Traveling can be both exciting and exhausting, and opinions vary widely on whether it’s a good idea to bring a pet along. Some feel pets add extra stress, while others need them for emotional or medical support. Nowadays, seeing cats and dogs at the airport is becoming more common.
Pets are often more than just animals to their owners; they’re part of the family. When families go on vacation, it can be heartbreaking to leave pets behind. Some people feel so attached that they can’t imagine traveling without them, especially those who depend on their pets for comfort or assistance.
In the past, people traveling with pets had to check them in like luggage. Pets were put in cages and placed in the baggage hold under the plane, and then they had to be picked up at baggage claim. Although few accidents happened with pets in the cargo hold, many pet owners were uneasy about it. They worried their pets might be scared, overwhelmed, or confused, much like a parent worries about their child.
Some people have medical needs that make their pets essential. For example, some pets can detect when their owner’s blood sugar is low, warn them of an oncoming seizure, or even respond to signs of cardiac arrest. In these cases, the pet is crucial for the person’s health and safety, and they need their pet by their side at all times. This has led to ongoing discussions about allowing pets to ride in the airplane cabin alongside passengers.
By the end of 2023, demand for pets in the cabin, especially for service and support animals, had grown so much that more than 20 airlines worldwide now allow pets to fly in the cabin with their owners.
21 Airlines That Allow Dogs in the Cabin
Many airlines now allow pets in the cabin, making it easier for pet owners to travel with their furry friends. Some airlines with pet-friendly policies include:
– Air Canada
– Air Europa
– Air France
– Alaska Airlines
– American Airlines
– Delta
– French Bee
– JetBlue
– Lufthansa
– Southwest
– TAP Air Portugal
– TUI Fly
– Turkish Airlines
– United Airlines
– Semi-private airlines like Aero, JSX, BLADE, Surf Air, and Tradewind Aviation
– Aegean Airlines
#### Airline Rules and Requirements
Each airline has its own set of rules for pets in the cabin. These requirements cover details like breed, size, and age. For example, some airlines require puppies to be at least eight weeks old, while others require 12 weeks. United Airlines allows pets of all breeds and weights but requires pets to be in carriers that fit under the seat. Service animals, however, can travel without a carrier and may even have their own seat.
While many airlines welcome service animals, they don’t usually treat emotional support animals as service animals. These pets can only travel in the cabin if they meet pet requirements and don’t automatically qualify for a free seat unless they provide a medical service beyond emotional support.
#### Emotional Support Animals vs. Service Animals
Emotional support animals offer comfort and reduce anxiety for their owners, especially for those afraid of flying. About 25 million adults experience flight anxiety, making emotional support pets valuable to them. However, service animals have specialized training to help with specific medical conditions, such as detecting low blood sugar or responding to a seizure. Because of their training, service animals are often allowed to travel for free.
Some passengers support pets in the cabin, while others have concerns. For instance, a passenger once shared his worry that a support pet didn’t seem to provide any actual service during the flight, leading him to believe it was only traveling for free. Others feel that the needs of those with pet allergies or a fear of animals should also be considered.
#### Tips for Traveling with Pets
If you plan to travel with your pet, here are some things to keep in mind for a smooth experience:
1. **Consider Your Pet’s Comfort**
Traveling can be stressful for pets. If they’re uncomfortable with the idea, it may be better to leave them at home. But if you decide to bring them, you can help them relax with familiar items, like their favorite toy or blanket. Some pet owners even use herbal or CBD treatments to help pets stay calm. Also, try to keep flights short so pets don’t go too long without a bathroom break.
2. **Plan for the Extra Costs**
Traveling with a pet can get pricey. Pets may need recent vet visits, updated vaccinations, and, possibly, medication for anxiety. They’ll also need supplies, like food, treats, a leash, waste bags, and a carrier. The costs can add up, so consider whether it’s worth it.
3. **Research and Prepare**
Make sure your accommodations are pet-friendly. Check for nearby pet-friendly parks, hotels, and other locations, and gather any necessary documents. Double-check that your pet meets the airline’s rules for size, breed, and health. Planning bathroom breaks and time for them to explore can help your pet enjoy the trip too.
With the right preparation, traveling with pets can be a great experience for everyone.
