Delta Airline Pet Policy for Beginners

Delta Air Lines’ Pet Policy Overview

Delta Air Lines permits small dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the cabin for a one-way fee collected at check-in. The pet must fit comfortably in a soft-sided, ventilated pet kennel that can be placed under the seat directly in front of you.

Key Requirements:

• Age Restrictions:
  • For domestic travel, pets must be at least 8 weeks old.
  • For international travel to the U.S., dogs must be at least 6 months old, and cats at least 16 weeks old.
  • For travel to the European Union, pets must be at least 15 weeks old.
• Kennel Specifications:
  • The kennel must fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Soft-sided kennels are recommended, with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” to fit most aircraft types.
  • The kennel must be leak-proof and have ventilation openings on at least three sides for domestic travel and four sides for international travel.
• Pet Limitations:
  • Delta allows a limited number of pets per flight:
    • 2 in First Class, Business Class, and Delta One.
    • 4 in the Main Cabin.
  • Pets are not permitted in certain areas, including bulkhead seats, emergency exit rows, and seats designated as “no stowage.”

Booking Your Pet’s Travel

To ensure your pet’s spot, it’s advisable to contact Delta Reservations as soon as possible. Have your pet’s kennel dimensions ready when you call. Remember, pets in the cabin are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, so early booking is essential.

Pet Fees

Delta charges a pet fee based on your travel destination:

• U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands:
  • $95 USD/CAD for tickets issued on or after February 28, 2022.
  • $125 USD/CAD for tickets issued before February 28, 2022.
• International Flights:
  • $200 USD/CAD/EUR.
• Brazil:
  • $75 USD.

These fees are collected at check-in.

Preparing for the Flight

• Health and Documentation:
  • Ensure your pet is healthy and has all necessary vaccinations.
  • Some destinations may require a health certificate or other documentation.
• Day of Travel:
  • Arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.
  • At check-in, a Delta agent will verify your pet’s kennel and collect the pet fee.
  • After check-in, your pet must remain in their kennel while in the airport, during boarding, and on the aircraft.

In-Flight Experience

• During the Flight:
  • Your pet must stay in the kennel under the seat in front of you throughout the flight.
  • Avoid opening the kennel during the flight to ensure your pet’s safety and comfort.

Post-Flight

• Arrival:
  • Upon arrival, proceed to the designated area to retrieve your pet.
  • Ensure your pet is comfortable and hydrated after the journey.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Journey

1. Choose the Right Carrier:
   • Select a carrier that meets Delta’s specifications and is comfortable for your pet.
   • Soft-sided carriers are often preferred for their flexibility and comfort.
2. Acclimate Your Pet:
   • Before the trip, allow your pet to spend time in the carrier to reduce anxiety.
   • Use positive reinforcement to create a positive association with the carrier.
3. Stay Informed:
   • Regularly check Delta’s pet policy for any updates or changes.
   • Stay informed about pet relief areas at airports and plan accordingly.
4. Monitor Your Pet’s Health:
   • Consult your veterinarian before traveling to ensure your pet is fit for the journey.
   • Avoid feeding your pet a large meal right before the flight to prevent discomfort.
5. Pack Essentials:
   • Bring necessary items such as a leash, waste bags, and any medications your pet may need.
   • Consider packing a familiar blanket or toy to comfort your pet during the flight.
6. Stay Calm:
   • Your pet can sense your emotions; staying calm and positive will help them feel more secure.
7. Check Destination Regulations:
   • Research pet regulations at your destination, including quarantine requirements and pet-friendly accommodations.
8. Consider Your Pet’s Personality:
   • If your pet is especially anxious or uncomfortable in new environments, consider how they may react during the flight. From my own personal experience, some pets handle travel better than others, and it’s essential to anticipate your pet’s needs based on their temperament. If your pet is more anxious or nervous, it might be worthwhile to look into calming products like pheromone sprays or natural calming chews that can help make the experience smoother. Make sure to check with your vet about the best options for calming aids before flying.

Shop These Essentials Now

Go Shop these items today you will need them:

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

Additional Guidelines for International Travel

If you’re traveling internationally with your pet, there are additional steps to consider. Delta’s pet policy for international travel involves more documentation and preparation. In addition to the regular kennel requirements, here’s what you need to know:

1. Pet Passport: Depending on your destination, your pet might need a pet passport, which includes vaccination records, a microchip number, and other relevant health certificates.
2. Rabies Vaccination: Most international destinations require proof of rabies vaccination. Your pet must have received the vaccination at least 21 days before travel. Some countries, like the European Union, may require additional vaccinations or treatments, such as tapeworm treatments, before entry.
3. Quarantine Regulations: Certain countries require pets to undergo a quarantine period upon arrival, particularly if they are not compliant with vaccination or health protocols. Be sure to research the specific regulations for your destination well in advance to avoid any surprises upon arrival.
4. Import Permits: Some countries require an import permit for pets, especially when traveling from regions with specific animal diseases or concerns. Check with the destination country’s embassy or consulate to determine if you need an import permit.
5. Arrival Protocol: When you arrive at an international airport, there may be a special process for retrieving your pet, especially if they were checked as cargo or require inspection by customs officers. Make sure you’re aware of where you need to go to collect your pet and have all necessary documentation ready for inspection.

For Pets in Cargo:

If your pet does not fit in the cabin or you are traveling with a larger animal, Delta also offers options for traveling pets in cargo. This can apply to pets such as larger dogs, or those not able to travel in a kennel small enough for the under-seat compartment. However, traveling in cargo requires more careful consideration. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Size and Weight Restrictions: Delta has specific restrictions for pets traveling in cargo. The pet and the crate together must weigh no more than 100 pounds. If your pet weighs more than this, they cannot travel in the cargo hold.
2. Airlines’ Cargo Policies: Pets traveling in cargo must be booked with Delta’s specialized pet service. This means contacting Delta’s Pet Travel program to arrange for your pet’s cargo travel well in advance, as there are only a limited number of animals allowed in the cargo hold on each flight.
3. Extreme Weather Considerations: Delta will not allow pets to travel in cargo during extreme weather conditions (either very hot or cold temperatures). This is to ensure your pet’s safety, so if you’re traveling in the winter or summer months, be sure to check the forecast and plan your travel accordingly.
4. Kennel Requirements for Cargo: The requirements for kennels for pets traveling in cargo are stricter than for those traveling in the cabin. The kennel should be sturdy, large enough for your pet to stand, sit, and turn around comfortably, and meet all IATA (International Air Transport Association) requirements for animal safety.
5. Monitor Your Pet’s Journey: Once your pet is checked in, they will travel separately from you and may have a different boarding process. Be sure to track their journey and be prepared to meet them at the designated location upon arrival.

Pet Travel and Health

Traveling can be stressful for pets, especially if they are not accustomed to being in a kennel or confined space for extended periods. Therefore, preparing your pet for travel is crucial to ensure they remain healthy and comfortable throughout the journey.

1. Health Certificate: Delta requires pets traveling in the cabin or as cargo to have an up-to-date health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. The certificate must state that your pet is healthy enough for travel and free from contagious diseases. For international travel, the health certificate may need to be completed within a certain time frame (usually 10 days) before your departure.
2. Pre-Flight Check-up: Before your flight, schedule a visit to the vet to ensure your pet is in good health. If your pet has a pre-existing condition or takes medication, make sure you have enough medication to last the entire trip and that your pet is fit to travel. If you’re worried about how your pet may react to the stress of flying, ask your vet about options like sedatives or anxiety-relief treatments.
3. Hydration and Food: A day before travel, reduce the amount of food you give your pet, as traveling on a full stomach may cause discomfort. However, make sure they are hydrated and have access to water during the flight. Some airports have pet relief stations, and once on the plane, you can ask the flight attendants for a small amount of water for your pet if needed.
4. Exercise Before Travel: A walk or a play session with your pet before the flight can help them use up some energy and make them feel more relaxed during the journey. This is especially helpful for dogs, who can benefit from a bit of exercise before being confined to a kennel or carrier for an extended period.

Traveling with Pets: What to Expect

From my own personal experience, traveling with a pet is a rewarding but sometimes challenging experience, especially for first-timers. Here’s what you can expect:

• Security Checkpoints: At the security checkpoint, you will need to remove your pet from the carrier and carry them through the metal detector. The carrier will go through the x-ray machine. Be prepared for your pet to be a little anxious during this process, but it’s a standard procedure.
• Seating Arrangements: Most airlines, including Delta, require your pet to remain in their carrier throughout the flight. If your pet is uncomfortable with confinement, try to make the experience more familiar by allowing them to spend time in their carrier before the flight.
• In-Flight Comfort: The cabin can be loud, and the pressure changes during the flight can affect your pet’s ears. Some pets may experience mild discomfort, but typically, as long as they are in a safe, comfortable carrier, they adjust.

Shop These Essentials Now

Go Shop these items today you will need them:

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

Pet Relief During the Journey

• Pet Relief Areas at Airports: Many airports offer designated pet relief areas where you can take your pet for a bathroom break. This is crucial for pets traveling for long periods, especially if you have a layover. Make sure to look up the airport’s amenities for pets and plan to take your pet to a relief area before the flight.
• During Layovers: If you have a layover, it’s important to get your pet out of their kennel for some exercise and a bathroom break. Depending on the airport and the length of your layover, you may be able to take your pet to a pet lounge or a designated area for pets to stretch their legs.

Conclusion:

Traveling with your pet is an experience that, with a little preparation, can be smooth and enjoyable for both of you. From my own personal experience, taking the time to plan ahead, ensuring that your pet is comfortable in their carrier, and adhering to Delta’s pet policies can make the difference between a stressful flight and a fun adventure.

Now, I’d love to hear about your own experiences! If you’ve traveled with Delta Air Lines or any other airline with your pet, please feel free to leave a comment below and share your thoughts or questions. I love hearing back from my readers and look forward to sharing more tips and experiences with you soon. Safe travels to you and your furry companions!