Can You Take a Dog on a Plane? Your Complete Guide to Flying with Fido
As a pet owner who has flown with my dog, Lassie, many times, I know firsthand how stressful it can be to wonder: “Am I allowed to bring my pooch on this flight?” In this comprehensive guide, I’ll give you all the info you need to feel confident about traveling by air with your furry companion.
The Basic Rules
To start with the basics: most major domestic airlines in the United States do permit you to bring your dog or cat aboard as a pet in the cargo hold or in the cabin as a service animal or emotional support animal. However, restrictions and requirements vary depending on the airline.
- Cargo hold: dogs must be in an FAA-approved travel kennel and meet size limitations. They don’t have to be trained.
- Cabin as a service animal: the dog must be trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability.
- Cabin as an emotional support animal: the dog provides emotional support to a passenger with a mental or emotional disability documented by a medical professional.
Additionally, breeds like pit bulls may be banned from flying altogether on certain airlines due to safety concerns.
Paperwork is Key
No matter which option you choose, having the proper documentation is crucial. For the cargo hold or cabin, most airlines require a health certificate from your vet stating the dog is fit to fly. You’ll also need proof of current vaccinations like rabies and canine distemper.
For emotional support or service animals in the cabin, you’ll need a note from your doctor or mental health professional prescribing the animal for your disability or need of support.
When flying internationally, expect even more rules from countries you’re flying into regarding vaccinations, microchipping and pre-clearance for pets. It’s worth doing research well in advance.
Cabin vs. Cargo Hold
As an owner, I always opt to fly with Lassie in the cabin rather than cargo if possible. You have direct control over your dog’s welfare that way. However, size and number limits may mean the hold is your only choice.
In the hold, your pet will be in an enclosed kennel and climate-controlled for their entire flight without human contact. There are risks of lost kennels, damages from handling, and stress from loud noises and pressure changes that surface animals don’t experience.
While the cabin gives you reassurance over your pet’s wellbeing, they will have less space than in the hold. With limited cabin spots per flight, book early if you want to give your puppy the security of flying with you!
Prepare Properly to Minimize Stress
Given my experiences with anxiety-prone Lassie, I can say preparation is key for a smooth trip. Make sure your pet gets ample exercise prior to flying so they’re tired. Consider calming supplements too. And never sedate them without vet approval.
Get your dog used to their kennel well in advance so it feels like a safe space. Bring bedding, toys and water from home for familiar scents. Pack extra food and water too in case delays arise.
When at the airport on travel days, keep interactions with your dog positive and low-key. Avoid long check-in lines if possible. With preparation, even nervous fliers can handle travel just fine.
Tips for a Successful Flight
On board, keep your dog in their kennel under the seat as much as regulation allows to avoid accidents or interference with passengers and crew. Consider bringing pee pads just in case.
Comfort your dog during take-off and landing when pressure changes can bother them. Bring high-value treats to keep them occupied and relaxed. Talk to staff if needed but try not to draw attention if your dog starts whimpering.
Make sure your contact info is written clearly on your dog’s kennel or vest in case of emergency. Follow crew instructions to avoid issues. With patience and care, you can make plane travel as stress-free as possible for your furry friend.
Hope this guide has addressed your questions about flying with dogs! Let me know if any part needs more explanation – I’m happy to help smooth out the process based on my adventures with Lassie over the years. Safe travels to you and your pup!
Guidelines for Traveling with Dogs on Planes
| Airline | Size Restrictions | Crate Requirement | Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Under 20 lbs, must fit in carrier under seat | Soft-sided carrier required | $125 each way |
| American | Under 20 lbs, must fit in carrier under seat | Hard- or soft-sided carrier required | $125 each way |
| United | Under 20 lbs, must fit in carrier under seat | Hard- or soft-sided carrier required | $125 each way |
| Southwest | No size restrictions but must remain in carrier | Hard- or soft-sided carrier required | No additional fees |
| Alaska | Under 20 lbs, must fit in carrier under seat | Hard- or soft-sided carrier required | $125 each way |
FAQ
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Can I take my dog on a plane in the cabin?
Basically you kinda can take Fido flying with you, but there are some rules. Many airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as long as they stay in a carrier under the seat for the whole flight. The container can’t be too huge though.
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Do dogs need special paperwork to fly?
Sorta, at the very least your pup will need to be in good health and have the proper vaccinations. The airlines may request a certificate from your vet showing your dog is fit to travel and up to date on shots. Some destinations also need an international pet passport or other documents. It’s best to check the specific airline and destination rules well in advance.
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Is it stressful for dogs to fly?
Potentially yeah, flying can be quite freaky and unfamiliar for a doggo. All the new sights, sounds and smells in the airport plus being stuck in a crate for hours might cause some stress. Nevertheless, many pups adapt fine with time and positive association. Talk to your vet about medications that may help keep Rover calm if he’s a worrywart. Having a familiar toy or blanket can also offer comfort.
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What size container do dogs need on a plane?
The container must be able to fit completely under the seat in front of you and can’t be larger than roughly 18 inches high by 12 inches wide by 7.5 inches deep. However, every airline has their own exact measurements, so always verify the guidelines to be safe. It’s not worth showing up to the airport with Scruffy only to find his crate is an inch too big.
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Is it worth paying extra for my dog to fly in the cabin?
That’s a fair question, it really depends. On one paw, having Fido by your side in the cabin may help reduce his anxiety from noises and being isolated. But is an economy-class airplane really ideal for any living thing? And the extra dough for that ticket surely buys a lot of plush toys and treats. Perhaps flying in cargo where dogs can move around slightly more freely is better for their comfort despite being apart. There are good cases on both sides.
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What are the health risks for dogs flying?
Just like people, air travel puts certain strains on a dog’s body that could impact their well-being. Dehydration due to indoor cabin air is a major concern. Changes in air pressure when taking off and landing can potentially cause respiratory issues or ear discomfort for puppers down the road. Additionally, all the stress hormones produced during a flight may drain a dog’s energy levels for days after arriving at their destination. As long as you take precautions, the risks are kinda low though.