A Comprehensive Guide to Flying With Your Dog in the Cabin
Whether you’re moving cross-country, taking a family vacation, or just visiting friends and relatives, many pet owners want to include their furry companions in their travel plans. If your dog is small or medium-sized, flying with them in the passenger cabin of the plane is an option worth considering. However, there are a few important things you need to know to make the journey as stress-free as possible for you and your pup.
Airline Pet Policies
The first step is checking the pet policies and restrictions for the specific airline(s) you’ll be flying. Most major domestic carriers in the US allow dogs to travel in-cabin, but they have size and weight limits as well as container or crate requirements. For example, Delta, American, and United generally permit dogs under 20 pounds that can sit comfortably on your lap or fit under the seat in front of you. Larger dogs usually need to be checked as luggage instead of flying in the cabin.
You’ll also need to purchase a ticket for your dog. Most airlines charge $125 or more each way as a “pet carriage fee.” Be sure to book early, as only a limited number of pets are allowed on each flight for safety and logistical reasons. And don’t forget health documents – you may need a certificate from your vet verifying your dog is healthy, up-to-date on vaccines, and trained not to be disruptive.
Choosing the Right Travel Crate
An approved hard-sided or soft-sided travel crate will be your dog’s safe space for takeoff, landing, and any time they are not in your lap. Look for something rigid but lightweight, like a collapsible plastic kennel. It should allow your dog to sit or lay down fully while giving them line of sight before and after the crate to reduce anxiety. Practice letting your dog get comfortable in the crate at home before travel day.
Preparation is Key
Giving your dog multiple positive experiences with their crate and car travel leading up to the flight will help them associate it with something pleasant rather than scary. Bring along their favorite toys or treats to help soothe them. On the day of, make sure your dog goes potty right before arriving at the airport to prevent accidents. And don’t feed them for a few hours before takeoff so they won’t get airsick.
Checking In and Boarding
After curbside check-in, you and your dog may need to go through a separate security screening at the airport. Remain patient and calm – how you act will influence their behavior. Once through security, relax in a pet-friendly area of the terminal until it’s time to board. Most airlines will pre-board passengers with pets to avoid last-minute delays. On the jetway, keep your dog close and secure until finding your seat.
In-Flight Tips
While air travel is stressful for dogs due to unfamiliar sights, sounds, and motion, following a few tips can help them stay comfortable:
- Let your dog get acclimated to their crate in your lap before takeoff and landing, when noise levels increase dramatically.
- Bring a favorite chew toy or stuffed Kong filled with peanut butter to occupy them during turbulence or engine activity.
- Speak to your dog in a calm, reassuring voice throughout the flight.
- Request a seat near the bulkhead so your pup isn’t crowded by passengers’ feet or luggage during taxi.
If all else fails and your dog gets really anxious, a light sedative prescribed by your vet may take the edge off without fully drugging them. But try relaxation methods first whenever possible.
Arrival and Beyond
Once you land, don’t immediately release your dog from their crate until reaching a quiet area of the airport. Remain low-key to avoid over-excitement. From there, praise enthusiastically when they use the bathroom outside, eat, play – anything positive! Stick to their regular routine as much as travel allows to help your furry friend transition back to “normal” with ease.
Taking a road trip instead of flying may be better for some highly stressed dogs. But with proper planning and accommodation of their needs, many canines tolerate aircraft just fine. The benefits of including your pup in meaningful trips often outweigh any short-term stresses of flying. Just be sure to meticulously follow carrier guidelines to keep the whole experience a positive one for both of you.
I hope this covers all the important bases for flying with your dog in the cabin from my years of personal experience owning, training, and traveling with canine companions both commercially and privately. Let me know if any other questions come up – I’m always happy to help pet parents out. Safe journeys to you and your pup!
“Flying with Your Dog in the Cabin”
| Airline | Breed Size Limit | Crate Requirement | Cabin Fare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delta | Under 20 lbs | Hard-sided crate | $125 each way |
| American | Under 25 lbs | Soft-sided carrier | $125 each way |
| United | Under 20 lbs | Vehicle-approved carrier | $125 each way |
| Alaska | Under 20 lbs | Soft-sided or hard-sided crate | $100 each way |
| JetBlue | Under 20 lbs | Hand-held or under-seat carrier | $125 each way |
| Southwest | Under 20 lbs | Hard-sided crate that fits under seat | No additional fee |
FAQ
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Can I bring my dog in the cabin on the plane?
Most major airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin as long as they are properly contained in an FAA-approved kennel that fits under the seat. The kennel needs to be big enough for your pup to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Be sure to check the specific policies and size restrictions for the airline you are flying.
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What paperwork does my dog need?
You’ll need to show proof your pup is friendly, house trained, and up to date on vaccinations. Things like health certificates from your vet within 10 days of travel and paperwork showing the dog has traveled before can help. Maybe contact the airline in advance to ensure your doggo’s documentation is in order.
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How long can I leave my dog in the kennel?
The kennel needs to remain closed at all times during boarding, takeoff, landing, and taxiing for safety reasons. However, once airborne you can let Fido out for short stretches to stretch their legs and do their business on absorbent pads. You’ll need to return them to the kennel during mealtimes and anytime the seatbelt sign is switched on though. Communication is key to balance your pup’s needs.
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Won’t my dog be stressed out in the plane?
Flying can definitely be spooky for pups unused to it. Talk to your vet about calming aids like adaptis or CBD oil to help relax them. Bring favorite toys/blankets too. On the day, do not overfeed or give too much water in case of an upset belly at high altitude. Despite everything, sometimes even the chillest dogs freak on planes. Going through training to desensitize them to flight noises can aid the process.
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What if my dog acts up?
If your pup gets overly anxious or crazy, the flight staff may ask you to place a muzzle on them or move you to a less crowded area. In rare cases of extreme disturbance, they reserve the right to offload you and your pooch from the plane altogether for safety reasons. With proper prep and an understanding attitude about weird dog behavior sometimes occurring, hopefully it’ll be smooth sailing!
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How much does it cost to fly a dog?
Most major carriers charge around 5 per direction for an in-cabin dog. There may be weight limits and size restrictions too depending on the airline. It’s usually cheaper than the luggage charge for putting your furry friend in the cargo hold where the conditions are less pleasant. Overall costs can differ greatly, so make sure to research fees carefully for your specific flight and dog.
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Can I fly internationally with my dog?
Taking pup across borders gets trickier due to import regulations varying country to country. You likely need an ISO approved carrier, a health certificate, and proof of vaccinations. Some places require quarantining as well. It’s best to dive deep into the protocols where you’ll be traveling to or through to know the proper steps. An experienced pet relocation service can assist with paperwork hassles.