United Airlines Pet Policy For Beginners

1. Eligibility and Pet Types

United Airlines permits only cats and dogs to travel in the cabin. Other animals, such as birds or reptiles, are not allowed. Additionally, pets must be at least 8 weeks old to travel on domestic flights and at least 4 months old for international flights. This ensures that your pet is mature enough to handle the stress of travel.

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2. Booking Your Pet’s Travel

To travel with your pet, you must book a reservation for them. This can be done during the initial booking process on United’s website or by adding a pet to an existing reservation through the “My Trips” section. It’s important to note that United allows only a limited number of pets per flight, so it’s advisable to book early to secure a spot for your pet. The fee for traveling with a pet in the cabin is $125 each way.

3. Carrier Requirements

Your pet must travel in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. United accepts both hard-sided and soft-sided carriers, each with specific size limitations:

• Hard-Sided Carrier: Maximum dimensions of 17.5 inches long x 12 inches wide x 7.5 inches high.
• Soft-Sided Carrier: Maximum dimensions of 18 inches long x 11 inches wide x 11 inches high.

The carrier must be well-ventilated, secure, and large enough for your pet to stand up and turn around comfortably. It’s advisable to familiarize your pet with the carrier before the trip to reduce stress during travel.

4. Health and Documentation

Before traveling, ensure your pet is healthy and fit for air travel. While United doesn’t require a health certificate for domestic flights, some international destinations do. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of your destination country well in advance. Additionally, ensure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date, and carry proof of rabies vaccination if required.

5. At the Airport

On the day of travel, arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures. United recommends arriving at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. During check-in, inform the agent that you’re traveling with a pet. You’ll be required to pay the pet fee at this time. At security, you’ll need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector while the carrier is screened separately. It’s advisable to have your pet on a leash or harness during this process.

6. In the Cabin

Once onboard, place your pet’s carrier under the seat in front of you. Your pet must remain inside the carrier with the door closed for the duration of the flight. United’s policy requires that pets stay in their carrier at all times during the flight. It’s important to keep the carrier closed and secure to prevent any incidents.

7. Service Animals

United Airlines welcomes service animals in the cabin free of charge for qualified individuals with disabilities. Service animals must meet specific criteria outlined by the U.S. Department of Transportation. It’s important to note that therapy animals and emotional support animals are subject to standard pet-related regulations and restrictions.

8. Additional Considerations

• Layovers: If your flight includes a layover, ensure that the total travel time doesn’t exceed United’s maximum allowable duration for pets in the cabin. For domestic flights, pets can remain in the cabin for up to 4 hours, and for international flights, up to 24 hours.
  United Airlines
• Pet-Friendly Amenities: Some airports offer pet relief areas. It’s beneficial to research and plan for these facilities during layovers.
• Behavior: Ensure your pet is well-behaved during the flight. Aggressive or disruptive behavior can lead to removal from the flight and potential fines.
• Temperature Considerations: Avoid traveling with your pet during extreme weather conditions, as this can affect their health and comfort.

9. Recent Updates and News

It’s important to stay informed about any changes to United’s pet policy. For instance, recent regulations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention aimed at preventing rabies have increased complexities for flying with dogs, resulting in more bureaucracy and paperwork. Airlines, including United, have had to adjust their policies to comply with these new requirements.

10. What to Expect During Your Flight

When flying with your pet, comfort and safety are the top priorities. As mentioned earlier, your pet will need to remain in their carrier throughout the flight. Here’s a deeper dive into what you can expect:

• Noise and Movement: Flying can be a noisy and bumpy experience. From my own personal experience, I’ve found that pets, especially first-time flyers, may feel a bit stressed due to unfamiliar sounds or movements. You can help alleviate some of this by acclimating your pet to the carrier in the days leading up to the trip. Place their favorite blanket or toy in the carrier to provide a sense of security.
• Temperature Control: In the cabin, the temperature is usually comfortable for both humans and pets. However, some pets may be more sensitive to temperature changes. It’s advisable to dress your pet in a lightweight jacket if they’re sensitive to the cold, especially during longer flights or if you’re traveling through regions with drastic temperature shifts.
• No Access to Food or Water During the Flight: During the flight, you won’t be able to feed or give water to your pet unless you’re allowed to take them out of their carrier for a short moment (usually only on very rare occasions). For this reason, ensure your pet is well-fed and hydrated before the flight, but avoid giving them a large meal right before boarding.
• In-Cabin Comfort: Based on my overall experience, many pets tend to sleep through most flights, especially if they’re used to their carrier. Some pets may become a bit restless during the journey, but you can help calm them by talking to them softly through the carrier. Petting the carrier gently (without opening it) can also offer comfort.

11. Additional Pet Travel Tips

Traveling with a pet isn’t just about ensuring they’re comfortable during the flight; it’s also about preparation before and after the journey. Here are some additional tips that I’ve found to be useful from my own personal experience:

• Visit the Vet Before You Go: Whether it’s a domestic or international flight, it’s always a good idea to visit the vet for a check-up before your trip. The vet can provide you with valuable advice about your pet’s health and any specific travel-related concerns. If you’re flying internationally, your vet may also help you navigate the sometimes complex documentation requirements, including vaccinations, health certificates, and microchipping.
• Plan for Security Screening: When going through security, you’ll need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector. This can be stressful, both for you and your pet, but try to stay calm. I recommend practicing this process at home before your flight. Use a leash or harness for control and always keep your pet calm and close to you.
• Carrier Familiarization: Introducing your pet to the carrier before the flight can ease the anxiety of travel. If your pet is not used to being confined, they might resist. To help, start by placing their food, treats, and toys in the carrier so that they associate it with positive experiences. If possible, take your pet on short car rides to simulate the travel experience.
• Stay Calm and Confident: Pets can often sense their owner’s anxiety. If you’re feeling stressed or worried, your pet will likely pick up on it, and this can exacerbate their own stress. By remaining calm, confident, and composed, you will be helping your pet feel more secure.

Shop this essentials now:

•  High-quality carrier with extra padding
•  Soft-sided carriers
• Microchip for identification.
• Vest for easy identification.
• A light meal
• Designated harness
• Sanitizing wipes

12. United Airlines’ Pet Policy for International Travel

United Airlines’ pet policy for international travel is similar to domestic flights, but there are some important differences that you’ll need to consider:

• Health Certificate: For international travel, your pet will typically need to have a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian, stating that your pet is fit for travel and has received the necessary vaccinations. Depending on your destination, the requirements may vary, so it’s essential to check the specific entry requirements of the country you’re flying to.
• Country-Specific Regulations: Some countries have very strict pet importation regulations. For example, pets entering the European Union may need to meet certain health standards, including microchipping, rabies vaccination, and even tapeworm treatment. Similarly, the United States has stringent rules for pets entering from certain regions, so it’s crucial to thoroughly research the regulations well ahead of time.
• Arrival Procedures: Upon arrival, your pet may need to be inspected by customs officers. It’s essential to prepare for this, as any missing documents or failure to meet the destination country’s requirements could result in delays or your pet being quarantined.
• Pet Transport Fees: International flights with pets can sometimes incur higher fees than domestic travel, particularly for larger animals. United Airlines provides information on pet fees for international travel on their website, but it’s a good idea to contact their customer service for a precise quote based on your travel details.

13. Flying With Multiple Pets

If you’re traveling with more than one pet, be sure to check United Airlines’ specific policies for multiple animals. As per my own personal experience, handling multiple pets during air travel requires extra attention. United Airlines allows a maximum of two pets per passenger, provided the animals are small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat. If you’re traveling with two pets, they must share the same carrier, and the combined weight of the pets and carrier must not exceed 15 pounds.

• Booking Multiple Pets: If you’re traveling with more than one pet, be sure to contact United Airlines directly to ensure space is available for all of your pets. There may be an additional fee per pet, and depending on the flight’s capacity, only a limited number of pets are allowed in the cabin.

14. What Happens if You Don’t Follow the Guidelines?

Ignoring the airline’s pet policy can result in severe consequences. Based on my own personal experience and what I’ve learned from others, failing to meet the requirements can lead to the following:

• Denied Boarding: If your pet’s carrier is too large or doesn’t meet the requirements, you may be denied boarding. United Airlines is very strict about their carrier size limits for pets traveling in the cabin.
• Refund Issues: If you’re unable to board with your pet due to non-compliance with the pet policy, you may not be eligible for a full refund, depending on the circumstances.
• Pet Health Risks: Not following guidelines, such as failing to secure the carrier or traveling in extreme conditions, could put your pet’s health at risk. Always follow the airline’s instructions carefully.

15. Special Considerations for Older or Larger Pets

If you’re traveling with an older or larger pet, United Airlines has specific guidelines that you need to follow:

• Older Pets: Older pets may be more sensitive to stress and changes in routine. If you’re traveling with a senior pet, consult your vet to make sure they’re fit for travel. Your vet might recommend medication or calming products for your pet to help with anxiety or motion sickness.
• Larger Pets: If your pet is too large to fit under the seat in front of you, they will not be eligible to travel in the cabin. Instead, you’ll need to make arrangements for them to travel as checked baggage or in the cargo hold, depending on their size. United Airlines requires that pets traveling in the cargo hold must be in an approved carrier that meets their specifications.

16.  Is United Airlines the Right Airline for Traveling With Pets?

From my own personal experience, traveling with a pet on United Airlines is generally a straightforward process, as long as you adhere to the guidelines. The airline’s pet policy is clear and offers flexibility, particularly for smaller pets that can travel in the cabin. If you’re planning to fly with a pet, it’s important to do your research, prepare well in advance, and follow the outlined procedures to ensure your pet has a safe and comfortable journey.

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Final Thoughts

Traveling with your pet on United Airlines can be a seamless experience with proper preparation and adherence to airline policies. By understanding and following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your furry companion. Always check United’s official website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

I hope this guide helps you prepare for your travels with your pet. If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, please leave a comment below. I love to hear back from fellow pet travelers.

I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Have you traveled with your pet on United Airlines? What was your experience like? If you have any questions or need more advice, please leave a comment below. Your feedback and stories are always welcome!