Travelling With Pets

 Jet-setting pet parents know just how heartbreaking it feels to leave a beloved furry friend at home while traveling. Fortunately, there are many pet-friendly airlines that allow dogs, cats, birds, and a handful of other household animals to fly with you to your destination.

Flying with pets requires a little extra leg work, however. Each pet-friendly airline has different—and, at times, confusing—policies about the types of animals allowed on planes, where they can spend the flight, which destinations they’re allowed to travel to, and what time of year they can fly. Airlines also charge varying pet fees for passengers traveling with a pet. 

When determining which flight to book, carefully read each airline’s pet rules for ​​non-emotional support pets, non-service dogs and cats to ensure you and your furry friend have the smoothest experience possible. Also review the pet regulations at your destination, as many international locales, and even some domestic spots like Hawaii, have strict rules and procedures for bringing pets with you. 

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to flying with pets. The most pet-friendly airline for your journey depends on the type of animal you have, your pet’s size, where you’re traveling, and whether you’d like your pet to fly in the cabin or in the cargo hold as checked baggage.  Many airlines allow pets to fly in the cabin as a carry-on, so long as they stay inside a carrier that’s small enough to fit under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. 

When making travel decisions, choose what is safest and most comfortable for your pet. For instance, unless you'll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, they'll probably be happier at home than tagging along on your trip. As a rule, cats are almost always better off in their own home. But if you have decided it's best to bring your pet along, follow our tips for a safe and low-stress trip. Ask these questions if your pet is flying in the cabin.... 

-Will the airline allow you to take your cat or small dog in the cabin with you? 

-Does the airline have any special pet health and immunization requirements? 

-Does the airline require a specific type of carrier? Most airlines will accept either hard-sided carriers or soft-sided carriers (which may be more comfortable for your pet), but only certain brands of soft-sided carriers are acceptable to certain airlines. 

-If you can't take your pet in the cabin, does the airline have any restrictions on transporting your pet in the cargo hold?

Most airlines have different policies and procedures, so check with your carrier for your options.

Please share your experiences with me!  I love a good pet-story!