Everything You Need to Know About Flying With Pets
If you’ve searched for “pets fly free”, you’re probably wondering how you can take your furry friend along on your next flight. While some airlines do allow pets in the cabin for free, there are usually some rules and fees involved. In this article, I’ll cover all the bases to help clarify the process and answer any questions you may have.
Can Pets Really Fly for Free?
The short answer is: it depends on the airline. Some domestic carriers in the U.S. and Canada do permit small pets like cats and dogs to travel in the cabin without extra charges under certain conditions. However, “pets fly free” is often an oversimplification. Most airlines have size/weight limits and require the pet be kept in an approved travel kennel that fits under the seat.
Also, advance notice is typically needed so the flight crew is aware to expect an animal on board. Some carriers may charge a “petee fee” of $25-50 even if the pet is free in the cabin. And of course, there’s no such thing as a free flight for larger pets that must be stored in the cargo hold.
What Are the Main Pet Travel Options?
Based on my research, here are the three most common ways to fly with pets:
- Cabin transport: For small dogs and cats. The pet stays in an approved kennel under the seat in front of you. Size and weight limits apply.
- Cargo hold transport: For larger pets. The pet flies in a ventilated pet container in the climate-controlled cargo area of the plane. This option involves fees that can range from $100-300+ per leg of the trip depending on the airline.
- Commercial pet shipping: Third-party services pickup the pet near your home and deliver to an airport cargo facility where it connects via airline. Can cost $300-1000+ total depending on distance traveled.
Health/Vaccine Requirements
No matter which travel method you choose, your pet will need very specific vaccinations and documentation. Requirements vary slightly by airline and destination country. At a minimum, most airlines demand proof of current rabies, distemper and bordetella vaccines. Some also require a health certificate from your vet within 10 days of travel.
I’d advise getting all the necessary paperwork in order well ahead of your scheduled departure to avoid complications or a denied boarding pass at the airport. A professional animal transport company can help guide you through the process.
What About Emotional Support/Service Animals?
In recent years, some travelers have tried to pass off their pets as emotional support or service animals so they can fly free of charge. However, airlines have gotten wise to this trick. Regulations state the animal must be professionally trained to perform tasks related to the owner’s disability.
Most carriers now require official documentation from a medical professional and proof the pet is housebroken. Emotional support animals also have restrictions on breed/species. So unless your pet provides a legitimate needed service, don’t falsely claim this designation just to dodge pet fees.
Tips for a Stress-Free Pet Flight
From my experience flying with pets, here are some suggestions for making the journey less traumatic:
- Acclimate your pet to its kennel well in advance through positive reinforcement training. Make it a safe, comfortable space.
- Bring familiar items like a favorite toy or blanket to comfort your pet during travel.
- Provide plenty of food, water and pads/litter before your flight if possible. Some airlines don’t allow these in the cabin.
- Consider calming supplements or pheromone sprays/collars to reduce anxiety, but check they’re airline approved first.
- Don’t sedate your pet without vet guidance. It could be dangerous at high altitudes.
- Bring current vaccination records, health certificate and rabies tag in an easily accessible bag separate from the kennel.
Final Thoughts
Flying with pets certainly requires more prep work and paperwork than traveling solo. But with some research into airline policies, getting the right vaccinations, and comforting your furry friend, it’s totally doable. I hope this guide has helped address all your intentions and cleared up any confusion about making your pet’s air travel a breeze!
Let me know if you have any other questions. Safe travels to you and your pet! While “pets fly free” is an oversimplification, with a little effort you can still take your best friend along for the ride.
Pet travel options
| Travel Method | Cost | Rules |
|---|---|---|
| Car | $1-2/mile | Pets must be secured in carriers or crates |
| Airplane | $200-500 each way | Under-seat pet carriers may required beyond cabin size limits |
| Train | $50-150 each way | Small pets allowed in carriers under seats, larger pets as baggage |
| Bus | $50-150 each way | Small pets allowed on some carriers, larger pets as baggage |
| Ride Share | $5-15 surcharge | Pet must be secured in carrier for entire trip |
FAQ
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Can pets fly for free on airplanes?
Basically, pets usually can’t travel for free on airplanes. Most airlines charge fees for pets to fly in the cargo hold or cabin. However, there are some exceptions for service animals.
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What kinds of pets can fly?
Generally, dogs and cats are the most common pets that fly. Smaller animals like birds, hamsters and some reptiles may be allowed too. But large animals like horses obviously couldn’t fit on a plane! Airlines have size and weight limits as well.
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Do pets need tickets?
Yup, most pets basically need their own airline ticket just like people do. The rules vary by airline, but pets usually must travel in approved kennels or carriers that fit under the seat. The ticket price covers bringing their kennel on board.
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Are there any paperwork requirements?
Kind of yeah, there’s some important paperwork needed. Pets traveling abroad may need a health certificate from a vet. Also, emotional support animals sometimes require documentation from a mental health provider. It’s no joke – airlines strictly enforce pet transport rules.
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What if my pet is scared of flying?
If your pet seems wary of flying, it’s suggested you talk to your vet about calming medications. Some pets really hate the loud noises or unfamiliar sights of an airport. Your vet may provide remedies to help anxious animals feel more chill. Training them to get accustomed to carriers is also important before takeoff!
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Why do some airlines charge more for pets?
There could be tons of reasons why fees vary – maybe fuel costs, more training for staff, or greater liability if a pet somehow escapes mid-flight! Larger animals probably present bigger challenges to transport safely. Ultimately, flying pets adds lots of responsibilities for airlines compared to human passengers. Do they actually make money on pet fares though? That’s debatable!
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Should pets ever be left unattended during a flight?
Definitely not! Pets rely on their owners and get stressed easily in unfamiliar situations. No animal would appreciate being abandoned at an airport during a long travel delay. It’s best to only fly with pets if you can stay with them throughout the whole journey. Their health and safety should always be the top priority.
On the other hand, unaccompanied pet shipping services do exist as an alternative if you can’t fly with them yourself. But going that route requires extra planning to ensure proper care en route.