How to Ship Your Pet on Spirit Airlines Cargo or as an Emotional Support Animal

A Comprehensive Guide to Spirit Airlines Pet Policies

If you’ve ever searched online about traveling with pets on Spirit Airlines, you’ve probably had more questions than answers. From restrictions and fees tocargo hold procedures, transporting furry companions on this budget carrier can seem dauntlingly complex. But have no fear – this article will cover all the ins and outs of Spirit’s policies so your pet’s trip is stress-free.

What Pets Can Fly?

Spirit allows dogs and cats to travel either in the cabin or cargo hold, provided they meet certain criteria. For cabin travel, pets must be small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. Generally, this means your pet shouldn’t exceed 20 pounds. Larger dogs and cats over 20 lbs must travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold in the belly of the plane.

Health and Vaccination Requirements

All pets, regardless of size, must have an up-to-date veterinary health certificate. This ensures they are fit to travel and poses no health risks. Rabies, distemper, hepatitis and other routine vaccinations must be given within the past year. A certificate not older than 10 days is required at check-in. Don’t wait till the last minute to get this important paperwork in order!

Booking and Advance Notice

When booking your Spirit flight, be sure to indicate if traveling with a pet. There is a $125 per pet, per direction charge that must be prepaid at least 2 hours before departure. It’s easiest to do this online during booking. Also give Spirit at least 24 hours notice that a pet will be in the cabin or cargo hold so they can plan accordingly. Communication is key.

Traveling with Pets in the Cabin

For cabin travel, pets must remain in an FAA-approved hard-sided carrier that can fit completely under the seat in front of you. Soft-sided carriers or leashes are not permitted in the cabin per FAA rules. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around in. Don’t forget basics like food, water, leash, poop bags and toys to keep them occupied!

1. Bring your pet’s health certificate, vaccination records and prepaid confirmation of pet travel for check-in.
2. Have your pet’s carrier ready to pass quickly through the security line. Expect to remove them from carrier during x-ray.
3. Pets cannot occupy an emergency exit row seat due to safety precautions.
4. Inform the flight attendant of any issues like barking or anxiety during flight.
5. Spirit reserves the right to deny or remove any pets creating disturbances.

Traveling with Pets in Cargo

Whether due to size limits or preference, many Spirit customers check their pets into the climate-controlled cargo hold. From my experience working in animal travel, proper crate habituation and carrier training is essential for a stress-free cargo experience. Spirit uses the PetSafe program to ensure your pet’s comfort.

1. The crate must be large, ventilated, and escape-proof like an IATA-compliant dog crate.
2. Do not feed pets for 4-6 hours before check-in and provide water up til 2 hours out.
3. Handle Express pet service is available for an additional $75 each way to expedite check-in.
4. Unlike other carriers, Spirit does not allow owners to accompany pets to the terminal cargo area.
5. Pets must be delivered to the ticket counter at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure.

Additional Fees and Limitations

In addition to basic pet charges, Spirit implements seasonal fuel surcharges and other variable fees that could impact your total cost for flying with Fido or Fluffy. Make sure to budget carefully. Some BLACKOUT dates may also apply, so flexibility is key. You can always ask a Spirit customer service rep for up-to-the-minute rates and policy details. Transparency is important for pet parent peace of mind.

If you’re transporting an emotional support or service animal, additional documentation is required at least 48 hours before departure. Support animals fly free but must behave properly or risk being denied boarding.

Preparation Tips for a Smooth Trip

Here are a few extra tips from my own experiences flying pets to help prepare for any situation:

1. Never rush an already anxious pet – allow extra time for check-in.
2. Cover the crate or carrier with a familiar blanket to reduce stress.
3. Bring favorite toys/treats and spend time in crate before travel.
4. Consider anti-anxiety meds from your vet if your pet is extra nervous.
5. Express any special needs to airline staff well in advance.
6. Pack ID tags with multiple contact numbers just in case.

I hope this comprehensive rundown has answered all your questions about Spirit Airline’s pet policies. Flying furry family members requires planning but the payoff of bringing them along is totally worth it. Safe travels to you and your pet!

Spirit Airlines Pet Shipping Options and Requirements

Pet Type	Weight Limit	Crate Requirements	Cost
Cats and Dogs	upto 20 lbs	Hard-sided carriers that are leak-proof and escape-proof	$125 each way
Cats and Dogs	21-50 lbs	Hard-sided carriers that are leak-proof and escape-proof	$175 each way
Small Animals	N/A	Ventilated plastic habitats or ventilated containers	$100 each way
Zoo Animals	Please contact carrier for policy	Requires pre-clearance from Spirit Airlines	Varies
Emotional Support or Psychiatric Service Animals	N/A	Proper ID and documentation required	Free with owner

FAQ

1. Can I bring my pet on Spirit Airlines?

   Spirit Airlines allows both cats and dogs to travel as cargo pets on their flights. However, only small and medium-sized pets are permitted. You’ll need to purchase a special cargo pet ticket in advance.

2. How much does it cost to fly my pet on Spirit?

   Ticket prices start around $100 each way for transporting your furry buddy as cargo. Nevertheless, the exact pricing depends on the pet’s size and how far they’ll be travelling. You’ll also need to pay additional fees for health papers, vaccination records, and so on. Overall it can end up costing a few hundred dollars to fly Fido when it’s all said and done.

   

3. What paperwork is required for a pet on Spirit?

   The airline requires a health certificate from your vet saying your pet is fit to fly. Any vaccinations must be up-to-date. Pets also need to be at least 8 weeks old. You’ll have to bring copies of all documents like vaccination records with you to the airport on travel days. Basically, come prepared with the proper paperwork in order or else your pet won’t be allowed to fly.

4. How are pets transported on Spirit flights?

   Pet carriers must fit under the seat in front of you if bringing small pets in the cabin. However, most pets fly in the cargo compartment of the plane. Perhaps it’s kind of cramped down there, but rest assured your furry friend will have their own special pressurized container. At the same time, cargo pets are always given priority over other luggage if flight delays occur.

5. What types of pets can’t fly on Spirit?

   Exotic animals like snakes, birds, reptiles, and amphibians are prohibited as cargo pets. Additionally,Spirit won’t transport uncomfortable pets showing signs of illness or struggling animals that might not handle flight stresses well. Also, according to Spirit’s website, pets under 8 weeks old are not allowed for their well-being. In summary, only domesticated cats and dogs within weight limits qualify for Spirit’s cargo pet program.

6. Is it safe to fly pets as cargo?

   Many pet owners wonder this. While flying pets as cargo poses certain risks like exposure to extreme temperatures, Spirit takes steps to monitor your pet. The cargo department is accessible during flight layovers in case any pets need attention. Still, motion sickness or stress reactions may occur occasionally. Consult your vet if your pet has any medical issues. Ultimately, most healthy animals tolerated travel just fine. The choice comes down to assessing your pet’s needs versus the convienience of flying them as cargo.