Many pet owners prefer traveling with their fluffy companions, and most airlines make it possible to bring them on board. That said, traveling with Fido may take more preparation than just packing your bag.
Airlines typically allow small pets in carriers in the passenger cabin for an additional fee. Some large dog owners test those limits. In 2023, traveler Gabriel Bogner bought two extra seats for his Great Dane to travel with him on a cross-country flight, but that strategy may not work for everyone.
Flying can be stressful for pets, so their comfort is important. The International Air Transport Association has guidelines for how large pet carriers must be to ensure your pet’s comfort, yet fit underneath the seat or in the cargo hold. Many airlines consider pets to be a passenger’s carry-on item, so you’ll only be able to bring a personal item on board in addition to your furry companion.
Some dogs need a little more TLC before they fly. The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that short-nosed dogs like pugs, boxers, and bulldogs can have more problems with breathing or overheating, particularly when they’re stressed or experience temperature fluctuations, which can happen in a cargo hold. Some airlines, like Delta, restrict the breeds it will fly. If you own these types of dogs, know the risks and allow time for training your pet to weather the flight.
Service animals have fewer restrictions and no fees, but don’t expect to bring just any animal on board with that classification. In 2021, the Federal Aviation Administration put an end to flying with emotional support animals that could range from ducks to pigs by ruling that only dogs trained specifically to assist with their human’s disability can be called service animals. If you’re flying with a service dog, you may need to show the airline a special form for them to fly.
In August 2024, the CDC released new international entry requirements for dogs, so if you’re bringing a canine into the U.S., make sure you fill out the correct paperwork ahead of time.
To help travelers and their furry family members prepare for their flight, CitizenShipper explored the pet policies of the five largest U.S. airlines. The largest U.S. airlines were defined as those with the highest passenger-mile volume from July 2022 to June 2023 according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Pet owners should always double-check with airlines well before flying to ensure the airline’s pet policies haven’t changed.
Pet Policies on the Largest Airlines in the U.S.
Gallery Credit: Jill Jaracz