Pets can be accepted on a plane as carry-on or checked baggage, depending on the airline. Domestic travel allows dogs to be at least 10 weeks old, while interstate flights require dogs to be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned before traveling. For pets traveling to or from the European Union, dogs must be at least 15 weeks old, and for pets traveling to the US from other countries, they must be at least 16 weeks old.
Carry-on pets are limited to cats and dogs that meet size, age, and destination requirements. Checked pets are only accepted at the ticket counter for active-duty U.S. passengers. Pet dogs must be 6 months old if traveling to the U.S. from another country, and pet cats must be at least 16 weeks old.
Airlines have specific guidelines for travelers with pets, and each airline has its own regulations and fees. It is important to familiarize yourself with these rules and consider factors such as where your dog can sit and the cost of traveling with them.
Puppies need to be at least 8 weeks of age before they are allowed on a plane, and there may be some destination-specific restrictions. To ensure a smooth journey with your furry companion, it is essential to determine if your dog is eligible to travel based on their size and breed, as well as the pet fee.
In summary, traveling with a pet on a plane requires understanding the specific regulations and fees, as well as preparing your pet for the journey.
📹 DON’T FLY WITH YOUR DOG in airplane cargo before you see this
We share our story about flying with our dog in the airplane cargo. Watch this before you buy your dog a flight ticket. Here’s a link …
What is the age limit for dogs on planes?
Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old when traveling within the U. S. and Puerto Rico, with age and vaccine requirements depending on the risk of dog rabies. The U. S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued new requirements for bringing dogs into the U. S. Carry-on pets can be transported as a carry-on or through American Airlines Cargo, with carry-on pets limited to cats and dogs meeting size, age, and destination requirements.
When can I take my dog on a plane?
It is imperative that pets traveling with unaccompanied minors, who are younger than eight weeks old, and in cabins remain in the kennel and be stored under the seat in front of the passenger at all times.
At what age can a puppy fly?
International airlines generally require a minimum age of 15 weeks for puppies to fly. However, it is generally accepted that a puppy under eight weeks old cannot be flown. Many countries, including the UK and EU, do not allow unvaccinated puppies under 12 weeks to enter their countries. Young puppies are vulnerable and struggle with eating and sleeping alone, and they often cry and cry when left alone. It is advisable to wait for them to become independent before taking them on an international trip.
Puppy younger than 15 weeks should not travel on international flights due to their lack of vaccination and respiratory systems. It is recommended to wait until the puppy is at least 16 weeks old before traveling on an international flight.
Is flying safe for older dogs?
Consider all options before making a decision to travel with your elderly pet. Your vet may suggest air travel is too risky for your pet, but if your move is permanent or too long for boarding or pet sitting, staying behind may be the safest option. It’s important to research every option and have all facts in hand. Millions of pets fly each year, many older, and they handle their trip well. You can be confident that you will find a well-qualified vet to care for your pet in your new country.
In-cabin travel may be the best solution for small dogs or cats, especially if you can deplane between legs of your journey. Older pets may feel less anxious in a carrier under the seat in front of you.
Can dogs survive long flights?
When traveling with your pet, it is essential to ensure they are physically fit for the long flight and meet all airline and destination country requirements. Book early to avoid unnecessary changes in your plans. Ask about check-in timing, as airlines limit the number of pets allowed in the cabin and cargo. If your pet will be in the cabin, check in earlier and head to the pet relief area for last-minute exercise. If your pet is traveling as cargo, arrive as late as allowed to minimize elapsed time in their kennel.
Ensure your pet is familiar with their travel carrier and take longer practice trips via car to get them used to it. Adult dogs and cats can make it through the night without needing to relieve themselves, so your pet should be okay on most very long flights. Line their carrier with absorbent materials like a Dry Fur pad or thin blanket.
Feed your pet no less than 2 hours prior to departure for domestic US flights or 4 hours prior to departure for international flights. Feed a small amount on the day of departure to avoid an upset stomach. Do not tranquilize your pet, as sedatives can interfere with their balance and cause cardiac and respiratory issues when in high altitudes. Acclimate your pet to the kennel as early as possible and send along something familiar to them.
In-cabin pet travel may not be the best option for long flights or multiple flights due to potential restiveness and agitation. Reaching in to pet your pet while on the flight is not possible, and any accidents or agitation could negatively impact you and those around you.
How soon can you fly with a dog?
It is a requirement that domestic cats and dogs be at least eight weeks old before they can be transported. Furthermore, it is not permitted for unaccompanied minors to travel with a pet. The fee for transporting a pet on a U. S. mainland flight is $125 per pet carrier, while the charge for flights between Hawaiian Islands is $35 per pet carrier.
Is it OK to fly with a new puppy?
The U. S. Department of Transportation mandates that puppies must be at least eight weeks old and have been weaned for at least five days for air travel. Small breed dogs may have weight and age minimums. The CDC requires all dogs entering the U. S. to be immunized against rabies, so if imported from outside the U. S., vaccinations should be done at least one month prior to travel. For international flights, dogs must be at least 16 weeks old.
A visit to the veterinarian is essential, and some airlines require a veterinary health certificate within a specific number of days before travel. Puppy deworming should be completed at least three days before the flight. Puppies must be completely healed from recent surgeries to be accepted for travel.
Is it safe for 12 year old dog to fly?
Older dogs can handle flying if they are healthy. The safest place for a pet is in the cabin with you, but if your dog is too big to fit under the seat, you may need to transport them in the cargo hold. The ASPCA recommends following air travel guidelines on their website. Some airlines suggest dogs over seven and a half years of age receive an extensive health screening before flying. It is not recommended to give your dog tranquilizers before an airplane trip, as they can interfere with breathing and temperature regulation at high altitudes.
Is flying stressful for dogs?
Dogs typically travel well without medication, but some may experience significant stress during air travel. Consult your veterinarian to create the best travel plan for your dog. Strategies to de-stress canine flights include using a Thundershirt® swaddle, Adaptil® pheromone calming collar, or prescribed medications like Trazodone, gabapentin, and alprazolam. Test the medication at home before your trip to gauge your dog’s reaction.
If your dog experiences motion sickness in a car, your veterinarian may prescribe a medication specifically to avoid it during your flight. With proper planning, attention to detail, and consultation with your veterinarian, flying with your dog can be a great experience.
Is there an age limit for dogs to fly?
In accordance with the regulations set forth by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Welfare Act, canines and felines must reach an age of eight weeks prior to embarking on a flight via cargo. Nevertheless, airlines are permitted to implement more rigorous policies, stipulating a travel age exceeding eight weeks. It is incumbent upon animal owners and shippers to ascertain the minimum age requirements of the airline in question prior to embarking on their journey.
Is it stressful for puppies to fly?
Dogs can fly long distances, but they can be stressful due to the change in air pressure. A 12-hour flight in a cargo hold can be more unnerving for them than a 1-hour flight in a pet carrier. Ensure your dog is given comfortable surroundings, sleep, and opportunities to eat and drink. Pet travel specialists can handle your dog correctly and treat them like their own pet. PBS Per Travel works with reliable airlines for safe pet travel.
Dogs can experience painful ear popping due to changes in air pressure, which can make the flight more stressful. Chew toys and gentle petting can help relieve pain and distract your dog. Altitude sickness is also a possibility for dogs, and check for signs of discomfort through barking or body language.
Altitude sickness is not always likely to happen, but it can be a sign that something isn’t right. It’s important to ensure your dog is comfortable and well-cared for during their journey.
📹 POV dog traveling on airplane.
Alegra the 4 year old Amstaff- Minibullterrier is traveling for her 5th time by airplane. Stockholm-Athens.
That is very worrisome. No matter how careful you are…it’s still on a wing and a prayer. Thanks to God that Cooper is safe again in your care. These stories of pets being mishandled and dying during transport make my stomach sick. Thanks for sharing your experience and so relieved Cooper made it home okay.. Sure do love Cooper and you all for being so good to him! Linda
Some tips for flying dogs in cargo: 1. Never fly them on United Airlines. Many dogs have died or get injured on a United airlines flight. 2. Make sure the airline has not have any reports of dogs dying. It can lower the risk. 3. If possible fly them in the cabin with you. Only some small sized dogs can go in the cabin sadly. 4. Try to fly a pet friendly airline if possible. To try to find one usually articles online can tell you pet friendly airlines. 5. Make sure your dog gets a good sleep and try to walk it before the flight. I could help your dog to stay active. 6. After the flight try to take your dog on a walk, feed it, and give it water. I can help the dog to feel a bit beater after flying. 7. If taking a long flight try doing connections. Try to take a long connection so your dog can walk and relax before the other flight to the destination. 8. If your dog looks sick try to take it outside quickly and try to go to a vet. Sometimes dog can get sick or not feel good due to flying for a while. 9. Try to track your dog. By tracking it you can make sure it’s on your plane and safe. 10. Try to give your dog a little rest after landing. It can help the dog feel better from flying or being sick after flying. Those are some of my tips. Feel free to reply anything or ask me questions I might be able to answer some of them.
The wire, they did that on purpose, it’s to make it where if his tags got caught on any part of the crate, and he panicked it wouldn’t choke him out, or possibly kill him. You should be grateful they did that. You aren’t supposed to have his tags on during the flight, they are supposed to be in a bag with his vet information
I’m a catmom of Merri, a 9 year old Norwegian Forest Cat. We live in Quebec and travel often to Vancouver BC. I’m lucky he’s only 13lbs (that’s very small for a Norwegian, as many are 20 lbs) and the limit for cabin is 14lbs. I have been thinking about getting a second cat and am glad you shared your experience. I’ll do an extra round trip to come get the 2nd one … no cargo hold for us … but I get you have no choice if the weight is over. Train isn’t really an option for me either, since it’s 4 days in a non-climatized (freezing in winter, stifling in summer, break every 10 hours or so for food / toilet, plus the noise of the train. We do short train trips to Montreal, Toronto or Ottawa, no longer than 8 hrs and in cabin. Cooper is such a champ! Check out our website to see Merri on his travels!
Thank you for sharing, I will be doing this too. This will be essential for me as I will be traveling internationally and Wifi may not be available, and a Tile is exactly what I would need. After discussing what happened to your dog and my paranoia about being separated from my dog, this is amazing. I can’t express how much you telling this story helps me. Thank you!! Actually I correct myself, so many people use the Tile and this is a must have for any pet owner, there are tile users ALL OVER THE WORLD!!
I’m so glad Cooper is OK and back with you safe and sound! He is such a beautiful angel, it would have just so heartbreaking if something had happened to him! He is so precious. It is always worrisome when a pet has to fly in cargo, separate from his family. He looks so happy and healthy. Bless your beautiful corgi angel.🐕👼🐾🐾
Thanks for your informative article. As I’ve never been in such situation but I’d put my eyes on that “somebody” when I travel with my country’s airlines (if you wonder, i’m from Viet Nam). But above all, our cutie’s safety is no.1 priority so I was glad to see that smile blossomed on Cooper’s face. Wish you all the best
So your dog travelled with a collar on? When we moved countries last December (we were not in US, did not go to US and did not travel through the US, though,) our dogs did not wear collars, tags or clothing for safety reasons. If they needed info on either dog, they were microchipped (which is also compulsory in both our origin country and in our destination country, so they have had chips for most of their lives.) It is standard procedure in both Singapore (or it in country) and Cyprus (where we moved to,) that animals do not wear any collar or clothing during the flight.
This article is a bit dramatic. No shade, just keeping it real. To play devil’s advocate – what if they did not catch something serious, and it got through? I think the airlines have a job to do. if they see something that does not seem right, that may need further investigation, I want them to snap the zip ties and inspect it. When you bring your pet onto a plane, and check it in the cargo hold, you run the risk of the animal being handled by X number of ppl beginning to end – multiple airports. That is the reality. Are these ppl going to document everything carefully – likely no. Is that right, no – I think they should have told you, but it does not shock me that they didn’t. These workers are likely high school educated making at or just above minimum wage. Bottom line? If you cannot see your animal, accept that this could be the reality.
2 years late but the worst flight I had with dog which is lab it’s becci by the way . We got checked in and I was flying in business class because it’s a long flight it takes likes 22 to 23 hours . They let me take my dog in on one condition that my shud be in my cabin only . And we said ok me and my brother had cabin besides eachother’s so my brother said he wants dog to come to him so I opened a cabin door and that’s the mistake I did the flight attendant reported us for breaking the rules .adk why the flight attendant did that Can anyone explain?. And I flyed before covid so yaa. I’m asking again can someone explain
I know you had a tight schedule but I wish you had confronted a manager. Someone could have been thinking of stealing him. Things have to change . Airlines need to allow a pet to ride on a seat next to their person or I’d insist on traveling in the cargo hold with my dog. I’d pay for the xtra seat or a Corgi could fit on my lap. Please don’t let this go. Follow up so someone in charge is aware. It could have been a disaster. Thankfully he’s ok. We have to put up with crying babies, smelly or ignorant passengers. I see no reason why a well behaved dog shouldn’t be allowed to ride with his person. More people travel with their pet. Airlines need to evolve and adapt. Love you Cooper.❤ Too bad you can’t tell what happened.
The “wire” is probabli a keyring that have been stretchd. This have happend to me several timmes When been flying with my german sheperd. So i put à camera inside his cage, so i Could se what was going on. The tags got stuck in the cagegrid during takeoff. So he Panict and ripped of the ring with all tags. The ring looked exactly like yours every time. Secure the tags with a bit off gorilla tejp against the collar. Should solve your problem🙂
Oh! “Cooper!” I thought you called the Corgi “Pooper!” I have 2 Corgies with 5 pups. So I wouldn’t be surprised if it had been named that. Been a long 2020 winter and I am glad May will soon provide warmth for all day yard time! Even though I have a “Pet Loo,” with a removable pee tray (on each floor), However, my male Corgi has decided to use the “Pet Loo” like a fire hydrant instead as a flushable potty (have to remove the tray to empty and flush). So, Blaze is going to need remedial training. I could put him in the kennel area, in the basement, but I would miss him being near me. He likes to rest at my feet (which gives warmth to my feet on a cold winter’s day}! I am thinking about taking some trips so I found this article helpful. However, lets face it, travel in any conveyance has perils. The only thing to do is do the best to eliminate, or at least minimize, the hazards. It appears some airlines have better records transporting animals. I would choose those airlines.
My Teddy and I will be flying go Denver next month. He is 13 Lbs I already paid for his ticket when I booked mine. We are flying Frontier airlines. My Teddy will be in a cabin with me. Last yr I travelled with my 5 Lbs Chi in cabin no problem. It was United Airlines. They only allow x number of pets on board so check with them first.
Hello i just was wondering if Cooper was scared during or after the flight. We may move to Korea from the US and i’m very scared for my dog. Before we took him in, he was abused by his old owners and is still traumatized. He gets scared by the smallest things. He has gotten a lot better now but I am scared that he will be traumatized even more because of the loud noises he must go through before and after the flight. I am even more scared because we are flying out of the country and the flight will be about 18-19 hours long. Cooper is probably much more different than my dog and not as scared but i was just wondering if Cooper was scared after the flight. I am very glad Cooper is now safe ❤️ Please give me some feedback 🙂
That’s sketchy, I will admit. It isn’t as bad as I thought it would be and not the worst I’ve heard. Still tampering with a live animal when the owner was assured they were secure is risky at best. Fact is, airlines (like most other companies) are only willing to go by the legal guidelines and not go above and beyond. This means they do not view pets as living beings. They are simple property and it’s your responsibility 100% when deciding to travel with them or if you want anything done. I fly with working dogs in the cabin and they sit at my feet. I have always been given red carpet treatment when I fly with my K9s. First on the flight, given the most leg room, and first off the plane when we land. My dogs are trained and have all the credentials needed to be viewed as more than just a walking piece of property. In most cases they look as if they dog doesn’t exist and that’s what you want, really.
Hello. If there is a choice, would you repeat this process? Im torn either to bring my cats in cargo for like 15 hours journey with transit from Asia to Europe; or leave them with someone to take care of them. I’ll be moving to Europe for new job (at least 5 years) and I can visit my cats only 4 times a year (about 1 week each). Any thoughts? Especially for the interest of the cats.
I could not understand the point in the article. I use Tile myself, and find it very useful, but as of now, Tile might not be known very well, and the airport security totally had reason to check something they were not familiar with. Although you did explain what the device was, that doesn’t mean they can’t check it. If someone put a dangerous device on a dog and just say “it’s a tracking device”, airport security won’t just say “Ah, ok. We don’t have to check it”. Although you did not have the intent to harm, the airport security were doing their jobs, because if a device were going to cause harm, it wouldn’t be up to just what you would tell them. They probably took the device, analyzed it, and gave it back. And what happened wasn’t even a big deal. This was extremely exaggerated, no harm was done to the dog, and no harm was done during the flight.
The one that I hate on some airlines is that they always put animals at the cargo area rather than at the passenger area, so would recommend if your going through a international flight, I recommend to use a boat :p coz you don’t need to worry about your pet, but it’s kinda expensive Airplane? Car or vehicle✓ Boat?
Could I ask what crate you are using for flying with your dog and if it’s International Air Transport Association (IATA) standard? I am looking to fly me and my dogs internationally (not with united ofc) because I don’t want to give them up, but having a hard time knowing which crates are up to IATA standard and all the documentations needed for flying. It’s such a complicated process but I hope it’ll be worth it once we get home
I want to have a pet but the problem is I know i will travel and my parents don’t like traveling in cars always in planes.I always worry when I have a pet in planes and they are put in a crate somewhere…..I’m scared tho.So I might not have a pet until I would get my parents to use a car or something to travel.
Hey, so same thing happened to my corgi but in a different situation…We gave her her tag, which is also attached with a ring like yours on her collar. But for two times, in my house I found the ring which attached the tag, “opened up” to be in that same shape in your article. First time, I found my dog’s tag missisng and the ring hanging. And then later In found the tag under her crate. I was confused by how the tag and the ring gone separate. And FYI, my dog sleep in her crate at night. So it can prorabbely be done by her. And then we used another ring to attach her tag.But then, this time, we saw how it happen…So her dangling tag got stuck on to the gap of the buttom of the crate when she lays in there, and when she’s trying to get up, she was panicking that she’s stuck, and pulls the tag with her neck, which drag open the ring(this must have been done with so much forces)!! This time the ring got pull into a U shape and her tag fell out….We wont believe that she has that power to pull open a ring js with her neck, but yep she did it. And when i was perusal your vid, it seems that the gap on your dog’s flight crate can completely have the same thing happen too….SO the one who detached your dog…might atrcaully be Cooper himself lol
Thank you for recommending Tile. We’re going on a camping trip with our corgi and our border collie-mix this winter and I think those will be a great investment just in case. We full into the have them on some kind of lead the entire time if we aren’t in the cabin, but you never know and safety first right?
I was about to fly with my puppy dog, and then saw this article and then I never mind and put him at home when I went holiday (btw my dad was looking after him) soz I was heading to Iraq Baghdad I go there for more types of reasons I love the food street night is beautiful I met my grandpa and grandma and then when I came back home my puppy was like so exited and missed me I hope y’all learn (not to bring ur dogs on a plane cause I don’t trust airlines because I don’t want to lose my puppy this is why u should never do THiS) thank u for reading this.
I wouldn’t put a human on American planes let alone a dog in cargo I’m sure other country airlines have issues but Youtube is littered with American airlines United southwest From pee’ed off workers to bad pilots And customers going nuts I have traveled maybe 6 times Never had seen someone removed from over booking Or delayed more than 20 mins to 45 mins But i would still not have my 2 small and very small (5lbs) dogs in cargo Or in cabin unless i was leaving my country for good over water