Flying with your furry friend can be an exciting adventure. The key question, “Where Do Dogs Travel On Planes,” is crucial for pet owners planning a trip. SIXT.VN understands that traveling with your dog requires careful planning, and we’re here to guide you through the process, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for both you and your canine companion. Discover the world of pet travel, from in-cabin options to cargo considerations, all while enjoying the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam upon your return.
1. Should Your Dog Fly? Assessing Your Dog’s Suitability for Air Travel
Deciding whether your dog should fly is a critical first step. Air travel can be stressful for dogs. According to research from the American Kennel Club in 2023, strange sounds, sights, and smells of airports and new destinations can be challenging for pets. Before booking your flight, consider your dog’s temperament, health, and age.
1.1 Evaluating Your Dog’s Temperament and Health
Is your dog generally anxious or easily stressed? How does your dog react to loud noises and unfamiliar environments? Does your dog have any pre-existing health conditions? Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog is physically and mentally fit for air travel. Remember, your dog’s well-being is the top priority.
Papillon sitting indoors with a traveling crate in the background.
1.2 Potential Health Risks and Considerations
Changes in diet and water can affect dogs’ gastrointestinal health. The upheaval of traveling and time-zone changes could lead to dehydration or interruptions to strict medication schedules. Discuss potential risks with your vet, especially if your dog has diabetes or other health concerns.
1.3 Alternatives to Flying: When to Consider Other Options
If your dog is prone to anxiety or has health issues, consider alternative travel options such as driving or hiring a pet sitter. In some cases, it might be best for your dog to stay home in a familiar environment. SIXT.VN can help you explore local pet care options in Vietnam if you decide to travel without your dog.
2. Preparing to Fly: Essential Steps for a Smooth Journey
Once you’ve determined that your dog is fit to fly, thorough preparation is essential. Research airline policies, destination requirements, and health regulations to ensure a hassle-free journey.
2.1 Airline Policies: Understanding the Rules and Regulations
Each airline has its own specific policies regarding pet travel, including size restrictions, breed restrictions, and carrier requirements. Contact the airline directly to confirm their policies and ensure your dog meets all the criteria. Always communicate with the airline in advance, ideally at the time of purchasing tickets.
2.2 Destination Requirements: Quarantine, Vaccinations, and Restrictions
Confirm if your dog can fly with you where you’re traveling, and determine if there are quarantine, vaccine, or other restrictions on dogs entering that area. The AKC maintains a list of state-by-state travel requirements, but additional rules may apply when traveling internationally and for US residents traveling internationally who are returning to the U.S.
2.3 Booking Direct Flights and Avoiding Extreme Temperatures
When flying with a dog, it’s best to book direct flights whenever possible. If you’re traveling in the summer, try to pick early morning or evening flights to avoid the hottest parts of the day. In winter, it’s best to book midday flights to avoid the cold. Note: during extreme temperatures, dogs are often not allowed to fly in cargo.
2.4 CDC Guidelines for Dogs Entering the U.S.
For dogs entering the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have new guidelines that went into effect in August 2024, which owners must consider when making travel plans. If a dog is being imported into the country for the first time or returning to the U.S. from another country, the person who will be traveling with the dog must submit a CDC-approved Dog Import Form online in advance. All dogs entering the U.S. must be immunized against rabies, be at least 6 months old, and have an International Standards Organization standard microchip.
3. Preparing Your Dog for Flying: Health Checklist and Veterinary Care
Ensuring your dog’s health is paramount before any flight. A thorough veterinary check-up, proper vaccinations, and necessary medications are crucial for a safe and comfortable trip.
3.1 Veterinary Appointment and Health Certificate
Schedule a veterinary appointment before your trip. While a health certificate may not be required for all domestic flights, it’s always best to have your dog examined by a veterinarian. Your vet will confirm that your dog is healthy enough to travel, if they’re up-to-date on vaccinations, and will provide you with an updated rabies certificate.
3.2 Medications and Prescription Diets
If your dog is on any prescription medications, be sure to pack enough for at least the length of your trip. Don’t forget about your dog’s preventative flea and tick medications, too. If your dog eats a specialized or prescription diet, bring enough food with you for at least the length of your trip, as you may not be able to find it while traveling.
3.3 Managing Anxiety: Calming Aids and Strategies
Talk to your vet about potential calming aids for your dog, such as natural supplements or prescription medications. Test these aids before the flight to ensure they are effective and safe for your dog. Consider using pheromone sprays or calming music to help reduce anxiety during travel.
4. What to Bring When Flying with Your Dog: Packing Essentials for a Comfortable Trip
Packing the right supplies is essential for ensuring your dog’s comfort and well-being during the flight and throughout your trip.
4.1 Essential Documents: Proof of Vaccinations and Health Records
Check to see if you’ll need to have a health certificate signed by your veterinarian. Even if it’s not required, it can be useful to have these documents with you, just in case. Be sure to check the entry requirements, including information about quarantines for any destinations where you and your dog will be flying.
4.2 Airline-Approved Carrier: Size and Safety Considerations
Confirm if your carrier meets the size requirements of your airline and your specific flight. Airline carriers should be waterproof and provide your dog with as much room as possible. Dogs must be able to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around inside the carriers.
4.3 Food, Water, and Comfort Items
Bring a portable water bowl and a small amount of food in a baggie inside your carry-on luggage. This is especially important in case your flight gets delayed. Pack your dog’s favorite treats and a familiar toy to provide comfort during the journey.
4.4 Hygiene Supplies: Poop Bags and Pet Wipes
Don’t forget poop bags and pet wipes for easy cleanup. These are a great option for easy cleanup if your dog gets sick while traveling. A chew for your dog can be especially helpful during takeoff and landing to help make the pressure changes more comfortable for them.
5. How to Prepare Your Dog for Flying: Training and Familiarization
Preparing your dog for the flying experience involves training, crate familiarization, and exposure to airport-like environments.
5.1 Crate Training: Creating a Safe and Comfortable Space
Expose your dog to their crate early, so they’re comfortable and familiar with being in a carrier for long periods of time. Let your dog explore their crate at home where they feel safe and pair going into the crate with praise and treats.
5.2 Exposure to Airport Environments: Sounds, Sights, and Crowds
It can be helpful to bring your dog to loud and crowded dog-friendly places, like bus stations and dog-friendly stores. This will help your dog be more prepared for the sights and sounds of the airport.
5.3 Basic Obedience Training: Ensuring Good Behavior
Airlines require that dogs must be well-behaved when flying, meaning that dogs shouldn’t be excessively barking, and cannot growl, or act aggressively. To prepare for a flight, it can be helpful to train and practice to earn your dog’s CGC title before your trip. The skills learned for the CGC, such as walking through a crowd or behaving politely around other dogs, will help prepare your dog for being in an airport. Training more specific to how your dog must behave on a plane can also be useful. For example, some dog trainers set up rows of chairs to simulate an airplane to teach a dog how to sit under a seat in a carrier.
6. Dogs at the Airport: Navigating Security and Pet Relief Areas
Airports can be overwhelming for dogs, so knowing what to expect can help ease the stress for both you and your furry friend.
6.1 Check-In Procedures: Cargo vs. Cabin Travel
If your dog is flying via cargo, you’ll check them in with your airline as soon as you arrive at the airport. From that point on, the airline staff will be responsible for getting your dog’s crate onto the plane and off at your destination. If your dog is traveling with you in the cabin in a carrier, you’ll proceed through TSA screening.
6.2 TSA Screening: What to Expect
To go through security, your dog will need to come out of their carrier. They’ll then go through the full-body scanner and TSA personnel will screen the carrier. They may also inspect your dog’s collar or harness and leash.
6.3 Pet Relief Areas: Finding Designated Spots for Your Dog
Once you’re through security, most airports have pet relief areas, so be sure to make time for your dog to relieve themselves. While waiting to board your flight, you may be able to have your dog out of their carrier to stretch their legs.
7. During the Flight: Ensuring Your Dog’s Comfort and Safety
Once on board, it’s important to maintain your dog’s comfort and safety throughout the flight.
7.1 Carrier Placement: Under the Seat or in Cargo
Dogs aren’t permitted to sit on their owner’s lap. It can be helpful to give your dog a chew to comfort them during the most turbulent and noisy parts of the flight. Chewing helps to naturally relax your dog, and can also help them adjust to the pressure changes associated with takeoff and landing.
7.2 Managing Anxiety: Comfort Items and Reassurance
Provide your dog with their favorite toy or blanket to create a sense of familiarity. Speak to your dog in a calm and reassuring voice to help reduce anxiety.
7.3 Staying Hydrated: Offering Water During the Flight
Offer your dog small amounts of water throughout the flight to prevent dehydration. Use a portable water bowl that is easy to access in the carrier.
8. Flying with Dogs: An Airline-by-Airline Guide
Different airlines have different policies. Here’s a detailed guide to some of the most common airlines:
8.1 Alaska Airlines: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates or proof of vaccination aren’t required for dogs traveling in the cabin on Alaska Airlines, but dogs must be in good health. Dogs who appear sick or distressed can be denied access to the flight. Dogs flying cargo must have a health certificate dated within 10 days of the flight and within 30 days of the return flight.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Small dogs are permitted to fly in an approved carrier in the cabin. The dog counts as the passenger’s carry-on allotment for under-the-seat baggage. Two dogs of similar size may travel in the same carrier if the dogs are comfortable, and no body parts protrude from the carrier.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? First-class cabins can accommodate a total of three pet carriers per flight. The main cabin can accommodate eight pet carriers per flight. For international flights or flights to Hawaii, dogs are only permitted in the cabin. You can fly with two pet carriers in the main cabin if you purchase a second ticket for an adjacent seat.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes. Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and weaned to fly cargo.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in cargo? Dogs and crates cannot weigh more than 150 pounds combined. Dogs flying cargo must be on the same flight as the ticket holder. Dogs must be comfortable in their crates and cannot require any attention or support from airline staff during the flight.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. There is a $100 fee per pet for flying in the cabin or cargo.
8.2 American Airlines: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs traveling via cargo on American Airlines need original signed health certificates completed by a licensed veterinarian within 20 days of the flight for both the initial flight and a return trip. Health certificates aren’t required for dogs flying in the cabin.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Dogs are allowed to fly in an approved carrier under the seat on most flights, up to 11 hours and 30 minutes in length.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Depending on the plane, there’s a maximum of either five or seven pets allowed in the cabin of each flight.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? Dogs are only permitted to fly in cargo with active-duty US Military and US State Department Foreign Service personnel traveling on official orders. Up to two pets can be checked to fly cargo.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. There is a fee of $150 per carrier for dogs flying in the cabin. Fees for dogs flying cargo will vary based on destination and are confirmed at time of booking.
8.3 Delta: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates aren’t required for dogs flying in the cabin as a carry-on on Delta. Dogs who are flying cargo need current health certificates signed by a veterinarian within 10 days of the trip.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes. Dogs must fit into a carrier that fits under the seat directly in front of you. The carrier must have ventilation openings on three sides for domestic flights or four sides of ventilation for international travel.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic flights. For international flights, dogs must be 16 weeks old if traveling to the United States, and at least 15 weeks when traveling to Europe.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes. The carrier for dogs must be large enough to allow the dog to sit, stand, lay down, and turn around without touching the top or sides of the crate. The carrier must comply with International Air Transport Association regulations.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes. The fee for flying with a dog is $95 each way for domestic flights and $200 for international flights.
8.4 Frontier: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: There are no health certificate requirements for flying with your dog on Frontier. However, specific destinations may require health certificates from a veterinarian.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs that are at least 8 weeks old are allowed on all domestic Frontier flights, as well as flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Yes, dogs must be able to stand, turn around, and lay down in a natural position in the soft-sided pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $99 each-way fee for flying with dogs.
8.5 Hawaiian Airlines: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs must have health certificates from your dog’s veterinarian before traveling on Hawaiian Airlines if you’re flying between Hawaii and the U.S. Mainland. Health certificates must be dated no more than 14 days prior to the flight’s arrival. As Hawaii is the only rabies-free state in the United States, it has strict regulations for traveling with dogs. The airline recommends contacting the Hawaii Department of Agriculture before travel, for information on quarantine and vaccine requirements.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, on certain flights.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Yes, dogs are permitted on interisland flights within Hawaii, and flights between the mainland US and the state of Hawaii. The pet and carrier’s combined weight cannot be more than 25 pounds.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? Yes, but the weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 70 pounds.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in cargo? Dogs cannot fly in cargo on most flights between April 15 and October 15th, or at any time when temperatures are below 20F or above 85F at the origin destination or connection airport. Dogs aren’t permitted to fly cargo on international flights.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $35 for flights within the state of Hawaii and $125 for flights between the state of Hawaii and the mainland United States.
8.6 JetBlue: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Dogs must have any needed vaccines and documentation required by your destination before flying on JetBlue. Dogs must also have ID tags and licenses.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs under 20 pounds can fly in carriers in the cabin.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? The combined weight of the dog and carrier must be no more than 20 pounds.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? No, JetBlue doesn’t fly dogs in cargo.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $125 for each flight.
8.7 Southwest Airlines: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Passengers must comply with any vaccination or health certificate requirements of their flight destination when flying with their dogs on Southwest.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Dogs are allowed in the cabin for domestic flights, but aren’t permitted in the cabin for any international flights or flight itineraries that include an international flight.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? In-cabin pets are accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis until plane capacity for pets is reached. Capacity is six pets per flight. Dogs that display any kind of disruptive behavior can be denied boarding.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, $125 per pet carrier for US Mainland flights, and $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands.
8.8 Spirit: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: Health certificates aren’t required for dogs traveling on Spirit Airlines, except for flights to the US Virgin Islands. Proof of rabies vaccination is required for dogs traveling to Puerto Rico.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Dogs that are at least 8 weeks old and weaned are permitted on domestic flights. Pet dogs aren’t allowed on international flights.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? A passenger can only bring one pet carrier onto a flight, but each carrier can have up to two dogs inside, so long as they fit appropriately. The combined weight of the dog(s) and carrier cannot be more than 40 pounds.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $125 pet fee for each flight.
8.9 United: Policies and Fees
- Health and vaccine requirements: United Airlines encourages all dog owners to get a health certificate from their veterinarian, but they’re not required for flights within the United States. Proof of rabies vaccinations and health certificates are required for dogs flying internationally.
- Are dogs allowed in the cabin? Yes, dogs that are at least 2 months old are permitted on domestic flights. For international flights, dogs must be at least 4 months old to fly.
- Are there other restrictions on dogs in the cabin? Restrictions on how many pets are allowed in the cabin depend on which specific aircraft you’ll be flying on. Some planes allow up to two pets, while others allow up to six.
- Are dogs allowed in cargo? No.
- Is there a fee to travel with your dog? Yes, there is a $125 fee for each flight with dogs. An additional $125 fee applies for each layover of more than four hours for domestic flights within the United States, or for layovers more than 24 hours for international flights.
Shetland Sheepdog service dog laying next to its owner at the airport.
9. Arriving in Vietnam: Customs and Quarantine Procedures
Upon arrival in Vietnam, be prepared for customs and quarantine procedures.
9.1 Customs Regulations: Declaring Your Pet
Declare your pet to customs officials upon arrival. Have all necessary documentation, including health certificates and vaccination records, readily available.
9.2 Quarantine Requirements: What to Expect
Check the latest quarantine requirements in Vietnam. Depending on your dog’s origin and vaccination status, quarantine may be required.
9.3 Enjoying Vietnam with Your Dog: Pet-Friendly Destinations
Once you’ve cleared customs and quarantine, explore the many pet-friendly destinations in Vietnam. From scenic parks to welcoming cafes, Vietnam offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy your trip with your canine companion.
10. Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs Traveling on Planes
10.1 Can all dog breeds fly on planes?
Not all dog breeds are suitable for air travel. Brachycephalic breeds (short-nosed dogs) like Bulldogs and Pugs are at higher risk of respiratory problems during flights. Check with your vet and the airline for specific breed restrictions.
10.2 What size carrier is allowed on a plane?
The size of the carrier allowed on a plane depends on the airline’s policies. Generally, the carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and allow your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
10.3 How can I calm my dog during a flight?
You can calm your dog during a flight by providing familiar toys, using pheromone sprays, and speaking in a soothing voice. Consult with your vet about calming aids or medications if necessary.
10.4 Are emotional support animals allowed on planes?
As of 2021, emotional support animals are considered pets and are not permitted to fly freely in the cabin unless they meet the airline’s specific pet policies. Only trained service dogs are allowed to fly openly in the cabin.
10.5 What is the best time of year to fly with my dog?
The best time of year to fly with your dog is during the spring or fall when temperatures are mild. Avoid flying during the summer or winter when extreme temperatures can pose risks to your dog’s health.
10.6 How early should I arrive at the airport when flying with my dog?
Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time when flying with your dog. This will allow ample time for check-in, security screening, and pet relief before boarding.
10.7 Can my dog sit on my lap during the flight?
No, dogs are not permitted to sit on their owner’s lap during the flight. They must remain in their carrier under the seat in front of you.
10.8 What if my dog needs to use the restroom during the flight?
Most airports have pet relief areas where your dog can relieve themselves before and after the flight. During the flight, you can use absorbent pads inside the carrier for accidents.
10.9 Are there any airlines that are more pet-friendly than others?
Some airlines are known for being more pet-friendly than others, offering amenities like pet relief areas and flexible pet policies. Research different airlines and choose one that best suits your dog’s needs.
10.10 What should I do if my dog gets sick during the flight?
If your dog gets sick during the flight, clean them up with pet wipes and inform a flight attendant. They may be able to offer assistance or provide a more comfortable space for your dog.
Planning a trip with your dog requires careful consideration and preparation. By following these guidelines and consulting with your veterinarian and airline, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey for both you and your furry friend.
At SIXT.VN, we understand the challenges of traveling with pets. Let us help you plan your pet-friendly adventure to Vietnam with our comprehensive travel services. Contact us today at +84 986 244 358 or visit our website at SIXT.VN to learn more about our customized travel packages, airport transfer services, and pet-friendly accommodations. Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Experience Vietnam with your beloved companion, hassle-free!
