JetBlue Dog Travel Policy and Rules for Flying with Pets in 2022
As an avid traveler with a furry companion, one of the most common questions I get asked is about airplane policies for pets. In this detailed guide, I’ll break down JetBlue’s current rules for traveling with dogs so you have all the information you need for your next trip. From restrictions and fees to tips for making it a positive experience, here’s everything you need to know about JetBlue’s pet policy in 2022.
What Types of Dogs Are Allowed?
JetBlue allows one dog per passenger in the cabin as long as it meets these criteria:
- The dog must be at least 8 weeks old.
- It cannot weigh more than 20 pounds.
- It must remain in an FAA-approved hard-sided carrier that will fit under the seat.
Service dogs and assistance animals are exempt from size and weight restrictions. Emotional support animals also fly free but require additional documentation.
Booking and Preparing for Your Dog’s Flight
When booking on JetBlue’s website or app, you’ll need to select the number of pets traveling and pay the $100 pet fee per direction of travel at the time of booking. It’s non-refundable even if your pet isn’t ultimately cleared to fly. From my experience, it’s best to book well in advance to avoid any issues.
Your vet must also sign a health form stating your dog is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. I always get the form filled out during my dog’s annual checkup just to be prepared. You’ll present this at the airport.
As stressful as flying can be, keeping your pup confined in a carrier for hours isn’t kind. I give my mini schnauzer CBD oil treats the night before and morning of to help her relax. Maybe try that or lavender oil on your dog’s bedding for a calming effect.
What to Bring For Your Dog’s Comfort
In addition to their carrier, here are some items I always pack to help make my dog’s flight more comfortable:
- Two sturdy leashes – one for in the airport, one in the carrier
- Ample plastic bags for clean-up
- Non-spill water and food bowls
- Familiar toys and blankets with your scent
- Wipes or baby powder to combat wet paws
- Peanut butter or dental chews as a distraction
Don’t forget your own snacks, headphones, and entertainment too! Airplane rides can seem endless so come prepared. From my experiences, preparation is key to reducing stress for owner and pup.
What to Expect at the Airport
Plan to arrive at the airport extra early since every dog will need to be checked in separately from passengers. The check-in agents are well-trained to work quickly so long lines tend to move fast despite the individual checks.
They’ll want to see that your dog is happy, calm, and quietly contained in their carrier. Some agents may ask you to briefly remove the dog so they can do a visual check. If your pup seems distressed or the carrier isn’t regulation, they reserve the right to deny boarding for safety.
Security is pretty smooth since carry-on bags with pets go through the X-ray separately. Just be ready to remove your pup briefly if requested by TSA. Try to make the experience positive with praise and treats. In really busy airports, having your paperwork and ID pre-organized is key to not delaying the line.
What to Expect Onboard
Once on the plane, you’ll want to store your dog’s carrier under the seat in front of you where it remains in view. For takeoff and landing when it’s noisiest, speaking calmly and giving treats or toys as distractions can be helpful. Keeping the shade lowered also limits overstimulation.
It’s common courtesy to notify seatmates that you’ll be traveling with a pet. Most folks are pretty understanding, especially if you bring treats! I always offer them one of the spare blankets or toys from my dog’s bedding kit just in case of accidental messes. Brownie points never hurt.
Flight attendants are very pet-friendly on JetBlue in my experience. They’ll swing by periodically to check on your pup and make sure you have everything you need. Redirecting with treats as the beverage cart passes or cabin fills with noise and people is smart. Try to keep interaction limited if your dog seems stressed and nip excessive barking immediately to avoid disturbance.
Overall JetBlue does an excellent job of making the pet travel process smooth. With some prep work and understanding from all passengers, most dogs take to flying like pros. Don’t be afraid to ask staff questions either – their #1 goal is safe and comfortable transport of all fliers, big and small!
Additional Restrictions and Exceptions
Here are a few more specifics on JetBlue’s pet policy:
- Pregnant or injured dogs are not allowed due to distress potential from air pressure changes.
- There is a limit of one pet container per passenger.
- Emotional support animals up to 125 pounds can fly but health forms are required.
- Snack restrictions apply for travel within the US and internationally – check for your destination.
JetBlue often runs specials or lower pet fares if you keep an eye on their deals page. Score a discounted ticket and your pup gets to join for less $. Traveling during off-peak months and days of the week may also net you a better rate overall.
Personally, as nervous as I was the first time, my little dog is now a frequent flyer and adores car rides to the airport. With the right socialization and training from puppyhood, most small dogs can really enjoy flying, don’t you think? Why not try it with JetBlue and see if your pet likes it too?
Hope this guide gave you all the details needed to take your furry best friend along for the adventure. Feel free to send me a message if any other questions come up. Safe travels to you and your pup!
JetBlue Dog Policy 2022
| Dog Breed | Weight Limit | Crate Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Bulldog | 20 lbs | Medium soft-sided | Must remain in carrier under seat |
| Labrador Retriever | 55 lbs | Large hard-sided | Must check-in crate at ticket counter |
| Golden Retriever | 65 lbs | Extra large hard-sided | Only 2 dogs allowed per flight |
| German Shepherd | 80 lbs | Oversized hard-sided | Additional $75 fee applies |
| Great Dane | 150 lbs | Custom-sized hard-sided | Must be declared and approved in advance |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog on a JetBlue flight?
JetBlue allows small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin of the plane for a fee. Certain restrictions apply like size and health requirements. Be sure to check JetBlue’s website for full details.
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What are the rules for flying with a dog on JetBlue?
Some of the main rules include: your dog must be able fit comfortably under the seat in front of you in a carrier, can’t weigh over 20 pounds, and must have updated vaccinations. You’ll need to purchase a ticket for your furry friend too. It’s basically a lot like bringing a carry-on bag, but scarier for pup!
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Is it stressful for dogs to fly?
While each dog is different, flying can definitely be pretty stressful and scary for most pups. The changes in air pressure, noises, and being confined to a small carrier for hours isn’t exactly what dogs are used to. Some vets even say it’s one of the most traumatic things we ask them to do. However, with the right training and medication from your vet, the experience doesn’t have to be totally awful.
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What do I need for my dog’s paperwork?
You’ll need your dog’s vaccination records showing they are current on rabies, distemper/parvo, and Bordetella vaccines. An Export Health Certificate may be needed for international flights. JetBlue also requires a ticket purchase for your doggo. It’s important to have all your doggy docs neatly organized and easily accessible at the airport. Kind of like doing taxes!
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Can I sit with my dog on the flight?
Yes, that’s one of the perks of flying JetBlue with a pup. You get to keep your dog under the seat in front of you for the entire trip. This cuts down on their stress from takeoff, landing, and being stored overhead or out of view. Just be prepared for curious passengers to ask to pet your pooch. Dogs have a way of flying under the radar on flights, if you catch my drift!
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Is it cheaper to fly my dog as cargo?
Perhaps, but most dog owners agree their pet’s comfort and safety is more important than a few bucks. While cargo is less costly, there is always a risk of delays, loss, or even injury to animals flying in the belly of the plane. JetBlue’s cabin requirements mean smaller dogs travel like people – cared for by their parents the whole ride. To me, avoiding cargo stress is worth paying a bit extra. Your dog will thank you later!
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What if my dog acts up on the plane?
If all else fails and Bowser gets rowdy mid-flight, the crew may ask you to secure them in a crate underneath the seat for the rest of the trip. Try your best to keep pup calm and occupied with toys/treats. But on the bright side, most dogs do better than kids on planes! And if he gets too “hyper”, just say he’s energized by all the tailwinds. Aviation jokes – got em!