Can You Buy a Plane Ticket for Your Dog? The Complete Guide to Flying with Fido
One of the most common questions pet owners have is whether or not they can purchase an airline ticket to bring their dog along on a flight. The short answer is yes, it is possible to buy a plane ticket for your dog—but there are some important things you need to know first.
What Types of Dogs Can Fly?
Most domestic dog breeds can travel by air as long as they meet the size and health requirements of the airline. However, there are a few exceptions:
- Service or emotional support animals: Airlines are required to allow service animals in the cabin for passengers with disabilities. Emotional support animals may also be permitted if approved by the airline in advance.
- Snub-nosed or brachycephalic dog breeds: Airlines may restrict dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and Boston Terriers due to health concerns related to their flat faces.
- Puppies or nursing mothers: Very young puppies or mothers who have recently given birth may be too fragile to fly in cargo.
It’s always a good idea to check with your chosen airline directly regarding breed restrictions before booking travel for your dog.
How Do I Book a Ticket?
To book a plane ticket for your dog, you’ll need to contact the airline and reserve a spot for your pet in the cargo hold. Most major carriers allow you to do this online or over the phone. Be prepared to provide your dog’s details, including:
- Name, age, breed
- Weight and dimensions of the travel kennel
- Vaccination records and health certificate from your vet
- Whether you’ll be flying your pet as cargo or as a personal item (under-seat)
Additional fees will apply ranging from $100-300 each way depending on the airline, route, and size of your dog. Cargo space needs to be reserved in advance, so book as early as possible.
What Type of Kennel Is Required?
All dogs flying as cargo or checked baggage must be transported in an International Air Transport Association (IATA)-approved hard-sided kennel. Soft-sided pet carriers or collapsible crates do not meet air travel standards.
The kennel should:
- Be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- Have proper ventilation on at least three sides
- Be escape-proof with a secure, lockable door
- Display IATA sticker or green “Live Animal” tag on the outside
Many major retailers sell travel kennels designed specifically for airline use. Measure your dog and kennel carefully to ensure it fits size requirements for travel.
What Paperwork Is Needed?
To legally transport your dog on a commercial flight, you’ll need the following vet-certified documents:
- Health certificate: Issued within 10 days of travel stating your dog is free of contagious diseases and fit to fly.
- Vaccination records: Proof of current rabies, distemper/parvo, and Bordetella vaccinations.
- Import permits: May be required when traveling between certain countries.
Keep all paperwork secured with your dog during travel in case it’s requested. Originals are required—no photos.
What About In-Cabin Travel?
Some airlines allow small or toy breed dogs under 20 pounds to travel in-cabin as a personal item. However, there are limitations:
- Dog must remain in an IATA-approved soft or hard carrier that fits under the seat.
- Only one dog is permitted per passenger within weight/size limits.
- Carrier must remain at your feet and not obstruct aisles or emergency exits.
Verify pet policies and fees on every leg of your itinerary if traveling with an in-cabin dog. Be prepared with vaccination records in case requested.
What About International Travel?
If traveling between countries by air, you’ll need to thoroughly research import regulations for your destination(s). Requirements can include:
- Complying with quarantine periods upon entry or exit
- Arranging advance permits and health certificates signed by officials
- Checking for prohibited breeds under certain circumstances
- Complying with identification like microchipping
Plan well ahead and be prepared to allow extra time for international pet travel logistics.
What If My Dog Becomes Stressed?
Flying can be stressful for dogs unaccustomed to air travel noises and novelty. To help prevent anxiety:
- Consult your vet about anti-anxiety medications if needed
- Provide favorite toys/blankets and water in the kennel
- Gradually accustom your dog to the kennel at home before travel
- Consider calming supplements or pheromone diffusers for the kennel
On the day of travel, do not sedate, feed, or give water to your dog within a few hours of drop-off per airline instructions.
What Are the Safety Considerations?
While the cargo hold is temperature-controlled, extremes in weather can still impact safety. To minimize risks:
- Avoid traveling during heat waves or bitter cold spells if possible
- Check that your dog’s kennel is blocked from direct sunlight or vents during handling
- Consider tracking devices or insurance for lost/injured pets
- Never check dogs as oversized baggage due to increased hazards
Proper paperwork, advance planning and using reputable carriers can help ensure a smooth, safe trip for man’s best friend.
Is Air Travel Really Worth It?
For some dogs and owners, the stress of flying may outweigh the benefits of travel. Particularly for elderly, infirm or high-strung pets, long car rides or boarding while owners fly separately can be a kinder option.
As with kids, it truly depends on each individual dog’s temperament and ability to handle new experiences. Starting with shorter flights and carefully considering needs is basically the safest way to assess how well they may tolerate air travel long-term.
With the right approach and precautions, many dogs thrive on trips with their loving owners. But it always takes their comfort and well-being as top priority. Hopefully this guide provides some clarity on whether flying might work for your furry friend!
Please let me know if you have any other questions. Safe travels to you and your pup!
Factors to Consider When Booking a Plane Ticket for Your Dog
| Airline | Weight Limit | Crate Size | Advance Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | 70 lbs | Medium-sized hard-sided crate | At least one day before departure |
| United | 100 lbs | Large soft-sided crate | At least three days before departure |
| American | No limit | Hard-sided crate must fit under seat | One week before departure |
| JetBlue | No formal limit | Soft-sided crate that fits under seat | At least one day before departure |
| Alaska | 100 lbs | Hard-sided crate that fits under seat | Three days before departure |
FAQ
-
Can I bring my dog on the plane as a carry-on?
Basically, most airlines allow small dogs or cats to fly in the cabin as long as they can fit under the seat in a carrier. However, some airlines have size and weight limits so it’s best to check the specific rules for your airline.
-
Do I need any paperwork to fly with a dog?
You’ll need to bring proof that your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. This usually involves a health certificate from your vet stating the animal has had all required shots within a certain period of time. The certificate needs to meet the international regulations for the country you’re traveling to, if going abroad.
-
Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?
Most experts say it’s generally alright for healthy dogs to travel as cargo if the proper precautions are followed. Nevertheless, inclement weather or delays could add stress. Perhaps flying a small dog in the cabin, if allowed, provides more peace of mind. It’s ultimately up to you based on your pet’s personality and needs.
-
Can you buy a ticket just for a dog?
Yes, you can purchase an “animal ticket” just like a regular seat for your furry companion. However, it tends to get pretty pricey depending on the airline – we’re talking hundreds of dollars! But is it worth it to ease their stress and keep Fluffy by your side? That’s for you to decide.
-
Is there an age limit for flying pets?
Certain age limits apply depending on how the pet is traveling – under the seat or in cargo. In cargo, pets must typically be over 8 weeks old to fly due to temperature control concerns. As a carry-on, limits are usually based on size but many airlines allow even younger kittens or puppies if small enough. It never hurts to check individual airline policies.
-
What steps can I take to ensure a smooth flight for my pet?
Making sure your pooch is properly trained, crate trained, and accustomed to car travel helps. Also bring toys, bedding and documents. Ask your vet for meds if super anxious. Calm them with treats in the airport. Notify the airline of any special needs, like being deaf or blind. Most importantly – don’t forget ID tags and know your airline’s rules!
-
Do all airlines have the same pet policies?
No way! Policies differ on weight limits, breeds allowed, permits required and handling of pets in case of emergencies. Some may be more flexible than others. So it pays to scour each airline’s website to find one that best fits your pets’ specific needs. Don’t assume they’re all the same – better safe than sorry when it involves your furry family member.
So in summary, while taking your pet on a plane might seem like an ordeal – with some proper planning it can be certainly done. The keys are knowing the individual airline rules, preparing your pooch accordingly and being a responsible pawrent. Safe travels to all flyers both human and animal!