Everything You Need to Know About Traveling With Your Pet Companion On An Airplane

A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Pets by Air

If you want to take your furry companion with you when flying, there are some important things to know about traveling with pets on airplanes. In this article, I’ll address all the key questions pet owners have about companion air pet travel and provide tips to help make the process as smooth as possible.

What airlines allow pets in the cabin?

The major US airlines – American, Delta, United – all permit small pets such as dogs and cats to travel with their owners in the plane cabin rather than the cargo hold, though there are certain requirements pets must meet. Pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you without blocking the aisle or emergency exits. Carriers typically cannot exceed around 18 inches in height.

What paperwork is required?

At a minimum, all pets flying in-cabin must have updated vaccination records and be healthy. Most airlines require a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of your travel dates verifying the pet has gotten routine shots. You’ll also need to purchase a ticket for your pet, which typically costs $125 each way for flights in the US and Canada.

Are there size/breed restrictions?

While small dogs and cats under 20 lbs are usually fine, some larger pets may not fit requirements or be viewed as a safety hazard. Popular breeds like pit bulls are banned from cabin travel by many carriers altogether. Measure your pet’s carrier and check airline policies carefully to avoid issues at check-in. Getting pre-approval is wise if your pet is on the larger side.

How do I prepare my pet for flight?

Cage training well ahead of time eases stress for curious pets unused to confinement. Get them comfortable being in their carrier for increasing periods, starting with a few minutes and working up to a full day with treats and praise. At the airport, try arriving a bit early if your furry friend gets anxious in crowds. Soothing music or calming supplements from the vet can also help relax pets before takeoff.

Are there any travel tips that have worked well in your experience?

From my experience traveling with pets, I’ve found a few tricks that make the journey less stressful. I always try to book red-eye flights if possible, as pets tend to sleep through more of the flight. I also bring along small, travel-sized toys or chews to occupy curious pups mid-air. And I make sure to have several days’ worth of food, water, poop bags and any meds in my carry-on in case of delays. Being over-prepared gives peace of mind.

What happens if my pet gets anxious during the flight?

Even very accustomed fliers can feel uneasy miles above the ground. Know the signs that your pet may be struggling like excessive panting, crying or attempts to escape their carrier. If they seem genuinely distressed, don’t hesitate to notify a flight attendant so you can soothe or safely sedate your pet if needed. Their comfort is the top priority, even if that means missing your connection. With care and preparation pets usually do fine, but being proactive prevents problems.

How is air cargo travel different for pets?

While in-cabin is ideal when possible, pet-friendly air cargo is a good option for larger animals. Rather than flying with anxious owners, pets are checked as baggage and transported in a temperature-controlled pressurized hold. Advance notice is key, as cargo animals have additional screening and paperwork rules. For example, you must book at least a day before departure and provide food, leash, supply of meds in a clear plastic bag. Communication with cargo staff is important to prevent delays.

What should I know about international pet air travel?

Going abroad involves extra planning. Pets need valid health certificates, vaccinations, microchips/tags as well as import permits from the destination country. You must also get a rabies titre test done with positive results to enter many places like Europe. Quarantine times upon arrival may apply too. It’s recommended to start preparing passport documents and booking flights 2-3 months ahead instead of last minute. Finding an experienced pet transport company can make the complex process breeze.

So in summary, by following basic rules set by airlines, ensuring pets are cage trained and providing supervision when needed on planes or in cargo – companion air pet travel can go smoothly. With patience and preparation, furry friends can join their humans on adventures both domestic and international.

What if my pet becomes distressed during the flight?

Here are a few things you can do if your pet starts showing signs of anxiety or distress during the flight:

1. Comfort and reassure your pet by speaking to them calmly and gently stroking or petting them. Try to help them feel safe and secure.
2. Notify the flight crew right away. They are trained to handle pets in distress and may be able to offer help or advice.
3. Consider giving your pet a calming aid if prescribed by your vet. Calming treats or supplements can take the edge off for anxious fliers.
4. As a last resort, you may need to get permission from staff to safely sedate your pet if they show signs of severe panic like crying, biting or trying desperately to escape the carrier. Their health is the top priority.

The key is not ignoring signs of stress and getting help from flight crew if the situation escalates. With patience and care, pets usually relax once disturbances level out after takeoff.

Companion Air Pet Travel Requirements

Airline	Breed Restrictions	Cabin Location	Crate Size	Health Certificate
Delta	None	Cabin (dogs under 20 lbs)	Must fit under seat	Required
American	Pit bulls not allowed	Cabin (dogs under 20 lbs)	Must fit under seat	Required
United	Snub-nosed breeds	Cabin (dogs under 20 lbs)	Must fit under seat	Required
Alaska	None	Cabin (dogs under 20 lbs)	Must fit under seat	Required
JetBlue	Snub-nosed breeds	Cabin (dogs under 20 lbs)	Must fit under seat	Required

FAQ

1. What kinds of pets are allowed as companion air travel?

   Most airlines allow cats and dogs as companion animals on flights. Sometimes birds are permitted too in their carrier. However, unusual pets like snakes, ferrets or hedgehogs are usually a no-go.

2. Do I need any paperwork for my pet to fly?

   You definitely need some documents. Get a health certificate from your vet saying your pet is fit to travel. Also a vaccination record showing current shots. The airline may want proof your animal is house trained as well. Basically, be prepared to prove Fluffy is travel-ready.

3. Is there a weight limit for companion pets?

   I think the maximum weight is usually around 20 pounds or so. Any heavier than that and it might be too much for the airline. Though I guess it depends on the animal – a cat weighing 15 pounds takes up less space than a Great Dane. Perhaps check the specific rules for the airline you’re using.

   

4. How do I keep my pet safe and secure on the plane?

   Go to a pet store and get yourself an FAA-approved carrier you can put under the seat in front of you. Transporting animals in just a crate seems kind of cruel if you ask me. Make sure it’s big enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in, but also small enough to fit regulations. A little comfort goes a long way when traveling, so include toys, water, and pads.

5. Is it stressful for pets to fly?

   I’d imagine it’s probably pretty stressful and scary for animals who aren’t used to it. All those different sounds and movements aboard a plane must be alarming! My neighbor’s dog was apparently terrified after flying and shaking for hours. Maybe see if your vet can give your pet a mild calmative or ask the airline about tips to help keep them calm. A snugly-fitting hood might block out some of the scary things too. Poor things!

6. What if my pet acts up on the flight?

   If your animal starts barking loudly or shows signs of anxiety, the flight crew may ask you to put a muzzle on them or move them to a special kennel area in the back of the plane where they can still be heard barking. At the same time, airlines understand this is a new environment and will try to work with you to comfort your pet. It may mean the flight isn’t as relaxing for you though! So definitely consider tranquilizers or training.

7. Is it really worth it to bring my pet as carry-on?

   On one hand, it’s great to keep your animal with you instead of as cargo. However, the cost of an extra seat ticket can be hundreds of dollars. Moreover, pets can’t come out of their carriers during the flight for bathroom breaks like kids. And as mentioned earlier, there is a chance of stress and disruptions. So possibly leave them at home or a sitter unless flying is absolutely necessary. You wouldn’t want to traumatize them!

8. What should I do if my pet gets lost at the airport?

   I sincerely hope that never happens! But I guess it’s best to be prepared. Put ID tags on your pet carrier and also on their collar with your contact info. Maybe consider microchipping them too in case the tags fall off. Then see if the airport has a lost and found department. You could also ask around the gate areas and check baggage claim on a off chance they got put on the wrong plane. With any luck, a kind soul will help return your missing furry friend.