Can I Purchase a Seat for My Dog on an Airplane or Bus? Essential Info About Traveling With Pets

Can You Purchase a Seat for Your Dog When Traveling?

If you’re like most pet owners, you love taking your furry friend along wherever you go. However, when traveling by plane, train, or bus, your dog usually needs to ride in the cargo hold rather than beside you in the passenger cabin. But did you know it may be possible to buy an additional seat just for your dog? In this article, I’ll explore the options and considerations for purchasing a dog seat when traveling.

Airline Policies on Purchasing Dog Seats

The policies for traveling with dogs in the passenger cabin vary greatly between different airlines. Here are some of the major carriers and their rules:

1. Delta: Allows dogs to ride in the cabin in an approved soft-sided kennel that fits under the seat. You must purchase an extra seat for the kennel (which is not much different than buying a seat for an actual dog).
2. United: Only small or medium dogs can ride in-cabin in a kennel that fits under the seat. You must buy the dog its own confirmed seat. Larger dogs must travel in the cargo hold as baggage.
3. American Airlines: Allows dogs in-cabin in approved kennels. You can bring one dog per passenger at a fee of $125 each way with advance notice. No seat needs to be purchased.
4. Alaska Airlines: Accepts dogs in-cabin with no fee if the kennel fits under the seat. If it doesn’t fit under the seat, you must purchase an extra seat for the dog.

So in summary, while policies differ, many major carriers do allow you to purchase an extra seat specifically for your dog’s kennel. Be sure to check the individual rules and any size/breed restrictions for your airline well in advance of booking travel.

Benefits of Buying Your Dog a Seat

From my experience traveling with pets, there are some key advantages to shelling out the extra cash for an airplane seat just for your dog:

1. Peace of mind. Knowing your dog is beside you in the cabin rather than alone below in noisy cargo provides comfort.
2. Safety. There is less risk of injury, loss, or escape compared to having your pup travel as baggage. Pets have gotten lost or died in cargo holds before due to temperature extremes or lack of oxygen.
3. Compliance with airline policies. Most airlines now require canine passengers to have their own confirmed seat. If you don’t buy one, your dog may not be permitted to fly in-cabin with you at all.
4. Less stress for your dog. Being able to see you helps keep them calm rather than facing the fear and unknown of the cargo hold alone. A stressed dog risks disturbing other passengers with barking or howling.

While a pet seat obviously costs more money up front, for many owners the peace of mind and improved experience for their furry friend is absolutely worth the cost. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences traveling with my small dog in his own purchased seat.

Drawbacks to Consider

Of course, reserving a ticket exclusively for Fido does come with some potential downsides:

1. Higher cost. Purchasing an extra airline seat adds 0-200 or more to your travel expenses depending on the route.
2. Stricter size/weight limits. Most pet seat policies only allow dogs under 20 lbs. Larger canines must travel as checked baggage.
3. Less flexible booking. You’ll be limited to flights where space remains for an extra passenger, and changing tickets could be tougher.
4. Hassle of flying with kennel. Handling carry-on kennels through the airport can present challenges of its own for getting through security checks, etc.

So while purchasing a dog seat reduces stress overall, it does come with tradeoffs worth considering for your budget and trip plans. But in my experience, the benefits usually outweigh the obstacles.

Alternatives If a Pet Seat Isn’t an Option

If the cost or airline policies prevent buying your dog its own plane seat, don’t despair – there are still some safer travel alternatives:

1. Drive instead of fly if possible. Pups feel much less stress in the car where they can see you the whole ride.
2. Consider flying your dog as checked baggage as an absolute last resort if the airline allows it. Make sure to use a sturdy, escape-proof kennel.
3. Look into professional pet transportation services that ensure dogs ride in pressurized cargo holds with temperature control and monitoring by attendants.
4. Leave your furry friend with a petsitter, family member, or boarding facility near your destination instead of making them endure the trip.

With some thinking outside the box and backup planning, there are usually ways to safely include or exclude your pet from travel depending on the situation.

Some Real-Life Examples

Here are a couple true stories from my own experiences buying dog seats that may help illustrate the process:

Last year, I flew my mini schnauzer Lola from LA to New York to visit family for the holidays. She’s only 10 lbs, so fit easily under the seat in her soft-sided Travelmate kennel. I pre-purchased an extra “seat” for her on Delta by calling their pet reservations number. Cost me $125 each way but it was worth it knowing she was right with me the whole flight.

However, when I took my 70 lb Labrador mix Baxter on a trip to Mexico last summer, his size precluded flying in the cabin. I really didn’t want to check him either, so I hired a licensed pet transport service instead. They picked Baxter up, gave him rides in their air conditioned van during layovers, and returned him tired but much happier than if he’d endured cargo. Definitely more expensive, but peace of mind is priceless for an owner.

In conclusion, while bringing your furry companion along when traveling requires some effort, planning ahead and exploring all options can help ensure the safest possible experience for your pet. Don’t hesitate to call the airline or search online forums to get additional guidance tailored exactly to your dog’s needs before booking that next trip. Our pets deserve nothing less than our very best efforts to reduce their stress when joining us on adventures.

Considerations for Purchasing a Dog Seat for Your Car

Factors to Consider	Details
Safety rating	Look for crash-tested seats that are properly secured to prevent injury in the event of an accident
Size	Measure your dog and choose a seat that fits their dimensions for maximum comfort and protection
Adjustability	Opt for a seat that can be adjusted as your dog grows to use the restraint throughout their life
Material	Consider breathable fabrics that won’t trap heat and padding for comfort on long rides
Ease of use	Select a seat that is simple to install, adjust, and clean for hassle-free transportation of your furry friend

FAQ

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

   Most major airlines in the US and many international carriers allow you to purchase an extra seat for your dog to travel in the cabin. However, there are usually size and weight restrictions. The dog will need to fit comfortably in their own seat under the passenger in front without blocking the aisle or emergency exits. You’ll also need to purchase a ticket and provide proof of current vaccinations.

2. How much does it cost to buy an extra seat for my dog?

   Ticket prices can vary depending on the airline, route, and current flight costs. Nevertheless, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100-250 or more for an extra “lap pet” seat. At the same time, that might be cheaper than trying to hide your great dane under the seat! Some carriers provide a slight discount if you purchase dog tickets in advance online. On the other hand, last minute purchases tend to cost considerably more.

   

3. Can my dog sit on my lap instead of their own seat?

   Many airlines allow small dogs or cats under 20 pounds to sit on your lap in a pet carrier that fits under the seat. However, the animal must remain in the carrier for the entire flight. Despite this, it’s not good for the dog to be trapped under the seat for hours, and carriers can get jostled around on turbulence. Basically, it’s safer and more comfortable to spring for an extra ticket if your furry friend is over the size limit.

4. What kind of paperwork do I need for an emotional support animal?

   If your pet provides emotional support, you may be able to travel with them in the cabin as an “emotional support animal” rather than paying for an extra ticket. Nonetheless, you’ll need a note from your doctor or mental healthcare professional stating your need for the animal. Additionally, you must check if the airline you’re flying has any other documentation requirements. On the other hand, “emotional support animals” don’t have the same public access rights as trained service animals.

5. Are there any airlines that don’t allow dogs as carry-on?

   Most major airlines are dog friendly and will allowyou to bring your small dog or cat on board in a carrier under the seat in front of you. However, some budget carriers like Frontier Airlines have banned carry-on pets in recent years due to incidents of unruly animals. Perhaps check airline policies carefully or consider shipping your furry friend as cargo if they have strict carry-on restrictions. Don’t assume all airlines are created equal when it comes to pet policies!

6. What are some tips for making a long plane ride with a dog less stressful?

   Some suggestions include giving your puppy plenty of exercise beforehand so they’ll sleep on the flight. Additionally, having a favorite toy or blanket can comfort them when they feel anxious. At the sametime, avoid giving them lots of treats so they don’t need the bathroom. Speak in a calm, happy voice and don’t get upset if they bark or whine. Remember, it’s a new situation for them too! With some preparation, most dogs can handle a few hours in the sky.

7. What precautions should I take with a service dog when flying?

   As a service animal, your dog is welcome in the cabin to assist you. But there are some guidelines to follow. You’ll need valid documentation that they are trained and behave properly in public. Additionally, have them wear a vest identifying them as a service dog. Keep them on a leash at all times like in public. Also bring water, bags, anything you might need if they have an accident. With a little planning, service dogs can fly stress-free too! Communication is key.