SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Luggage, Black, Carry-On 21-Inch
$79.99 (as of November 22, 2024 15:26 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Traveling with your dog on Spirit Airlines comes with specific requirements, particularly around the size of your furry companion. As one of the major U.S. airlines, Spirit Airlines allows pets to travel only if they fit inside an 18″ x 14″ x 9″ carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you. Large dogs, unfortunately, are not permitted as Spirit does not transport animals in the cargo hold. This means if your pup cannot comfortably fit in the specified carrier, you’ll need to leave them behind or choose a different airline. Service dogs are an exception, though Spirit strictly recognizes only dogs as service animals. Additional guidelines include ensuring your pet is at least eight weeks old and has up-to-date vaccination certificates. For those planning a vacation beyond U.S. borders, be aware that Spirit Airlines does not allow pets on international flights. Opt for early reservations, as there is a limit of six pets per flight. Do you have a furry friend you’d love to take on your next big adventure? Perhaps you’re wondering if you can bring your four-legged companion on a Spirit Airlines flight? Whether you’re planning a cross-country trip or a quick getaway, traveling with your dog requires a bit of preparation. While pets are part of the family and it’s natural to want to include them in your travels, not all airlines accommodate our four-legged buddies the same way. In this article, we’ll dive into Spirit Airlines’ pet policies and what you need to know if you’re planning to fly with your dog.
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Spirit Airlines’ Pet Policy
Spirit Airlines has some specific rules when it comes to traveling with pets. Understanding these guidelines is crucial for a smooth journey.
No Transport in Cargo Hold
Spirit Airlines does not permit pets to be transported in the cargo hold under any circumstances. This means if your pet does not fit under the seat in front of you, you’ll need to consider other options for air travel.
In-Cabin Pet Requirements
Only small domestic animals are allowed to travel in the cabin. Your pet must be able to fit comfortably in an 18″ x 14″ x 9″ carrier, which must be stored under the seat in front of you for the duration of the flight. Your pet must remain inside the carrier the entire time.
Service Animals Policy
While Spirit Airlines does accommodate service animals, they only recognize service dogs. Other species of service animals, such as miniature horses or monkeys, are not permitted.
| Pet | Service Animals | Emotional Support Animals |
|---|---|---|
| Small domestic animals | Allowed under 18″x14″x9″ carrier | Not recognized |
| Large dogs | Not allowed | Not recognized |
| Service dogs | Allowed | Not recognized |
Guidelines for Traveling with Your Pet
Ensuring a hassle-free experience involves adhering to Spirit Airlines’ specific guidelines. These include documentation, health requirements, and booking details.
Documentation and Health Requirements
Before boarding, you need to make sure your pet is at least eight weeks old and free from any signs of illness or aggression. For flights to Puerto Rico, a rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory. The pet must also be able to stand up and move around comfortably inside their carrier.
Booking Ahead
Spirit Airlines allows a maximum of six pets per flight. It’s a good idea to book this service in advance to secure a spot for your pet.
Additional Considerations
Spirit Airlines does not allow pets to travel on international flights, except for registered service dogs. Note that Spirit does not consider emotional support dogs as eligible for travel benefits.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age limit | Pet must be at least eight weeks old |
| Health condition | Free from illness and aggression |
| Rabies Vaccination | Required for flights to Puerto Rico |
| Carrier Size | 18″ x 14″ x 9″ |
| Booking | Limited to six pets per flight, book in advance |
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Other Pet-Friendly Airlines
If Spirit Airlines’ pet policies don’t work for you and your canine companion, there are other airlines with more flexible options.
Hawaiian Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines might be a good choice if you’re looking to travel with a larger dog. Their pet fees are as follows:
- Carry-on fee: $35 each way within Hawaii, $125 to North America
- In-hold fee: $60 within Hawaii, $255 to North America
Alaska Airlines
Alaska Airlines is another pet-friendly option, offering the following fees:
- In-cabin fee: $100
- Cargo transport fee: $100
Both airlines ensure that pets can travel safely and comfortably to your destination.
| Airline | Carry-on Fee | In-Hold Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Airlines | $35 (Hawaii) / $125 (North America) | $60 (Hawaii) / $255 (North America) |
| Alaska Airlines | $100 | $100 |
Planning a Road Trip Instead?
If none of the airline options fit your needs, consider planning a long-distance road trip with your pet. Road trips offer flexibility and eliminate the hassles associated with air travel. You can stop as often as needed for potty breaks and let your dog stretch their legs. Plus, you won’t have to worry about size constraints, making it far less stressful for both you and your pet.
Conclusion
Traveling with your dog can be a joyful experience, but it requires some extra planning. With Spirit Airlines, only small pets that fit under the seat are allowed to travel in-cabin, and there are health and documentation requirements to meet. Service dogs are permitted, but emotional support animals are not recognized. If Spirit’s policies don’t accommodate your needs, airlines like Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines offer more flexible options for larger pets. Alternatively, consider a road trip to make new memories with your furry friend without the stress of air travel.
Your pet is part of your family, and their comfort and safety should be a priority when planning your next adventure. Make sure to review all guidelines carefully and choose the travel option that best suits your needs and those of your beloved four-legged companion.
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