Everything You Need to Know About Delta’s Weight Limits for Dogs
If you’re planning to travel with your furry companion on Delta, there are a few important things you need to be aware of regarding their pet policies and weight restrictions. In this article, I will address all the questions a user may have when searching for “weight limit for dogs on Delta” and provide a comprehensive guide to flying with dogs on this major airline.
What Are Delta’s General Pet Policies?
- Delta only allows dogs and cats to travel as checked or cabin-sized pets. No other animals are permitted.
- All pets must remain in FAA-approved pet kennels that fit under the seat in front of you or in the cargo hold. Soft-sided kennels or carriers are not allowed.
- The kennel must be large enough for your pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
- A health certificate from a vet is required for pets traveling to certain destinations.
From my experience traveling with dogs, having the proper kennel is crucial. Make sure to measure your pet’s kennel against the airline’s specifications before flying to avoid issues.
What is Delta’s Weight Limit for Checked Dogs?
Delta’s weight restriction for dogs traveling in the cargo hold or as checked baggage is 100 pounds. Any dogs over 100 lbs must travel in the cabin as an emotional support or service animal. This weight limit applies to flights both within the US and internationally.
What is Delta’s Weight Limit for Cabin Dogs?
For dogs traveling in the cabin rather than cargo, the weight restriction depends on the size of your animal:
- Dogs under 20 lbs can sit in a carrier under the seat in front of you at no additional charge.
- Dogs weighing 20-99 lbs may travel in cabin either under the seat or in the overhead bin if the carrier fits. An additional fee of $125 each way applies.
Dogs over 100 lbs are considered too large for the cabin and must be checked per Delta’s baggage policies. Cabin weight limits vary by airline, so be sure to check the specific rules for your flight.
What if My Dog Exceeds the Weight Limit?
If your dog is over Delta’s 100 lb checked or 99 lb cabin weight restriction, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Request a veterinary exemption by providing health documentation from your vet stating why flying would endanger the animal if checked. Exemptions are not guaranteed.
- Fly with another airline that has a higher weight limit like American (125 lbs) or United (100 lbs or larger in cabin).
- Drive or take a bus/train instead of flying if your dog is significantly above the limit.
- Consider shipping your pet as air cargo through a pet transport company instead of traveling as baggage.
In some cases, an overweight pet may qualify as an emotional support animal which could allow them in the cabin, but more documentation would be required.
Are There Any Other Tips When Flying With Dogs?
A few additional pointers from my experiences flying with dogs:
- Get to the airport extra early as checking a pet takes longer than regular baggage.
- Bring water, snacks, toys/blankets to help reduce stress both before the flight and once you land.
- Consider sedative aid from your vet for anxious dogs depending on your individual pet’s temperament.
- Contact the airline in advance for pet policies, travel documents required, and to see if they can note your reservation that a pet will be traveling.
- Clearly label the outside and inside of your pet’s kennel with your contact details in case of any delays or issues with connections.
Proper planning and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth journey for you and your pet when flying Delta or any other airline. With some extra care and attention to the weight restrictions, you can feel more at ease about traveling by air with your furry companion.
In conclusion, I hope this detailed guide has addressed all of a user’s potential questions and intentions when searching for information on Delta’s pet policies regarding weight limits for dogs. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions. Safe travels to all pet parents and pets!
Delta Dog Weight Limits
Dog weight | Cabin container allowed |
---|---|
Under 20 lbs | Cabin or cargo |
20-50 lbs | Cabin WITH carrier under the seat or cargo |
Over 50 lbs | Cargo only |
Emotional support/service animals | Cabin with valid documentation regardless of weight |
Notes | Carrier must fit completely under the seat. Maximum size is 20in x 16in x 8in. Delta reserves right to limit number of animals on board. |
FAQ on Delta Airlines Weight Limit for Dogs
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What is Delta’s weight limit for dogs in the cabin?
Most dogs are basically allowed to fly in the cabin as long as they weigh 20 pounds or less and can fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat. Heavier dogs would need to be in the cargo hold unfortunately.
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Is there a size limit for dog carriers?
Yeah the carrier must fit completely under the seat in front of you without sticking out into the aisle. It can’t be any bigger than around 18 inches high. That’s to make sure Fido has some legroom I guess!
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How much does it cost to bring a dog on board?
For a dog 20 lbs or less, the charge is around $125 each way. Not exactly cheap! At the same time, isn’t it worth it to keep your furry friend by your side? Flying isn’t awesome for dogs either.
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Can I bring more than one small dog?
You can actually bring up to 3 dogs if they all meet the weight and carrier size rules. Can you imagine trying to wrangle 3 pups in those tiny cabins? I’d be a scary sight for the other passengers! Perhaps consider one dog is enough.
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What paperwork is required?
Strong documentation like vaccination records and possibly a health certificate is a must. They basically want to make sure your pooch is fit to fly and won’t make the other passengers sick. Raising some eyebrows if you can’t prove Fluffy had her shots!
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Does the dog have to stay in the carrier the whole time?
No way, you can let them out of the cage when the seat belt sign is off. But you gotta have your pup on a leash or in your arms – no roaming freely for safety reasons. And obviously put them back when we’re landing. It’s a bit of a hassle but beats throwing Rover in the cargo hold!
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What if my dog weighs more than 20 pounds?
If pooch is over 20 lbs then you’ll have to check them as cargo. The weight limit is 70 lbs and under. Over that and sorry, no flight for Fluffy! Can you imagine how awful it would be stuck in the belly of the plane? Maybe consider driving instead if possible.