh , a veterinarian and chair of veterinary medicine for the National Academies of Practice.

In the cargo hold, kennels cannot be outfitted with a litter box or anything other than an absorbent liner and a soft bed or blanket. "If the travel day will be more than eight hours, during a layover pet owners can arrange a comfort stop for cats to be let out of their carrier," says Elaine Mathis, pet travel specialist and project manager at Happy Tails Travel . When you let your cat out of their carrier, you'll want to make sure your cat is safely secured with one of the best cat harnesses attached to a leash.

Do cats need food and water on a flight? 

On shorter in-cabin flights, it's unlikely your cat will require food or water. However, if you're flying your cat in cargo, Mathis says a food bowl and water bowl should be in the carrier regardless of the flight length. She recommends using dishes that fasten to the crate's door and can be refilled easily from the outside, such as Lixit's Quick Lock Crock 10-ounce bowls .

What are the signs that my cat may be in distress in flight?

According to Murtaugh, a few obvious signs may indicate your cat is in distress during a flight, either due to fear or excessive heat. A cat that is panting, restless, and vocalizing could be experiencing significant anxiety or overheating. If the membranes in their gums turn bright red, the latter is most likely, and it's important to cool them off quickly. If a flight attendant approves, placing the carrier on your lap so they can feel the air blowing from the vent above your seat or wiping them down with a wet cloth may help lower their body temperature. Before your travel, Nilson recommends lightly spraying the carrier with calming pheromones. 

In the weeks before their trip, introduce your cat to their carrier or kennel in a positive way. "Make the carrier feel like a cave or a home or something that's comfortable, something that they're not just jammed into the first time they're on their way to the airport," says Murtaugh.

Place the carrier in an area of the home where your cat spends a lot of time and encourage them to explore it by placing catnip and treats inside or by playing with them in and around the space. 

Murtaugh says that taking your cat on a car ride or other forms of transportation while in their carrier may also be helpful in the weeks before the flight. He recommends placing a bed or blanket that smells like home inside the carrier and using a pheromone spray or collar to help take the edge off. 

If your cat has a history of experiencing debilitating stress during travel and will be flying in the cabin, you can speak to your vet about prescribing an anxiety-relieving medication. However, it's important to test medication out before your flight. "Make sure there won't be any untoward side effects," says Murtaugh. "Your vet can help you tailor that to your cat's needs."

The IATA recommends against sedating a cat before flying in the cargo hold. It can be fatal for older, chronically sick, or highly stressed animals. Nilson says calming pheromones such as Feliway or Pet Remedy are safe alternatives.

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