Airline Pet Policy: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Thinking about taking your furry friend on a trip? The biggest roadblock is often the airline pet policy. Each carrier has its own set of rules about size, breed, paperwork, and where your pet can sit. Knowing the basics ahead of time saves you from surprise fees and stressful last‑minute scrambles.

Cabin vs. Cargo: The Quick Decision Tree

If your dog or cat fits in an airline‑approved carrier under 18‑20 pounds, most airlines let you bring them into the cabin. The carrier must slide under the seat, and you’ll pay a per‑pet fee (usually $30‑$125). Bigger pets go to the cargo hold, which is a temperature‑controlled area but still subject to restrictions.

Key things to check:

• Weight limit for cabin travel (varies by airline).
• Breed restrictions – brachycephalic dogs like pugs and bulldogs are often banned from cargo.
• Seasonal limits – some carriers close the cargo hold for pets in very hot or cold months.

When in doubt, call the airline’s pet desk. A quick confirmation can prevent a denied boarding at the gate.

Paperwork, Health Checks, and Booking Hacks

Most airlines ask for a recent health certificate (generally within 10 days of travel) signed by a vet. Keep a digital copy handy and bring the original on the day of the flight. Some carriers also require proof of vaccinations, especially rabies.

Here are three booking tricks that make the process smoother:

1. Reserve the pet spot early. Airlines limit the number of animals per flight, so book the pet space as soon as you lock in your seats.
2. Use the airline’s online pet portal. It usually shows the exact fee, carrier dimensions, and any extra forms you’ll need.
3. Label the carrier inside and out. Include your contact info, a ‘Live Animal’ sticker, and a brief itinerary in case the carrier ends up in the wrong cargo compartment.

Don’t forget to pack a travel kit: water bowl, a few treats, waste bags, and a calming blanket. A familiar scent can make the trip far less scary for your pet.

Finally, arrive at the airport early. Pet check‑in often opens two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. Extra time lets you handle any last‑minute paperwork and gives your pet a chance to stretch before the journey.

By mastering the airline pet policy basics, you’ll turn a potentially stressful trip into a smooth adventure for both you and your companion. Safe travels!