So, you're planning a trip and want to bring your furry best friend along on American Airlines? Excellent choice! Traveling with your dog can be a truly rewarding experience, but it requires careful planning and adherence to airline regulations. Don't worry, we're here to guide you through every step of the process, making it as smooth as possible for both you and your canine companion.
Step 1: Engage with American Airlines' Pet Policy – Right Away!
Before you even think about booking your own ticket, your first and most crucial step is to thoroughly understand American Airlines' pet policy. Policies can change, and what was true yesterday might not be true tomorrow. Do not assume anything.
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Where to find it: The official American Airlines website is your primary source for up-to-date information. Navigate to their "Travel information" or "Special Assistance" section and look for "Pets." You can also contact American Airlines Reservations directly. This is especially important as online pet bookings are not always possible, and often you'll need to call to add your pet to your reservation.
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Why this is critical: American Airlines has specific rules regarding:
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Pet size and weight limits: This determines whether your dog can fly in the cabin or cargo.
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Breed restrictions: Certain brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds and historically aggressive breeds may be restricted due to health or safety concerns.
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Carrier requirements: There are strict guidelines for the size, material, and ventilation of pet carriers.
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Health documentation: Health certificates and vaccination records are often required.
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Temperature restrictions: American Airlines has strict temperature guidelines for animals traveling in cargo to ensure their safety.
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Number of pets allowed per flight: There's a limit to how many pets can be on a single flight, so booking early is essential.
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| How Do I Bring My Dog On American Airlines |
Step 2: Determine Your Dog's Travel Method: Cabin vs. Cargo
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This is where your dog's size, breed, and the duration/destination of your flight come into play.
Sub-heading: In-Cabin Travel (The Cozy Option)
This is generally preferred for smaller dogs, as they can stay with you in the main cabin.
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Eligibility:
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Your dog must be small enough to fit comfortably in a carrier that can be stowed under the seat in front of you.
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The combined weight of your pet and carrier typically cannot exceed 20 lbs (approximately 9 kg).
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Only small dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin.
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Important Note: As of February 1, 2021, American Airlines no longer accepts Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) in the cabin. They are now considered pets and must adhere to the pet policy. Trained service dogs, however, are still welcome in the cabin at no charge if they meet specific requirements and you provide the necessary U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) forms.
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Carrier Requirements for In-Cabin:
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Soft-sided carriers are recommended. These offer more flexibility to fit under the seat. Recommended dimensions are around 18 x 11 x 11 inches (46 x 28 x 28 cm).
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Hard-sided carriers have slightly different maximum dimensions depending on the aircraft type. For mainline flights, generally 19 x 13 x 9 inches (48 x 33 x 22 cm). For American Eagle flights, 16 x 12 x 8 inches (40 x 30 x 20 cm).
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Crucially, your dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
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The carrier must have a waterproof bottom and adequate ventilation on at least three sides (four for international flights).
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It must have secure fasteners.
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No part of your pet can extend out of the carrier at any time.
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The carrier will not count as your personal item, but a separate pet fee applies.
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Booking In-Cabin:
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You'll need to book your own flight first.
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Then, you must call American Airlines Reservations to add your pet to your itinerary. This cannot usually be done online.
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Space is limited! American Airlines typically allows a limited number of pet carriers per flight (e.g., seven on mainline flights, five on American Eagle). Book as early as possible.
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Fees:
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The carry-on pet fee is generally $150 per kennel for travel within and between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
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Tip: Look for small cues in wording.
Sub-heading: Cargo Travel (For Larger Dogs)
If your dog is too large for in-cabin travel, they may be able to fly as checked baggage (for active-duty U.S. Military and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel on official orders) or via American Airlines Cargo (PetEmbark).
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Eligibility:
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This option is for dogs that exceed the in-cabin size and weight limits.
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Important Restrictions: Many brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds are not accepted for cargo travel due to respiratory risks. Always check the restricted breed list on American Airlines Cargo's website.
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Temperature Embargoes: American Airlines has strict temperature restrictions for cargo travel. Warm-blooded animals are generally not transported when ground temperatures at the origin, connection, or destination cities are below 45°F (7°C) or above 85°F (29°C). If temperatures are between 20°F and 44°F ( -6°C and 7°C), a veterinarian-issued acclimation letter is required.
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Pets must be at least 15 weeks old to travel via cargo.
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Kennel Requirements for Cargo (IATA Compliant):
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Kennels must be International Air Transport Association (IATA) compliant. This means they need to be escape-proof, made of rigid plastic, metal, or wood, with a metal grated door.
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Adequate ventilation on at least three sides (four for international flights).
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Secured with metal bolts or screws. Snap-closure kennels are only accepted if reinforced with metal hardware.
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No top-opening doors.
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Wheels must be inoperable or removed.
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Must be clean with no offensive odors.
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Include absorbent material (like blankets or towels) on the bottom – no hay, wood shavings, or straw. Battery-powered devices are not permitted.
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Clean, empty food and water dishes attached to the inside, accessible without opening the door.
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A clear, one-gallon bag of food taped to the top with feeding instructions.
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Size: The kennel must be large enough for your dog to stand up fully, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
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To determine the correct size, you'll need your dog's measurements: length (nose to tail base) + 1/2 leg length (elbow to ground), width (twice the widest point), and height (floor to ear tips/top of head, whichever is higher).
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Booking Cargo (American Airlines Cargo / PetEmbark):
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For cargo, you typically need to contact American Airlines Cargo services between one and ten days prior to departure. Booking is often done through a broker or agent.
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Allow ample check-in time (at least 2 hours, no more than 4 hours before your flight).
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Fees:
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Cargo fees vary significantly based on the size and weight of your pet and kennel, and the flight route. They can range from $120 to over $400 one-way.
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Step 3: Gather Essential Documentation and Health Preparations
This is where you'll be working closely with your veterinarian.
QuickTip: Pause before scrolling further.
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Health Certificate:
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For domestic travel, a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian is usually required within 10 days of your initial travel and within 60 days for your return if on the same ticket, or 10 days for your return if on a separate ticket.
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For international travel, requirements are much stricter and vary greatly by destination country. You may need a health certificate issued even closer to departure (sometimes less than 10 days), along with specific vaccinations, blood tests (like rabies titer tests for some EU countries), and import permits. Always check the specific requirements of your destination country well in advance. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) website is an excellent resource for international pet travel.
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Rabies Vaccination Proof: Mandatory for dogs (and cats/ferrets).
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Acclimation Letter (for cargo travel in colder temperatures): If temperatures at any point during the journey (origin, connection, destination) are between 20°F and 44°F, a signed and dated letter from your vet stating the exact lowest temperature your pet can be exposed to is required.
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DOT Service Animal Forms (for service dogs): If you are traveling with a trained service dog, you must complete and submit the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Service Animal Air Transportation Form at least 48 hours before your flight. For flights over 8 hours, an additional Service Animal Relief Attestation Form is also needed.
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Feeding and Water Attestation: For checked pets/cargo, you'll need to provide written certification that your pet has been fed and offered water within 4 hours of you delivering them to the airline, with the specific time noted and your signature. This should be securely attached to the outside of the kennel.
Step 4: Preparing Your Dog for Travel
Beyond the paperwork, preparing your dog mentally and physically is crucial for a stress-free journey.
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Crate Training: Start early! If your dog isn't already crate trained, begin familiarizing them with their travel carrier weeks or even months before your trip. Make it a positive place with treats and toys. This will significantly reduce their stress during travel.
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Vet Visit: A comprehensive check-up is essential to ensure your dog is fit to fly. Discuss any concerns you have with your vet, especially regarding anxiety or motion sickness. American Airlines, like many airlines, does not accept sedated or tranquilized pets due to increased health risks at high altitudes.
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Identification: Ensure your dog has up-to-date ID tags on their collar with your contact information. It's also highly recommended to have your dog microchipped before travel, especially for international flights.
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Familiar Items: Place a familiar blanket or toy in the carrier to provide comfort.
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Exercise and Potty Breaks: Give your dog plenty of exercise and a final potty break immediately before heading to the airport.
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Food and Water: Do not feed your dog a large meal right before the flight. Offer a small amount of water or an ice cube in a spill-proof dish attached to the kennel.
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Nail Trim: Trim your dog's nails to prevent them from getting caught in the carrier's ventilation holes.
Step 5: The Airport Experience
QuickTip: Stop scrolling fast, start reading slow.
The day of travel can be hectic, so planning your airport arrival is key.
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Arrive Early:
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For in-cabin pets, arrive at the airport with enough time to check in and clear security, typically 2-3 hours before your flight.
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For checked pets/cargo, you'll need to check in at the ticket counter. Allow at least 2 hours and no more than 4 hours before your flight.
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Check-in: Inform the agent immediately that you are traveling with a pet. They will verify your documentation, carrier compliance, and collect the pet fee. For cargo, they will apply "Live Animals" and orientation labels to the kennel.
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Security: You will need to remove your dog from the carrier when going through security. The empty carrier will go through the X-ray machine. Keep your dog on a leash and under control.
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Pet Relief Areas: Most airports have designated pet relief areas, often both pre- and post-security. Ask airport staff for directions.
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Boarding: For in-cabin pets, once on board, slide the carrier under the seat in front of you. Your dog must remain in the carrier for the entire duration of the flight.
By following these steps meticulously, you'll significantly increase the chances of a smooth and safe journey for your beloved dog on American Airlines. Remember, patience and preparedness are your best allies!
FAQs: How to
Here are 10 common questions about bringing your dog on American Airlines, with quick answers:
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How to know if my dog can fly in the cabin on American Airlines?
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Your dog must be small enough to fit comfortably in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you, and the combined weight of your dog and carrier must typically not exceed 20 lbs. Small dogs (not brachycephalic) and cats are generally allowed.
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How to book my dog's flight on American Airlines?
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First, book your own ticket. Then, call American Airlines Reservations directly to add your pet to your itinerary. Online pet bookings are generally not available.
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How to choose the right carrier for my dog on American Airlines?
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For in-cabin, soft-sided carriers are recommended (approx. 18"x11"x11"). Hard-sided carriers have specific size limits depending on the aircraft. For cargo, the kennel must be IATA compliant, escape-proof, well-ventilated, and large enough for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.
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How to get a health certificate for my dog to fly on American Airlines?
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Schedule a visit with your licensed veterinarian within 10 days of your domestic travel. For international travel, check destination-specific requirements as the timeframe might be shorter and additional tests may be needed.
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How to prepare my dog for the flight on American Airlines?
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Crate train your dog well in advance, ensure up-to-date vaccinations and microchip, provide familiar items in the carrier, and give them ample exercise and a potty break before heading to the airport. Avoid sedating your pet.
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How to know the cost of bringing my dog on American Airlines?
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The carry-on pet fee is typically $150 per kennel. Cargo fees vary significantly based on size, weight, and route, ranging from $120 to over $400.
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How to identify if my dog is a service animal for American Airlines travel?
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A service animal is a dog individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. You will need to complete and submit the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation form at least 48 hours prior to your flight. Emotional Support Animals are no longer considered service animals by American Airlines.
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How to manage pet relief at the airport when traveling with American Airlines?
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Most airports have designated pet relief areas. Ask airport staff or look for signs to locate them. Plan for potty breaks before and after security.
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How to handle temperature restrictions for my dog's cargo travel on American Airlines?
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American Airlines will not transport warm-blooded animals in cargo if ground temperatures are below 45°F or above 85°F. For temperatures between 20°F and 44°F, a veterinarian-issued acclimation letter is required. Always check the forecast for all cities on your itinerary.
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How to ensure my dog's safety and comfort during an American Airlines flight?
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Ensure the carrier is appropriate and comfortable, don't sedate your pet, provide absorbent bedding, and attach food/water dishes. Familiarize your pet with the carrier prior to travel to reduce stress.
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