Increasingly, special days have been established to appreciate animals. The aim of World Animal Day, set up in 1931, is to celebrate animal life in all its forms as well as humankind’s relationship with the animal kingdom. October 4th was chosen because it is the Feast Day of St Francis of Assisi.
Colleen Paige, animal welfare advocate and pet and family lifestyle expert, founded National Pet Day in 2006 to celebrate the joy pets can bring to us.
And now there is National Love Your Pet Day, celebrated Sunday, February 20 — a time to lavish special attention on pet pals, whether furry or feathered, scaled or hairy. Bring them special treats, take extra long walks, give them more attention.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.
More and more we are bringing pets along when we travel. Experts at Next Vacay reveal that searches for pet-friendly airlines have significantly increased in the last 12 months, with searches for ‘southwest airlines pet policy’ (+1,750%), 'united airlines pet policy' (+850%), and 'american airlines pet policy' (+550%).
“We found that there was a 600% increase in searches for ‘do airlines allow pets in cabin’ in the last 12 months,” says Naveen Dittakavi, founder and CEO of Next Vacay.
But which airlines treat your pets best? Here’s a sampling of policies, which of course are especially subject to change in this time of health concerns:
Alaska Airlines
The carrier has one of the lowest fees ($100) for pets and flexible policies. A customer can travel with a maximum of two pet carriers in the main cabin, only when the adjacent seat is purchased by the same customer. Up to two pets of the same species and similar size may travel in the same carrier.
Pets allowed in the passenger cabin are dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds. Dogs and cats must be at least eight weeks old and must be accustomed to taking solid food and have done so, without nursing, for a period of at least five days.
American Airlines
Pre-covid, pets were allowed to fly in the cabin with their owners as long as they were kept in a small carrier under the seat for the entire flight. For long-haul flights, pets must be checked as cargo. Check for current covid restrictions.
The cost per pet is $125, pets can travel in a carrier that must fit directly under the seat in front of them. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, and a combined weight of 20 lbs. Travelers can travel with their pet carrier and one personal item, but are not permitted to bring a carry-on bag in addition to a pet carrier and personal item. Instead, the kennel will replace your carry-on bag.
Delta
Small dogs, cats and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, collected at check-in. They must be able to fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of them. Pets in cabin kennels will count as one carry-on item. In addition to the kennel, travelers are permitted to bring one personal item onboard the aircraft. Prices for taking pets on Delta Airlines vary from $125 - $200 depending on the destination.
JetBlue
Small dogs and cats may travel in the cabin (except in Mint) in an FAA-approved pet carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front. The price per pet is $125 and they are allowed in the cabin only. Travelers who are new to flying with pets can join JetBlue's JetPaws, designed to give owners tips and tools they need for traveling with their pet. It’s a free program, and can earn customers 300 JetBlue points on each flight with their pet.
Travelers may hold their dogs in their lap during the flight, and may purchase a ticket for the seat next to them, where they can place their dog’s carrier.
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Here’s a more complete listing of airlines’ pet policies, using these considerations: cost per pet, allowed in cargo or cabin, size restriction. Rules may change, so check before ticketing.
American Airlines, $125, Cargo only, All kennels: 19”x 13” x 9”
United Airlines, Cabin: $125, Both, Hard kennels: 17.5” x 12” x 7.5”; Soft kennels: 18” x 11” x 11”, Cargo: No crates taller than 30”
Delta, From $125 - $200; Cabin only; 21” x 15” x 16”
JetBlue; $125; Cabin only; 17” x 12.5” x 8.5”
Allegiant Airlines, $100; Cabin only; 9” x 16” x 19”
Frontier Airlines, $99; Cabin only; 10” x 16” x 24”
Alaska Airlines, $100; Both: Hard kennels: 17” x 11” 7.5,” Soft kennels: 17” x 11” x 9.5”; Cargo: 30” x 27” x 40”
Hawaiian Airlines, Cabin: $35 - $175; Cargo: $60 - $225; Both: Soft kennels: 16” x 10” x 9.5,” Cargo: 36” x 24” x 26” or 40” x 27” x 30,” depending on the aircraft
Southwest Airlines, $95, Cabin only, 18.5” x 8.5” x 13.5”
Spirit Airlines, $110; Cabin only; 18″ x 14″ x 9″
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And when you do decide to fly with your pet, remember these basics to make things go smoothly for all of you:
Talk to your vet
Before booking your flight and packing your suitcase make sure to take your pet for a check-up at the vet to make sure they are fit for travel and you are aware of any special needs, such as tranquilizers.
Meet the criteria of each airline
Each airline has different specifications for traveling with a pet so make sure you research right before booking your ticket to find the best option for your furry friend.
Find the right carrier
Most short-haul flights allow pets to stay in the cabin with their owners under the seat in front of them. Check the airline's carrier size requirementto help decide the size and type of carrier you are allowed. Your pet carrier will also become your carry-on item, so try and find one with extra compartments to store any essentials you’ll need for your journey.
Bring the essentials
Make sure you bring the right snacks for your furry counterpart. While they won’t be able to have complimentary refreshments, packing your pet's favorite treats will make the flight more enjoyable for them.
Have correct, up-to-date documentation
Whether that’s a pet passport, a vaccination or health certificate, being prepared will make traveling with your pet go more smoothly. A health certificate will show that your pet has all his shots and vaccinations, and is safe to travel in-cabin.
