Flying with a pet isn't just about picking a random airline and hoping for the best. It's a full-on operation—think paperwork, carrier rules, airline-specific fees, and a whole lot of planning. But don’t stress—once you know what to look for, finding a pet-friendly airline becomes way less chaotic and way more doable. Let’s break down exactly how to sniff out the best pet travel options so your furry co-pilot gets VIP treatment in the sky.
🐶 Step 1: Know What "Pet-Friendly" Actually Means
Before you click “book,” let’s get one thing straight: not all pet-friendly airlines are actually pet-friendly. Some airlines charge sky-high fees, stash your pet in a loud, stressful cargo hold, or have outdated breed restrictions. A truly pet-friendly airline should care about safety, comfort, and making life easier for both of you. Look for carriers that offer climate-controlled cargo, allow small pets in the cabin, and provide clear guidance on pet travel. If an airline hides its pet policies behind 12 clicks and a PDF, take that as a red flag.
🧭 Step 2: Start With the Top-Rated Pet-Friendly Airlines
Not all airlines are built the same when it comes to pet care, so it helps to start with the ones that actually get it. Alaska Airlines consistently tops the list for affordability and pet flexibility—they let small animals travel in-cabin and have one of the lowest fees around. JetBlue’s “JetPaws” program is a huge win too, complete with bonus points and free goodies. Delta and American Airlines also offer decent cargo options if your pet can’t fly in-cabin. And if you’re heading overseas, Lufthansa and Air Canada are known for taking international pet travel seriously, with actual pet lounges in some airports. Yup, lounges. For pets. Goals.
🧾 Step 3: Check Airline Pet Policies Before You Book
This part can feel tedious, but skipping it is a rookie mistake. Every airline has their own set of rules about what kinds of pets can fly, where they sit, and how much it costs. Some have breed restrictions—especially for snub-nosed dogs like pugs or bulldogs—because they’re more prone to breathing issues during flights. Others won’t let animals travel if it’s too hot or cold out. And don’t forget the size limits for in-cabin carriers—your pet needs to fit under the seat in front of you. Always read the fine print and screenshot it in case you have to show a gate agent what the policy actually says.
📞 Step 4: Call The Airline Directly
Yeah, it might feel weird making an actual phone call in 2025, but trust—this step saves headaches. Online booking tools usually don’t handle pet reservations well, especially for larger pets or anything involving cargo. Talking to a real human lets you confirm availability, ask questions about rules, and make sure your pet actually gets a spot on the flight. Some airlines limit the number of pets allowed per flight, so even if you find the perfect deal online, it won’t matter if those limited pet slots are already full. Pick up the phone and lock it in.
📦 Step 5: Consider Pet Relocation Services (For Big Moves)
If you’re moving cross-country or going international, pet relocation services can seriously save your sanity. Companies like PetRelocation or Air Animal handle everything from health certificates and customs paperwork to pickup and drop-off. These services aren’t cheap, but if your pet’s flying halfway across the world and can’t ride in the cabin, they’re worth it. They’ll make sure your pet has a climate-controlled ride, layovers with supervision, and someone to monitor them until they’re safely in your arms again. Basically, it’s Uber for pets—but way more legit and regulated.
🧳 Final Packing List for Flying With Pets
Last-minute packing freakouts are 10x worse when your dog’s whining and your cat’s trying to escape their carrier. Save yourself the drama by prepping everything in advance. You’ll need an airline-approved pet carrier (soft-sided is usually best for in-cabin), updated ID tags, vet paperwork, and a collapsible water bowl. Add calming chews or vet-approved sprays if your pet’s nervous. Oh—and don’t forget poop bags. Nothing says “I travel with style” like being prepared for a mid-air mess. Pro move: tape a checklist to your carrier to make sure you don’t forget anything last-minute.