Understanding what is safe and comfortable for your pet when traveling via airplane is essential. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, airline travel with a pet has dramatically changed and, in some cases, prohibited.<\/p>\n
There is no uniform code among airlines for service animals, so it is essential to review the guidelines before arriving at the airport.<\/p>\n
While service animals are assured to accompany their handler by federal law, some airlines require specific and detailed documentation of service animal status. This is primarily the case for psychiatric service dogs, but check your airline\u2019s service dog section to be sure.<\/p>\n
Traveling with your pet includes a distinct process that varies by airline. From flying with a pet to where they may be allowed to sit on the airplane, we will cover all essential information for travelers to understand before booking a flight.<\/p>\n
Pets should not fly except when their owner is moving or taking an extended trip of at least two weeks. Air travel poses a higher health risk if you have a French bulldog, pug, or another type of brachycephalic dog.<\/p>\n
For small pets, airlines will tentatively allow them, depending on various factors, to fly beside you in the cabin for a fee of approximately $100. It is essential that you contact the airline before you arrive on the day of your flight to finalize all of the arrangements for your pet. You will most likely need to bring documentation of:<\/p>\n
Notably, there is a difference between service animals and emotional support animals.<\/b> Most airlines consider an emotional support animal to be a pet rather than a service animal. It is a controversial distinction but an important one for owners to know before attempting to book a flight with their companion.<\/p>\n
For larger pets who are not service animals, traveling in the cargo hold is an option, but every attempt to find an alternative means of travel should be considered. For some airlines, ESAs may ride in the cabin. However, you will have to go through a process for this to happen.<\/p>\n
When traveling via an airplane with your pet, consider discussing options with your veterinarian to help ease your pet’s stress and to determine if flying is a viable option.<\/p>\n
The size of your pet and the dimensions of their carrier determine where they will be allowed to fly<\/a>. If flying, the best place your pet can be is beside you; unfortunately, at times, this location is not an option.<\/p>\n For those pets who are eligible to sit in the cabin alongside you, there are size requirements. A cat or dog must be in a carrier, and that container must be able to comfortably fit under the seat in front of you, just like a small carry-on bag.<\/p>\n A best practice is to contact the airline before you fly to understand what will be required and what to expect. Sometimes, you will need to present pet medical records or use a particular type of carrier. An airline service agent can also tell you if there will be other pets on the plane during your flight.<\/p>\n If your pet is larger and will not fit in the cabin, the airline might have the resources to allow the pet to travel in the cargo hold. While most animals fly with little trouble, keep in mind there are risks associated with this type of travel due to extreme temperatures and rough handling.<\/p>\n If a service dog cannot comfortably fit in front of you in the airline cabin, they will also have to be sent in the cargo hold. You can pay for first-class to provide more room for your large service dog. A well-trained service dog will be able to \u201ctuck\u201d in front of you and be out of the way. They should not <\/b>have their leg or tail in the aisle or someone else\u2019s spot.<\/p>\n Service dogs do not have to be put in a bag or carrier. A service dog is defined as a dog trained to provide one or more tasks to aid in the disability of one handler. These tasks do not include emotional support or \u201cdetecting anxiety.\u201d Emotional support animals are not service animals.<\/p>\n If you must fly with your pet in cargo, try to book a direct flight, and as you enter the cabin, notify both the flight attendant and the captain that your pet is below.<\/p>\n Booking a direct flight can be more difficult for international travel, so paying close attention to your pet’s health at set intervals of the flight is vital. Finally, be sure that your pet and its carrier are clearly labeled with your information.<\/p>\n You may be wondering: what are the pros and cons of flying with my pet? We\u2019ve laid them out for you.<\/p>\n Many advantages exist when traveling with your pet. Not only can bringing your pet along for an adventure improve your mental health and mood but your cat or dog can experience a new and exciting event with you.<\/p>\n When you bring your pet along with you when you travel, you can have peace of mind<\/b> knowing where they are and that they are experiencing high-quality care by your side. While hiring a pet sitter is an excellent option for when you are away, bringing your pet along for the flight can be comforting and exciting.<\/p>\n Unfortunately, there are some cons when deciding if flying with your pet is good for you. First, bringing along your cat or dog, purchasing an appropriate carrier, and paying an airline fee, among other costs, can add up and might be out of your budget.<\/p>\nService Dogs in the Cabin<\/h3>\n
Pets in Cargo<\/h3>\n
Pros and Cons of Flying With a Pet<\/h2>\n
Pros<\/h3>\n
Cons<\/h3>\n