Can You Buy Your Dog a Plane Ticket? Travel Tips for Flying with Your Pet

All You Need to Know About Buying a Plane Ticket for Your Dog

Have you ever wondered if it’s possible to purchase an airplane ticket so you can take your furry friend with you on your next trip? As a frequent flyer with pets myself, I’ve had the opportunity to try transporting my dog Kirby on several flights. In this article, I’ll address all the questions a pet owner might have when considering buying their dog an airline ticket.

Is It Legal to Bring My Dog in the Passenger Cabin?

The short answer is yes – many airlines allow pets to accompany passengers onboard as long as they meet certain requirements. The Department of Transportation regulates which animals can fly in-cabin as either service or emotional support animals. Under the Airline Pet Transport Act, dogs and cats are permitted as long as kept in an FAA-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.

What Papers Do I Need?

To bring your dog in the cabin, you’ll need to present the following documents at check-in:

1. Proof of current vaccinations – most airlines require rabies and canine distemper shots within the past year
2. Veterinary health certificate – also called an interstate health certificate, issued within 10 days of travel
3. FAA-approved travel kennel – labeled with your contact info on the outside

Some airlines may request additional paperwork like an attestation your pet has flown before without incident. It’s best to contact the airline directly to learn their specific requirements well ahead of your flight date.

How Much Does It Cost?

Pet transportation fees vary per airline but generally fall in the range of $125-$250 each way for domestic routes. Carriers may charge extra for overweight or excessively large animals. You’ll also need to purchase a ticket for your dog just like a passenger. Some airlines offer a free third or fourth bag if traveling with a pet.

It’s worth noting however that hidden fees can add up. From my experience, common extras include a checked bag fee if your pet carrier doesn’t fit under the seat, overweight baggage penalties, and change/cancellation fees if your itinerary is modified. Be sure to budget for potential pet-related surcharges before booking travel plans involving furry friends.

What About Layovers and Connecting Flights?

Most major carriers allow pets to travel on connecting itineraries as long as the animal remains in-cabin. I once had a two-hour layover in Phoenix flying Kirby from California to Florida. The key is choosing nonstop flights whenever possible to minimize stress on your pet.

Some low-cost carriers have more restrictive pet policies and may not permit animals on multi-stop trips. It’s a good idea to confirm details with your airline if a layover longer than a couple hours is involved. I’d also give yourself a buffer of at least 30 extra minutes in transit just in case of any pet check-in delays.

What if My Dog Misbehaves?

As any pet parent knows, animals don’t always behave predictably – especially in high-stress environments like airports and planes. To avoid issues, I suggest practicing crate-training your pup and desensitizing them to carrier travel well before the big day.

If your dog barks, whines, or shows signs of anxiety during boarding or flight, the airline may ask you to take a later flight at your expense. In rare cases of aggressive behavior, transportation could be denied altogether. It’s a risk you take flying accompanied pets. I always bring treats, toys, calming supplements and more to keep Kirby occupied.

Is Air Travel Safe for Dogs?

Provided precautions are taken, most veterinary organizations say flying poses a low health risk for dogs. However, there are some potential issues to be aware of such as:

• Barometric pressure changes triggering ear discomfort
• Dehydration risks from cabin environments
• Stress from noise levels and close proximity to strangers
• Injury from exposure to fall/impact hazards if kennel isn’t properly secured

As with humans, underlying medical conditions could be exacerbated by air travel as well. To help prevent problems, I give Kirby Benadryl and squeeze water/food into his cheeks before takeoff and landing.

Are There Alternatives to Flying My Dog?

If the hassle or cost of flying with pets seems overwhelming, there are some land-based options worth considering:

1. Drive yourself – this gives you full control over conditions and potty breaks
2. Hire a pet transportation service – they handle logistics door-to-door
3. Board your pet locally – then visit whenever flying solo
4. Leave Fido at home – enlist friends/family for care while away

At the same time, flying together yields priceless bonding opportunities if done right. With the proper preparation, an airline ticket can be a practical way to #TakeYourPetPlaces. But as with any trip, safety should always come first.

Any Tips From Experience?

After transporting Kirby on six domestic flights so far, here are a few lessons I’ve learned:

• Book nonstop itineraries when you can to minimize stress
• Reserve pet travel early – space is limited and sells out
• Pack familiar toys/blankets and bring plenty of training treats
• Consider renting a larger kennel so room to move if delays occur
• Be prepared mentally – flying pets takes patience on a new level

With adequate planning and precaution, your dog’s first plane ride need not be their last. Safe travels to all my fellow flying fur-parents out there! Let me know if any other pet travel questions come up.

Guidelines for Booking Your Dog’s Plane Ticket

Carrier	Size Limits	Cage Requirements	Advance Booking
American Airlines	Under 20 lbs, must be in carrier	Hard-sided under seat, soft-sided in cabin	At least 1 day
Delta	Under 20 lbs or ESAs, must be in carrier	Hard-sided under seat only	At least 3 days
United	Under 20 lbs or ESAs, must be in carrier	Hard-sided under seat only	At least 3 days
Alaska	Under 20 lbs or ESAs, must be in carrier	Hard-sided under seat only	At least 3 days
Southwest	Under 20 lbs, must be in soft-sided carrier	Soft-sided in cabin only	No advance booking required

FAQ

1. Can I buy a plane ticket for my dog?

   Basically yes, you can buy plane tickets for dogs to fly as cargo or in the cabin. Airlines have rules for transporting animals both in cargo and the cabin.

2. How much does it cost to fly a dog as cargo?

   The cost to fly a dog as cargo basically depends on the airline and size of your dog’s crate. Fees can start around $100 each way for small dogs, but bigger dogs may cost $200-300 or more per flight. At the same time, booking early usually gets you cheaper rates.

3. Is it safe for dogs to fly in cargo?

   Even though some dogs sort of seem to enjoy the adventure of cargo flying, it can definitely be a stressful experience for pets. The cargo hold does not provide climate control and experiences much more extreme temperaturesn and pressure than the cabin. However, the majority of pets do make it safely as long as they are healthy and in the proper kennel. Many owners for peace of mind still choose to fly larger dogs in the cabin when possible.

4. What are the rules for flying with a dog in cabin?

   The rules about flying with dogs in the cabin can differ by airline. Most allow only one small dog per passenger in a carrier that fits under the seat. Larger dogs may require an extra seat. All dogs must remain in the carrier during the flight. Health forms and vaccinations are also required. Perhaps it’s best to check the specific airline policy in advance to avoid issues.

   

5. Do dogs seem to enjoy flying?

   Pets seem to respond to flying in different ways – some dogs appear calm and even sleep on planes, while other pups get visibly stressed. Maybe it depends partly on their personality type and previous travel experiences. In any case, comfort items like a favorite toy or blanket can help anxious dogs feel more secure. At the same time, being in the pressurized cabin is generally less disorienting for pets than luggage hold.

6. What about international flights with pets?

   Taking pets on international flights involves much more preparation than domestic trips. Strong restrictions exist on flights coming into some countries. Extensive health records and vaccinations must be sorted out well in advance along with export permits for pets. Quarantines of days or weeks may even apply in rare cases. So it really pays to thoroughly research international pet travel policies and plan ahead if you expect to cross borders with a furry companion. Kind of a hassle if you ask me.

7. Any tips for making a dog’s flight smoother?

   To help calm travel nerves, try practicing with your dog’s carrier before flights. A stuffed kong toy or other long-lasting treat inside may keep them occupied. Also consider anti-anxiety medication if your vet approves. On the day, give your pup plenty of affection and calm reassurance right up until boarding. A familiar blanket or toy provides comfort too. With patience and preparation, even aloof dogs can basically get used to flying.