Know before you go. The basics on flying with your pet

So you’re planning a trip with your furkid and you need to fly to get to your destination. Wondering where to start? Flying can be somewhat stressful on our own, however, adding a pet to the equation means there’s more to worry about. To help ensure a stress-free flight with your pet, there are some basic elements to consider that will help you best prepare.

In-cabin vs. below-cabin

All airlines have policies on whether your four-legged sidekick can stay with you on the plane, or if he must travel below-cabin. In either case, your pet must be in an airline-approved pet carrier at all times. When flying in-cabin, the carrier must be placed directly under the seat in front of you.

If your pet must fly below-cabin, there’s some comfort in knowing that it is climate-controlled. However, be aware that many airlines have embargoes which restrict pet travel during high temperatures in summer months. The embargoes protect furry travelers from the extreme heat in the cargo area when the plane is in a holding area or terminal facility.

Certain breeds are prohibited

Pets with short muzzles and short flat snub noses, such as Persian cats and pugs, are susceptible to breathing problems. Therefore, it is quite possible that they will have a harder time adjusting to pressure changes during flight. Many airlines completely ban brachycephalic pets from commercial flights.

Special considerations

Your pet’s overall health and temperament should be taken into consideration before you book your flight. If your pet is fearful of crowds, aggressive, or highly anxious in new situations, flying may not be in his best interest.

Prior to travel, a trip to the veterinarian is recommended, just to be sure your pet is physically and mentally ready for this new adventure. Your vet should issue a health certificate that you will need to carry with you during your trip.

Cost of your pet’s ticket

Just as each airline has different pet policies, they also have varying fees. Generally, one-way fees range from $50 – $200, and the costs are usually a bit lower when pets travel in-cabin. Additionally, the fees can vary within each airline based on their own policies and restrictions, with certain airlines assessing the pet fee at the time of booking.

Booking your pet’s flight

When booking your trip, your pet’s flight must be booked at the same time when you make your reservation. You must contact the airline directly in advance, and since you can’t book your pet’s flight online, you must call to make the reservation. Additionally, airlines only allow a certain number of pets on each flight, so the sooner the better when it comes to your pet accompanying you on the plane.

About TripsWithPets

We love our customers and we love what we do! We’ve been helping pet parents travel with their furkids for over 10 years. With over 35,000 pet-friendly accommodations across the United States and Canada, we provide pet travelers with a wide variety of pet-friendly options.

When planning a trip, pet parents go to TripsWithPets for all they need to find and book the perfect place to stay with their pet — including detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and pet amenities. Helping pet parents plan trips with their pets is what we do!

We are also passionate animal advocates. We support local and national 501(c)(3) animal welfare organizations by raising much needed funds through our annual Partners for Animal Welfare Series (PAWS).  

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