Flying with your furry friend? Check out our comprehensive guide to flying with dogs on American Airlines. Learn about their pet policy and in-flight accommodations.
Introduction
Air travel can be stressful enough for humans, but traveling with your furry friend can add an extra layer of complexity. If you’re planning to fly with your dog, choosing the right airline is crucial, and American Airlines is a popular choice for many pet owners. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about flying with dogs on American Airlines. From their pet policy to in-flight accommodations, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!
American Airlines’ Policies on Flying with Dogs
Overview of American Airlines’ Pet Policy and Fees
Before booking your flight with American Airlines, it’s important to understand their pet policy. American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on the size and breed of your dog. The fees and restrictions vary depending on the route, so it’s best to check with American Airlines for the most up-to-date information.
If you’re traveling with your dog in the cabin, there is a fee of $125 each way for flights within the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. International flights have a fee of $200 each way. Additionally, there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed in the cabin on each flight, so it’s important to book early to ensure your dog can travel with you.
For dogs traveling as checked baggage, fees start at $200 each way. Dogs traveling as cargo have a starting fee of $275 each way. It’s important to note that there are restrictions on the breeds of dogs that can travel as checked baggage or cargo, so it’s best to check with American Airlines before booking your flight.
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What Types of Dogs are Allowed on American Airlines Flights?
American Airlines allows dogs of all breeds to travel in the cabin, as long as they meet the size requirements. Dogs must be able to fit comfortably in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier dimensions must not exceed 19 inches long x 13 inches wide x 9 inches high.
For dogs traveling as checked baggage or cargo, there are restrictions on the breeds allowed due to safety concerns. Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, are not allowed to travel as checked baggage or cargo due to their increased risk of respiratory issues during air travel.
It’s important to note that regardless of the type of travel, all dogs must have the appropriate health documentation and meet the age requirements set by American Airlines. Be sure to check with American Airlines for the specific requirements before booking your flight with your furry friend.
Preparing Your Dog for Air Travel
Important Considerations Before Flying with Your Dog
Before booking your flight with American Airlines, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it’s essential to ensure that your dog is fit to fly. If your dog has any underlying health conditions or is prone to anxiety, speak to your veterinarian before booking your flight. Additionally, it’s worth noting that certain dog breeds are more susceptible to respiratory issues at high altitudes, so it’s important to check with your vet if your dog is at risk.
Another important consideration is the size of your dog. American Airlines has restrictions on the size of dogs allowed in the cabin, so if your dog exceeds these limits, they will need to be transported in the cargo hold. This can be stressful for both you and your dog, so it’s important to consider whether this is the best option for your furry friend.
How to Prepare Your Dog for Air Travel
Once you’ve decided to fly with your dog on American Airlines, it’s important to take some steps to prepare your dog for travel. Firstly, make sure your dog is accustomed to their travel carrier. Introduce the carrier to your dog well in advance of your flight and encourage them to spend time in it. This will help them feel more comfortable during the flight.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your dog is well exercised before the flight. A tired dog is more likely to sleep during the flight and be less anxious. You may also want to consider withholding food for a few hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
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Finally, it’s important to pack all the necessary items for your dog’s comfort and wellbeing. This may include food, water, medications, and a favorite toy or blanket. With proper preparation, your dog can have a comfortable and stress-free flight with American Airlines.
Booking Your Flight with American Airlines
Booking a flight with your furry friend can be a bit more complicated than traveling solo. However, American Airlines makes the process relatively straightforward. Here are some tips for booking a flight with your dog on American Airlines:
Tips for booking a flight with your dog on American Airlines
Call American Airlines directly: It’s recommended to call the American Airlines reservation desk directly rather than booking online. This will allow you to ask any questions related to traveling with your dog and ensure that there is space available for your furry friend.
Book early: It’s important to book your flight as early as possible, especially if you’re traveling with a large dog. American Airlines limits the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight, and availability fills up quickly.
Know the fees: American Airlines charges a pet fee of $125 each way for in-cabin pets, and $200 each way for pets traveling in the cargo hold. It’s essential to budget for these fees when booking your flight.
What to expect when flying with your dog on American Airlines
When traveling with your dog on American Airlines, you can expect the following:
Checking in: You’ll need to check in at the American Airlines ticket counter and provide all necessary documentation for your dog, including a health certificate and proof of vaccination.
Boarding: You’ll be allowed to board the plane early with your furry friend to get settled in before the rest of the passengers board.
In-cabin accommodations: If your dog is traveling in the cabin with you, they’ll need to remain in their carrier for the duration of the flight. Ensure that their carrier meets American Airlines’ size and weight requirements.
Cargo hold accommodations: If your dog is traveling in the cargo hold, it’s important to prepare them for the flight properly. Make sure they have plenty of food, water, and a comfortable carrier.
By following these tips and knowing what to expect, booking a flight with your dog on American Airlines can be a smooth and stress-free experience.
In-Flight Accommodations for Dogs on American Airlines
Flying can be stressful for dogs, but American Airlines offers a range of in-flight accommodations to make the journey as comfortable as possible. Here are some of the accommodations available:
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What accommodations are available for dogs on American Airlines flights?
Cabin Travel
Small dogs (those weighing less than 20 pounds, including the carrier) can travel in the cabin with their owners. American Airlines allows a maximum of 2 pets per carrier, and only one carrier is allowed per passenger. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of the passenger, and the pet must remain inside the carrier during the entire flight.
Checked Baggage
If your dog is too large to travel in the cabin, American Airlines allows you to check them as baggage. The carrier must be an approved kennel, and your dog must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. You will need to check in your dog at the ticket counter, and they will be transported in the cargo hold of the plane.
Tips for making your dog comfortable during the flight
- Make sure your dog is comfortable in their carrier or kennel before the flight. Familiarize them with it by putting them in it for short periods and gradually increasing the time.
- Pack a familiar blanket or toy to help your dog feel more at ease during the flight.
- Avoid feeding your dog a large meal before the flight. Instead, feed them a small meal a few hours before the flight.
- Provide water for your dog during the flight, but be prepared for spills by lining the carrier with absorbent material.
- Talk to your veterinarian about medication to help calm your dog during the flight if necessary.
By following these tips and taking advantage of American Airlines’ in-flight accommodations, you can ensure a comfortable and stress-free flight for you and your furry friend.
Conclusion
Flying with your furry companion can be a daunting experience, but with American Airlines, you can rest assured that your dog will be in good hands. From their comprehensive pet policy to their in-flight accommodations, American Airlines has everything you need to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Remember to plan ahead, prepare your dog for the trip, and follow all the necessary guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and your furry friend. And for more informative articles on pet travel and other tech-related topics, be sure to check out CohaiTungChi Tech, your go-to source for knowledge and insights that matter.