The Ultimate Guide to Traveling with Your Canine Companion
Traveling is an exciting adventure, and for many of us, our pets are an integral part of our lives. They're not just animals; they're family. As such, we want them to be part of our adventures, experiencing new sights, smells, and environments. If you are planning to take to the skies with your furry friend, it's essential to know which airlines are pet-friendly and what their specific policies are.
Traveling is an exciting adventure, and for many of us, our pets are an integral part of our lives. They're not just animals; they're family. As such, we want them to be part of our adventures, experiencing new sights, smells, and environments. If you are planning to take to the skies with your furry friend, it's essential to know which airlines are pet-friendly and what their specific policies are. In this blog, we'll discuss some of the major airlines that allow dogs, along with their respective policies.
1. American Airlines
American Airlines is one of the most pet-friendly airlines, allowing small dogs (and cats) in the cabin on most domestic flights and some international flights. The pet must be at least 8 weeks old and fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The fee is $125 per carrier. Also, American Airlines offers a unique program called "Cuddle Class," in which first-class passengers on certain flights can book a special cabin for their pets.
2. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines allows small dogs, cats, and birds in the cabin on many of their flights within the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. The pet must be small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat in front of you. The fee is $125 each way ($200 for travel outside the U.S.). Delta also has a "Delta Cargo" service for larger pets, but they will be transported in the cargo area rather than the cabin.
3. United Airlines
United Airlines allows small dogs and cats in the cabin on most of their flights within the U.S. and to some international destinations. The pet must be in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. United charges a $125 service charge each way. For larger dogs, United offers a PetSafe program which provides transport in the cargo hold with a dedicated 24-hour animal desk, tracking, and temperature-controlled environments.
4. Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines allows small vaccinated domestic dogs and cats to travel with you in the aircraft cabin. The pet carrier counts as either your carryon bag or personal item, and there's a pet fare of $95 each way. Southwest does not allow pets to travel in the cargo hold.
5. Air France
For those traveling internationally, Air France is a pet-friendly option. They allow small pets in the cabin if the combined weight of the pet and carrier does not exceed 17.6 lbs (8 kg). For larger pets, they provide an option to transport them in the hold. Fees range from $30 to $200, depending on your destination.
6. Lufthansa
Lufthansa is another excellent choice for international travel with your pet. Small dogs and cats can travel in the cabin for a fee ranging from $100 to $200, depending on the destination. Larger animals can be transported in the hold.
Remember...
Every airline has its own specific set of rules regarding pet travel, and these rules can change, so it's crucial to check the current pet policy of the airline before booking your flight. Considerations may include the size and weight of your pet, the type of aircraft, the duration of the flight, and the destination's specific requirements.
Furthermore, remember that traveling can be stressful for pets, especially flying, and it's not suitable for every pet. If you're unsure whether flying is a good option for your dog, consult with your vet. They can provide advice based on your pet's health, breed, and temperament.
So next time you plan to fly, don't forget that your furry friends can join in on
