Can Pitbulls Fly on Planes? Everything You Need to Know About Traveling with Pitbull Dogs

Can Pitbulls Fly on Planes? Answers to Your Pitbull Travel Questions

If you’re planning a vacation with your pitbull, one of the major things you’ll need to consider is whether or not you can bring your pitbull along on the plane. As a devoted pitbull owner, you probably want your pup by your side wherever you go. But is air travel really an option for pitbulls? In this article, I’ll answer all of your questions about flying with a pitbull and give you everything you need to know to feel confident about pitbull-friendly plane travel.

Can I Actually Bring My Pitbull in the Cabin?

1. Most domestic airlines in the United States do allow pitbulls to fly in the cabin as long as your pitbull is small enough to fit under the seat in a carrier. However, some airlines have size and number restrictions or banned pitbulls altogether due to controversy over the breed. So be sure to check the specific policies of your chosen airline beforehand.
2. Additionally, pitbulls must remain inside a carrier that fits entirely under the seat in front of you for the entire flight. The carrier needs to be large enough for your pitbull to stand up, turn around, and lay down comfortably.
3. As for international travel, requirements vary greatly depending on the destination country. Some destinations may require quarantine, health certificates, or even ban pitbulls entirely. So research foreign travel policies well in advance if bringing your pitbull abroad.

From my experience traveling with pitbulls on planes, having the proper sized carrier is a must. I recall one time my pitbull Scooter’s snout poked out of his carrier while sleeping – it gave the person in front quite a surprise! Always ensure a secure fit.

What Documents or Tests Are Required?

Most airlines require the following documents be brought on board for your pitbull:

1. Proof of current rabies vaccination. A veterinary certificate showing the date administered and vaccine type/serial number is standard.
2. Veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. This verifies your pitbull is free of contagious diseases and fit to travel.
3. Applicable licenses or permits required by your destination city/state, such as licenses to transport pets commercially.
4. International health certificates if traveling abroad. These often require extra tests like for parasites, brucellosis, etc. well in advance.

I’d advise keeping copies of all documents together in a travel binder for easy access during trips. And give yourself extra time as requirements can vary – it’s better to arrive early than risk denial at the gate.

What About Emotional Support or Service Pitbulls?

If your pitbull provides emotional support or is trained to perform tasks for you related to a disability, you may be able to fly with your pitbull in the cabin as an “emotional support animal” or “service animal.” Here are a few key points:

1. Airlines may require a note from your mental healthcare professional or doctor explaining your need for the emotional support or service animal at least 48 hours before travel.
2. Your pitbull must be housebroken, under your control on verbal/non-verbal cues, not disrupt other passengers, and remain on the floor at your feet – not on chairs.
3. Whether a pitbull qualifies depends largely on the behavior/training of your individual dog rather than the breed alone.
4. Misrepresented pets may be denied boarding, so ensure your pitbull truly provides a necessary service or emotional support function. Fake certifications violate federal law.

While traveling as an Emotional Support Animal risks drawing unwanted attention, I’ve found it beats kenneling for anxious dogs. Just be prepared to calmly answer inquiries from curious passengers!

What Are Some Alternatives If Flying in Cabin Isn’t An Option?

If your pitbull is too large to comply with airline policies or certain destinations don’t allow the breed, fear not – there are still ways to include your furry friend on your trip:

1. Ship your pitbull as cargo in the belly of the plane. This option allows travel but separation anxiety can occur. Research shipping amenities like in-cabin walks and notify your vet of dates.
2. Drive instead and make your vacation a road trip. You get quality one-on-one time with your pup and more freedom to stop for adventures.
3. Board your pitbull at an airport kennel, vet’s office, or hire a housesitter. Scope trustworthy facilities or individuals well in advance.
4. Only fly partway and arrange to meet friends/family with your pitbull the rest of the way. Combining travel modes is convenient.
5. Leave your pitbull with a friend or family member temporarily. You get to vacation and come home to tail wags!

With some creativity, there’s usually a solution even if flying together isn’t an option. Family vacations don’t have to mean leaving anyone behind.

In summary, while flying with pitbulls takes extra planning, it’s certainly possible when following individual airline policies. With the right carrier, documents, and training if applicable, pitbulls can join you at 30,000 feet. Just take the proper precautions to avoid stress and ensure a positive experience for all. With preparation, you and your pitbull can make wonderful travel memories together for years to come.

Can Pit Bulls Fly on Planes?

Airline	Policy	Notes
Delta	Allowed	Must be in carrier under seat or in cargo hold.
American Airlines	Allowed	Must be in carrier under seat or in cargo hold. Some routes prohibit bully breeds.
United	Allowed	Must be in carrier under seat. Cannot ship in cargo hold.
Southwest	Allowed	Must be in soft-sided carrier under seat. Limit of 2 dogs per passenger.
Alaska	Allowed	Must be in soft-sided carrier under seat. Limit of 3 animals per passenger.
JetBlue	Allowed	Must be in carrier under seat. Limit of 1 dog or cat per passenger.

FAQ

1. Can pitbulls fly on planes?

   Basically, no – pitbulls aren’t allowed on most flights as service or emotional support animals. Air carriers have restrictions against certain dog breeds for safety reasons. So pitbulls cannot freely board planes like other pets.

2. Why aren’t pitbulls permitted on flights?

   Unfortunately, some airlines view pitbulls as more dangerous than other dog breeds. While it’s debatable if they are truly more aggressive, many carriers have a no-pitbull policy to reduce liability. At the same time, federal laws require accommodation of service animals regardless of breed. So it depends on the specific context and airline.

3. Are there any exceptions for service pitbulls?

   Potentially yes – the Air Carrier Access Act protects the right of people with disabilities to fly with authentic service animals. Nevertheless, airlines may require extra documentation proving the pitbull is trained + certified as a true service dog. Strong evidence of its good behavior is important to get approval. On the other hand, emotional support animals usually won’t fly as pits.

   

4. What should I do if my pitbull is a service dog?

   If your pitbull offers necessary assistance due to a disability, contact the airline way ahead of your flight date. Provide records of its service training plus your medical need for the dog. The airline can then assess if it can fly as an approved service animal. However, be prepared that some carriers will reject pits altogether. Perhaps consider other transportation if that happens.

5. Do smaller airlines have different policies?

   It’s possible – you’d basically have to check policies airline by airline. While most major carriers ban pitbulls, a handful of smaller flights may make exceptions. Their rules sometimes depend on individual aircraft size too. So it wouldn’t hurt to search policies widely just in case. You never know – a tiny airline might allow man’s best friend, even if it is a pit! At the very least, some may offer shipping as an alternative.

6. In summary, can pitbulls fly?

   To summarize – most pitbulls cannot freely board flights due to restrictions at major airlines. Only documented service pits have a chance, with paperwork proving their need and training. But odds are still iffy depending where you’re headed. Perhaps see if driving or taking the train is possible instead of flying anyway? Riding in the cargo hold presents its own risks too. So in the end, it kinda seems like pitbull air travel might not be worth the hassle compared to other options.