Traveling with pets can be a daunting experience for many pet owners. The logistics, paperwork, and potential stress factors can make it seem like an impossible task. However, with careful planning and choosing a pet-friendly airline, the journey can be smooth and enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
1. Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines is consistently ranked among the top pet-friendly airlines, and for good reason. They allow two pets in the cabin per passenger, and they have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
2. Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines is another great option for pet owners, with a pet policy that allows two pets in the cabin per passenger. They also offer a unique "Pet Nanny" service, which provides assistance with boarding and deplaning your pet, as well as pet relief areas and pet-friendly in-flight meals.
3. Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for pet owners due to its affordable fares and relaxed pet policy. They allow one small pet in a carrier in the cabin per passenger, and they have no weight or size restrictions.
4. Delta Air Lines
Delta Air Lines is a major airline that is also pet-friendly, allowing two pets in the cabin per passenger. They have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
5. American Airlines
American Airlines is another large airline that is pet-friendly, allowing two pets in the cabin per passenger. They have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
6. United Airlines
United Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, and they are also pet-friendly. They allow two pets in the cabin per passenger, and they have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
7. JetBlue Airways
JetBlue Airways is a popular choice for pet owners due to its affordable fares and relaxed pet policy. They allow one small pet in a carrier in the cabin per passenger, and they have no weight or size restrictions.
8. Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines is a low-cost carrier that is also pet-friendly, allowing one pet in the cabin per passenger. They have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
9. Frontier Airlines
Frontier Airlines is another low-cost carrier that is pet-friendly, allowing one pet in the cabin per passenger. They have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
10. Allegiant Air
Allegiant Air is a low-cost carrier that is also pet-friendly, allowing one pet in the cabin per passenger. They have a variety of pet-friendly amenities, such as pet relief areas at most airports and special pet boarding passes.
Expert Insights From Spot
It is not uncommon for airlines to have size or weight restrictions for pets that will be in the cabin during the flight. If you plan to travel often with your pet, it may be easier to choose a breed small enough to fly in the cabin with you. According to Spot Pet Insurance's internal data, some of the most common breeds under 25 lbs. include:
What Are The Additional Tips To Travel With Your Pet?
Regardless of the airline you choose, there are some additional tips that can help make your pet's travel experience more pleasant:
Get your pet used to their travel crate or carrier well in advance of your trip.
Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all of their vaccinations.
Bring along plenty of water and food for your pet.
Consider using a pet calming aid if your pet gets anxious when traveling.
Talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you may have about traveling with your pet
According to the article, “Airplane Travel With Your Dog,” written by DVMs Malcolm Weir, Tammy Hunter, and Ernest Ward, traveling by airplane can be risky to dogs who have heart disease, kidney disease, or other pre-existing conditions. So, if you are preparing to travel with your pet, and they have not been seen by their vet in a few months, it’s best to take them in for an exam prior to your trip. Some airlines will ask to see a health certificate before they allow your pet to fly, so make sure to ask you vet for a certificate if necessary.
Key Takeaways
Embarking on a journey with your furry companion can be a cherished experience, filled with shared moments of discovery and adventure. By choosing a pet-friendly airline and following these expert tips, you can ensure that your pet travel experience is smooth, stress-free, and enjoyable for both of you. Remember, traveling with your pet is a testament to the unbreakable bond you share, and with careful planning and consideration, you can create lasting memories that will bring smiles for years to come. Embrace the joy of traveling with your beloved pet, and together, explore the world's wonders, one paw print at a time.
How Spot Pet Insurance Can Help
No pet parents want to think about their companion ever becoming ill or injured, but accidents and illnesses can happen anywhere, at any time. That's why Spot uses no networks! That means you can visit any vet in the U.S. or Canada to get your pet the care that they need. Spot Pet Insurance offers both accident and illness and accident-only plans that can be customized to meet the needs of each pet. Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and opt into a preventive care add-on to get coverage for vaccines, dental care, spay and neuter procedures, and more! Get a quote today!
Audrey Halfen: Beta fish whisperer - whopping 9 months and counting! Once had a dog named Max, who I assertively claim is the cutest dog ever. Ready to throw down in a cute-off, if necessary.
