virgin australia travel with pets

The ultimutt flight: Virgin Australia set to launch Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights

Virgin Australia has announced plans to become Australia’s first airline to operate flights with pets allowed in the cabin.

Pet-lovers across Australia will be thrilled by the plans, which are subject to regulatory approval and expected to launch within 12 months.

In a social media survey of Virgin Australia’s Facebook followers in 2021, 85% of people voted in favour of the airline launching pets in cabin flights. And more recent research by Virgin Australia confirmed that 70% of people would travel with their pet in the cabin, and 57% of those said they would fly more regularly if they could take their pet with them.

There will be limits for guests bringing a pet with them, incuding:

Only small cats and dogs will be allowed, and only on specific domestic routes

Pets will be restricted to a limited number of designated rows and will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps

Pets must be carried in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carried under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight

“Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights,” Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said. “Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well.”

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus added: “We’ve been investing significant effort into providing relief areas for assistance animals and these facilities have ample capacity to serve Virgin Australia’s new guests.

“Animals being carried on board Virgin Australia flights will be required to remain in their approved pet carriers at all other times within the terminal. We expect the pets in cabin concept will prove a popular offering and we look forward to working with Virgin Australia to make it a reality.”

No changes for assistance animals

Virgin Australia has confirmed that the proposed pets in cabin flights will not result in any change to approved assistance animals being able to travel in Virgin Australia aircraft cabins at no additional cost. The existing procedure for assessing the eligibility of these assistance animals to travel will also not change. And Virgin Australia will continue to offer pets to be transported as cargo through approved pet carrier services as this remains an important part of the airline’s offering.

Visit Virgin Australia to find out more.

Five quick questions answered on Virgin Australia's plans to allow animals into flight cabins

Virgin Australia has announced it will be allowing  small cats and dogs on specific domestic routes within the next 12 months. 

The news has been met with a mixed response, with some commenters on social media excited to bring their pets on holidays, and others worried about allergies. 

On the ABC News Facebook page, there were just as many "woo!" comments as there were people saying "no!"

"Cats being chased by dogs up and down the aisles now that's in-flight entertainment for the passengers," one user commented. 

"About time we caught up with the rest of the world," another said. 

A disappointed passenger wrote: "just perfect if you've flown Virgin Australia all your life and now you won't be able to as you're allergic to cats."

"This is not good. Kind of disgusting really. Now passengers have to put up with barking dogs on flights on top of everything else that comes with air travel," another person wrote. 

These are some of your pressing questions answered:

How will they manage passengers with allergies?

Concerns about pet allergies was one of the most common comments after the announcement. 

A Virgin Australia spokesperson said the company would be spending the next few months designing a safe proposition, with strict rules to manage this issue. 

The spokesperson said pets would be limited to a small number of designated rows and would not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps.

"Cabin airflow dynamics (air circulating from top to bottom), the renewal of cabin air 20-30 times per hour and use of hospital grade HEPA filtration in our aircraft (which captures greater than 99 per cent of airborne particles) mean the risk of allergy-triggering particles being circulated on-board is low," the spokesperson said. 

They said the airline has robust systems in place for guests who have severe allergies to identify themselves, so those risks for these guests could be mitigated and arrangements put in place prior to travel.

"We also want to point out that pets in cabin flights work effectively overseas and we believe there's no reason why they won't work in Australia too," the spokesperson said. 

How will animals cope with air travel? 

RSPCA Australia Chief Science Officer, Suzie Fowler, said while there were risks associated with air travel for any type of pet, travelling in the cabin was generally a preferable option to pets travelling in the cargo with the right safeguards in place.

"If animals are in the cabin, owners or caregivers should ensure that their animals are under control, socialised to other animals and people and are calm and comfortable when travelling," Dr Fowler said. 

"Travel can be stressful for animals, so we recommend that owners start preparing them for travel at least a few weeks beforehand.

"This includes getting them comfortable with their container (for example, by placing it somewhere they like to relax in the house and making it as inviting as possible, such as with your pet's favourite bedding, toys and treats) — hopefully meaning that they associate the container with good things and positive feelings.

"Ensure that any container complies with International Air Transport Association regulations, and that the animal has enough space to turn around normally while standing, to stand and sit erect, and to lie in a natural position."

Dr Fowler warned that some flat-faced breeds such as British Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers and Persian cats are at greater risk of heat stress. She said that owners should be aware of the increased risk that comes with air travel.  

She recommended owners consult their vet prior to travel for an assessment of the animal's suitability for travel, regardless of whether it is in cargo or in the passenger cabin. 

What steps are being taken to manage the extra mess and noise?

A Virgin Australia spokesperson said these finer details would be revealed in due course following appropriate stakeholder consultation and regulatory approval.

What they can confirm is that only small dogs and cats would be allowed on board, those which can fit into pet carriers stowed under the seat for the duration of the flight. 

This means pets will not be allowed to sit on owners' laps. 

In the United States, where animal travel in the cabin is generally allowed on domestic flights, most airlines recommend taking the pet to the bathroom before the flight, and using potty training pads as a back up. 

American Airlines, for example, does not allow animals under 8 weeks to fly, restricts certain breeds, and allows pets only on flights under 12 hours. 

Who is supporting the move?

The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA)  updated the rules on flying animals in December 2021 , giving airlines permission to bring pets into the cabins. 

Virgin Australia is the of the major first airline groups to begin to bring the CASA change into practice. 

Virgin conducted a survey in April 2023 with 643 Australian travellers, of which 426 were pet owners. 

Of those pet owners, 286 said if it was allowed by the airline, they would most likely fly with their pets in the cabin "more than zero" times. 

Additionally, 164 of those pet owners said they would take at least one extra return flight a year if they could fly with their pet in the cabin. 

Dr Fowler said the RSPCA welcomed the announcement, as it supported policies that allow companion animals to travel, appropriately contained, in the aircraft with their owner or caregiver. 

"We look forward to continuing to work with the airline industry to ensure that any transport of pets is done safely and with the animals' welfare front of mind," Dr Fowler said. 

A Qantas spokesperson said there were no changes to their current policy for any Qantas Group flights, including Jetstar.

A Rex spokesperson said the airline was not ruling out the carriage of pets in the cabin. However, it had no immediate plans to introduce it, adding that assistance animals are still welcome in the cabin. 

Will it cost more to bring your pets on board?

A spokesperson says Virgin Australia is still working on the finer details in regards to things like cost. However, they confirmed there would be a fee for guests to bring their pet onboard.

This cost does not apply to service animals. 

In the US, United Airlines charges a $US125 ($190) fee to bring a pet on board. 

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Who let the dogs on? Everything you need to know about Virgin Australia’s planned pets in cabins scheme

From confining animals to carriers to dealing with doggy business, how will the airline’s policy to let small cats and canines fly in plane cabins actually work?

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Virgin Australia’s announcement that it will allow small cats and dogs to fly at passengers’ feet may have triggered excitement among pet lovers eager for the future service, but there’s plenty of detail yet to be worked out – including one big elephant in the cabin.

In what will be an Australian first, Virgin have said they hope to launch the offering within 12 months, noting they will work out many of the finer details of the service as they say they need to wait for regulatory approval.

In the absence of such details, there’s no doubt plenty of travellers alarmed at the announcement will be thinking twice about booking a future flight with the airline until it becomes clear how it will deal with certain animal-related concerns.

After all, animals running loose on planes have had alarming and sometimes fatal consequences. In 2010, a small plane running short domestic routes in the Democratic Republic of Congo plummeted to the ground in a crash that killed 20 people, with the sole survivor later reporting the incident occurred after a crocodile ran loose on the aircraft.

Here’s everything we know about how Virgin Australia’s pets in the cabin scheme will work.

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Which pets will be allowed?

Virgin Australia has said the pets in cabin service will be “limited to small cats and dogs”.

The airline hasn’t specified what “small” means.

Carriers in the United States that already have such schemes in places restrict certain breeds.

Will we be able to just walk (small) pets on to the plane?

No. The rules here have been strictly set out.

Pets must be carried in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier and placed under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight. Taller travellers who already struggle with legroom may find it challenging.

So I can’t show off my beloved Rover to my fellow passengers?

Nope. In fact, only certain rows of seats on certain domestic flights will be eligible for pet owners wanting to use the service.

There is to be no sitting in laps, walking of pets down the aisles or taking them to the bathroom.

Then what happens if Rover needs to do his business mid-air?

This may be the question on everybody’s mind, but Virgin Australia have not yet been forthcoming with an answer. It’s understood they’re still figuring out the finer details of the scheme.

Moisture-absorbent mats have been used for animal droppings from service animals – which are already allowed in plane cabins.

What’s stopping this from turning plane cabins into feeling like a zoo?

It’s unclear what Virgin Australia’s plan is in the event of a barking fit, or what is to be done with a particularly odorous pets.

Will Virgin Australia really be allowed to do this?

There don’t appear to be any laws stopping any airline from allowing pets in cabins. In fact, Virgin’s expectation of needing regulatory approval could even be overly cautious.

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In 2021, Australia’s air regulator, the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (Casa), changed its rules so that airlines no longer require its explicit permission to carry animals. Pilots and airlines now have discretion, so long as its safe.

“They must consider how to restrain animals, effects on other passengers, not blocking exit rows, dealing with droppings/urine. The procedures for pets would be added to their operations manuals,” a Casa spokesperson said in 2021.

On Thursday, Casa released a statement: “The regulation places the responsibility on the operator and pilot in command of the aircraft for ensuring the safety of the flight when an animal is carried on an aircraft.”

Why is Virgin Australia doing this now?

Because Australians want it as an option, the airline said.

Virgin Australia said that in a survey of its Facebook followers from 2021, 85% of respondents voted in favour of the airline launching pets in cabin flights.

In more recent research conducted by Virgin Australia with Australian pet owners, nearly 70% of respondents advised they would travel with their pet in the cabin, with 57% saying they would fly more regularly if the service was a reality.

In the increasingly tough battle to dent the dominance of Qantas (and its budget carrier Jetstar), which controls more than 60% of the domestic market, allowing pets in flight is one way for Virgin to set itself apart.

Currently, passengers can only fly with assistance animals in cabins on Australian airlines, and only if they require them. All other pets must fly in cargo holds. Airlines around the world, including Qantas , have faced criticism after animals travelling in the bellies of their planes died in transit.

The announcement also brings a positive story for Virgin Australia after the unexpected announcement their CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, would be stepping down. The abrupt resignation led to media reports that she was axed by the airline’s private equity owners, Bain Capital, suggesting they were unhappy with her performance in the lead-up to the carrier’s much hyped re-listing on the stock exchange.

How have pets fares in cabins overseas?

In many overseas jurisdictions pets have been able to be carried in cabins for a fee for some time, with everything from pigs, miniature horses and ducks spotted on flights in the past.

The US has long allowed people to fly with emotional support animals as long as airlines allow it. Passengers have tried to bring a diverse range of creatures on board over the years as they tested the parameters of the rules.

In 2018, a woman was prevented from bringing a peacock on board a United Airlines flight, despite its owner being willing to pay an additional fare for her feathered friend.

But the scores of requests for unusual support animals eventually led the US transport department to ban all animals except dogs as service or emotional support animals in December 2020. Non-service animals can be taken on board in the US, with most airlines charging a fee and having limits for small pets only.

Some Middle Eastern airlines also allow falcons inside cabins and to have their own passports.

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Virgin Australia to allow pets to fly in cabin in an Australian-first

Emily Murphy

Social Media Manager & Writer

08 March 2024

This time next year, you could be bringing your furry friends onboard specific Virgin Australia domestic flights.

Virgin Australia has announced its plans to become Australia’s first airline to allow pets onboard.

You could bring your furry friends on your next flight.

Responding to audience feedback from a 2021 survey where almost 70 per cent of respondents said they would travel with their pet in the cabin, Virgin Australia Group chief executive officer Jayne Hrdlicka said the company’s guests overwhelmingly want to travel with their pets.

“Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights,” Hrdlicka said.

Almost 70 per cent of respondents said they would travel with their pet in the cabin.

There will be some limitations to the service, with only small cats and dogs allowed, and only on specific routes. The pets will also be restricted to a small number of designated rows, they won’t be able to roam freely or sit on their owner’s lap and they must be carried in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier, which must be kept under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight.

“Animals being carried onboard Virgin Australia flights will be required to remain in their approved pet carriers at all other times within the terminal,” Melbourne Airport chief executive officer Lorie Argus said.

Only small cats and dogs will be allowed to use the service.

This new pets onboard service will not impact approved assistance animals being able to fly in the cabin of the aircraft at no additional cost. Pets will also still be able to be transported as cargo through approved pet carrier services.

Assistance animals will be able to travel like normal.

With most major North American airlines offering a pets onboard service, Virgin Australia is taking a huge step in evolving Australian domestic flights.

“It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well,” Hrdlicka said.

The service is expected to be implemented within 12 months, subject to regulatory approval.

Virgin Australia is taking a huge step in evolving Australian domestic flights.

Will you be utilising Virgin Australia’s pets onboard service? We’d love to hear your thoughts!

Emily Murphy found her passion for writing at a young age and knew her future was in travel after she moved overseas solo at 18. Em loves to write about beautiful, under-the-radar destinations and anything that will ignite a desire in more people to explore the vastness and beauty that is Australia. She is a devoted bun mum and in her spare time you'll find her by the sea, reading a good book, binge-watching a TV show or exploring Sydney's dining scene.

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Comments (19)

Ridiculous. Time to change to another airline after 10 years as a Virgin customer.

What about passengers with Allergies? They all share the same Air, Will they be advised when booking that pets will be travelling?

I am 100% for pets being able to travel with their owners. I have spent time in the USA… and this plan works perfectly. It is barbaric to carry the pets in the luggage hold. I have experienced my pet being very ill and dehydrated after such an incident…and still carry the guilt after many years, to this day, Thank you for this opportunity to express my feelings on this subject. A salute to Virgin Airways! Marilyn.

How will they fit under the seat in front of you – I can’t even get my handbag under let alone a pet carrier?

NO way this should be implemented. Out of control in the USA. … and why should we copy them. The current system works ok. NO pets on planes. Incidentally, I love dogs and cats. John

Even though I have a savage allergy to cats, I’m all for it. Looking forward to traveling with Cleopatra, my support diamond python who would quite like to share a space with a cat as long as fluffy is less than two metres long.

Dogs will have to be very small indeed to fit in a carrier that has to be stowed under a seat. I doubt that the dogs in Virgin’s promo pics would fit, or be content to be stowed for hours in a tight cage.

I will never fly Virgin again

Hi Emily I am a dog lover however I and other members of my extended family, most have dogs, will definitely not be travelling on any airline that allows this. Having travelled overseas quite a few times we have never heard of this or encountered it in our air travels. It’s already very squeezy to place items under the seat in front and have room for your feet, let alone a pet in a cage. Don’t mind dogs/cats on a train as there is plenty of room and more circulating air. A big NO from us. regards Janice

I definitely disagree with allowing cats and dogs on flights and would not fly on such a flight.

Sorry. There is no way I will ever fly Virgin.

I won’t be flying with them & I love animals but this is ridiculous.

I think you should have a pets only flight with owners, so that customers that dislike dogs and cats can be offered an alternative flight. I would not be be happy to have animals in the cabin

We have travelled extensively in our lives and have only come across pets being allowed on board aircraft cabins once flying from Vienna to Stockholm. The pets were not allowed to stay with their owners in their seats but cabin staff placed them in cages in the front of the plane. They also only allow pets on short haul flights. Aircraft cabins are so small and cramped that we consider this practice totally unacceptable and very cruel for the animals. We would not fly with any airline that allows pets to travel with the passenger in their seat. This practice is just as bad as European restaurant and cafe customers being allowed to bring their dogs into the establishment. The world has gone completely bonkers in our opinion.

I will definitely be accessing this service for my very small dog depending on the flight routes.

Won’t be flying Virgin anymore then just imagine 6 dogs all barking at once!

Not for me Thank goodness Qantas has said no to pets in the main cabin

This makes me so happy and excited to potentially be able take my beautiful toy poodle girl on a flight with us. I would absolutely definitely use the pets onboard service with Virgin Australia.

At last, we’ll certainly make use of this! Haven’t flown for seven years as we wouldn’t leave our dog in a kennel, and she wouldn’t handle going in the hold of an aircraft as well as being separated from us. Drove the Nullarbor last year, but …. No more!

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The pets you can (and can't) bring onboard under Virgin Australia's new plan

Please stow small bags and pets under the seat in front of you. virgin australia wants you to be able to bring your pet onboard flights — but at a cost, and under strict conditions..

Virgin Australia wants to allow small cats and dogs in the cabin under strict conditions. Source: Getty / Jeff Greenberg/Universal Images Group

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Virgin Australia allows pets to fly with their owners

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Announced yesterday, Virgin Australia plans to be the country's first airline to allow pets to fly in the cabin alongside their owners. Two RMIT experts weigh in.

Melissa Laing, animal companionship researcher

“Pets are family. Sixty-nine per cent of Australian households are what we could call ‘interspecies families’; that is, they contain one or more pet.

“Many people consider themselves to be ‘pet parents’, and have a bond with their animal companions that is every bit as meaningful and complex as those they have with other humans. This is particularly the case for people who are socially isolated.

“Enabling companion animals to travel on flights is a positive development for the human-animal bond and interspecies families in Australia, as it communicates to people that their relationship with their pets is important.

“We can take our pets to some public spaces like outdoor cafes, on public transport and to short stay accommodation, so it's not too much to expect to take your animal on a flight with the rest of the family.

“There are reciprocal physical, psychological and social effects of the human-animal bond, and continuing to experience that bond while on holidays could increase the therapeutic benefits of travel.

“Companion animals are social lubricants; that is, their presence helps break down social barriers by giving us a shared topic of conversation, and this could be enhanced in the impersonal space of a plane cabin.

“Giving pets access to traditionally ‘human-only’ spaces like planes means Australia will be catching up with the rest of the world, where pets have greater visibility.

“However, there are potential downsides to this change. While companion animals are widely loved, many people have allergies or fears or other cultural understandings and experiences of dogs and cats, meaning the presence of pets on flights could be a source of stress.

“For people who are anxiously attached to their pets, or easily worried about them, the stress of flying could be exacerbated.

“It's easy to overlook the subjective experience of our companion animals and just focus on all that they bring to us. However, we must also ask: would pets on planes be good for our pets or just for us? If we want to increase access to human spaces for companion animals, we need to ensure those spaces are dog and cat-shaped as much as they are human-shaped.”

Melissa Laing is an Associate Lecturer in Social Work and Human Services and researcher in the Social Equity Research Centre in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies at RMIT University. Her research focuses on the human-animal bond in human services practice.

Dr Iryna Heiets, aviation lecturer

“The global aviation market is very competitive, and airlines need to properly understand the environment in which they operate as well as customer behaviours and wants.

“Virgin Australia is competing with major players in the domestic passenger aviation market such as Qantas Domestic, Jetstar Airways, Bonza Airways and Rex Airlines.

“In 2023, there was a total of 5.21 million passengers carried on Australian domestic commercial aviation, and Virgin Australia held a 31.2% market share in the domestic market.

“They are looking at another statistic: approximately one-third of Australian households have dogs (48%) or cats (33%).

“Recognising this, Virgin Australia conducted a survey on social media asking its passengers about carrying pets on flights.

“As a result, they are launching 'pets in cabin' flights for domestic destinations.

“These changes may be a competitive advantage for Virgin Australia, identifying it as a 'pet-friendly' airline that aims to make the journey convenient and stress-free for both passengers and their furry friends.

“This decision will also generate revenue for the airline through the fee that applies for this service.

“Many airlines around the world allow small pets to travel in the cabin with their owners, but specific policies can vary.

“Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines permit small dogs, cats, and sometimes household birds in the cabin. This allows pet owners to care for their pets during the flight while ensuring safety for other passengers, as there are restrictions on the size of the pet carriers.

“We’ve seen through these international competitors that it works. Virgin Australia may be the first in Australia, but I would expect more to follow.”

Dr Iryna Heiets is Senior Lecturer in Aviation at RMIT University and Program Manager for the Master of Science (Aviation). Dr Heiets’ research focuses on air transportation management, aviation strategy, game theory, competition strategy, airline marketing and operations.

General media enquiries: RMIT External Affairs and Media, +61 439 704 077 or  [email protected]

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Passengers who have pets could soon take their furry friends with them on a Virgin Australia flight following the airline’s huge new move.

On Wednesday, it announced it is hoping to operate flights with pets with the Australian-first service currently subject to regulatory approval.

If given the green light, it will likely launch the service within 12 months.

“The reality is that 70 per cent of our passengers would love to have their fur babies on-board with them,” Virgin Australia Group CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka told news.com.au.

“So for us it’s really important to be able to innovate and lead and show the way, and to satisfy a really important desire of the majority of Australians to travel with their fur babies.”

Ms Hrdlicka said it’s for small dogs and small cats only and that the animal must fit into a predefined space underneath the seat in front of the passenger.

She also said they must fit into a predefined carrier and stay in it at the airport and on-board the aircraft.

“This will only be in predesignated rows so that anybody who doesn’t want to be near an animal underneath a seat in front of a pet owner, doesn’t need to be,” she added.

In the airline’s latest research with Australian pet owners, nearly 70 per cent of respondents said they would travel with their pet in the cabin, with 57 per cent saying they would fly more regularly if the service was a reality.

The move also comes following a social media survey on the airline’s Facebook page back in 2021 where 85 per cent of respondents voted in favour of the airline launching pets in cabin flights.

“Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights,” Ms Hrdlicka continued.

“Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality.”

Pets also can’t roam freely or sit on laps — they must stay put in the Virgin Australia approved carrier.

Those who are eligible to bring their pets on flights will be charged a fee, with the amount yet to be revealed.

“It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

Almost all major carriers in North America offer a pets on-board service for domestic flights, including United Airlines and Air Canada.

Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus said the airport was looking forward to helping Virgin deliver the Australian-first.

“We’ve been investing significant effort into providing relief areas for assistance animals and these facilities have ample capacity to serve Virgin Australia’s new guests,” she said.

“Animals being carried on board Virgin Australia flights will be required to remain in their approved pet carriers at all other times within the terminal.

“We expect the pets in cabin concept will prove a popular offering and we look forward to working with Virgin Australia to make it a reality.”

Ms Hrdlicka, who has two dogs of her own, said hers are too big for the service, but she’s excited to see it happen as she knows how important it is to travel with pets.

“I know this is going to make a massive difference,” she said, adding it’s also a great thing for pet-friendly accommodation providers who will “benefit greatly” from increased connectivity.

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“It really will be a whole new economy for pet travel in Australia.”

Some hotels across Australia that are pet-friendly include The Langham Melbourne; Pier One Sydney Harbour, Sydney; Ovolo The Valley, Brisbane; Hotel Vera, Ballarat; Wildes Boutique Hotel, Kangaroo Valley; Ace Hotel, Sydney and QT Melbourne, Victoria.

The proposed pets in cabin flights will not result in any change to approved assistance animals being able to travel in the cabin of Virgin Australia aircraft at no additional cost. Virgin will continue to offer pets to be transported as cargo through approved pet carrier services.

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Virgin australia announces pet flights with small dogs and cats allowed in cabin.

Pets on planes

Small pets could soon be allowed to be with their owners in the cabin on certain Virgin Australia flights in a huge change to domestic air travel.

Outgoing Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka made the announcement on Thursday morning saying the airline wanted to be the first in the country to introduce the option.

The move is subject to regulatory approval, but if it gets through, Virgin will launch the pet flights on specific domestic routes within the next 12 months.

There will be dedicated rows on the pet flights for the owners travelling with their cats or dogs, however only small animals would be allowed.

They will also be required to be restricted in a pet carrier under the seat in front of the owner and will not be able to roam around freely or sit on people’s laps for the entirety of the flight.

“Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well,” Hrdlicka said.

“Almost 70 per cent of Australian households have a pet, so this announcement is really significant for a large proportion of the country.

“It’s also a great thing for pet-friendly accommodation providers who will benefit greatly from increased connectivity and the ease for travellers to fly with their pets. It really will be a whole new economy for pet travel in Australia.”

There would be no changes to existing arrangements for approved service animals and passengers travelling with larger pets could still pay for them to be transported as cargo.

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Virgin Australia Takes to the Skies with Pets, Revolutionizing Travel for Pet Owners

By Matthew Russell

Virgin Australia has set its sights on becoming the first Australian airline to welcome pets into the cabin, a move that’s stirring excitement among pet owners worldwide.

This innovative service, subject to regulatory nod, is slated for takeoff within the next year, marking a significant shift in how Australians travel with their beloved pets.

A Groundbreaking Decision for Pet Lovers

Virgin Australia announced its plans to allow small dogs and cats to accompany their owners on select domestic flights. This decision comes as a response to the overwhelming demand from pet owners, with a 2021 survey revealing that 85% of Virgin Australia’s Facebook followers support the initiative.

Further research by the airline found that nearly 70% of Australian pet owners expressed a willingness to travel with their pets in the cabin, Glam Adelaide reports, hinting at a potential increase in travel frequency if such a service were available.

Ensuring Comfort and Safety for All

Pets on board Virgin Australia flights will be confined to specific rows, and there will be restrictions to prevent them from roaming freely within the cabin. As ABC reports, they must be housed in an approved carrier beneath the seat in front of their owner for the flight’s duration

The Logistics of In-Cabin Pet Travel

Despite the excitement, the implementation of in-cabin pet travel involves meticulous planning. According to The Guardian , Virgin Australia is navigating through the logistical and regulatory landscape to finalize the details, such as the cost for pet passengers and the specific routes that will offer this service.

Impact on the Travel and Hospitality Sectors

The introduction of pets in cabins is poised to catalyze a new economy around pet travel, benefiting not only pet owners but also pet-friendly accommodation providers. This move is expected to enhance connectivity and ease the travel experience for pet owners, fostering a more inclusive and pet-friendly travel industry.

As the airline works towards regulatory approval, pet owners across the nation await the chance to explore the skies with their furry companions by their side. This development not only reflects Virgin Australia’s innovative spirit but also aligns with the growing demand for more inclusive travel solutions that cater to the diverse needs of today’s travelers.

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Virgin Australia plans to be first Aussie carrier to operate with pets onboard

Virgin Australia announced that it plans to be the first Australian airline to operate flights with pets permitted in the cabin. 

The plan is still subject to regulatory approval and, if granted, is expected to launch within 12 months.

🐈+🐶+ 🧑‍🤝‍🧑+✈ = …? Is this fur-real?! Pets onboard Virgin Australia flights are one giant leap closer for petkind: https://t.co/DaBfT05MnO pic.twitter.com/cc66u9jVZR — Virgin Australia (@VirginAustralia) March 6, 2024

In 2021, Virgin Australia conducted a social media survey via Facebook which saw 85 % of respondents vote in favor of the airline launching flights allowing pets in the cabin. 

The airline said it conducted a more recent research among Australian pet owners, which showed that nearly 70% said they would travel with their pet in the cabin, while 57% said they would fly more regularly if the service was offered.

In North America, almost all major carriers, including United Airlines and Air Canada, allow, under specific regulations, pets onboard domestic flights.

Virgin Australia said its proposed pet-friendly service will have parameters and restrictions such as:

• The service being limited to small cats and dogs on specific domestic routes;
• Limited and designated rows to be assigned as ‘pet zones’
• Pets will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps;
• Pets must also be carried in a Virgin Australia approved pet carrier under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight.

“Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights,” Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said in a statement.

“Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well,” Hrdlicka continued.

Hrdlicka added: “Almost 70% of Australian households have a pet, so this announcement is really significant for a large proportion of the country. It’s also a great thing for pet-friendly accommodation providers who will benefit greatly from increased connectivity and the ease for travelers to fly with their pets. It really will be a whole new economy for pet travel in Australia.”

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Virgin Australia Announces Australia's First-Ever Pets Onboard

• Virgin Australia to be first Australian airline to operate pet-friendly flights, pending regulatory approval.
• Research shows 70% of Australian pet owners would travel with their pets onboard, boosting airline travel.
• Service will have specific rules: limited to small cats and dogs on designated domestic routes, in approved carriers.

The Virgin brand has long been synonymous with fun, and today, Virgin Australia has put a smile on the faces of pet owners across the nation. The carrier plans to be the first Australian airline to operate flights with pets onboard and, subject to regulatory approval, hopes to launch the service within 12 months.

An Australian first

Before making today's announcement, Virgin Australia researched how Australians felt about traveling with their pets. In a social media survey of the airline's Facebook followers in 2021, 85% of respondents voted in favor of Virgin Australia launching pets in the cabin flights.

Since then, the airline has conducted more recent research with Australian pet owners, which showed that 70% of respondents advised they would travel with their pet in the cabin, while 57% said they would fly more regularly if the service was a reality.

At Melbourne Airport today, Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said the airline is thrilled to finally reveal its plans to be the first Australian airline to offer pets onboard flights, adding that its love for animals was in its DNA.

"Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It's something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well. Innovation has always been a hallmark of Virgin Australia, and we were the first airline in the country to offer online check-in.

"This year we were the first Australian airline to launch baggage tracking and a fully integrated self-service disruption management tool. It's this innovation and first-to-market drive that underpins who we are in the market."

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The system has rules

Pets onboard are nothing new in most countries, and in North America, almost all the major carriers offer the service, including United Airlines and Air Canada. Of course, not everyone onboard one of Virgin Australia's Boeing 737s might be a pet lover, so the airline has announced several parameters governing the service:

• The service will be limited to small cats and dogs on specific domestic routes;
• Pets will be restricted to a limited number of designated rows and will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps;
• Pets must also be carried in a Virgin Australia-approved pet carrier under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight.

With more than 70% of Australian households owning a pet, Virgin Australia believes the new service will benefit pet-friendly accommodation providers. The airline said owners will benefit from increased connectivity and the ease for travelers to fly their pets.

While there will be a cost to bring a pet onboard, the airline also advised there will be no change to approved assistance animals traveling in the cabin of Virgin Australia aircraft at no additional cost. The existing procedure for assessing the eligibility of these assistance animals to travel onboard will not change, and pets will continue to be carried as cargo through approved pet carrier services.

Your Stress-Free Guide To Traveling With Furry Friends

What do you think about taking pets onboard? Let us know in the comments.

Virgin Australia to launch nation’s first-ever pets in cabin flights

Picture: Alex Coppel

Virgin Australia has announced its intention to be the country’s first airline to operate flights with pets onboard. The Australian-first service, which will have pet-lovers rejoicing around the nation, is subject to regulatory approval, and is expected to launch within 12 months.

In a social media survey of Virgin Australia’s Facebook followers in 2021, 85 per cent of respondents voted in favour of the airline launching pets in cabin flights. In more recent research conducted by Virgin Australia with Australian pet owners, nearly 70 per cent of respondents advised they would travel with their pet in the cabin, with 57 per cent saying they would fly more regularly if the service was a reality.

Almost all major carriers in North America offer a pets onboard service for domestic flights, including United Airlines and Air Canada.

Proposed pets in cabin in-flight experience

For the comfort of all guests, Virgin Australia has today announced a number of parameters for pets in cabin flights:

The service will be limited to small cats and dogs on specific domestic routes; Pets will be restricted to a limited number of designated rows and will not be allowed to roam freely or sit on laps; Pets must also be carried in a Virgin Australia approved pet carrier under the seat in front of the owner for the duration of the flight.

Speaking at a press conference at Melbourne Airport, Virgin Australia Group CEO, Jayne Hrdlicka, said Virgin Australia is thrilled to finally reveal its plans to be the first Australian airline to offer pets onboard flights.

“Our love for animals has always been in the Virgin Australia DNA and we are excited at the prospect of taking off with Australia’s first-ever pets in cabin flights,” said Hrdlicka.

“Overwhelmingly, our guests tell us they want to travel with their pets, and we are now on a journey to make that a reality. It’s something that commonly happens overseas and is proven to work well.

“Almost 70 per cent of Australian households have a pet, so this announcement is really significant for a large proportion of the country. It’s also a great thing for pet-friendly accommodation providers who will benefit greatly from increased connectivity and the ease for travellers to fly with their pets. It really will be a whole new economy for pet travel in Australia.

“Pets on flights is another example of Virgin Australia leading the way with new and improved service offerings and first-to-market experiences for our guests.

“Innovation has always been a hallmark of Virgin Australia. We were the first airline in the country to offer online check-in. This year we were the first Australian airline to launch baggage tracking and a fully integrated self-service disruption management tool. It’s this innovation and first-to-market drive that underpins who we are in the market,” she said.

Melbourne Airport CEO, Lorie Argus said the airport was looking forward to helping Virgin Australia deliver the Australian-first.

“We’ve been investing significant effort into providing relief areas for assistance animals and these facilities have ample capacity to serve Virgin Australia’s new guests,” she said.

“Animals being carried on board Virgin Australia flights will be required to remain in their approved pet carriers at all other times within the terminal.

“We expect the pets in cabin concept will prove a popular offering and we look forward to working with Virgin Australia to make it a reality.”

More details on pets in cabin flights, including available routes, and the cost for bringing a pet onboard, will be announced in due course.

No changes to assistance animals

The proposed pets in cabin flights will not result in any change to approved assistance animals being able to travel in the cabin of Virgin Australia aircraft at no additional cost. The existing procedure for assessing the eligibility of these assistance animals to travel onboard will not change. Additionally, Virgin Australia will continue to offer pets to be transported as cargo through approved pet carrier services, as this remains an important part of the Virgin Australia pet offering.

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Woof Woof! Virgin Australia Explores Bringing Pets Onboard Flights

By kriti gupta / play , sydney , travel / 7 march 2024.

By Kriti Gupta

It’s time to hit the skies with fido.

For pet owners, the annual family vacation often comes with a difficult decision – what to do with the furry member of the family? Virgin Australia is hoping to take the stress out of pet travel with a new initiative – allowing cats and small dogs to fly in the cabin alongside their humans.

While the plan is still awaiting regulatory approval, it has the potential to be a game changer for pet owners in Australia. Currently, most airlines restrict pets to cargo holds an option that can be unsettling for both pets and owners.

Virgin Australia isn’t proposing a free-for-all fur fest in the cabin. There will be strict guidelines. Only small cats and dogs will be permitted, and they’ll need to travel in a designated carrier that fits comfortably under the seat in front of their owner. Lap snuggles will be off-limits, and specific designated rows will be allocated for pet-carrying passengers. So why the change? Virgin Australia isn’t the first airline to explore in-cabin pet travel – it’s a concept that’s already taken off in North America. Results from Virgin Australia’s research suggest a strong appetite for this option among Australian pet owners. With nearly 70% of households having a furry friend, the ability to travel together could be a welcome change.

There are, of course, some logistical considerations. The airline will need to ensure clear guidelines and proper training for staff to manage the new furry additions onboard. For fellow passengers with allergies or concerns, Virgin Australia will likely need to implement a clear communication strategy to ensure everyone has a comfortable flight.

If all goes according to plan, Virgin Australia could be welcoming pets onboard within the next year. For pet owners dreaming of adventures with their furry companions, this news is a reason to wag their tails!

Related news: Say Goodbye to Carousel Stress With Virgin Australia’s International Baggage Tracking

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Virgin Pet Travel

Virgin Australia is one of the most reputable airlines in the country and a popular choice for many of our customers looking for domestic pet transport.

Domestic Virgin Pet Flights

Virgin domestic pet travel is restricted to only dogs and cats. To use Virgin for pet transport, the airline requests travellers to go through a commercial pet transport company – like us. Our friendly team of pet transporters is more than happy to organise overseas or domestic flights for your furry friend.

We can assist with:

• Booking the most direct flights for your pet’s journey
• Selecting the most appropriate travel crate
• Organising vet appointments, health check certifications and vaccinations
• Door-to-door or airport-to-airport pick-up and drop-off

We understand that your furry friend is more than just a pet – they’re family. We treat all pets like our own, giving them the love and care they deserve during their trip. With our premium services, your pet travel with Virgin Australia will be stress-free and smooth.

See Virgin Australia’s pet travel guide for more information .

At AeroPets, we take care of:

Virgin dog flights | virgin cat flights, why choose aeropets to organise virgin australia pet travel.

Booking pet travel with Virgin Australia can be overwhelming, especially with various paperwork and regulations to navigate.

That’s why we offer a comprehensive service that allows you to fly pets with ease and confidence, from coordinating the booking process to handling all the necessary documentation to helping you select the appropriate pet crate. AeroPets is one of the trusted pet transport companies partnered with Virgin Australia, meaning we understand the specific Virgin pet travel requirements, guidelines, and restrictions, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free trip for your beloved pets.

Our Virgin pet transport services include seamless door-to-door transportation, making the journey convenient and stress-free for both you and your pet. From pick-up at your current location to delivery at your destination, we handle all the logistics, ensuring a smooth transition for your furry friend.

Virgin pet travel FAQs

How much does virgin pet travel cost.

The cost of your pet’s flight will depend on their size and breed, the final destination and any specific requirements your pet has.

How do I know which travel crate is best for my pet?

Your pet should be able to comfortably stand up and turn around freely in their pet crate. It’s also important to remember that a pet crate with extra space can actually be dangerous for your pet during turbulence, so buying the roomiest container actually isn’t a benefit to your pet. You can use our travel container calculator or get in touch with our friendly staff to discuss the best crate option for your pet’s crate.

Can my pet and I be on the same flight?

Yes, it’s possible for you and your pet to be on the same flight, however, Virgin Australia has strict rules about animals in the passenger cabin. Virgin doesn’t accept pets (excluding service dogs) in the passenger cabin with pet owners. Instead, they must fly in the cargo hold.

Are there any restrictions on flying certain breeds with Virgin Australia?

Due to respiratory issues, Virgin Australia Cargo has put restrictions on brachycephalic breeds on Virgin flights. If your pet falls into this breed, please contact us to discuss your best option for pet transport.

Virgin also has restrictions on dangerous dog breeds and any subsequent cross breeds, as well as dog-wolf crosses.

The full list of restricted cat and dog breeds can be found on the Virgin Australia pet travel guide .

What should I do to prepare my pet for travel?

Preparing your pet for travel involves familiarising them with their travel crate, ensuring they are comfortable spending time in it before the flight. It’s important to pack their essentials, such as food, water, and comfort items, and to follow all the airline’s guidelines for pet travel.

How do pets fly on Virgin Australia?

Pets travelling with Virgin are secured in crates in the aircraft’s cargo hold, which is a pressurised, temperature-controlled, and dimly lit environment. Trained airline staff securely strap the travel crates in position, and the captain sets a comfortable temperature during the journey.

Can I fly my pet overseas with Virgin Australia?

Unfortunately, Virgin Australia only offers domestic pet flights. However, we are partnered with Qantas , which offers international flights for pets.

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Virgin Australia’s bold plans to revamp travel – with pets!

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Departure Pets relocates pets domestically with Virgin Airlines.

At Departure Pets , our team are well equipped to take care of everything associated with your pets relocation; From residence collection to boarding, flight bookings and delivery to their new home - We do it all! Virgin Australia has individual restrictions and requirements for pet travel. Read on for a breakdown of what Departure Pets can service with Virgin Australia.

Please note, the below information is relating to Departure Pets individual pet travel services and is not a reflection of what Virgin Australia can or cannot do independently of a pet relocation with Departure Pets .

Virgin Australia Origin Ports

These are the only ports Departure Pets can fly out of with Virgin Australia

• Coolangatta (Gold Coast)
• Port Hedland
• Rockhampton

Virgin Australia Destinations

These are the only ports Departure Pets can fly into with Virgin Australia

• Alice Springs
• Port Headland

Virgin Australia Restricted Breeds

If your pet is classified as any of the below breeds or is considered a Brachycephalic breed, it will be able to fly on Virgin Airlines under a BOAS. This must be completed by an AVA vet within 7 days of your pets departure, and are restricted to certain ports. All non brachy breeds can fly at 8 weeks of age. If the pet is a brachy breed, they must be 12 weeks of age to fly.

THIS DOES NOT INCLUDE BRACHYCEPHALIC CROSS BREEDS - VIRGIN AUSTRALIA DOES NOT FLY BRACHY CROSS BREEDS. DEPARTURE PETS DOES NOT FLY BRACHYCEPHALIC BREEDS AND THEIR CROSS BREEDS ON VIRGIN AUSTRALIA.

BRACHYCEPHALIC BREEDS

• Affenpinscher
• American Bully
• American Bulldog
• Australian Bulldog
• Boston Terrier
• Brussels Griffon/ Griffon Bruxellois
• British/ English Bulldog
• Dogue De Bordeaux
• English Toy Spaniel/ King Charles Spaniel
• French Mastiff
• French Bulldog
• Japanese Chin/ Japanese Spaniel
• Neopolitan Mastiff
• Pug (Chinese Pug, Dutch Pug, Japanese Pug)
• Shih-Zhu (Tsu) (Tzu)
• Tibetan Spaniel
• Valley Bulldog
• Exotic Shorthair Cat
• Himalayan Cat
• Persian Cat

NON BRACHYCEPHALIC BREEDS

• Fila Brasilerio
• Japanese Tosa
• Dogo Argentino
• American Pit Bull and other Pit Bull Breeds
• Perro de Presa Canario (Presa Canario)
• Czechoslovakian wolfdog or Czechoslovakian Vlcak
• Saarloos wolfdog or Saarloos wolfhound
• Lupo Italiano or Italian wolfdog
• Kunming wolfdog or Kunming dog

Virgin Documents

If your pet is booked to fly with Virgin, there will be documentation required to be completed prior to your pets travel: 

• Fit to Fly Certificate (for pets under 12 weeks and over 12 years of age)

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• Email * Enter Email Confirm Email
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• Number of Pets * Please enter a number from 1 to 6 .
• Airport of Departure * Adelaide (ADL) Brisbane (BNE) Canberra (CBR) Darwin (DRW) Hobart (HBA) Melbourne (MEL) Perth (PER) Sydney (SYD) Albury (ABX) Alice Springs (ASP) Ballina (BNK) Bathurst (BHS) Broome (BME) Bundaberg (BDB) Cairns (CNS) Coffs Harbour (CFS) Coolangatta (OOL) Devonport (DPO) Dubbo (DBO) Harvey Bay (HVB) Kalgoorlie (KGI) Karratha (KTA) Kununarra (KNX) Launceston (LST) Mackay (MKY) Mildura (MQL) Mount Gambier (MGB) Newcastle (NTL) Newman (ZNE) Onslow (ONS) Orange (OAG) Port Hedland (PHE) Rockhampton (ROK) Tamworth (TMW) Toowoomba (WTB) Townsville (TSV) Wagga Wagga (WGA)
• Destination Airport * Abu Dhabi ABU Almaty ALA Amsterdam AMS Athens ATH Atlanta ATL Auckland AKL Bangalore BLR Bangkok BKK Barcelona BCN Beirut BEY Belgrade BEG Bengaluru BLR Berlin BER Boston BOS Bogota BOG Brussels BRU Budapest BUD Buenos Aires EZE Cairo CAI Calgary YYC Capetown CPT Carrasco/Montevideo MVD Chennai MAA Cebu CEB Chicago ORD Christchurch CHC Copenhagen CPH Dallas Fort Worth DFW Delhi DEL Denver DEN Dhaka DAC Detroit DTT Doha DOH Dubai DXB Dublin DUB Dunedin DUD Dusseldorf DUS Edinburgh EDI Edmonton YEG Florence FLR Frankfurt FRA Geneva GVA Glasgow GLA Gatwick LGW Gothenburg GOT Gisborne GIS Halifax YHZ Harare HRE Hamburg HAM Helsinki HEL Hong Kong HKG Honolulu HNL Houston IAH Hyderabad HYD Invercargill IVC Istanbul IST Johannesburg JNB Karachi KHI Kolkata CCU Kyiv IEV Larnaca LCA Lahore LHE Lisbon LIS London LHR Los Angeles LAX Madrid MAD Manchester MAN Mexico MEX Miami MIA Milan MXP Malta MLA Manila MNL Montreal YUL Moscow DME Mumbai BOM Munich MUC Nairobi NBO Napier/Hastings NPE Narita - Tokyo NRT Nelson NSN New Plymouth NPL New York JFK Nice NCE Nuku'alofa TBU Orlando MCO Oslo OSL Palmerston North PMR Paris CDG Philadelphia PHL Prague PRG Queenstown ZQN Rarotonga RAR Reykjavik REK Riyadh RUH Rome FCO Salt Lake City SLC San Francisco SFO Santiago SCL Sao Paulo GRU Seattle SEA Singapore SIN Sofia SOF St Petersburg LED Stockholm ARN Tahiti PPT Taipei TPE Tehran IKA Toronto YYZ Vancouver YVR Venice VCE Vienna VIE Warsaw WAW Wellington WLG Whangarei WRE Washington IAD Yerevan Zagreb ZAG Zurich ZRH Other
• Destination Airport (Other)
• Estimated Pet Arrival Date to Destination Airport * DD slash MM slash YYYY
• Type of Animal * Dog Cat
• Breed of Animal * Affenpinscher Afghan Hound African Boerboel Airedale Terrier Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Eskimo Dog ( Miniature) American Eskimo Dog (Standard) American Eskimo Dog (Toy) American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Dog Australian Bandog (Mastiff) Australian Bulldog Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Australian Cobberdog (Labradoodle) Australian Dingo Australian Kelpie Australian Koolie Australian Shepherd Australian Silky Terrier Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Australian Terrier Azawakh Hound Basenji Basset Fauve De Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Beaglier (Beagle x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Dog Bergamasco Sheepdog Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier Des Flandres Boxer Bracco Italiano Dog Briard British Bulldog Brittany Bull Arab Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Mastiff) Carolina Dog Catahoula Cattle Dog Caucasian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavoodle (C.K.C.S x Poodle) Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) Cesky Terriers Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua (Apple Head) Chihuahua (Deer Head) Chinese Crested Dog Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Cocker Spaniel (English) Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Coton De Tulear Croation Sheepdog (Shepherd) Curly Coated Retriever Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Dachshund Dachshund (Long Haired) Dachshund (Miniature) Dalmation Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deerhound Dingo Doberman Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dutch Shepherd English Mastiff English Pointer English Setter English Springer Spaniel English Staffordshire Terrier English Toy Spaniel English Toy Terrier Entlebucher Mountain Dog Eurasier Eurohound Field Spaniel Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat Coated Retriever Fox Terrier Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz Medium (Mittel) German Spitz Small (Klein) German Wirehaired Pointer Glen Of Imaal Terrier Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Great Dane Greek Sheepdog (Shepherd) Greyhound Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) Groodle (Golden Retriever X Poodle) Hamiltonstovare Harrier Havanese Hovawart Hungarian Puli Hungarian Vizsla Ibizan Hound Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Jagdterrier (German Hunt Terrier) Japanese Chin Japanese Spitz Johnson American Bulldog Kangal Dog Keeshond Kelpie Kerry Blue Terrier King Charles Spaniel Komondor Kuvasz Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever X Poodle) Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Lakeland Terrier Large Munsterlander Leonberger Lhasa Apso Lowchen Lurcher Maltese Maltese / Shih Tzu X Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mini Fox Terrier Miniature Pinscher Moodle (Maltese x Poodel) Mountain Cur Neopolitan Mastiff New Zealand Huntaway Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Old English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Jack Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Pekingese Peruvian Hairless Dog Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Podenco Csnario Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodel (Toy) Portuguese Podengo Grande Portuguese Podengo Medio Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (Small) Portuguese Water Dog Prague Ratter Pug Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Puli Pumi Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rat Terrier Red Heeler Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Russian Toy Terrier Saluki Samoyed Sarplaninac Dog Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu Shih Tzu Siberian Husky Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi Small (Kleiner) Munsterlander Smithfield Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Spanish Galgo (Galgo Espanol) Spoodle (English Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) Springer Spaniel St. Bernard Staghound Stumpy Tail Cattle dog Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Swiss Bernese Swiss Shepherd Taiwanese Dog (Formosan Mountain Dog) Tenterfield Terrier Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Weimaraner Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier West Highland white Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintli Yorshire Terrier Dog
• Breed of Animal * Abyssinian American Curl American Shorthair Arabian Mau Australian Mist Australian Tiffanie Balinese Bengal Birman Bombay British Shorthair Burmese (European) Burmilla Chantilly- Tiffany Chinchilla Cornish Rex Devon Rex Domestic Long Hair Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Short Hair Egyptian Mau European Short Hair Exotic Himalayan Japanese Bobtail Korat Lykoi Maine Coon Mandalay Manx Munchkin Cat Norwegian Forest Cat Ocicat Orientals Persian Ragamuffin Ragdoll Russian Black Russian Blue Russian White Scottish Fold Scottish Short Hair Selkirk Rex Siamese Siberian Singapura SnowShoe Somali Sphynx Tonkinese Turkish Van Toyger Cat
• Age of Animal * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years 12 Years and over
• Travel Crate Requirments * Purchase Own
• Length (cms)
• Width (cms)
• Height (cms)
• ADD ANOTHER PET
• Second Pet's Name
• Type of Animal 2 * Dog Cat
• Breed of Animal 2 * Affenpinscher Afghan Hound African Boerboel Airedale Terrier Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Eskimo Dog ( Miniature) American Eskimo Dog (Standard) American Eskimo Dog (Toy) American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Dog Australian Bandog (Mastiff) Australian Bulldog Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Australian Cobberdog (Labradoodle) Australian Dingo Australian Kelpie Australian Koolie Australian Shepherd Australian Silky Terrier Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Australian Terrier Azawakh Hound Basenji Basset Fauve De Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Beaglier (Beagle x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Dog Bergamasco Sheepdog Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier Des Flandres Boxer Bracco Italiano Dog Briard British Bulldog Brittany Bull Arab Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Mastiff) Carolina Dog Catahoula Cattle Dog Caucasian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavoodle (C.K.C.S x Poodle) Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) Cesky Terriers Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua (Apple Head) Chihuahua (Deer Head) Chinese Crested Dog Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Cocker Spaniel (English) Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Coton De Tulear Croation Sheepdog (Shepherd) Curly Coated Retriever Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Dachshund Dachshund (Long Haired) Dachshund (Miniature) Dalmation Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deerhound Dingo Doberman Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dutch Shepherd English Mastiff English Pointer English Setter English Springer Spaniel English Staffordshire Terrier English Toy Spaniel English Toy Terrier Entlebucher Mountain Dog Eurasier Eurohound Field Spaniel Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat Coated Retriever Fox Terrier Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz Medium (Mittel) German Spitz Small (Klein) German Wirehaired Pointer Glen Of Imaal Terrier Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Great Dane Greek Sheepdog (Shepherd) Greyhound Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) Groodle (Golden Retriever X Poodle) Hamiltonstovare Harrier Havanese Hovawart Hungarian Puli Hungarian Vizsla Ibizan Hound Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Jagdterrier (German Hunt Terrier) Japanese Chin Japanese Spitz Johnson American Bulldog Kangal Dog Keeshond Kelpie Kerry Blue Terrier King Charles Spaniel Komondor Kuvasz Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever X Poodle) Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Lakeland Terrier Large Munsterlander Leonberger Lhasa Apso Lowchen Lurcher Maltese Maltese / Shih Tzu X Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mini Fox Terrier Miniature Pinscher Moodle (Maltese x Poodel) Mountain Cur Neopolitan Mastiff New Zealand Huntaway Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Old English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Jack Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Pekingese Peruvian Hairless Dog Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Podenco Csnario Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodel (Toy) Portuguese Podengo Grande Portuguese Podengo Medio Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (Small) Portuguese Water Dog Prague Ratter Pug Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Puli Pumi Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rat Terrier Red Heeler Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Russian Toy Terrier Saluki Samoyed Sarplaninac Dog Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu Shih Tzu Siberian Husky Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi Small (Kleiner) Munsterlander Smithfield Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Spanish Galgo (Galgo Espanol) Spoodle (English Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) Springer Spaniel St. Bernard Staghound Stumpy Tail Cattle dog Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Swiss Bernese Swiss Shepherd Taiwanese Dog (Formosan Mountain Dog) Tenterfield Terrier Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Weimaraner Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier West Highland white Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintli Yorshire Terrier Dog
• Breed of Animal 2 * Abyssinian American Curl American Shorthair Arabian Mau Australian Mist Australian Tiffanie Balinese Bengal Birman Bombay British Shorthair Burmese (European) Burmilla Chantilly- Tiffany Chinchilla Cornish Rex Devon Rex Domestic Long Hair Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Short Hair Egyptian Mau European Short Hair Exotic Himalayan Japanese Bobtail Korat Lykoi Maine Coon Mandalay Manx Munchkin Cat Norwegian Forest Cat Ocicat Orientals Persian Ragamuffin Ragdoll Russian Black Russian Blue Russian White Scottish Fold Scottish Short Hair Selkirk Rex Siamese Siberian Singapura SnowShoe Somali Sphynx Turkish Angora Turkish Van Tonkinese Toyger Cat
• Age of Animal 2 * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years
• Travel Crate Requirements Animal 2 * Purchase Own
• Third Pet's Name
• Type of Animal 3 * Dog Cat
• Age of Animal 3 * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years 12 Years and over
• Breed of Animal 3 * Affenpinscher Afghan Hound African Boerboel Airedale Terrier Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Eskimo Dog ( Miniature) American Eskimo Dog (Standard) American Eskimo Dog (Toy) American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Dog Australian Bandog (Mastiff) Australian Bulldog Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Australian Cobberdog (Labradoodle) Australian Dingo Australian Kelpie Australian Koolie Australian Shepherd Australian Silky Terrier Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Australian Terrier Azawakh Hound Basenji Basset Fauve De Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Beaglier (Beagle x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Dog Bergamasco Sheepdog Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier Des Flandres Boxer Bracco Italiano Dog Briard British Bulldog Brittany Bull Arab Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Mastiff) Carolina Dog Catahoula Cattle Dog Caucasian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavoodle (C.K.C.S x Poodle) Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) Cesky Terriers Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua (Apple Head) Chihuahua (Deer Head) Chinese Crested Dog Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Cocker Spaniel (English) Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Coton De Tulear Croation Sheepdog (Shepherd) Curly Coated Retriever Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Dachshund Dachshund (Long Haired) Dachshund (Miniature) Dalmation Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deerhound Dingo Doberman Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dutch Shepherd English Mastiff English Pointer English Setter English Springer Spaniel English Staffordshire Terrier English Toy Spaniel English Toy Terrier Entlebucher Mountain Dog Eurasier Eurohound Field Spaniel Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat Coated Retriever Fox Terrier Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz Medium (Mittel) German Spitz Small (Klein) German Wirehaired Pointer Glen Of Imaal Terrier Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Great Dane Greek Sheepdog (Shepherd) Greyhound Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) Groodle (Golden Retriever X Poodle) Hamiltonstovare Harrier Havanese Hovawart Hungarian Puli Hungarian Vizsla Ibizan Hound Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Jagdterrier (German Hunt Terrier) Japanese Chin Japanese Spitz Johnson American Bulldog Kangal Dog Keeshond Kelpie Kerry Blue Terrier King Charles Spaniel Komondor Kuvasz Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever X Poodle) Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Lakeland Terrier Large Munsterlander Leonberger Lhasa Apso Lowchen Lurcher Maltese Maltese / Shih Tzu X Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mini Fox Terrier Miniature Pinscher Moodle (Maltese x Poodel) Mountain Cur Neopolitan Mastiff New Zealand Huntaway Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Old English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Jack Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Pekingese Peruvian Hairless Dog Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Podenco Csnario Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodel (Toy) Portuguese Podengo Grande Portuguese Podengo Medio Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (Small) Portuguese Water Dog Prague Ratter Pug Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Puli Pumi Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rat Terrier Red Heeler Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Russian Toy Terrier Saluki Samoyed Sarplaninac Dog Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu Shih Tzu Siberian Husky Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi Small (Kleiner) Munsterlander Smithfield Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Spanish Galgo (Galgo Espanol) Spoodle (English Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) Springer Spaniel St. Bernard Staghound Stumpy Tail Cattle dog Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Swiss Bernese Swiss Shepherd Taiwanese Dog (Formosan Mountain Dog) Tenterfield Terrier Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Weimaraner Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier West Highland white Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintli Yorshire Terrier Dog
• Breed of Animal 3 * Abyssinian American Curl American Shorthair Arabian Mau Australian Mist Australian Tiffanie Balinese Bengal Birman Bombay British Shorthair Burmese (European) Burmilla Chantilly- Tiffany Chinchilla Cornish Rex Devon Rex Domestic Long Hair Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Short Hair Egyptian Mau European Short Hair Exotic Himalayan Japanese Bobtail Korat Lykoi Maine Coon Mandalay Manx Munchkin Cat Norwegian Forest Cat Ocicat Orientals Persian Ragamuffin Ragdoll Russian Black Russian Blue Russian White Scottish Fold Scottish Short Hair Selkirk Rex Siamese Siberian Singapura SnowShoe Somali Sphynx Tokinese Turkish Angora Tonkinese Turkish Van Toyger Cat
• Travel Crate Requirements Animal 3 * Purchase Own
• Fourth Pet's Name
• Type of Animal 4 * Dog Cat
• Age of Animal 4 * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years 12 Years and over
• Breed of Animal 4 * Affenpinscher Afghan Hound African Boerboel Airedale Terrier Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Eskimo Dog ( Miniature) American Eskimo Dog (Standard) American Eskimo Dog (Toy) American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Dog Australian Bandog (Mastiff) Australian Bulldog Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Australian Cobberdog (Labradoodle) Australian Dingo Australian Kelpie Australian Koolie Australian Shepherd Australian Silky Terrier Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Australian Terrier Azawakh Hound Basenji Basset Fauve De Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Beaglier (Beagle x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Dog Bergamasco Sheepdog Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier Des Flandres Boxer Bracco Italiano Dog Briard British Bulldog Brittany Bull Arab Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Mastiff) Carolina Dog Catahoula Cattle Dog Caucasian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavoodle (C.K.C.S x Poodle) Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) Cesky Terriers Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua (Apple Head) Chihuahua (Deer Head) Chinese Crested Dog Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Cocker Spaniel (English) Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Coton De Tulear Croation Sheepdog (Shepherd) Curly Coated Retriever Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Dachshund Dachshund (Long Haired) Dachshund (Miniature) Dalmation Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deerhound Dingo Doberman Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dutch Shepherd English Mastiff English Pointer English Setter English Setter English Springer Spaniel English Staffordshire Terrier English Toy Spaniel English Toy Terrier Entlebucher Mountain Dog Eurasier Eurohound Field Spaniel Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat Coated Retriever Fox Terrier Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz Medium (Mittel) German Spitz Small (Klein) German Wirehaired Pointer Glen Of Imaal Terrier Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Great Dane Greek Sheepdog (Shepherd) Greyhound Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) Groodle (Golden Retriever X Poodle) Hamiltonstovare Harrier Havanese Hovawart Hungarian Puli Hungarian Vizsla Ibizan Hound Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Jagdterrier (German Hunt Terrier) Japanese Chin Japanese Spitz Johnson American Bulldog Kangal Dog Keeshond Kelpie Kerry Blue Terrier King Charles Spaniel Komondor Kuvasz Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever X Poodle) Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Lakeland Terrier Large Munsterlander Leonberger Lhasa Apso Lowchen Lurcher Maltese Maltese / Shih Tzu X Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mini Fox Terrier Miniature Pinscher Moodle (Maltese x Poodel) Mountain Cur Neopolitan Mastiff New Zealand Huntaway Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Old English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Jack Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Pekingese Peruvian Hairless Dog Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Podenco Csnario Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodel (Toy) Portuguese Podengo Grande Portuguese Podengo Medio Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (Small) Portuguese Water Dog Prague Ratter Pug Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Puli Pumi Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rat Terrier Red Heeler Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Russian Toy Terrier Saluki Samoyed Sarplaninac Dog Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu Shih Tzu Siberian Husky Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi Small (Kleiner) Munsterlander Smithfield Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Spanish Galgo (Galgo Espanol) Spoodle (English Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) Springer Spaniel St. Bernard Staghound Stumpy Tail Cattle dog Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Swiss Bernese Swiss Shepherd Taiwanese Dog (Formosan Mountain Dog) Tenterfield Terrier Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Weimaraner Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier West Highland white Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintli Yorshire Terrier Dog
• Breed of Animal 4 * Abyssinian American Curl American Shorthair Arabian Mau Australian Mist Australian Tiffanie Balinese Bengal Birman Bombay British Shorthair Burmese (European) Burmilla Chantilly- Tiffany Chinchilla Cornish Rex Devon Rex Domestic Long Hair Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Short Hair Egyptian Mau European Short Hair Exotic Himalayan Japanese Bobtail Korat Lykoi Maine Coon Mandalay Manx Munchkin Cat Norwegian Forest Cat Ocicat Orientals Persian Ragamuffin Ragdoll Russian Black Russian Blue Russian White Scottish Fold Scottish Short Hair Selkirk Rex Siamese Siberian Singapura SnowShoe Somali Sphynx Tonkinese Turkish Angora Turkish Van Toyger Cat
• Travel Crate Requirments Animal 4 * Purchase Own
• Fifth Pet's Name
• Type of Animal 5 * Dog Cat
• Age of Animal 5 * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years 12 Years and over
• Breed of Animal 5 * Affenpinscher Afghan Hound African Boerboel Airedale Terrier Akita Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Eskimo Dog ( Miniature) American Eskimo Dog (Standard) American Eskimo Dog (Toy) American Staffordshire Terrier Anatolian Shepherd Dog Australian Bandog (Mastiff) Australian Bulldog Australian Cattle Dog (Blue Heeler) Australian Cobberdog (Labradoodle) Australian Dingo Australian Kelpie Australian Koolie Australian Shepherd Australian Silky Terrier Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog Australian Terrier Azawakh Hound Basenji Basset Fauve De Bretagne Basset Hound Beagle Beaglier (Beagle x Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Bearded Collie Beauceron Bedlington Terrier Belgian Malinois Belgian Shepherd Dog Bergamasco Sheepdog Bernese Mountain Dog Bichon Frise Black Mouth Cur Black Russian Terrier Bloodhound Bluetick Coonhound Bolognese Border Collie Border Terrier Borzoi Boston Terrier Bouvier Des Flandres Boxer Bracco Italiano Dog Briard British Bulldog Brittany Bull Arab Bull Terrier Bull Terrier (Miniature) Bullmastiff Cairn Terrier Canaan Dog Cane Corso Italiano (Italian Mastiff) Carolina Dog Catahoula Cattle Dog Caucasian Shepherd Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Cavoodle (C.K.C.S x Poodle) Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Ovtcharka) Cesky Terriers Chesapeake Bay Retriever Chihuahua (Apple Head) Chihuahua (Deer Head) Chinese Crested Dog Chow Chow Clumber Spaniel Cocker Spaniel (American) Cocker Spaniel (English) Collie (Rough) Collie (Smooth) Coton De Tulear Croation Sheepdog (Shepherd) Curly Coated Retriever Czechoslovakian Wolfdog Dachshund Dachshund (Long Haired) Dachshund (Miniature) Dalmation Dandie Dinmont Terrier Deerhound Dingo Doberman Dogue De Bordeaux (French Mastiff) Dutch Shepherd English Mastiff English Pointer English Setter English Springer Spaniel English Staffordshire Terrier English Toy Spaniel English Toy Terrier Entlebucher Mountain Dog Eurasier Eurohound Field Spaniel Finnish Lapphund Finnish Spitz Flat Coated Retriever Fox Terrier Foxhound French Bulldog German Pinscher German Shepherd Dog German Shorthaired Pointer German Spitz Medium (Mittel) German Spitz Small (Klein) German Wirehaired Pointer Glen Of Imaal Terrier Golden Retriever Gordon Setter Great Dane Greek Sheepdog (Shepherd) Greyhound Griffon Bruxellois (Brussels Griffon) Groodle (Golden Retriever X Poodle) Hamiltonstovare Harrier Havanese Hovawart Hungarian Puli Hungarian Vizsla Ibizan Hound Irish Red & White Setter Irish Setter Irish Terrier Irish Water Spaniel Irish Wolfhound Italian Greyhound Italian Spinone Jack Russell Terrier Jagdterrier (German Hunt Terrier) Japanese Chin Japanese Spitz Johnson American Bulldog Kangal Dog Keeshond Kelpie Kerry Blue Terrier King Charles Spaniel Komondor Kuvasz Labradoodle (Labrador Retriever X Poodle) Labrador Retriever Lagotto Romagnolo Lakeland Terrier Large Munsterlander Leonberger Lhasa Apso Lowchen Lurcher Maltese Maltese / Shih Tzu X Manchester Terrier Maremma Sheepdog Mini Fox Terrier Miniature Pinscher Moodle (Maltese x Poodel) Mountain Cur Neopolitan Mastiff New Zealand Huntaway Newfoundland Norfolk Terrier Norwegian Buhund Norwegian Elkhound Norwich Terrier Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Old English Sheepdog Old English Bulldogge Otterhound Papillon Parson Jack Russell Terrier Patterdale Terrier Pekingese Peruvian Hairless Dog Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen Pharaoh Hound Podenco Csnario Pointer Polish Lowland Sheepdog Pomeranian Poodle (Miniature) Poodle (Standard) Poodel (Toy) Portuguese Podengo Grande Portuguese Podengo Medio Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (Small) Portuguese Water Dog Prague Ratter Pug Pugalier (Pug X Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) Puli Pumi Pyrenean Mountain Dog Rat Terrier Red Heeler Rhodesian Ridgeback Rottweiler Russian Toy Terrier Saluki Samoyed Sarplaninac Dog Schipperke Schnauzer (Giant) Schnauzer (Miniature) Schnauzer (Standard) Scottish Terrier Sealyham Terrier Shar Pei Shetland Sheepdog Shiba Inu Shih Tzu Siberian Husky Silky Terrier Skye Terrier Sloughi Small (Kleiner) Munsterlander Smithfield Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier Spanish Galgo (Galgo Espanol) Spoodle (English Cocker Spaniel x Poodle) Springer Spaniel St. Bernard Staghound Stumpy Tail Cattle dog Sussex Spaniel Swedish Vallhund Swiss Bernese Swiss Shepherd Taiwanese Dog (Formosan Mountain Dog) Tenterfield Terrier Tibetan Mastiff Tibetan Spaniel Tibetan Terrier Weimaraner Welsh Corgi (Cardigan) Welsh Corgi (Pembroke) Welsh Springer Spaniel Welsh Terrier West Highland white Terrier Whippet Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Xoloitzcuintli Yorshire Terrier Dog
• Breed of Animal 5 * Abyssinian American Curl American Shorthair Arabian Mau Australian Mist Australian Tiffanie Balinese Bengal Birman Bombay British Shorthair Burmese (European) Burmilla Chantilly- Tiffany Chinchilla Cornish Rex Devon Rex Domestic Long Hair Domestic Medium Hair Domestic Short Hair Egyptian Mau European Short Hair Exotic Himalayan Japanese Bobtail Korat Lykoi Maine Coon Mandalay Manx Munchkin Cat Norwegian Forest Cat Ocicat Orientals Persian Ragamuffin Ragdoll Russian Black Russian Blue Russian White Scottish Fold Scottish Short Hair Selkirk Rex Siamese Siberian Singapura SnowShoe Somali Sphynx Tonkinese Turkish Angora Turkish Van Toyger Cat
• Travel Crate Requirements Animal 5 * Purchase Own
• Sixth Pet's Name
• Type of Animal 6 * Dog Cat
• Age of Animal 6 * 8 Weeks 9 Weeks to under 12 Weeks 12 Weeks to 5 Months 6 Months to 8 Months 9 Months to under 12 Years 12 Years and over
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Flying with pets? Here's what to know.

By Anne Marie Lee

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 6, 2024 / 10:08 AM EDT / CBS News

Thinking of taking your dog or cat with you the next time you fly? For a growing percentage of the 90.5 million pet owners in the U.S., the answer is yes. But while the notion of boarding a plane with your pet may seem simple, the rules and restrictions around traveling with an animal can be confusing. 

Eight major U.S. airlines allow pets to fly in-cabin as carry-ons. But flying with your pet takes research and planning, as pet policies vary from airline to airline, are steeped in restrictions, and are limited to specific countries and cities. You'll also have to pay an extra fee for your pet ranging from $95 to $200, depending on the airline and where you're flying. And restrictions often change.

For example, American Airlines  recently revised its policies  so passengers flying with pets may also bring one full-size carry-on or personal item. But the carrier prohibits carry-on pets on transatlantic and transpacific flights. Here's what you need to know when considering taking your fur baby with you on a plane.

Cargo, check-in or carry-on?

Most airlines offer three options for transporting animals: cargo, check-in or carry-on. But if your pet is larger than a bread box, your options are limited to the cargo or baggage check-in options, with very few exceptions. 

Given that large canine breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are among the most popular dogs in the country, the size restriction for in-cabin pet travel can be a major frustration for those who would rather not fly at all if that means putting their pet in cargo. 

A 2023 Forbes Adviser survey of 10,000 U.S. dog owners found that 33% of respondents fly with their pets, while 37% listed not being able to bring their dog on a plane as their biggest annoyance. (You can learn more about the differences between cargo, check-in and carry-on options  here , including warnings about the  dangers  involved when pets travel in the cargo hold.) 

Carry-on pets

Even for pet owners whose animals are small enough to fly as a carry-on, traveling is no breeze.

"When I fly with him I have to go to the desk," Margaret Rauch, 44, told CBS MoneyWatch, referring to her 15-pound poodle mix, Soda. The New York City resident has taken Soda on dozens of flights to St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Soda, now 4, was being fostered by a friend after being found as a stray puppy in 2021. 

In addition to calling the airline in advance to register her dog for a flight, Rauch has to check in at the counter whenever she's traveling with Soda, so the airline agent can confirm her dog and pet carrier conform to the in-cabin pet requirements and that the flight hasn't already met its pet maximum. 

Rauch, who said she would never consider putting Soda in cargo, applauded American Airlines' new policy, while noting that in her experience the one carry-on rule was rarely enforced. 

"I feel the price is already high for what I get. Even with AA's rule change, I lose the underseat space," she said. "My dog creates no extra work for anyone."

Despite the added preparation, paperwork and hassle involved in flying with Soda — not to mention the unfriendly looks she occasionally detects from fellow passengers at the sight of her pet carrier — Rauch said, "It's absolutely worth it." 

Asked how the experience could be improved, she pointed to early boarding for pet owners as something that would help.

"If you can get in early, get a seat and settle down, that is an accommodation I don't expect to see anytime soon but I think it makes sense," Rauch said.

Safety and comfort

For the many Americans who see their pets practically as family members, one of the most challenging aspects of flying is ensuring their animal's comfort and safety. 

"The increasing humanization of pets, which involves treating them as part of the family rather than as mere animals, has increased the demand for pet travel services that are of high quality and can be customized to meet the specific needs of each pet," LinkedIn reported in December.

Among other tips, the U.S. Department of Transportation  and animal experts recommend that you not feed your pet four to six hours before a flight and limit their water intake. Others also suggest keeping bottled water on hand at all times. Additionally, most airlines require certain vaccination and vet certification that your pet is healthy enough to fly. Individual countries also have their own requirements for pets to enter.  

Not surprisingly, some airlines do better than others at handling pets. One of the best-rated carriers for pet travel is Alaska Airlines, which has repeatedly topped rankings, such as NerdWallet's Most pet-friendly airlines of 2024.  In recent years, the airline also has maintained one of the industry's lowest incident ratings, according to Veterinarians.org. United Airlines and Delta are among the airlines with the highest incident rates, according to the pet information website. 

On Rauch's first plane trip with Soda traveling home to New York, a layover in Miami led to the flight sitting on the tarmac for two hours. Calming treats are something that helps keeps her dog relaxed on flights. She also withholds Soda's food and limits his water intake up to five hours before a flight, which is also helpful given that he doesn't like using pet relief areas, which she said generally smell of urine and can be overwhelming for dogs. Flights between New York City and St. Croix are generally under six hours. 

"I'm not sure how I'd handle a flight to Singapore," Rauch said.

Here's a rundown of U.S. airlines' pet travel policies, along with fees and and restrictions:

Alaska Airlines

Pet fee: $100

Pets allowed: Dogs and cats are the only pets allowed in-cabin on international trips and flights to Hawaii. Domesticated rabbits and small household birds are allowed as carry-on on domestic flights.

Destinations: Domestic and international, with additional requirements and documentation required for  pets traveling to Hawaii  or  internationally .

See Alaska's full pet policy here .

American Airlines

Pet fee: $150

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats

Destinations: 

• Within the 48 contiguous U.S.
• The U.S. and Canada*
• Puerto Rico

*Additional special restrictions may apply. See American's full pet policy  here .

Pet fee: $75-$200, depending on destination

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, household birds

Pet friendly destinations: 

• U.S., Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
• International destinations with the exception of Australia, U.K., Republic of Ireland and others .

Pets are not permitted on flights to Hawaii. See Delta's full pet policy here .

Frontier Airlines 

Pet fee: $99

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and household birds

Destinations: Domestic flights and international flights to and from the Dominican Republic and Mexico.

See Frontier's full pet policy here .

Pet fee: $125

Destinations: Domestic and international. See exceptions for international flights here .

See JetBlue's full pet policy here .

Southwest Airlines

Pet fee: $125 per pet carrier on the U.S. mainland; $35 per pet carrier between Hawaiian Islands

Destinations: Domestic U.S. flights only. For travel to Puerto Rico, specific requirements may  apply . For Hawaii travel, see rules and regulations here.

See Southwest's full pet policy here .

Spirit Airlines

Pets allowed: Dogs, cats, birds (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) or rabbits (with the exception of flights to or from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).

Destinations: Domestic flights including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

See Spirit's full pet policy here .

United Airlines

Destinations: Domestic and international flights with a list of exceptions. United does not allow pets to fly to, from or through certain states and countries. View the list here .

See United's full pet policy here .

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