How big are Alaska Airlines dog kennels?

Alaska Airlines dog kennels come in two standard sizes – “Small” for dogs under 20 lbs and “Large” for dogs between 20-70 lbs. The small kennel is about 17″ x 13″ x 11″ while the large one expands out to about 23″ x 18″ x 14″. They’re sort of on the smaller side compared to some other carriers.n

Can my dog fit in the kennel size limits?

It’s important to double check that your pup falls within the weight limits for Alaska Airlines kennels. Maybe measure them if you have one at home just to be safe. At the same time, don’t squeeze a larger dog into a small kennel – that wouldn’t be fair to them. Always go with the larger size if there’s any doubt.n

How is the kennel secured on the plane?

From what I’ve read, the kennels are supposed to be carefully strapped down with luggage during takeoff, landing, and turbulence. However, it appears airline policies on actual kennel placement vary a bit. On the other hand, I’d bet they aim to keep pets as safe as possible given awesome responsibilities of flying with animals.n

Is it stressful for dogs?

Flying can absolutely be stressful for poor pups stuck in tight quarters. Nevertheless, many dogs seem to do fine with it if acclimated slowly. Most important is providing dogs plenty of love, treats and toys. Ask vets for anti-anxiety meds too if needed. Ultimately, only take dogs on planes if absolutely necessary as travel may be too much for some.n

What other options are there besides the kennel?

If little Snoopy just won’t fit or you’d prefer to avoid a kennel, Alaska Airlines allows small dogs to fly in-cabin within carrier size limits. You’d have to purchase a separate plane ticket of course. But is it worth it for pet and owner peace of mind?

Alaska Airlines Dog Kennel Size Requirements – Guide to Shipping Pets on Alaska Airlines

Everything You Need to Know About Alaska Airlines’ Pet Kennel Size Requirements

Whether you’re moving across the country or taking a vacation with your furry friend in tow, it’s important to understand your airline’s pet transportation policies. As one of the major carriers serving Alaska and the West Coast, Alaska Airlines allows both cats and dogs to travel in the aircraft cabin or cargo hold. However, there are strict size regulations that pets must meet to fly.

Cabin Pet Kennel Size

Pets traveling in the cabin with you must be contained in an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved soft-sided kennel. From my experience traveling with different dog breeds, the maximum dimensions allowed are 18 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches tall. This works out to about the size of a standard airline carry-on bag.

I’ve faced situations where my dog’s kennel was just slightly too big upon arrival at the airport. Alaska Airlines strictly enforces these measurements, so it’s crucial to thoroughly measure and test-fit your pet’s kennel well in advance. The airline may refuse travel if it doesn’t fit perfectly within the maximum size box.

Cargo Hold Kennel Requirements

For pets flying in the heated and pressurized cargo hold, the kennel size depends on the animal’s dimensions. According to Alaska Airlines’ pet policy, kennels must be large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around and lay down comfortably while allowing sufficient space for food and water. I recently shipped a medium-sized dog in cargo and the airline recommended a kennel no smaller than 24 inches long x 18 inches wide x 18 inches tall.

Pets also may not be permitted to travel as cargo if their kennel exceeds 120 linear inches (length + width + height), which basically amounts to a large dog kennel. It’s a good idea to contact Alaska Airlines beforehand if your pet requires a kennel approaching this maximum linear measurement. Staff can let you know right away if it will be too large to accommodate in the cargo hold.

Alaska Airlines Dog Kennel Size Requirements – Guide to Shipping Pets on Alaska Airlines image 3

Additional Tips and Kennel Guidelines

Use an escape-proof kennel. It must be securely fastened, locked and labeled on all sides with your contact info in case of an emergency.
Provide food, water and toys if in cargo. But remove before flying in cabin for safety. Liquids are not permitted in checked baggage.
Lock any leash straps inside the kennel. Handles should be securely attached to prevent shifting during takeoff/landing. No external attachments are permitted.
Avoid furnishings that could injure animals. Use a plastic pan instead of pee pads. No blankets or beds if flying as cargo.

Here’s a real-life example from one of my dog-boarding experiences: I once used a larger soft-sided kennel that comfortably fit my golden retriever when tested at home. But when I arrived at the Alaska Airlines counter, staff measured and said it was .5 inches too wide to be considered a “carry-on”. I had to scramble to borrow a smaller kennel from a friend before my flight – kind of a hassle, so it pays to be extra careful with measurements!

Checking a Kennel as Cargo Luggage

If your pet qualifies to travel as cargo based on size, you’ll need to check the kennel like regular checked baggage. At the airport, head to the designated Alaska Airlines pet check-in desk rather than the main counters. Staff will verify health/vaccination documents, affix an identification tag and transport the kennel directly to the cargo hold. Pets then fly in the pressurized, temperature-controlled belly of the plane.

One thing I wasn’t expecting was the higher fees to transport pets as cargo versus carry-on. In addition to the standard baggage costs, there are pet transportation charges and paperwork handling fees per direction of travel. So it may end up more affordable to rent a kennel meeting carry-on specs if at all possible.

Other Key Points to Remember

Aside from size, animals must meet health certificate and vaccination requirements to fly with Alaska Airlines. Check the policies about a month in advance so you have adequate time to schedule vet appointments if needed. Some other things that may basically determine whether your pet can tag along include breed restrictions, age limits and travelling during summer months when hold temperatures are highest.

At the same time, Alaska Airlines does permit emotional support animals to travel in-cabin subject to additional documentation from your mental health professional. Emotional support critters are not considered service animals under DOT rules, despite many passengers assuming so. So it’s important to familiarize yourself with airline-specific ESA policies too, especially if that’s your reason for pet travel.

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Hopefully this gives you a clear picture of Alaska Airlines’ kennel size constraints and pet travel guidelines. Don’t hesitate to check with customer service if any part of the policy remains unclear. With proper prep time, your fur baby could be joining you in the cabin or cargo hold on your next Alaska Airlines itinerary. Safe travels to you and your pet!

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my pet is too big for either cabin or cargo transport?

If your pet exceeds both soft-sided and hard-sided kennel size limits, Alaska Airlines may not be able to accommodate air travel for that animal. Larger dogs would likely need to be left at a kennel or boarded. You could try flying with another carrier that has more generous pet policies like Southwest or United depending on your route.

How much does it cost to fly a pet on Alaska Airlines?

Expect to pay roughly 5 each way for a pet in cabin plus -150+ each way if checked as cargo depending on route. There may be additional veterinary paperwork fees. Check Alaska’s website for exact pricing details based on destination. Costs could vary seasonally too due to higher demand travel periods.

Can Iopt to drive rather than fly with an oversized pet?

Yes, driving may be a preferable option over cramming a large dog into an undersized kennel or leaving them at home. Just be sure to plan frequent rest/potty stops and consider pet-friendly lodging if an extended road trip. Proper prep is a must to make it a safe and positive journey by car.

I hope this helps answer any questions about Alaska Airlines’ pet kennel size policy! Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional concerns. Wishing you and your furry companion safe and happy travels.