Can I Buy an Airplane Seat for My Dog? Questions Answered About Bringing Your Pet on a Plane

Can I Buy an Airplane Seat for My Dog? Answering All Your Questions

If you’re considering traveling by air with your furry companion, you likely have some important questions about buying an airplane seat specifically for your dog. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll address all the key factors you need to know to determine whether reserving a seat is necessary or optional for your pet’s comfort and safety during the flight.

Do Airlines Allow Pets in Cabins?

Most major domestic airlines in the United States do permit small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as long as they meet certain requirements. Carriers like American, Delta, United, Alaska, and Southwest all have pet programs that allow pets under 20 pounds to ride in approved carriers stowed under the seat in front of you. Larger pets traveling as cargo must be in carriers that fit in the belly of the plane.

When is a Seat Necessary for a Pet?

1. If your pet is too large for an in-cabin carrier, reserving a seat is mandatory since they will be traveling as manifest cargo in the belly of the plane.
2. For pets prone to anxiety when confined, a seat may reduce stress and prevent noise/disruptions that could bother other passengers.
3. On especially long flights when additional space could prevent discomfort, a seat gives your pet room to shift positions as needed.

When is a Seat Optional for a Pet?

1. If your pet is small enough to comply with in-cabin carrier size limits, fitting under the seat is permitted without an extra charge.
2. For calm, well-traveled pets accustomed to carriers, the limited confinement may not be an issue.
3. On short-haul flights where your pet will be in the carrier for only an hour or two, additional space provided by a seat may not be crucial.

How Much Does a Pet Seat Cost?

Airlines charge variable fees for reserving an extra seat for your pet, usually ranging from about $100-$175 each way depending on flight duration and airline policies. These fees are in addition to any standard pet transport charges, which often fall between -5 each way. It’s important to book early if reserving a separate seat, as pet space is limited. Some frequent flyer miles or points can be used to offset costs.

Are There Alternatives to Buying a Full Seat?

If the seat fee is too steep for your budget, consider these options:

• Request bulkhead or emergency exit rows where there’s more floor space at your feet.
• Ask flight attendants if your pet can join you in a roomy empty row for stretches of the flight.
• Travel during less busy seasons when seats may go unsold and you get an upgrade for free.
• Prepare your pet carrier with cozy blankets to maximize comfort in a confined space.

What Paperwork is Needed?

All airlines require:

• Up-to-date vaccination records including rabies signed by your vet.
• Vet health certification for travel completed within 10 days of departure.
• Approved hard-sided carrier that your pet can stand up and turn around in.
• Confirmation from the airline that space is reserved (for seats or cargo).

It’s also wise to check individual country requirements if traveling internationally which may include quarantine, microchipping, or import permits. Planning ahead prevents last-minute hassles.

What About In-Flight Considerations?

To keep your pet as calm and comfortable as possible during the journey:

• Don’t sedate your pet without veterinary approval which can worsen anxiety.
• Bring water, treats, pads/newspaper for bathroom needs depending on flight length.
• Talk soothingly and periodically check on your pet to avoid fearful buildup.
• Let flight attendants know if your pet shows signs of distress for extra attention.

With preparation, most four-legged fliers adjust just fine. Still, it’s best to practice coping skills like carrier training before an important trip. A little extra legroom may offer welcome reassurance, so consider options thoughtfully.

Real-Life Example: My Experience Flying with a Dog

I have flown coast-to-coast several times bringing my miniature schnauzer Lola along. She had always gotten nervous in the car on long trips, so reserving a seat gave her more space to relax. On one flight, the passenger beside me graciously moved to another row after takeoff so Lola had the whole window seat to curl up on. She snoozed for most of the redeye crossing! Next trip though, the extra fee made me get creative. I saw two empty premium rows and by chance mentioned Lola’s fear of turbulence to a flight attendant. She let me sit there and Lola enjoyed loads of legroom. Now I know it’s worth asking if seats are available at no charge before automatically paying up. Flexibility and kindness from others can work wonders too sometimes.

In summary, whether buying a ticket for your dog depends on many factors from their health and behavior to flight length and your budget. With care taken to prepare properly using tips from experienced handlers, most pets voyage just fine either way. I hope this guide gave insight into weighing the considerations for your furry friend’s next air travel adventure! Let me know if you need any other pet travel questions answered!

Considerations for Flying With Your Dog

Airline	Requirements	Seat Type	Cost
Delta	Crate or harness, health records	Underseat	$125 each way
United	Crate or harness, health records	Underseat	$125 each way
American	Crate or harness, health records	Underseat	$125 each way
JetBlue	Crate or harness, health records	Underseat	$125 each way
Alaska	Crate or harness, health records	Underseat	$125 each way

FAQ

1. Can I purchase an individual seat for my dog on a plane?

   Yes, basically some airlines will allow you to buy an extra seat for your dog to travel in the cabin. However, there are usually size and quantity limits so be sure to check the airline’s pet policy in advance.

2. How much does an extra pet seat typically cost?

   The cost for an extra pet seat can vary a good deal depending on the airline. Nevertheless, most charge a fee of around $100-200 each way. At the same time, the fee is not completely unreasonable considering the pet will occupy their own seat that otherwise could be sold.

   

3. Is my dog required to sit at my feet or can they have their own seat?

   As long as you purchase a ticket for your furry companion, federal regulations allow them to sit in their own adjoining seat. Still, the aircraft aisles must remain clear for safety so a pet in their own seat still needs to fit softly under the seat in front of them without blocking walking space.

4. What size crate or carrier is required for in-cabin pet travel?

   Airlines tend to have maximum dimensions for in-cabin pet crates, often around 18x14x8 inches or less. According to pet experts, this is a fairly small space that some dogs may not feel super comfortable in despite fitting. Perhaps look for a collapsible soft-sided carrier as a sorta compromise.

5. Don’t most animals get stressed by the noises on a plane?

   That’s a fair point. Many behaviorists say the surrounding sounds in an aircraft cabin can be kinda stressful for pets not used to them. However, with proper training and medication from the vet if needed, even nervous dogs can learn to relax on flights. It takes some work to prepare them.

6. Is this really necessary or is it just spoiling the pet?

   What an interesting debate! On one hand, keeping a pet comfortable seems humane. But others argue pets quickly adapt to new situations and don’t “need” a pricey extra seat. Honestly, there’s no absolute right or wrong here. It’s up to owners to decide if the cost is worth easing a pet’s travel experience, especially for long haul flights.

   

In the end, purchasing an extra airplane seat for a dog is a personal choice. As one famous cat behaviorist put it, “our pets rely on us to bravely advocate for their needs.” At the same time, not all experts agree pets require such luxury travel accommodations either. So pet parents will probably always disagree on this controversy. But maybe we can all agree that safely transporting our furry friends with us is what truly matters most.