VivaAerobus Pet Policy – Can You Travel With Pets on VivaAerobus Flights?

Vivaaerobus Pet Travel Policy: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re like me and can’t stand the thought of leaving Fido behind when taking a trip, Vivaaerobus’ pet travel policy is an important thing to understand. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll cover all the restrictions, rules, and fees involved in transporting your furry companions on this budget airline.

Can I Bring My Pet on Vivaaerobus?

The short answer is yes – Vivaaerobus does allow pets to fly in the cabin of certain flights. However, there are some stringent size and breed restrictions that pet parents need to be aware of:

• Only cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin. No other pets like birds, snakes, hamsters, etc.
• Pets must be carried in an International Pet Transport Association (IPTA)-approved soft-sided carrier that fits completely under the seat.
• The carrier cannot exceed a maximum size of 40 x 30 x 20cm.
• Some dog breeds like Pit Bull Terriers are banned from flying as cabin pets due to safety concerns.

If your pet exceeds these size limits or is a prohibited breed, the only option may be to book them as cargo in the plane hold. However, this presents its own risks that I’ll cover later.

Advance Booking & Health Certificates

Unlike most full-service airlines, Vivaaerobus requires booking your pet’s spot at least 48 hours before departure. Same-day reservations won’t be accepted. You’ll also need to provide:

1. A valid veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
2. Proof of current vaccinations like rabies, distemper, and parvovirus.
3. Microchip or tattoo identification.

Failure to supply these documents at check-in can result in your pet being denied boarding. So be sure to get them organized well ahead of time to avoid headaches.

Pet Travel Fees & Charges

While Vivaaerobus allows basic pet carriage, there is a fee structure involved that should factor into your travel planning and budget:

• One-Way Booking: €45 per direction of travel
• Return Booking: €90 roundtrip total
• Cargo Transport: €150-250 each way depending on size/destination
• Overweight Cargo: Fees apply for pets over 10kg

These charges are non-refundable even if your pet ends up being denied boarding for any reason like missing documents. So it’s crucial to get everything perfectly in order to avoid losing the money.

Cabin Travel Tips & Restrictions

While flying your pet in the cabin is much less stressful than cargo transport, there are some rules and best practices to keep in mind:

• Pets must remain in their carriers under the seat for the entire flight.
• You may need to check-in early or book an aisle seat for easy access to your pet.
• No stopping in the lavatory with pets outside carriers due to cleanup and safety issues.
• Pets cannot sit on laps or roam free on board as Vivaaerobus is a no-frills carrier.
• Calming medications prescribed by your vet are allowed but no homemade concoctions.

Remember that Vivaaerobus planes may be more crowded than typical air travel. So keeping your pet crated helps ensure everyone’s comfort level.

Transporting Pets As Cargo: Risks And Recommendations

While cargo transport may seem like the only option for larger dogs, it definitely has downsides to consider first:

• Pets fly alone, unnamed, in the plane hold without an owner present which can be traumatic.
• Extreme temperatures, lack of oxygen, and sudden air pressure changes pose health hazards in cargo.
• There is risk of loss, injury, or death due to mishandling during loading/unloading.
• Hard-sided kennels required by Vivaaerobus are heavier and bulkier to transport.

Unless absolutely necessary, I’d advise choosing another airline that allows cabin transport or resizing plans altogether to avoid putting your pet through cargo travel if possible.

If cargo is the only choice, these tips may help mitigate risks:

1. Reserve your pet’s space as early as you can (6 months+ advance is best).
2. Use an IATA-certified kennel and sedate your pet if they tend to be anxious flyers.
3. Purchase insurance in case something goes wrong during transport.
4. Work with an experienced pet relocation service instead of handling logistics alone.

My Experience Flying With A Dog On Vivaaerobus

A few years ago, my spouse got an amazing job opportunity abroad but it meant relocating our Miniature Schnauzer, Brutus. We decided to fly Vivaaerobus since it was much more affordable than traditional airlines.

Overall, the experience went smoothly once we had all the required documents sorted. Brutus did well crated under the seat for the 2 hour flight, though the lack of legroom meant it felt cramped. I’d advise doing practice runs with your pet confined before traveling to ease any anxiety.

I will say I was nervous how Brutus would handle the car ride between our house and airport. But the calming chew we gave him worked wonders! Just be sure to test medications ahead of time if using them. Overall it was a small price to pay to keep our pup with us during the big move.

Should You Fly With Your Pet On Vivaaerobus?

Ultimately, the decision comes down to weighing risks versus needs on a case by case basis. While pet air travel always carries some level of stress, Vivaaerobus is a very affordable choice if your pet qualifies for cabin transport.

Just be sure to carefully follow all the rules, book extra early, get health documents in order, and consider sedation or anxiety meds from your vet. With some planning, your furry family member can hopefully join you calmly on your Vivaaerobus journey!

Let me know if any part of this pet travel policy guide needs further explanation. I’d be happy to share more tips based on my own experience getting Brutus to our new home. Safe travels to all pet parents out there!

Vivaaerobus Pet Policy

Pet Type	Requirements	Fee
Cats and Dogs	Must be in approved pet carrier that fits under the seat.	$75 USD each way
Emotional Support/Service Animals	Must provide documentation at least 48 hours prior to travel.	No fee, but all requirements must be met.
Other Pet Types	Only cats and dogs are allowed as carry-on pets.	Pets other than cats/dogs must be checked as cargo.
International Travel	Pet and health certificates may be required depending on departure/arrival countries.	Requirements and fees vary.

FAQ

1. Can I bring my pet on the plane with me?

   Viva Aerobus allows only cats and dogs in cabins. All animals must remain in an approved pet carrier that fits under the seat. You’ll need to pay an extra fee per pet.

2. What documents do I need for my pet?

   You basically need a health certificate from your vet saying your pet is fit to fly. Pets also need to be up to date on vaccines. The certificate can’t be more than 10 days old when you travel. It’s also a good idea to bring your pet’s ID tag just in case.

3. Is there a size limit for pet carriers?

   Yes, carriers can’t be bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is sort of a tight fit for bigger dogs. Make sure your pet is comfortable in the carrier before the flight. It wouldn’t be fair to them otherwise.

4. Where can I check in my pet?

   You check in your pet carrier at the ticket counter like you would check luggage. Nevertheless, you’ll want to arrive at the airport extra early on travel days with a pet. Airport agents need time to process your pet paperwork before you fly.

5. What if my pet acts up on the plane?

   If your pet is overly vocal or aggressive in the cabin, you may be asked to take them off the flight, perhaps. Flight attendants need to ensure safety for all passengers. However, most pets do fine as long as they’re properly trained, fed, and won’t mind a few hours in their carrier. Just be prepared to handle any accidents.

6. Are there any travel restrictions on pets?

   Yes, you’ll want to check for pet import/export rules if flying between countries. For example, Mexico might not let you bring your iguana through customs. Generally, dogs/cats can travel more easily than exotic pets. It’s always wise to research animal travel policies ahead of time to avoid headaches down the line. On the other hand, common pets like birds face fewer restrictions.

   

What if I have other questions?

If you have any other queries about Vivaaerobus’ pet policy, you can find their frequently asked questions page online. According to frequent flyers, customer service agents are also usually helpful over the phone. You could give them a call before your journey. In conclusion, planning and preparation seem to be key when transporting pets by air.