Have you ever flown on an airplane with your dog? Over the years, I’ve taken my 7-lb Chihuahua, Diego, on a few flights with me. Luckily, they’ve always gone smoothly. With proper planning and consideration, flying with your dog can be a stress-free experience. Yes, seriously! Here are some lessons I’ve learned from flying with my dog in-cabin … hopefully they help you prepare for your future travels.
1. Research Pet Policies
Start by researching different airlines and their pet policies. Not all airlines have the same rules and regulations when it comes to flying with pets. Many major airlines — like Delta, American, United, Southwest, and JetBlue — allow passengers to fly with their dogs. However, different airlines have varying size and breed restrictions for pets in the cabin. So, it’s important to do your homework.
2. Reserve a Spot on the Plane for Your Pooch
Once you’ve chosen the airline, it’s generally best to book your tickets directly through them. This allows you to communicate directly with the airline regarding your pet’s reservation and inquire about any specific requirements. Speaking of, when booking your plane tickets, you’ll also need to reserve a spot for your dog. The last time I flew with Diego, we booked through Delta and they only allow a certain number of dogs in the cabin per flight. You don’t want to book your tickets, arrive at the airport with your dog, and then find out there’s no room for your pup!
Additionally, you’ll want to confirm your dog’s reservation closer to the departure date to avoid any last-minute surprises.
3. Try to Book a Direct Flight
Whenever possible, opt for a direct flight to minimize travel time and reduce stress for your dog. I know these flights can be more expensive, however, layovers and connecting flights can be more challenging for your dog (and you)!
4. Expect to Pay Extra
During my last flight with Diego, I paid $125 for him to fly with me in the main cabin. I purchased a one-way ticket, so I only had this fee once. But if you are traveling round trip then you can expect to pay a fee twice. Please note: This fee does not apply if you are traveling with a service dog.
5. Choose the Right Carrier and Get Your Dog Used to it Before Your Flight
It’s crucial to check with your airline to ensure your pet carrier complies with their regulations. Airlines often have specific requirements regarding carrier dimensions, materials, and features. Even if a carrier is listed as being TSA Airline Approved (like THIS one), still contact your airline well in advance to understand their guidelines and prevent any last-minute complications. Additionally, make sure the carrier is comfortable for your dog. It should be well-ventilated and appropriately sized so your dog can stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Since your dog will be in their carrier for quite a while on travel days, make sure to introduce the carrier to them a few weeks before your flight. I wrote an entire article highlighting 5 Simple Steps To Introduce Your Dog to a Pet Carrier that can help with this process!
6. Get a Health Certificate from Your Vet
Many airlines require passengers to provide a health certificate when traveling with their dogs. A health certificate is a document issued by a licensed veterinarian, confirming that the dog is in good health and fit for travel. This certificate usually includes information about the dog’s vaccinations, general health status, and confirmation that the pet has been examined recently.
The last time I flew with Diego, I paid $55 for his health certificate and it was good for one week. Confession: While I was told that I had to have a health certificate each time I flew with Diego, no one asked to see it either time. On one hand, I felt like I burned money because the certificate was never even seen. On the other hand, the certificate gave me some peace of mind, because if anyone had asked for proof of vaccines, I had it!
7. Exercise Your Dog Before Heading to the Airport
Travel days can be hectic, but make sure to squeeze in a pre-flight walk to help your dog expend excess energy. It’s like that saying, “A tired dog is a good dog.” Providing some physical stimulation before they just lie down in a pet carrier for hours will help reduce restlessness and anxiety during the flight.
8. Limit Water Consumption Before Your Flight
While it’s crucial to keep your dog hydrated, excessive water consumption right before the flight can lead to the need for frequent bathroom breaks during travel. The issue: Airports and airplanes don’t always offer convenient opportunities for our dogs to relieve themselves.
While many airports now have a potty station for pups, I personally find them gross. I brought pee-pee pads with me during my dog-accompanied flight. I just went into the bathroom stall and offered Diego a chance to empty his bladder on the pee pad. Of course, since he isn’t pee-pee pad trained, he just looked at me like, “What do you expect me to do with this thing?!”
9. Arrive at the Airport Early to Check-In at the Counter
On the day of your flight, arrive at the airport well in advance. Airlines typically recommend early check-in for passengers traveling with pets to allow for necessary paperwork and procedures. It’s not as simple as just checking in at the kiosk and then heading to the security line … you’ll need to check in at the counter.
10. Your Dog’s Carrier Counts as One Of Your Carry-On Bags
Anytime I’ve ever flown, I was allowed to carry on two personal items — one larger bag that’s stored in the overhead bin and a purse that stays on the floor under the seat in front of me. When you travel with a dog in the main cabin, though, their pet carrier replaces one of your carry-on items. The carrier must be placed under the seat in front of you (never in the overhead bin!!!). That means, your other carry-on (whether it’s a purse or larger bag) must be stored in the overhead bin. So, pack and plan accordingly.
11. The Cabin Floor Can Get Hot or Cold During The Flight
The first time I flew with Diego, I was told that the cabin floor can get really cold. To keep him warm during the flight, I dressed him in a rather thick sweater. Well, my flight didn’t seem to have the floor blowers on so Diego got very hot. During our second flight, I just kept a thin blanket on the bottom of the carrier. That way he wasn’t overwhelmed but still had some warmth if he needed it. Whatever you wind up doing, stick your hand down into their carrier from time to time, ensuring it’s a comfortable temperature.
12. Some People Don’t Want to Sit Next to Your Dog
As a common courtesy, I always let my neighboring passengers know when I travel with a dog. I do this mainly to ensure no one has any pet allergies. While most people get excited to see my little Diego on the plane, during my last flight, there was one lady who made a big stink out of it! She immediately flagged down the flight attendant and demanded that she be moved because she didn’t want to sit next to “that thing.” THAT THING? Are you seriously talking about my canine kid that way?!?!?!?!?! Oh, she really made my blood boil. I’m always suspicious of people who don’t like dogs. Okay … end of non-dog-people rant. The point here is: You may want to check with your neighbors to make sure no one is allergic.
Safe travels!
