If you are planning on traveling with your furry friend, it’s important to know the policies and regulations set forth by your airline. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the American Airlines dog policy, including the requirements for travel, fees, and guidelines for traveling with different types of dogs.
Travel Requirements for Dogs on American Airlines
If you are planning to travel with your dog on American Airlines, there are a few requirements that must be met:
Age and Health Requirements
Dogs must be at least 8 weeks old and have all required vaccinations to travel. Additionally, American Airlines requires a current health certificate from your veterinarian that must be issued within 10 days of your travel date.
Carrier Requirements
Your dog must be in an airline-approved carrier that can fit under the seat in front of you. The carrier must also have proper ventilation, and your dog must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably inside the carrier.
Fee Schedule for Traveling with Dogs on American Airlines
American Airlines charges a fee for traveling with a dog, which varies depending on the size of your dog and the length of your flight.
Domestic Flights
- Dogs weighing less than 20 pounds can travel for a fee of $125 each way.
- Dogs weighing between 20 and 70 pounds can travel for a fee of $200 each way.
- Dogs weighing over 70 pounds are not permitted to travel on American Airlines.
International Flights
The fees for international travel with a dog on American Airlines can vary greatly depending on the destination country. It’s important to check with American Airlines for specific information about the fees and requirements for your destination.
Guidelines for Traveling with Different Types of Dogs on American Airlines
American Airlines has different guidelines for traveling with different types of dogs, including emotional support animals and service animals.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional support animals are allowed to travel with their owners on American Airlines flights, but there are specific guidelines that must be followed:
- Emotional support animals must be trained to behave properly in public settings.
- The animal must fit under the seat in front of you or sit on your lap throughout the flight.
- American Airlines requires documentation from a licensed mental health professional verifying the need for an emotional support animal.
Service Animals
Service animals, which are trained to perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities, are allowed to travel on American Airlines flights free of charge. However, there are specific guidelines that must be followed:
- The service animal must be properly trained to perform tasks related to the individual’s disability.
- The animal must be seated in the space provided at the individual’s feet, and cannot extend into the aisle or other areas.
- It is not required, but recommended that the individual provide documentation for their service animal at the airport to expedite the check-in process.
Conclusion
If you’re planning to travel with your dog on American Airlines, be sure to familiarize yourself with the airline’s policies and guidelines for travel with pets. It’s important to follow the rules to ensure a safe and stress-free journey for both you and your furry companion.
FAQs
1. Can I travel with more than one dog on American Airlines?
Yes, you may travel with up to 2 dogs in the same carrier, as long as they meet the weight requirements.
2. Are there any breed restrictions for dogs traveling on American Airlines?
No, American Airlines does not have breed restrictions for dogs traveling on their flights.
3. Can my emotional support animal sit on the seat next to me?
No, emotional support animals must either fit under the seat in front of you or sit on your lap during the flight.
4. What documentation do I need to provide for my service animal?
It is recommended that you provide documentation for your service animal, but it is not required. The documentation can be in the form of a doctor’s letter or other official documentation stating the need for a service animal.
5. What should I do if I have a connecting flight with a different airline?
It’s important to check the policies and guidelines for traveling with dogs for each airline you will be traveling on, and to ensure that your dog meets all requirements for each airline. You may also need to provide additional documentation for your dog for the connecting flight.