Pet ownership is a special experience many of us have the privilege of knowing. The fierce loyalty, endless cuddles and unbreakable bond we forge turn them into foundational parts of our families. It’s for this reason that leaving behind our cute companions can be tough, and why many travelers opt to bring their pets along instead. To maximize their safety and comfort (and your peace of mind), here’s everything you need to know about flying with your dog or cat.
Pre-Flight Preparation
Depending on where vacationers are headed, travel policies differ significantly. International trips have a more extensive approval process, so visiting a USDA-accredited veterinarian should be the first step. They’ll be able to identify the specific entry requirements your travel buddy needs to meet, including updating vaccinations, obtaining health records or gathering proof of an ISO-approved microchip. The vet can also inform you if your destination requires a quarantine period, so you can adjust your arrival plans accordingly.
U.S. itineraries are simpler, with most airlines needing an updated health certificate issued within 10 days of departure and a record of recent vaccines. For both domestic and international trips, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website is a great resource, breaking down the necessary clearance criteria of a region or destination.
Beyond the paperwork, travelers also need to prepare their dog or cat to navigate the stimulation of an airport. Vets and experienced travelers alike emphasize the importance of this step: expose your four-legged friend to their carrier or kennel several days before the trip. Most animals associate the small contraption with anxiety-inducing trips to the vet or groomer, so your goal is to reframe it as a cozy den instead. Put it out in an open space and fill it with their favorite treats, toys or comfort items to help ease the transition on the big day.
Booking and Airline Policies
Before booking a flight with your pet, check the airline’s restrictions on size, weight and breed. Some carriers strictly prohibit brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs or cats from flying due to their increased breathing risks. Most airlines also require pets to be at least eight weeks old. For cabin travel, your travel buddy needs to be small enough that their carrier fits under the seat in front of you, while larger animals typically travel in cargo instead. Regardless of where on the plane your pet flies, choose nonstop routes whenever possible to reduce stress and minimize risk.
Naturally, travelers shouldn’t be surprised to pay an additional fee for their beloved creature to fly. Some airlines charge separately for departing and return flights, while others tack on a single fee to the ticket, so it’s always best to refer to the airline’s website directly for specific, updated pricing information. This is also a good time to proactively add the pet to the reservation, as certain carriers limit the number of animals allowed onboard — get yours confirmed ahead of time and avoid any hiccups on the day of departure.
Day-of Travel Essentials and Other Tips
With all the prep work complete, focus can shift to day-of comfort. The nerves surrounding departure could leave your dog or cat with an upset stomach, so it’s best to avoid feeding them and limit water consumption a few hours before the flight. Still, accidents happen, which is why extra puppy pads, zip-lock bags and paper towels for emergency cleanups are always a smart idea.
Lastly, don’t overlook the importance of tagging your pet with identifying information. A permanent tag on the collar is a great place to start, but also consider adding temporary tags on the carrier or kennel with your arrival points. Nobody wants to imagine worst-case scenarios, but when it comes to your pet, it’s better to be overprepared than caught off guard.
Originally appeared in the Spring 2026 issue of The Compass magazine
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