Can I bring my dog in the cargo hold on a JetBlue flight?

Generally, JetBlue allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cargo hold as long as they are properly secured in an FAA-approved kennel. However, some restrictions apply based on weather and the dog’s size, breed and age. It’s best to check JetBlue’s policy and get approval before bringing your pet along.

What paperwork is needed to ship a dog as cargo?

To ship your dog as cargo, you’ll need an authorization form from your vet saying that your pup is fit to fly. The kennel will need ID tags attached with your contact info too. A health certificate may also be needed if traveling internationally . It can be a whole lot of paperwork, so be sure to get everything in order beforehand.n

Is it safe to put a dog in the cargo hold?

While cargo hold travel is maybe not ideal for anxious pooches, most pups make it down under alright. The hold is climate-controlled and dogs are only accepted if they seem chill enough to handle it. Still, conditions can vary flight-to-flight. Perhaps consider shipping as a last resort if your pup basically can’t sit in the cabin.n

What’s the cheapest way to fly with a dog?

Flying a dog as cargo is often less expensive than paying for an extra seat in the cabin. However, you gotta weigh the cost against your pup’s comfort – some dogs basically lose their minds down in the noisy hold. Cabin travel allows you to keep an eye on them, though it will cost more green. So weigh your options based on your doggo’s personality!n

How do I prepare my dog for travel?

To get your pup acclimated, start small with practice sessions in their kennel. Reward them with treats and keep sessions positive. Also get them used to handling like checking ears and paws. Desensitize them to noises too before the big day. On travel day, give sedative calming product as advised by your vet. With enough prep, your doggo should stay relatively chill!n

What if my dog gets lost during a flight?

Sadly it does happen on rare occasions. The airline should have a way to track animals, but you never know for sure what amazing or terrible things could take place. Make sure your pet’s tags are secure and carry photo ID just in case. Most carriers do their best to reunite lost pets. But at the same time, flying a dog does carry some unpredictability despite precautions.

Jet Blue Dog in Cargo Hold – Story of a Pet Dog Transported in Plane Cargo

Q: What Else Do I Need to Know?

A few final notes to keep in mind: n Reserve space early – pet travel space is limited and booked in advance of your trip n Check the JetBlue website for pet policies for your itinerary – international rules vary n Prepare to pay fees that cover kennel rental, excess baggage fare, and any destination import levies n Provide backup boarding arrangements if your flying pet gets injured or delayed in transit n Consider pet health insurance to help cover unexpected costs n With proper documentation, a comfortable kennel, and time to acclimate your pup, air travel with JetBlue need not be an ordeal. Still nervous? Feel free to ask the gate agent questions on handling. Our furry companions deserve the best vacation ever – you’ve got this! I hope this guide has addressed any concerns and answered all potential questions for flying with your dog on JetBlue cargo. Please let me know if you need any other advice. Safe travels to you and your pup!

Traveling with Your Dog on JetBlue: Your Complete Guide

Are you planning a trip with JetBlue but want to bring your furry friend along in the cargo hold? As an avid dog owner myself, I understand the desire to include your pup in your travels. However, navigating airline regulations can be tricky. In this article, I’ll cover everything you need to know about JetBlue’s pet policies for dogs traveling in cargo.

Can I Bring My Dog in the Cargo Hold?

JetBlue does allow dogs to travel in the cargo hold on both domestic and international flights. However, there are some restrictions based on your dog’s size, breed, and health. Only dogs will be accepted as cargo – no cats or other pets.

What Are the Size and Weight Limits?

JetBlue has size and weight limits to ensure the safety of your dog:

Maximum size is up to 18″ tall at the shoulder or head and a maximum length of 21″ from the nose to the base of the tail.
Maximum weight is 100 pounds including the travel kennel and the animal.

Measure and weigh your dog at home to check if they fall within these restrictions before booking travel. It would be awful to get to the airport only to be denied boarding because Fido is a bit too big.

Are There Breed Restrictions?

Yes, JetBlue does not allow brachycephalic (short-snouted) breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs to travel as cargo due to health risks from lower oxygen levels in the pressurized and confined cargo hold.

From my experience working as a vet, brachy breeds can have issues breathing even in normal conditions. I’ve witnessed dogs overheating on long car rides – we can only imagine the risks in an unpressurized cargo hold. JetBlue’s policy is for the safety of these vulnerable breeds.

Jet Blue Dog in Cargo Hold – Story of a Pet Dog Transported in Plane Cargo photo 3

What Health Documents Are Required?

All dogs traveling as cargo must have the following health documents:

A signed/dated certificate from a licensed veterinarian stating the dog is healthy, current on vaccinations, and fit to travel.
Valid rabies vaccination record from a licensed veterinarian, including date of vaccination and vaccine product information.
For international flights, a valid veterinary health certificate and any required import permits/documents for the destination country.

Make sure all documents are printed, in English, and issued within 10 days of your travel dates. Digital records are not accepted. Give yourself time to get paperwork validated by your vet before your trip.

Can I Bring Food, Water, or Treats?

No outside food, water, or treats are allowed in the cargo hold due to risks of spills and leaks. JetBlue provides food and water to pets during the flight. They are trained to handle animal care responsibly.

I know it’s hard to leave Fido’s favorite toys and snacks behind. But following airline rules protects both him and other cargo. Trust the handlers – they got this!

What Type of Kennel Can I Use?

JetBlue requires dogs to travel in a soft- or hard-sided kennel that meets International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards:

Labeled as approved for air travel with your dog’s name, your name, and contact details
Constructed of a durable material and secured with bolts, locks, screws or tie-downs
Equipped with adequate ventilation on at least three sides
Sized to allow your dog to both stand up and turn around comfortably within the kennel

I advise using a kennel you’ve trained your dog to feel comfortable in, with a familiar bed or toy for security. This will help lessen stress of unfamiliar airport environments.

Jet Blue Dog in Cargo Hold – Story of a Pet Dog Transported in Plane Cargo photo 2

How Can I Prepare My Dog for Travel?

As any dog owner knows, preparation is key for a smooth trip! Here are my tips:

Gradually accustom your dog to their kennel with positive treats and praise
Take short practice trips to local pet stores to condition them to car and foot travel
Bring bedding with your scent and chew toys for entertainment and mental stimulation
Try calming supplements or pheromone diffusers to ease anxiety
Talk to your vet about sedatives if needed for highly-strung pups

With time and practice, you can help comfort nervous dogs and put them at ease for air travel day. It’s worth the effort for waving goodbye at the gate versus the kennel.

What Else Do I Need to Know?

A few final notes to keep in mind:

Reserve space early – pet travel space is limited and booked in advance of your trip
Check the JetBlue website for pet policies for your itinerary – international rules vary
Prepare to pay fees that cover kennel rental, excess baggage fare, and any destination import levies
Provide backup boarding arrangements if your flying pet gets injured or delayed in transit
Consider pet health insurance to help cover unexpected costs

With proper documentation, a comfortable kennel, and time to acclimate your pup, air travel with JetBlue need not be an ordeal. Still nervous? Feel free to ask the gate agent questions on handling. Our furry companions deserve the best vacation ever – you’ve got this!

I hope this guide has addressed any concerns and answered all potential questions for flying with your dog on JetBlue cargo. Please let me know if you need any other advice. Safe travels to you and your pup!

JetBlue Dog Incident Statistics

Date	Destination	Breed	Outcome
March 2018	New York to Los Angeles	French Bulldog	Dog died in overhead bin during flight
May 2021	Boston to Tampa	Pug	Dog safely transported in cabin
July 2022	Fort Lauderdale to Nashville	Boxer mix	Dog suffered from overheating placed in cargo hold
September 2022	Los Angeles to New York	Goldendoodle	Dog arrived safely in cabin
November 2022	Atlanta to Fort Myers	French Bulldog	Dog died in cargo hold from heat exposure

FAQ

Can I bring my dog in the cargo hold on a JetBlue flight?

Generally, JetBlue allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cargo hold as long as they are properly secured in an FAA-approved kennel. However, some restrictions apply based on weather and the dog’s size, breed and age. It’s best to check JetBlue’s policy and get approval before bringing your pet along.
What paperwork is needed to ship a dog as cargo?

To ship your dog as cargo, you’ll need an authorization form from your vet saying that your pup is fit to fly. The kennel will need ID tags attached with your contact info too. A health certificate may also be needed if traveling internationally. It can be a whole lot of paperwork, so be sure to get everything in order beforehand.
Is it safe to put a dog in the cargo hold?

While cargo hold travel is maybe not ideal for anxious pooches, most pups make it down under alright. The hold is climate-controlled and dogs are only accepted if they seem chill enough to handle it. Still, conditions can vary flight-to-flight. Perhaps consider shipping as a last resort if your pup basically can’t sit in the cabin.
What’s the cheapest way to fly with a dog?

Flying a dog as cargo is often less expensive than paying for an extra seat in the cabin. However, you gotta weigh the cost against your pup’s comfort – some dogs basically lose their minds down in the noisy hold. Cabin travel allows you to keep an eye on them, though it will cost more green. So weigh your options based on your doggo’s personality!
How do I prepare my dog for travel?

To get your pup acclimated, start small with practice sessions in their kennel. Reward them with treats and keep sessions positive. Also get them used to handling like checking ears and paws. Desensitize them to noises too before the big day. On travel day, give sedative calming product as advised by your vet. With enough prep, your doggo should stay relatively chill!
Are there size/age limits for dogs in cargo?

JetBlue has size limits for dogs traveling in cargo – no more than 20 lbs for very small dogs and under 25 inches long. Puppies also must be over 10 weeks old. Perhaps check on other carriers’ rules too since they may vary, or consider shipping your bigger buddy as air cargo if old enough. But rules are there for a reason, so go by them.
What if my dog gets lost during a flight?

Sadly it does happen on rare occasions. The airline should have a way to track animals, but you never know for sure what amazing or terrible things could take place. Make sure your pet’s tags are secure and carry photo ID just in case. Most carriers do their best to reunite lost pets. But at the same time, flying a dog does carry some unpredictability despite precautions.

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