If you can’t stand the look on your pup’s face when you leave them at home, the only solution is to bring them with you. Because everything is better with your canine companion. If you plan on bringing your furry friend on a flight, there are a few restrictions and costs you should keep in mind. We did some research on the top airlines in the US and rounded up everything you need to know.
Delta
If your doggo is flying Delta, here’s what you can expect. Fees range from $75-$200, depending on your final destination. If you want your canine in the cabin, he/she needs to be small enough to fit in a kennel under the seat in front of you and be at least 10 weeks old. If you’re traveling internationally, your pup must be at least 16 weeks old and is not allowed in First Class/Delta One/Business Class. Your pup counts as one carry-on item. For massive mutts, they must travel as cargo in an approved shipping kennel. If you don’t have one, you can buy one directly from Delta. Be aware that if you have a flat-faced furry friend (like a pug or bulldog), they are not allowed to travel as cargo.
American
Snub-nosed dogs get the snub again when it comes to traveling as cargo. American does not allow these breeds as checked luggage, but they do allow them as carry-on. Carry-on canines will cost you $125, while checked pets are $200. All pets need to be at least 8 weeks old and stay in approved carriers. Carry-on kennels must fit in front of you and can be hard or soft-sided. Checked kennels must be made of wood, metal, or plastic and should be well-ventilated and secured.
Southwest
If you’re flying Southwest, you’ll have to leave your big doggos at home. Southwest only allows pets in the cabin, not as checked luggage. Your tiny pup will set you back $95 and must be at least 8 weeks old. Their kennel can be hard or soft and must fit under the seat in front of you. An official Southwest pet carrier is available for purchase for $58. Flying furry friends cannot sit in an exit row and are not allowed on international flights.
United
Pups on United can fly in the cabin or as part of the airline’s PetSafe transport program. Carry-on dogs cost $125 and can be brought in addition to a carry-on bag. Much like other airlines, they must be at least 8 weeks old and be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. With the PetSafe program, United ensures that your pet is shipped safely. They require sturdy, well-ventilated kennels that provide adequate space for your dog. They also have approved kennels available for purchase. All this extra care unfortunately does not come cheap. Depending on your destination and size of your dog, prices for the PetSafe program range from $200 to over $2,000. But pug-nosed dogs rejoice! These breeds are allowed to be checked, they just require larger kennels with extra ventilation.
JetBlue
When it comes to pet travel, JetBlue gets two paws up. Their program JetPaws helps pet owners travel worry-free. Once you join the program, you receive a special bag-tag, a list of Petiquette tips, and even extra points every time you fly. They even have a special JetPaws carrier available for $32. Pets cost an additional $100 and they count as a carry-on item. Sadly, only small pups are allowed in the cabins and larger dogs cannot be shipped.
So pack your bags with the cutest matching outfits you can find and get ready for a v fun and v furry vacation with your puppy pal.
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