Airline Dog Crates: California Travel

If you're planning to fly to California with your dog, you'll need to invest in an airline-approved dog carrier that meets specific size, material, and ventilation requirements. Most airlines have strict guidelines regarding the measurements and specifications of dog crates, and it's important to ensure your dog's comfort and safety during the flight.

Some airlines sell their own pet carriers, but you can also purchase them from other companies online or at your local pet store. It's crucial to check with your specific airline before purchasing a dog carrier, as they may have additional requirements.

When choosing a dog crate, ensure it is well-ventilated, secure, and complies with the regulations set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not too spacious that they slide around during the flight.

Additionally, make sure to include bedding, water, food, and your dog's favourite toys or treats in the crate to keep them comfortable and occupied during the journey.

Crate requirements for dogs travelling in the cabin

When travelling with a dog, it's important to ensure that you have the correct crate for your dog to travel in the cabin. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has set out regulations for containers for pets flying in the cabin, which have been accepted by most airlines. Here are the requirements for crates for dogs travelling in the cabin:

Size

The crate should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The specific measurements will depend on the size of your dog. As a general rule, the length of the crate should be equal to the length of your dog from the base of their tail to their nose, plus four inches. The height of the crate should be your dog's height from the top of their head to the floor, plus four inches.

Material

For air travel, crates should be made of hard plastic, metal, or wood with a solid top. The crate must be sturdy and not collapsible. The floor must be solid and leakproof. The crate door must be made of heavy plastic or welded/cast metal, and it should be nose and paw-proof to prevent injury to your dog.

Ventilation

The crate must have ventilation on a minimum of three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights. The ventilation openings must be a minimum of 1 inch (2.5 cm) and should not be taped over or blocked.

Identification

The crate must have "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers on the top and sides, as well as directional stickers. It should also have a "Shipper's Declaration" sticker stating when your dog was last fed and watered. Additionally, your dog's name and your contact information should be attached to the outside of the crate.

Food and Water

The crate must have food and water bowls attached to the inside of the front door, which can be refilled from outside the crate. Food can also be attached to the top of the crate in a plastic bag.

Other Considerations

• The combined weight of the dog and the crate should not exceed the maximum weight limit set by the airline.
• Start crate training your dog several weeks before the trip to allow them to feel comfortable in the crate.
• Include bedding, toys, or treats to make your dog's travel experience more comfortable.
• Check with your specific airline for any additional requirements or restrictions.

Crate requirements for dogs travelling in the cargo hold

When travelling by air, dogs must be transported in a crate that meets the requirements set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the airline in question.

The crate must be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Brachycephalic breeds (snub-nosed dogs) will require a crate one size larger than normal. The crate must be made of fibreglass, metal, rigid plastics, weld metal mesh, solid wood, or plywood. Not all airlines will accept wooden crates, for example, Air France and KLM. The floor must be solid and leakproof, and handling spaces or handles must be present on the long side of the crate.

The crate door must have a secure, spring-loaded locking system with pins extending at least 1.6 cm beyond the horizontal extrusions above and below the door. Many airlines also require the door to be secured with cable ties at each corner. The door must be constructed of heavy plastic or welded/cast metal, strong enough so that a dog cannot bend it, and it must be nose and paw-proof. The crate should be sturdy and not collapsible, with a solid roof that can have ventilation as long as the strength of the roof is not compromised. Crates with doors on the top are not IATA or airline-compliant.

Although not an IATA requirement, many airlines now require steel crate hardware instead of plastic fasteners. It is recommended to use steel hardware to avoid any problems. Cable ties in the corners of the crate are also often required, and plastic clips are not recommended. All hardware and fasteners must be in place.

The crate must have ventilation on a minimum of three sides for domestic flights and four sides for international flights. The openings must be a minimum of 1 inch over the upper two-thirds of the opposite end and the remaining two sides, at a distance of 4 inches from the centre to centre of each opening. The total ventilated area must be at least 16% of the total surface of the four sides. Additional holes on the roof or sides are permitted as long as they do not affect the strength of the crate. The ventilation holes must not be taped over or blocked.

The crate must have "LIVE ANIMAL" stickers on the top and sides in letters at least one inch tall, as well as directional stickers. There must also be a "Shipper's Declaration" sticker on the top of the crate, stating when your dog was last fed and watered.

The crate must be identified with your dog's name and your contact information. This can be attached to the outside of the crate with duct tape or other sturdy tape.

Other recommendations include attaching a leash and collar to the outside of the kennel and including a pet pad or shredded newspaper inside the crate. Including an unwashed t-shirt with your scent on it can also provide comfort to your dog.

It is important to note that sedating or tranquillizing your dog before a flight is not recommended as it can be unsafe. Crate training is a safer alternative for stress reduction.

Airlines that don't allow dogs in the cargo hold

Airlines have different policies when it comes to allowing dogs in the cargo hold. While some airlines allow dogs to travel as checked baggage or cargo, others have restrictions in place. Here are some airlines that do not allow dogs in the cargo hold:

Delta Airlines:

Delta Airlines' pet policy only includes dogs, cats, and household birds, and they are only allowed in the main cabin inside a pet carrier under the seat. However, there are exceptions for service animals and military or foreign service personnel.

United Airlines:

United Airlines permits small cats and dogs to travel in the cabin in a hard or soft carrier under the seat. They do not allow pets in the cargo hold, but there is an exemption for military and State Department personnel.

Southwest Airlines:

Southwest Airlines has a limited pet policy. They only allow small dogs and cats on domestic flights, excluding Hawaii, and do not permit pets in the cargo hold.

Frontier Airlines:

While Frontier Airlines accepts a variety of pets, including rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and birds, they only allow pets in the main cabin. They do not permit pets to travel in the baggage compartment or cargo.

JetBlue:

JetBlue does not accept pets in the cargo hold.

AirTran:

AirTran does not accept pets in the cargo hold.

When considering air travel with dogs, it is important to check the specific policies of the airline you plan to fly with. Each airline has its own set of rules and restrictions regarding pet travel, including weight and size limitations, vaccination requirements, and temperature restrictions. It is also recommended to use a sturdy and well-ventilated crate that meets the regulations set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the airline's specific requirements.

Airlines that allow dogs in the cabin

There are several airlines that allow dogs in the cabin, although there are often specific requirements that must be met. Here are some of the airlines that permit dogs to travel in the cabin:

American Airlines

American Airlines allows dogs to travel in the cabin, but only if they meet certain size, age, and destination requirements. The airline also offers a dedicated service for pets that don't qualify to travel as carry-on, called American PetEmbark™. Additionally, fully-trained service dogs may fly in the cabin free of charge if they meet the requirements.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines allows dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin for a fee of $100 each way. There are no breed restrictions, but the pets must be at least eight weeks old and able to eat solid food. Each passenger can bring up to two pet carriers, as long as they purchase two seats next to each other. Up to two pets of the same size and species can travel in the same kennel.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines permits small, vaccinated dogs and cats that are at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin for a $95 pet fee each way. However, furry friends cannot travel in the cabin on international flights or flights to Hawaii. Each passenger may only bring one pet kennel, and there are only six total carriers allowed on each flight, available on a first-come, first-served basis.

United Airlines

United Airlines allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin for a carry-on pet fee of $125 each way. There are no breed or weight limitations, but the animal must remain inside a carrier with the door closed, underneath the seat for the entire flight. Each passenger may only bring one animal in the cabin, and there is a cap on the total number of pets that can ride in each cabin.

Delta Air Lines

Delta allows dogs, cats, and household birds in the cabin to and from certain destinations. The carry-on pet fee is $95 each way for flights to and from the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. The fee is $75 each way for flights to and from Brazil, and $200 each way for all other international flights. Delta only allows one pet per carrier, with a few exceptions for young animals and female dogs or cats with their litters.

JetBlue

JetBlue permits small dogs and cats, safely secured inside a carrier that fits under the seat, on all domestic flights for a fee of $125 each way. Up to six total pets are allowed per flight, but each passenger is only permitted to bring one animal. The carrier, with the pet inside, must weigh 20 pounds or less and will count as the passenger's personal item.

Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines allows dogs and cats to travel in the cabin on flights within Hawaii and between Hawaii and most destinations in North America, excluding a few specific airports. The carry-on pet fee is $35 one-way for flights within Hawaii and $125 one-way for trips between Hawaii and North America. Each guest can bring one carrier, and the pet and carrier must weigh 25 pounds or less.

Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines allows dogs, cats, household birds, and small domestic rabbits that are at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin for a fee of $125 each way. Guests can bring up to two pets per carrier, but only one carrier is permitted on the plane. With the pet inside, the carrier must weigh 40 pounds or less. Only six total pet carriers are allowed per flight, so booking early is recommended.

Frontier Airlines

Frontier Airlines permits dogs and cats that are at least eight weeks old to travel in the cabin on domestic trips and flights to or from the Dominican Republic and Mexico. Rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and household birds can also accompany passengers in the cabin, but only on flights within the U.S. Passengers travelling with pets cannot sit in the emergency exit rows or the first row of the plane. The pet fee is $99 each way.

It is important to note that each airline may have specific requirements for the size and type of carrier or kennel, as well as other restrictions. It is always best to review the individual airline's policies and requirements before booking travel with a dog.

Preparing your dog for air travel

Crate Training:

Start crate training your dog well in advance of the flight. Your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably in their crate. It's crucial to make sure they are familiar with the crate and can stay calm when left alone inside. Introduce the crate gradually, making it a positive and comfortable space for your dog.

Conquer Separation Anxiety:

Your dog must be able to stay calmly in their crate without you nearby. This is especially important if they will be flying in the cargo hold, as they will need to remain in their crate for the duration of the flight.

Desensitize to Noise and Crowds:

Play recordings of airport sounds, such as crowds and planes taking off, to get your dog accustomed to the noisy environment. Socialize your dog and expose them to different environments to help them stay calm in crowded areas.

Health Certificate and Vaccinations:

Visit your veterinarian to obtain a health certificate, which is required for all pets travelling by air. Discuss your dog's health and any necessary vaccinations or boosters. Some destinations may have specific entry requirements, so it's important to consult your vet beforehand.

Microchipping:

Consider microchipping your dog before air travel in case they escape or get lost in the airport. Microchipping provides a quick and reliable way to identify and locate your pet.

Feeding and Water:

Maintain your dog's regular feeding schedule as much as possible. Avoid feeding them too close to the flight, and provide water throughout the day. Attach food and water bowls to the inside of the crate, ensuring they are easily accessible without opening the door.

Exercise and Bathroom Breaks:

Before heading to the airport, take your dog for a long walk or play session to help them burn off energy and relieve themselves. At the airport, look for a pet relief area and allow your dog a final bathroom break before check-in or security.

Familiar Scents and Comfort:

Place a familiar blanket or towel in the crate to keep your dog cozy and absorb any accidents. You can also include their favourite toy or a shirt that smells like you to provide comfort during the flight.

Airline Policies and Requirements:

Research the airline's pet policies and size restrictions for in-cabin or cargo travel. Each airline has different regulations, so it's essential to confirm their specific requirements. Book your dog's travel in advance and add them to your ticket.

Sedation:

Consult your veterinarian about sedation if your dog struggles with travel. While unsedated dogs are generally safer travellers, your vet can advise if sedation is appropriate and prescribe the right sedative for your pet.

Crate Preparation:

Ensure your dog's crate meets airline requirements and is properly labelled with identification and health information. Include your contact information, feeding instructions, and any necessary documentation. Make sure the crate is secure and well-ventilated, with food and water easily accessible for airline staff.

Remember to plan ahead, stay patient, and provide plenty of love and comfort to your furry friend throughout the process.

Frequently asked questions