Planning to travel with your beloved small dog on American Airlines? It's an exciting prospect to bring your furry friend along, but navigating airline pet policies can feel like deciphering an ancient scroll! Don't worry, we're here to demystify the process and give you a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on what American Airlines charges for small dogs and all the crucial details you need to know.
Let's dive right in and get your pup ready for their airborne adventure!
Navigating American Airlines Pet Policy: Bringing Your Small Dog Aboard
Bringing your small dog with you in the cabin on an American Airlines flight can be a smooth experience with the right preparation. The key is understanding their specific rules regarding in-cabin pets, from fees to carrier dimensions and booking procedures.
Step 1: Are You and Your Pup Eligible? - The First Checkpoint
Before you even think about booking, let's make sure your small dog qualifies for in-cabin travel on American Airlines. This is the most crucial initial step to avoid any disappointment at the airport.
Size and Weight Matters: For your small dog to fly in the cabin, they must be able to fit comfortably in an approved carrier that stows under the seat in front of you. While American Airlines doesn't explicitly state a weight limit on their main policy pages for in-cabin pets, it's generally understood that the combined weight of your pet and carrier should be such that it can easily fit and be maneuvered into the under-seat space. Some unofficial sources suggest a limit of up to 20 lbs (including the carrier), though it's always best to focus on the carrier dimensions and your pet's comfort within it.
Breed Restrictions: American Airlines generally allows domesticated dogs and cats. However, it's important to note that brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds of dogs (like Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, etc.) may have restrictions, particularly for cargo travel, due to potential breathing difficulties. For in-cabin travel, as long as they fit comfortably in the approved carrier, it's generally okay, but always double-check if you have a snub-nosed breed.
Age Requirements: Your dog must be at least 8 weeks old for domestic travel within the U.S. and Puerto Rico. For international flights, age and vaccination requirements can vary significantly based on the destination country's rabies risk and import regulations, so this requires thorough research.
Health and Behavior: Your pet must be in good health and well-behaved. They should not be disruptive (e.g., excessive barking, growling, or jumping). Sedated or tranquilized pets are generally not accepted due to potential health risks at high altitudes.
Step 2: Understanding the Costs - How Much Does It Really Charge?
Alright, let's get to the dollar signs! How much will American Airlines charge you for your small dog?
In-Cabin Pet Fee: American Airlines charges a non-refundable fee of $125 USD per carrier, each way, for pets traveling in the cabin. This fee is subject to change, so always verify the current rate directly with American Airlines when booking.
What Does This Fee Cover? This fee allows your pet to travel with you in the passenger cabin, under the seat in front of you. It's important to note that your pet carrier will count as your one carry-on item. Previously, it would replace your carry-on bag, but American Airlines has relaxed this policy to allow passengers to bring a pet in the cabin and also a regular carry-on bag or a personal item (but not both a regular carry-on and a personal item in addition to the pet carrier).
Additional Costs to Consider:
Veterinary Check-up & Health Certificate: Depending on your destination (especially international travel), a recent health certificate from a licensed veterinarian may be required. This will incur veterinary fees.
Approved Carrier: You'll need to purchase an appropriate, IATA-compliant pet carrier that meets American Airlines' specific dimensions.
Accessories: Don't forget costs for absorbent padding, food/water dishes that attach to the carrier, and possibly a familiar blanket or toy for your pet's comfort.
Step 3: Choosing the Right Carrier - Your Pet's Travel Pod
The pet carrier is not just a bag; it's your pet's temporary home during the flight. It must meet American Airlines' strict guidelines for in-cabin travel.
Soft-Sided vs. Hard-Sided: American Airlines recommends soft-sided, collapsible kennels for in-cabin travel as they are more flexible and can fit better under the seat. However, hard-sided kennels are also accepted if they meet the dimensions.
Maximum Dimensions: This is crucial! For most mainline American Airlines flights, the maximum dimensions for a carry-on pet kennel are approximately 18" L x 11" W x 11" H (46 x 28 x 28 cm). For regional American Eagle flights, the dimensions are generally smaller: 16" L x 12" W x 8" H (40 x 30 x 20 cm). Always verify these dimensions with American Airlines directly as they can vary slightly by aircraft type.
Pet's Comfort Within the Carrier: The most important rule is that your pet must be able to stand up, turn around normally while standing, sit erect, and lie down in a natural position within the kennel, without touching any side or the top of the container. If your pet cannot do this, the carrier is too small, regardless of the dimensions.
Carrier Requirements:
Leak-proof: The bottom of the carrier must be leak-proof to prevent any accidents.
Well-ventilated: The carrier must have adequate ventilation on at least three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel.
Secure: It must be escape-proof and made of durable material.
Clean: The kennel must be clean with no offensive odors.
Absorbent Material: Line the bottom with absorbent material like blankets or towels (hay, wood shavings, and straw are not allowed).
Food/Water Dishes: Attach two dishes (food and water) to the inside of the kennel, making sure they're accessible without opening the door.
Step 4: Making the Reservation - Securing Your Pet's Spot
Unlike human tickets, you cannot book your pet's travel online directly through the American Airlines website for in-cabin travel.
Call American Airlines Reservations: This is the only way to add your pet to your reservation. Call them as soon as you have your flight booked, as there is a strict limit of 7 pets allowed per flight in the main cabin (and sometimes fewer on regional jets). Pet spots are on a first-come, first-served basis.
Provide Pet Details: Be ready to provide your pet's breed, weight (including carrier), and carrier dimensions.
Confirm Availability: The representative will confirm if there is space available for your pet on your desired flights.
Review Requirements: They will go over the specific carry-on pet requirements and ensure your understanding.
Payment: The pet fee is typically paid at the airport check-in counter when you check in for your flight.
Step 5: Pre-Travel Preparation - Getting Ready for the Big Day
A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free journey for both you and your small dog.
Vet Visit & Health Certificate: Schedule a vet visit close to your travel date (within 10 days, or as required by your destination) to ensure your dog is healthy for travel and to obtain any necessary health certificates or vaccination records. This is critical for international travel.
Acclimate Your Pet to the Carrier: Get your dog accustomed to their carrier weeks or even months before the flight. Make it a positive experience by putting treats and toys inside. Your dog should see the carrier as a safe and comfortable space, not a punishment.
Food and Water: Give your pet a light meal a few hours before the flight. Do not sedate your pet. Provide water up until you enter the airport security area. You can attach a water bowl to the inside of the carrier that can be refilled from the outside.
Exercise: Take your dog for a good walk and a bathroom break right before heading to the airport. This will help them settle down during the flight.
Identification: Ensure your pet has proper identification on their collar, including your name, address, and phone number. Also, label the carrier with "Live Animal" stickers, your name, contact information, and feeding instructions.
Documents: Keep all necessary health certificates, vaccination records, and your pet's identification readily accessible. Taping a clear plastic bag with these documents to the top of the carrier is a good practice.
Step 6: Airport Check-in and Security - The Day of Travel
The airport can be a busy and overwhelming place. Stay calm, and your dog will likely follow your lead.
Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your domestic flight (or even earlier for international travel) to allow ample time for pet check-in, security, and any unforeseen delays.
Check-in at the Counter: You must check in with your pet at the American Airlines ticket counter. You cannot use curbside or self-service check-in with a pet.
Security Screening: Your pet will need to be removed from its carrier at the security checkpoint, and you will carry them through the metal detector. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine.
Boarding: Once you're through security, keep your pet in their carrier. During boarding, you'll place the carrier under the seat in front of you. Remember, your pet must remain in the carrier for the entire duration of the flight, including during boarding and deplaning.
10 Related FAQ Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling with small dogs on American Airlines:
How to know if my dog is small enough for in-cabin travel on American Airlines?
Your dog must fit comfortably in a carrier that stows under the seat in front of you (approx. 18" L x 11" W x 11" H for mainline flights) and be able to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally inside.
How to book my small dog on an American Airlines flight?
You must call American Airlines Reservations directly to add your pet to your existing flight reservation, as in-cabin pet spots are limited and cannot be booked online.
How to prepare my pet carrier for the flight?
Ensure it's leak-proof, well-ventilated on at least three sides, has absorbent material, and includes accessible food/water dishes. Label it with "Live Animal," your contact info, and feeding instructions.
How to handle security screening with my small dog?
You will need to remove your dog from its carrier and carry them through the metal detector while the empty carrier goes through the X-ray machine.
How to ensure my dog is comfortable during the flight?
Acclimate them to the carrier beforehand, provide a familiar blanket or toy, and exercise them well before the airport. Do not sedate them.
How to verify the most up-to-date pet policy from American Airlines?
Always check the official American Airlines website or call their reservations line directly for the latest policies and fees, as they can change.
How to know if my specific aircraft allows pets in the cabin?
When you call American Airlines to add your pet, the representative will confirm if the specific aircraft on your itinerary accommodates in-cabin pets, as some smaller regional jets may have more restrictions.
How to get a health certificate for my pet if required?
Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian a few days before your flight (typically within 10 days of travel) to obtain a health certificate, especially for international travel.
How to understand the difference between an in-cabin pet and a service animal on American Airlines?
In-cabin pets (small dogs/cats) require a fee and must stay in their carrier under the seat. Service animals (trained dogs for individuals with disabilities) fly for free, have specific documentation requirements (DOT forms), and are generally not required to be in a carrier if they can be at your feet or in your lap without blocking the aisle. Emotional support animals are now typically treated as pets by American Airlines.
How to manage connecting flights with a pet?
Ensure all segments of your itinerary allow pet travel in the cabin. Factor in sufficient layover time for your pet to have a relief break in designated airport areas.
