How to fly with your pets
There can be a variety of reasons you want to travel with your pet: moving, visiting family, or even just bringing your furry baby on a trip with you!
There are a lot of obstacles in the way of traveling with a pet, and the use of Emotional Support Animals has caused quite the controversy recently, especially regarding travel. While the considerations you must take beforehand seem colossal, actually flying with your pet is simple.
The three major points are to:
- Choose the right airline for your needs
- Book properly
- Pack appropriately
Please keep in mind that these requirements are not for service animals or emotional support animals. They completely differ from those that are for pets.
Before your trip
First, we need to make sure your pet is eligible to fly in the cabin, which is the preferred way to travel with a pet. This usually applies to cats and small dogs on all major US-based airlines. Frontier Airlines currently has the most inclusive policy allowing small animals like rabbits, birds, hamsters, and guinea pigs.
Size limitations
Keep in mind that the weight limitations imposed by the airline INCLUDE the carrier. So make sure that your pet, plus the carrier and anything inside of the carrier are under or at the weight limit.
They also require that your pet fits comfortably under the seat in front of you. This means that you should be able to stand and turn without touching the carrier. Most of the newer planes only have around 10 inches of space under the seat, so keep that in mind while traveling.
Most airlines require you to call when booking a ticket for your pet so they can ensure your pet will fit. Currently, only United and JetBlue allow you to reserve a flight for a pet online.
Also keep in mind that on most aircrafts, the only way to travel with a pet is in economy since business and first-class often have less under-seat space.
Age Requirements
Most airlines have a minimum age requirement for pets traveling. American Airlines is the most lenient with allowing an 8-week age minimum, but most fall between 8 and 16 weeks old.
Vaccinations
Your pet must be properly vaccinated before traveling. Some airlines require a health certificate from your pet’s veterinarian, as well as proof of current rabies vaccination. A good tip is to visit your vet prior to your trip and keep a copy of your pet’s records with you while you travel, just like any other important document.
Be aware that many US-based airlines restrict snub-nosed dog breeds. While most policies regarding traveling with pets are described in detail on airline websites, everything will be gone over with an airline representative when you call to book your pet reservation.
If your pet is ineligible to join you in the cabin, many are allowed to be checked, boarded, and stowed like luggage, but with special treatment and in an area reserved for live cargo.
Booking
There are limits to the number of pet reservations per flight, so even if your pet is eligible, they may not be approved due to space.
Before you call, measure your carrier so the airline can determine which seats can accommodate your pet. Do not guess, because if you’re wrong and it doesn’t fit, then you and your pet will not be boarding. Pet approval is contingent on inspection by airline staff on the day of the flight.
You will probably be paying around $125 each way on major airlines. Southwest and Frontier are usually below $100.
Pet Carrier
While most pet owners probably have a hard-shell carrier, these are difficult to maneuver and fit into small spaces. Invest in a soft-sided carrier with ventilation. If your pet is prone to anxiety, get one with some privacy so they don’t get overwhelmed.
Packing
Pack an empty water bottle to fill once you get past security. Also, be sure to pack some food just in case you get delayed or canceled. If your pet tends to urinate frequently, bring wipes to clean the carrier. Most major airports now have dog rooms so be sure to also bring some poopy bags to pick up any waste.
Travel Day
The best thing to do is to make travel day seem as normal as possible. Even more affection can trigger a pet into noticing something is different, so act as normal as possible.
Ideally, before your trip, you’ve encouraged your pet to enjoy their carrier by leaving it out and putting some of their favorite treats or toys in the carrier.
Ask your vet if there is any anti-anxiety medication you can give your pet prior to flying. If you’re worried about your pet using the restroom in the carrier over a long flight, check with your vet to see if you can feed them less or wait until after the flight to feed them.
On the flight
Try to not bother your pet while flying. Put them under the seat (NEVER in the overhead bin), drop some treats in the carrier, and leave them unbothered.
You are not allowed to take your pet out of the carrier at any time onboard. Also, if your neighbor is allergic or doesn’t like animals, it is not your obligation to move. Call a flight attendant and explain the situation. Your only job is to stay as relaxed as possible and ensure your pet arrives at the destination happily and ready for some fun!