Can I Buy My Dog a Seat on an Airplane?
This is a common question many dog owners have when traveling long distances by air with their furry companions. From my own experience of flying cross-country with my pooch Pepper, securing her a seat was one of my top priorities. Let’s explore the different options and considerations around buying your dog their own seat on a plane.
Airline Pet Policies
The first stop is checking the rules and regulations with the specific airline you’ll be flying. Policies vary significantly between carriers. Some only allow small dogs to ride in the cabin in a carrier under the seat in front of you. Others have more lenient policies that let you purchase an extra seat for Fido.
Most major airlines like American, Delta, and United permit dogs to travel in-cabin provided they meet certain size and health requirements. The dog must fit comfortably in an approved hard-sided carrier that can slide under the seat. Carriers cannot exceed around 20 pounds including the pet. As for health, dogs need updated vaccinations and veterinary paperwork.
Where it gets interesting is whether the airline allows you to buy Rover their own seat. Some carriers like Alaska and JetBlue offer this as an option that can be added when booking. However, many still consider pets “cargo” that has to ride in a carrier at your feet rather than occupying a seat. It pays to research airline policies thoroughly to avoid confusion or extra charges later.
Cost of an Extra Seat
If the airline allows separate seating for pets, be prepared for it to be significantly more expensive than a standard ticket. Most charge at least 75-125% of the average domestic one-way fare for that route. For example, a seat from New York to LA normally runs 0, a pet seat on the same flight could set you back 0+.
Prices also tend to rise around holidays when there’s high travel demand. And bulkier breeds obviously require more space so seats for larger dogs cost even more. Weigh the expense carefully against other factors like how long and stressful the flight may be for your dog in cargo versus with you.
Benefits of Purchasing a Seat
While an extra ticket just for a dog seems outrageous, there are valid reasons many owners opt for it:
- Comfort – Your pup stays with you in the air-conditioned cabin rather than being stored below in loud, cramped cargo holds.
- Stress relief – Being near their owner helps calm nerves during take-offs, landings, and long flights.
- Safety – Recent incidents of pets dying or being lost in cargo make the risks clear. Cabin travel is safer.
- Access – You can tend to bathroom and water breaks rather than fretting about your dog for hours.
- Freedom – No need to jam Fido into a tiny carrier the whole way, they can stretch out next to you.
While pricey, a seat allows for a much less traumatic experience for man’s best friend. Plus you avoid worrying what’s happening out of your sight down in the belly of the plane.
Alternatives If a Seat Is Too Costly
For those unwilling or unable to shell out half a grand or more for Rover’s seat, there are still some decent options:
Cargo with a Checking Service – Outsource your pet to a company that checks them like luggage but knows how to properly handle live animals. They meet FDA regulations and actually stroll the dogs periodically on flights over 5 hours.
Drive Instead – If under 12 hours away, driving may be less stressful than flying even if it takes longer. Stops every few hours let your pup potty and stretch.
Fly Separately – Check your pooch alone as cargo and take another carrier or fly ahead/behind a day to reunite quickly on the other end.
Charter Flight – Private jets sometimes allow whole families including pets. But gas and rental fees make this viable only for wealthy jet-setters, unfortunately.
With creativity, there are usually humane workarounds even if airline seat rates aren’t affordable. The trick is finding low-stress solutions where your buddy’s comfort comes first. After all, they’d do the same for us!
Final Considerations Before Flying with Fido
Hopefully this gives you the lowdown on whether buying your dog their own plane seat truly makes sense in your situation. But a few extra pointers as you prepare for air travel with pets:
Train Them Young – Socialize pups to new situations like car rides, boarding, and carriers starting as toddlers to calm future flights.
Vaccinate ASAP – Some airlines require paperwork weeks before, so plan ahead of travel dates.
Sedation May Help – If your dog is nervous, ask the vet about mild calming aids like Zylkene before flying.
Bring Favorites Along – Toys or blankets with your scent can ease stress.
Confirm Policies Twice – Double check dimensional limits and paperwork needs with the airline directly.
With diligent prep, flying with beloved canine companions doesn’t need to be torturous. I hope these insights give clarity on buying them their own seat versus cargo options. Safe travels to all you dog parents out there braving airports with your furry friends!
Things to Consider When Booking a Seat on a Plane for Your Dog
| Airline | Requirements | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Delta | Dog must fit under the seat in a carrier. Max size 20x14x9 inches. | $125 each way |
| American | Dog must fit under the seat in a soft-sided carrier. Max size 17x13x7 inches. | $125 each way |
| United | Dog must fit under the seat in a carrier. Max size 19x13x9 inches. Travel crate allowed if crate fits under seat. | $125 each way |
| Alaska | Dog must fit under the seat in a carrier. Max size 17x12x7 inches. | $125 each way |
| JetBlue | Dog must fit under the seat in a soft-sided carrier. Max size 16x14x8 inches. | $125 each way |
| Southwest | Dog flies in-cabin with owner for no additional charge but must remain in carrier under seat at all times. | No charge |
FAQ
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Can my dog sit on the airplane seat with me?
Basically, dogs are allowed on most flights as long as they sit on the floor under the seat in front of you in an approved carrier. However, most airlines won’t let your pup sit in the actual seat since they take up space that could be used for a paying passenger. On the other hand, there are some small exceptions for service and emotional support animals.
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How much extra will it cost to bring my dog on the plane?
The fee to bring your doggo in the cabin varies by airline. Sometimes there’s a flat fee per carrier that can be kinda pricey, like $125 each way. Although you may save money if your pup qualifies as a service or emotional support animal. Airlines mainly charge extra cause pets take up cargo space that could hold luggage or other cargo instead.
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What size carrier is required for under-seat storage?
The maximum size carrier that can fit under most airplane seats is about 17-19 inches long by 10-12 inches wide by 7-9 inches tall. It basically needs to fit completely under the seat in front of you with the seat in the full upright position and have enough room for your pup to stand up and turn around. But it’s always best to double check the specific requirements with your airline just to be sure.
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Are there any airplane rules for animals?
Pretty much every airline has rules that all animals must remain in their carriers for the entire flight. Strongly suggest bringing water for your pup along with their favorite toy or chew treat to help them feel comfy. Also make sure any animals are up to date on vaccinations and bring medical records. Maybe ask the flight attendant if your pup can briefly come out during meals when most people have tray tables down anyway. Who doesn’t love seeing a cute doggo?
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What if my dog is too big for the carrier?
If your pooch is larger than allowed carrier sizes, you’ll have to check them as cargo either in the belly of the plane or in a separate aircraft compartment. This is generally more expensive and has additional rules, so make sure to plan way ahead. Also, remember that not all dogs do well traveling as cargo, so consider driving if possible to avoid stressing out your furry friend. Ultimately, you have to do whatever is safest and comfiest for your pup.
Would my dog be scared during take-off and landing?
Maybe, some dogs are uneasy with the noises and sensations from things like turbulence or pressure changes. You can ask your vet about relaxing aids like calming treats or pheromone sprays that may help. Having a familiar toy or item from home can also reassure your pup. Overall it really depends on the individual dog – some act like they don’t even notice while others might tremble a little. But keeping calm yourself will help your fur baby stay calm too.
How can I prepare my dog for their first airplane ride?
It’s always a good idea to get your pup acclimated to their carrier before traveling. Practice short training sessions of them calmly going inside and getting treats. Also do mock flights around your home with mild distractions like noises from the tv. Consider starting with shorter test trips in the car at first if they’ve never traveled. Basically, the more positive plane experiences they have beforehand, the better. But remember every dog is different – just do what feels right for yours.