Compare Airline Costs for Flying With Your Dog

A Comprehensive Guide to Airline Costs for Traveling With Your Dog

Whether you’re heading home for the holidays or jetting off on a summer vacation, bringing your furry friend along can add another layer of planning and expense to your travel arrangements. If you’ve searched online for “airline cost for dogs,” you probably have a lot of questions about pet policies, fees, and what to expect when flying with your canine companion. In this article, I’ll break down everything you need to know about the monetary aspects of transporting dogs on commercial flights.

Pet Transportation Fees

The first cost to be aware of is the pet transportation fee charged by the airline. All major US carriers allow one dog or cat per passenger in the cabin for a flat fee, typically $125 each way for flights within the continental US. Carriers may charge more for longer international routes. These fees are usually non-refundable, even if your pet is denied boarding for any reason like failing to meet size/weight limits.

In addition, most airlines limit either the number of pets allowed per flight or the total combined weight of pets plus kennels. From my experience booking flights, it’s best to check in advance whether space is available for your pet rather than risk being denied at the airport. You may need to book well ahead of travel dates if flying during busy holiday times.

Kennel Requirements

The kennel itself is another potential cost item. Airlines require pets to travel in hard-sided kennels approved by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for both cabin and checked baggage. These typically run $50-150 depending on size. Kennels must be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Soft-sided pet carriers or bags do not meet regulations and will result in your dog being denied boarding. And there’s no getting around the kennel – I’ve seen people try bringing dogs on collars and leashes only to be turned away at check-in. It’s not worth the hassle or risking your pet’s health, so always fly with an approved kennel.

Additional Fees

A few other potential expenses include:

• Overweight/oversize pet surcharges: Dogs and kennels weighing over 20-50 lbs depending on the airline are subject to $100 or more in extra fees each way.
• Connecting/multi-city flights: There may be a fee for each flight segment rather than a flat rate for the whole itinerary.
• Special accommodations: Requesting bulkhead/non-stop seats close to you can incur $25-50 surcharges per flight leg.
• Vet health forms: An exam within 10 days of travel is required, costing $50-100 typically for the certificate.

So in summary – expect to pay a minimum of $250 roundtrip just in fees alone for an average-sized dog traveling with you in the cabin. Checking your pet as luggage would add more costs.

Alternate Options

If the total costs seem prohibitive, some less expensive options include driving or taking a bus/train instead of flying – though those have drawbacks too in terms of travel time and logistics when relocating. You could also consider professional pet shipping services that transport dogs on cargo flights for around 0 each way in climate-controlled pressurized containers.

Another alternative is to board your dog rather than bring them along. While leaving a pet in the care of others causes separation anxiety for many owners (and dogs!), it can work out cheaper than all the air travel fees – expect to pay $25-50 per night typically at a boarding kennel near you.

Tips for a Smooth Flight

Whether you choose to fly with your dog or find other arrangements, here are some tips based on my own flying experiences to help ensure a stress-free trip:

1. Acclimate your dog to the kennel – start feeding and leaving toys/blankets inside well before travel dates so it feels safe and comfortable.
2. Calm them with supplements if needed – ask your vet about natural calming aids like CBD, melatonin, or pheromone diffusers to minimize anxiety.
3. Prepare ID tags on kennel and collar – include your contact info prominently in case of separation at transit.
4. Bring water, toys, paper – have supplies on hand to keep them occupied during delays.
5. Check in/check baggage early – arrive extra time to ensure a hassle-free departure.

With proper planning and precautions, flying with your pooch can go off without a hitch. But as with any travel, unexpected snags do occur from time to time – like delays, cancellations, or getting rerouted. It pays to be prepared for surprises and extra costs that may arise.

Is It Worth the Cost?

For many pet owners, the substantial price tag of transporting a dog on a plane pales in comparison to being separated from their faithful companion. But no one wants to break the bank in fees either. Here are some factors to weigh in deciding if the airline costs are justified in your situation:

• Duration and purpose of trip – flying cross-country for an extended stay may be more worth it than a weekend getaway.
• Your pet’s temperament – high-strung dogs may find it too stressful regardless of precautions taken.
• Alternative options – having someone watch them, driving, or pet shipping costs.
• Special needs – older, disabled, or medical pets may require their owner nearby.
• Frequency of travel – occasional trips can absorb fees better than frequent flyer status.

In the end, only you can decide if maintaining the human-canine bond is worth dipping into savings a bit more. The costs, while significant, help ensure the safety of all passengers including our furry ones when flying together as a family. Maybe your pup will even become a trooper who takes to air travel with ease!

Hope This Helps!

I hope this comprehensive guide has addressed all of your questions about airline prices when traveling with dogs and provided a clearer picture of what to budget. Feel free to reach out if any part of the process is still unclear. Safe travels to you and your four-legged buddy -bon voyage!

Costs and Requirements for Flying with Your Dog

Airline	Breed Restrictions	Crate Size	Non-Refundable Fee
American	None	Under seat: Maximum size 20x14x8 inches Cabin: Varies by airline	$125 each way
Delta	Potentially dangerous dog breeds not allowed in cabin	Under seat: Maximum size 18x13x8 inches Cabin: Aircraft-dependent	$125 each way
United	Potentially dangerous dog breeds not allowed	Under seat: Maximum dimensions 17x11x7 inches Cabin: Aircraft-dependent	$125 each way
JetBlue	None	Under seat: Maximum dimensions 13x9x7 inches	$100 each way for online booking
Alaska	Potentially dangerous dog breeds not allowed in cabin	Under seat: Maximum dimensions 17x12x7 inches Cabin: Up to 100 pounds when space permits	$125 each way

FAQ

1. How much do airlines usually charge for carrying dogs in the cabin?

   It really depends on the airline and size of the dog. But generally, the fee is around $100-250 each way. Some discount carriers might charge less. Larger dogs usually cost more than small ones.

   

2. Are there weight limits for dogs on planes?

   Yes, most airlines limit the weight of dogs flying in the cabin to around 20 pounds or less. Heavier dogs would have to go in the cargo hold as luggage instead of the cabin. The size of the carrier also cannot be too big.

3. Do I need any documents for my dog when flying?

   You’ll need to show either vaccination records or a health certificate from a vet proving the dog is fit to travel. A lot of countries also require an international pet passport. It’s a good idea to check requirements with the specific airline and destination country in advance.

4. Is it safer to fly a dog as cargo or in the cabin?

   There is some debate about this. Dogs in the cargo hold may get stressed from the noise and lack of supervision. However, in the cabin dogs must remain in carriers under seats the whole flight. Maybe it depends on your particular dog’s personality. Talking to your vet for advice seems wise.

5. Can emotional support animals fly for free?

   Occasionally airlines will let ESAs (emotional support animals) board without charge, but they have certain rights that service animals don’t. There are also forms from a medical provider you may need to fill out. Rules can vary a lot by airline, so verify their policy carefully before assuming an ESA can fly free of charge.

6. Are there any airlines known for being especially pet-friendly?

   From what I’ve heard, some that are pretty cool with pets include Southwest, JetBlue, and Alaska Airlines. They may have PetSafe policies with roomier carriers or pet tracking. However, even they have size/weight limits. Your best bet is contacting a few carriers directly to get the scoop on their guidelines.

   

7. What other costs are involved with flying with a dog besides the ticket fee?

   Besides the airline charge, you’ll also have to pay for things like a crate/carrier, paperwork processing, and perhaps a pet deposit in case of any issues. Food, water, and cleanup supplies for onboard are a good idea too. Driving may seem like a pain but it’ll save money versus flying Fido when all costs are totaled up.

8. Does anyone have advice on reducing stress for dogs on planes?

   I’ve read that exercising your pup thoroughly before travelling can help tire them out. Also try to acclimate them to their carrier well in advance. Bring some familiar toys or blankets. Melatonin or calming treats may ease anxiety too – check with your vet. Talking soothingly and giving praise/attention during the flight could help them feel calm and cared for. Ultimately some dogs just really dislike flying though.