You Can Bring Your Small Dogs on Flights With These Airlines – GWC Mag

The Gist:

• Air travel with pets comes with a number of rules and regulations depending on the airline.
• Rules for pets can be different than those for service animals.
• Always check the rules with your chosen airline before you fly to avoid any complications at the airport.

Flying is already frustrating enough, but it gets at least ten times worse when you bring your dogs. Each airline has its own rules and regulations. Plus, there’s always that anxiety of your furry friend acting up mid-flight or becoming stressed out by the confined, busy environment.

It depends on the airline, but many American travel options have policies that allow small dogs on at least some flights. With American Airlines, for example, you can bring a pet in a kennel, which will count as your carry-on bag. The pet must stay in the kennel under your seat throughout the flight.

For United Airlines, the rules are similar. Both airlines also state that the pet must be able to move around comfortably in the kennel. And because the carrier must fit under your seat, it must adhere to the required dimensions. Some airlines also have specifications for different kennel materials.

Additionally, it’s important to consider where you’re flying from, your destination, and the states and countries you are flying over. United Airlines lists countries that prohibit travel with pets even if you are flying over the countries (not landing at all). This includes countries like Australia, Jamaica, and the U.K. If you were traveling internationally, you would have to choose a different airline.

Because you need to be able to keep your pet under your seat in a kennel of a certain size, many airlines don’t allow large dogs by default. Some airlines don’t allow you to bring pets on certain planes, and you can only fly in certain classes.

Yes, you can. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, it’s illegal for airlines to deny you service with a service animal. They must sit under the seat in front of you, and they can’t block any kind of exit or passageway. If you are flying outside of the U.S., look up the laws about service animals in that country before you fly.

For airlines, the regulations for service animals are different than for pets. Jet Blue only allows “trained service dogs” to accompany you on a flight. You must notify the airline at least 48 hours before the flight that a service dog will join you. However, it is recommended that you do that as soon as possible.

To be safe, make sure you look over the rules for service animals and pets for any airlines you choose to fly with. Rules may change without notice and each airline as their own restrictions you will have to comply with to travel.