Do Pets Fly Free? What You Need to Know About Bringing Pets

Air travel with pets requires some preparation. Save your pet's flying spot first. Reservations necessary. Some airlines refund pet tickets if you change your mind.

Arriving early at the airport is good advice for flying with dogs. Most airlines demand a live animal checklist. This proves pets had food and drink

You'll hold your pet and walk through the screening gadget while the carrier is x-rayed at security.

Ready to board? Expect no special treatment—board with your assignment boarding group like everyone else.

What if Fido needs to pee before boarding? You may find “relief stations” online or ask an airport employee for the nearest one at most airports.

Dogs, cats, bunnies, and birds are allowed in the cottage. In cargo/baggage, cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, nonpoisonous reptiles

Dogs and cats—the most common pet travelers—must be 8 weeks old. Ensure your kennel fits firmly beneath your seat. Hard-sided and soft-sided

The same kennel can hold two similar-sized pets. Takeoff, landing, and deplaning require pets to stay in their kennels (no head or tail).

Pet check-in in the cargo hold is $100 each way. A veterinarian's health certificate is needed within 10 days of travel. Certain Alaskan destinations

American Airlines allows one pet per traveler as a carry-on, although breed and size limits apply. All dogs—carry-on and checked

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