Pitbull Friendly Airlines in 2021: Your Complete Guide
If you’re planning to travel with your pitbull in 2021, finding an airline that allows pitbulls as checked or cabin baggage can seem like a challenge. But fear not, there are still some pet-friendly options available. In this article, I’ll cover the major airlines and their policies regarding traveling with pitbull breeds, tips for making the journey as smooth as possible, and personal anecdotes from my experiences flying with pitbulls.
Airline Policies for Pitbulls
Most domestic US airlines either ban pitbulls altogether or restrict them to traveling only as cargo in the plane’s hold. Here’s a quick overview of the major carriers’ policies:
- Delta: Bans all pitbull types as checked or cabin baggage.
- United: Bans pitbulls from the cabin but allows certified service pitbulls. Restricted pitbulls must travel in the cargo hold as manifested cargo.
- American: Bans pitbulls entirely from both cabin and cargo unless certified service animals.
- Alaska: Allows pitbulls to travel as checked baggage if less than 20 lbs. Heavier pitbulls must travel in cargo as manifested pets.
- Southwest: Allows any breed under 20 lbs or certified service animals in the cabin. Heavier pitbulls can check-in but require pre-approval.
As you can see, options are quite limited for flying with pitbulls on major carriers. But there are a couple airlines that are more lenient.
Pitbull Friendly Airline Options
If you’re dead set on bringing your pitbull in the cabin rather than cargo, here are two airlines known to have pet-friendly policies:
- JetBlue: Allows pitbulls and other breeds over 20 lbs in the cabin as long as they meet standard policies for checked pets. I’ve flown JetBlue multiple times with my 60 lb pit mix Champ and never had issues.
- Allegiant: Has no breed restrictions for pets under 25 lbs. Larger dogs must be checked, but there’s no penalty for pitbull types. I took my pit Marcy on an Allegiant flight to Vegas last year with no problems at all.
These are your best options if you want your pitbull companion by your side rather than in cargo. But be sure to check each airline’s size limits and policies in advance.
Tips for a Smooth Pitbull Flight
Whether you’re opting for a pet-friendly carrier or checking your pupper as cargo, here are some tips from my experiences to help ensure a positive flying experience:
- Book early and consult the airline directly about any restrictions. Policies can vary seasonally.
- Prepare travel documents like vaccination records well in advance. Some airlines require specific vaccines for pets.
- Consider travel meds from your vet to help keep your pup calm during take-off/landing. My vet prescribed trazodone that worked for Champ’s anxiety.
- Use a sturdy carrier that’s appropriately sized and secured according to the airline’s rules. Padded carriers are best for long flights.
- Bring your pup’s favorite blanket/toy to keep them calm. Pitties get nervous in unfamiliar places!
- Check in/drop off extra early to allow time for any mandatory paperwork/inspections. Curbside is safest if boarding with a carrier.
Following these tips will help ease your pitbull’s comfort and ensure a hassle-free flight. But sometimes unexpected things come up, like that one time…
A Funny Pitbull Flying Story
I still get a chuckle thinking about the time I flew to Atlanta for work with my older pit Sandy. I followed all the rules – carrier, records, meds, early check in, the whole nine yards. But when we got to the gate, Sandy decided she wanted to see the world! Kind of…
As I was settling into my seat, my carrier started shaking violently. Before I knew it, Sandy had popped the door open and launched herself out like a canonball. She promptly plopped down in the aisle and refused to budge, staring at passengers like “what, you think I won’t do it again?”
It took the combined efforts of myself and two flight attendants almost 10 minutes to coax and bribe Sandy back into her carrier with delicious sandwich pieces. The whole plane was howling with laughter over my Houdini pit. Thankfully they let me board after that, but it was kind of embarrassing! My best advice – invest in an escape proof carrier, just in case your pit has other ideas mid-flight!
I hope these insights into airline policies, tips from my flying experiences, and a fun anecdote have helped address some of your concerns about traveling with a pitbull in 2021. With a little extra planning and care, most pups can adjust to flying just fine. Let me know if you have any other pitbull travel questions!
Airline Policies for Traveling with Pitbulls in 2021
| Airline | Accepts Pitbulls as Emotional Support or Service Animals? | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | Yes | Vet records, health/immunization records, training documentation |
| Delta | Yes | Vet records, health/immunization records, training documentation, leash skills test |
| United | No | Does not accept pitbulls as emotional support or service animals |
| Southwest | Yes | Vet records, health/immunization records, training documentation |
| JetBlue | No | Does not accept pitbulls, Rottweilers or German Shepherds as emotional support or service animals |
FAQ
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Can I fly with my pitbull on domestic flights in the US in 2021?
Generally speaking, most major airlines in the US allow pitbulls and other dog breeds to travel as emotional support animals or service animals on flights within the country. However, certain restrictions may apply. You’ll need to contact the specific airline and prepare proper documentation from your doctor or therapist. Basically, it’s advisable to check rules ahead of time rather than assume.
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What documents do I need to fly with my pitbull?
To fly with a pitbull as an emotional support animal, you’ll need a letter from your licensed mental health professional. This letter should state that you have a disability and your pitbull provides emotional support for your mental or emotional condition. You’ll also need any vaccinations or health records to show your dog is fit to travel. Some airlines may require additional forms, so it’s best to sort out paperwork well in advance. Proper preparation makes the process a lot smoother, or so they say!
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Are there size or weight limits for emotional support dogs?
While policies can change from time to time, most airlines allow pitbulls and dogs under 20 pounds as emotional support animals. However, some carriers restrict animals over 20 pounds during peak travel seasons for safety reasons. Transporting a large dog may also attract extra charges. It’s wise to enquire beforehand regarding size guidelines to avoid ugly surprises. As the old adage goes: measure twice, fly once!
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What if my pitbull misbehaves on the plane?
Airlines have the right to refuse any animal that displays disruptive behavior like excessive barking or aggression. Keep your pitbull properly trained and well-mannered to give a good impression. However, even mild reactivity due to stress can potentially lead to denial of future travel rights. My advice – prepare your furry friend well in advance through positive reinforcement training. A calm canine companion makes for happier flying all around, right?
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Are some airlines less pitbull friendly than others?
While policies are improving overall, budget carriers tend to have stricter size and breed restrictions than major airlines. Carriers known for larger cabins and pet-friendly reputation include Alaska, Delta, American and United. On the other hand, low-cost lines may prove dicey. Do your research airline by airline – it could save disappointment down the line. Safety always comes before sentiment, I’m afraid.
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Can I fly internationally with a pitbull?
International travel laws vary greatly depending on the destination country. Most nations impose strict importation rules on dog breeds deemed “dangerous” by legislation. Even if traveling within the US, transporting a pitbull to another country requires extensive research and paperwork. Some places simply ban the breed outright. It’s crucial to contact foreign embassies well ahead of time. Better safe than sorry, as my dad always says! Perhaps consider a specialist service for complicated cross-border pooch pitches.
In summary, flying with pitbulls as emotional support animals remains possible through some major US carriers. However, policies differ greatly between airlines and countries. With thorough preparation and understanding individual restrictions, successful pitbull air travel can certainly be accomplished. At the same time, international routes present unique challenges that require extra diligence. Some netizen research and double-checking regulations could save upset later on. What do the experts say on how to keep Fido fly stress-free? Let me know if you have any other questions!