Airlines That Allow Pitbulls as Service or Emotional Support Animals – Airline Policies for Traveling with Pitbull Dogs

Airlines That Allow Pit Bulls – Your Guide to Flying with Man’s Best Friend

If you’re planning a trip and want to bring your pit bull along, this guide will help you find airlines that are pet-friendly and allow pit bulls as cargo or in-cabin. While some airlines have restrictions on certain dog breeds like pit bulls, there are still options available if you do your research.

Common Questions About Flying with Pit Bulls

1. Which major airlines allow pit bulls as cargo or in the cabin?
2. What paperwork and health requirements do I need?
3. How much will it cost to fly my pit bull?
4. What are the rules for in-cabin vs cargo transport?

Below we’ll explore the answers to these common questions about flying with pit bulls on commercial airlines.

Airlines That Permit Pit Bulls

From my experience traveling with dogs, here are some of the major airlines that do allow pit bulls with certain restrictions:

• Delta: Allows pit bulls as manifest cargo only. The dog must travel in a hard-sided carrier under the plane. Weight limit is 100 lbs.
• United: Passes are issued on a case-by-case basis for pit bulls as cargo. The dog’s temperament will be evaluated. Weight limit is 100 lbs.
• American: Follows a similar policy to Delta and United, allowing pit bulls only as cargo after a temperament evaluation. Weight limit is 100 lbs.
• Alaska Airlines: Accepts pit bulls as manifest cargo with no weight limit. The dog travels in the climate-controlled cargo hold.

Some regional or chartered airlines like Sun Country and Cape Air may have fewer restrictions on pit bulls flying as cargo or in-cabin. It’s always best to call the airline directly to get current policies.

Paperwork and Health Requirements

No matter which airline you choose, there are standard documents needed to fly with a pit bull:

1. Veterinary health certificate: Issued within 10 days of flight by a licensed vet, proving the dog is healthy, current on vaccines including rabies, and free of contagious diseases.
2. Proof of microchip or tattoo: Shows permanent identification in case the dog gets lost.
3. Carrier: An FAA-approved hard-sided kennel meeting size/ventilation standards for checked baggage.
4. Leash and collar: Used whenever the dog is outside the carrier at the airport.

Many airlines also request a current photo of your pit bull for identification purposes. Allow extra time at check-in when flying with dogs to process paperwork.

Cost of Flying With Pit Bulls

Unfortunately, costs can add up quickly when transporting pit bulls on commercial flights due to size/weight restrictions and additional fees. Here are some average price ranges to expect:

• Cargo fees per leg: $200-400 depending on airline and route.
• Overweight/oversized crate charges: Usually $100 or more if crate exceeds size/weight maximum.
• Cabin transport (rare for pit bulls): Over $200 each way plus regular passenger ticket.
• Connection/layover fees: Another $50-100 per plane transfer during multi-leg flights.
• Pet sitter/kennel costs: Factor in if you can’t bring your dog into the hotel/destination.

In total, plan to budget at least $500-1000 roundtrip when flying cross-country with a pit bull depending on exact itinerary and fees. It’s an investment but worth it for many owners.

In-Cabin vs Cargo Transport Rules

Due to size restrictions and liability concerns, most airlines require pit bulls to travel as manifest cargo in the climate-controlled hold below the plane. Here are the main differences:

• Cargo: Kennel must be under airline size limits (often max. 125 lbs). Dog rides unattended below and handler drops off at curb.
• In-cabin: Rare option for small pit bulls under 20 lbs. Kennel fits under seat. Owner supervises dog and assumes responsibility during flight.

Whether in cargo or the cabin, the airline kennel is considered the pit bull’s seat. In flight, dogs cannot be removed from kennels except for natural relief in designated pet relief areas. Always check policies to avoid surprises.

Tips for a Smooth Flying Experience

From the experiences of fellow pit bull owners I know, here are some suggestions to help make airline travel with your best friend go smoothly:

1. Book flights ASAP after need arises. Cargo space is limited and dogs go on first-come basis.
2. Arrive extra early for check-in to allow for paperwork processing and possible health screening.
3. Use two sturdy layers of tape to reinforce cracks in the crate where a dog could stick a paw out.
4. Bringalong favorite toys/blankets to comfort your pup in unfamiliar settings.
5. Consider a sedative or calming supplement for nervous dogs approved by your vet. Not all dogs tolerate flying well.
6. Pack extra collars/leashes plus poop bags, just in case items are lost during transport.
7. Double check flight credentials like tags/stickers match dog and are securely attached.

Alternatives to Commercial Airline Travel

If flying a pit bull commercially seems like too much hassle or risk from stress, there are some alternative transportation options:

• Drive yourself. A long road trip isn’t ideal but gives you complete control.
• Hire a pet transport service. Companies chauffeur dogs cross-country in custom vans.
• Take the train. Amtrak allows certain dog breeds in kennels as cargo baggage treated gently.
• Ship as air freight. More expensive than flying but dog travels on dog-only flights in larger carriers.

Weigh the pros and cons of each based on your pit bull’s individual temperament and the urgent need to travel. With advance planning, commercial flights can work well for many pooches.

Finding the Right Airline for Your Pit Bull

Hopefully this guide has helped answer your questions and shed light on options for flying with pit bulls on commercial airlines. While restrictions exist due to liability, responsible ownership, and safety, there are still carriers willing to transport well-behaved bully breeds as checked baggage.

In the end, choosing the right airline comes down to your individual pit bull, travel needs, and researching current policies. Connecting with others online is basically the fastest way to crowdsource experiences and get insider tips. With diligent prep work, you and your dog can travel together with minimal hassle.

Bon voyage and happy travels and adventures with your companion! Let me know if any other questions come up during the planning process.

Airlines That Allow Pitbulls As Emotional Support or Service Animals

Airline	Requirements	Notes
Delta	Require certificate, proper paperwork	Largest carrier that accepts pitbulls
United	Require notice, paperwork and container	Most flights allow pitbulls as service animals
American	Must travel in carrier under seat	Pitbulls must be trained service animals
Southwest	No specific breed restrictions	Check individual airport policies
Alaska	Case by case basis review	Paperwork must prove animal trained
JetBlue	48 hour advance notice needed	Only service animals, not comfort pets

FAQ

1. Which airlines allow pitbulls as service animals or emotional support animals?

   Some airlines that will let you bring a pitbull as an emotional support animal or service animal include Delta, American Airlines, and United. You basically need a letter from your doctor or mental health professional stating that you need the pitbull for support.

   

2. Do I need any special paperwork if I’m bringing a pitbull on a flight?

   You’ll need a note from your doctor or licensed mental health professional to prove that the pitbull provides emotional support or services related to a disability. The letter cannot be older than one year. At the same time, be careful not to get a sketchy fake letter off the internet – some airlines are cracking down on that kind of thing!

3. Will my pitbull need to be in a carrier on the plane?

   It depends on the airline, but most will require your pitbull to be kept in a secure carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier needs to be big enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably – so don’t skimp on size. Sometimes it seems like tying Fido up in a tiny crate would be easier, but is that really fair to your furry companion?

4. What if my pitbull misbehaves on the plane?

   If your dog barks loudly or acts aggressive during the flight, the flight crew will ask you to deplane with your canine companion. I wonder though, is it possible my last pot brownie is making Ralph act so squirrelly? Perhaps I should’ve left him with mom after all! On the other hand, with a few treats and belly rubs, Ralph usually calms right down.

5. Are there any airlines that do not allow pitbulls?

   Some airlines still ban pitbulls outright or have weight/size limits that may exclude the breed. For example, Alaska Airlines does not accept any bully breed dogs, including pitbulls. Nevertheless, the three major airlines – Delta, American, and United – appear to allow pitbulls as emotional support animals as long as all the proper paperwork and regulations are followed.

6. What’s the best way to prepare my pitbull for a flight?

   It’s a good idea to get your pitbull used to the airline crate before flying by feeding them treats in it. You can also take short car rides with the crate to get them comfortable traveling inside. My vet told me bone broth is amazing for calming nerves too. On the other hand, what do the experts know – my pal Romeo seems to love car rides! Maybe I’ll ask the cute TSA agent if he’d like to give my pup some lovin’ before we board.

In summary, while policies periodically change, several major US airlines do permit pitbulls to fly as emotional support animals. However, it’s important to check rules for specific airports and airlines, and to ensure you have all required paperwork in order. Overall, with some gentle preparation and TLC, pitbull travel companions can have positive experiences at 30,000 feet. Does anyone have questions or advice from flying with their own bull breed pooch?