Everything You Need to Know About Flying with Your Pet on JetBlue
If you’re planning a trip and want to bring your furry friend along, JetBlue is a great option for traveling with pets. As someone who has flown with dogs on JetBlue numerous times, I can assure you that their pet policies are very pet-owner friendly. In this article, I’ll cover all the basics of flying with pets on JetBlue so you have one less thing to stress about during your travels.
Which Pets Are Allowed?
JetBlue accepts dogs and cats as carry-on pets in the aircraft cabin. This is a huge plus compared to most other airlines that require pets to be checked into the cargo hold, which can be stressful for animals. Birds, snakes, rodents, and other exotic pets are not permitted in the cabin. All pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
What Are the Size and Weight Restricts?
Pets must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that can slide completely under the seat in front of you. The carrier cannot exceed 18 inches long by 14 inches wide by 9 inches high. As for weight, it cannot exceed 20 pounds with carrier included. This is basically the amount that fits on your lap kind of carrier. Any larger animals would need to fly as cargo.
What Paperwork Is Required?
You’ll need to present a certification from a licensed veterinarian that your pet has received all necessary vaccinations. Specifically, dogs must have an up-to-date rabies vaccination. Cats need rabies and feline distemper vaccinations. The vet paperwork cannot be older than 1 year. You’ll also need to purchase a pet ticket, which is only $125 each way.
What Items Can My Pet Bring?
In addition to the proper health documents and paid tickets, feel free to bring some items to help make your pet comfortable on the flight. Stuff a few chew treats in the carrier for entertainment. Bring a small leash, collar, toys, or blanket that smells like home. Up to 2 quarts of food or water are fine too if traveling less than 8 hours. But no wet items are allowed.
Any Restrictions During the Flight?
For the safety of all passengers and crew, your pet must remain in its carrier under the seat or at your feet for the entire flight, even if it’s just a tiny chihuahua. The carrier cannot be put in the overhead bin. Also, absolutely no pets sitting on laps during take-off, landing, or turbulence. The carrier needs to be turned upside down so your pup faces the rear of plane for landing and take-off to protect their ears from pressure changes. Avoid feeding your pet during these times too.
How Can I Prepare My Pet for Takeoff and Landing?
From my experience traveling with dogs on planes, it’s key to get pets acclimated to carrier rides and noises of travel before the big day. Start putting them in the carrier for shorter car rides to get used to confinement. You can also play recorded airplane sounds or white noise while they’re in the carrier at home. Ask your vet about calming supplements if your pet seems anxious too. My terrier mix was sort of nervous on our first flight, but now looks forward to “car rides” since she anticipates a fun vacation at the end!
What About Connecting Flights or Layovers?
If you have a layover during your JetBlue itinerary, even transferring to another airline, you’ll need to check your pet and carrier through to the final destination as one piece of luggage. JetBlue won’t accept pets as carry-on for the second leg of consecutive flights. As long as the layover isn’t too long, this isn’t a problem and your pet simply stays in the carrier the whole trip. But if you need to leave the airport for a prolonged period, they can’t be left unattended.
Any Tips for Prep, During the Flight, and Arrival?
Here are some pro tips: give your pup some light exercise before the flight to tire them out. Bring plastic bags for any accidents. Bring paper towels or puppy training pads just in case. Make a lamby blanket or toy that smells like home to comfort them. I bring their carrier into the bathroom during boarding so they can potty before takeoff. Bring extra water and a collapsible bowl. And be sure to take them out for a long walk as soon as you land to release energy – what a relief to be off the plane, right spot? It really isn’t horrible if you prepare well.
What About Flying Home?
Do the same things in reverse! Be sure to check PetSafe or JetBlue directly for any animal import requirements to enter your destination state or country. Flying home is usually less stressful since it’s more familiar territory by then. But do allow extra time at the airport in case your pup gets riled up by crowds once again. Oh yeah – don’t forget to bring back souvenir bones or toys from your trip as a special thanks for being such great co-pilots!
In conclusion, JetBlue has some pretty rad pet policies for traveling with smaller critters. Basically just follow instructions, prepare with training sessions beforehand, and pamper the pup with all the essentials – and your jetsetting journeys together will be all good! Let me know if you have any other questions before your flight. With the right precautions, even nervous Nelly dogs can cruise comfortably at 30,000 feet. Bon voyage to furry co-pilots everywhere!
JetBlue Pet Travel Information
| Pet Type | Requirements | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Cats | Must be at least 8 weeks old and travel in approved hard-sided carrier under passenger seat | $125 each way |
| Dogs | Must be at least 8 weeks old, travel in FAA- approved carrier under passenger seat, and provide health/vaccination records | $125 each way |
| Emotional Support Animals | Require 48-hour advanced notice and paperwork from licensed mental health professional | Free with valid paperwork |
| Unusual pets | Prior approval required, contact JetBlue for more info | Varies by animal |
| Aviary pets | Not permitted as cargo or cabin pets due to risk of injury from changes in cabin pressure | Not applicable |
FAQ
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Can I bring my pet on a JetBlue flight?
Yes, JetBlue allows most pets to travel in the cabin as long as they meet certain size and health requirements. Their kennel must easily fit under the seat in front of you. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend too.
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What types of pets are allowed?
JetBlue basically lets you bring dogs and cats. Small cats, dogs, and some other small pets like rabbits are cool if they remain in a carrier under the seat. No snakes, lizards or tarantulas allowed unfortunately.
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Is there a weight limit for pets?
There is certainly a weight limit. Pets must weigh 20 pounds or less including their carrier. Anything heavier isn’t able to safely fit in the cargo hold either, it seems.
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How much is a pet ticket?
A pet ticket will cost you $125 each way plus tax. It’s kind of pricey but still cheaper than other options like driving your whole family. At least you get to keep Fido by your side!
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What paperwork is required?
In addition to the ticket, you’ll need a shot record showing your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. An airline approved carrier is also important so they don’t roam the aisle! Strongly consider sedatives too if your pup is anxious.
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Can I sit with my pet?
You’ll sit with your pet under the seat providing there is space. However, if the plane is full you may need to check your carrier.JetBlue will try to keep you together but can’t guarantee it sadly. At least pets fly free with most airlines!
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Is it worth bringing a small pet on a flight?
For a short trip, perhaps. But on super long hauls, some experts argue it’s kinder to leave pets at home. All that stress can’t be amazing for little Fifi. You’ll also need to consider delays or cancellations and how shifts in schedule might impact your fur baby. Maybe chat with your vet?