Many pet owners prefer to travel with their furry companions, and most airlines allow pets on board. However, traveling with Fido may require more preparation than just packing.
Airlines typically allow small pets in carriers in the cabin for an additional fee. Some owners of large dogs test their limits. In 2023, traveler Gabriel Bognar bought two extra seats to take his Great Dane on a transcontinental flight, but that strategy doesn't work for everyone.
Flying can be stressful for pets, so your pet's comfort is important. The International Air Transport Association has guidelines for how large a pet carrier can fit under a seat or in the cargo hold while still ensuring your pet's comfort. Many airlines consider pets as carry-on items for passengers, so you can only bring personal items in addition to your furry companion on board.
Some dogs may need a little more TLC before flying. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that short-nosed dogs, such as pugs, boxers, and bulldogs, are particularly prone to breathing and overheating problems if they are stressed or experience temperature changes in cargo holds. I am. Some airlines, like Delta Air Lines, limit the varieties they fly. If you have one of these types of dogs, make sure you understand the risks and take the time to train your pet to survive the flight.
Service animals have fewer restrictions and no fees, but don't expect to carry only animals that fall into that category on board. In 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration ruled that only dogs specifically trained to assist humans with disabilities can be called service animals, and the companionship of emotional support animals ranging from ducks to pigs It put an end to flight. If you are traveling with a service dog, you may need to show the airline special documentation to allow the dog to travel with you.
To help travelers and their furry family members prepare for their flights, CitizenShipper researched the pet policies of five major U.S. airlines. America's largest airline is defined as the airline with the most passenger miles from July 2022 to June 2023, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Pet owners should always double check with the airline before departure to ensure that the airline's pet policy has not changed.
