How Much Does United Airlines Charge For Pets?

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Are you planning to travel with your furry friend on United Airlines but unsure of the costs? Look no further! In this article, we will break down the fees and requirements for traveling with pets on United Airlines, so you can plan accordingly and ensure a smooth journey for both you and your furry companion.

United Airlines allows pets to travel in-cabin, as cargo, and as checked baggage, with different fees and restrictions for each option. Keep reading to learn more about the costs and guidelines for bringing your pets on board with United Airlines.

How Much Does United Airlines Charge for Pets?

How Much Does United Airlines Charge for Pets?

United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the world, operating flights to a wide range of destinations globally. If you’re planning a trip with your furry friend, it’s essential to know the fees and requirements for bringing them along. In this article, we’ll explore the charges for taking pets on United Airlines flights.

1. United Airlines Pet Policy

United Airlines allows passengers to travel with small cats, dogs, rabbits, and birds in the cabin if the pet and carrier meet the airline’s requirements. Additionally, United Airlines permits passengers to transport pets as checked baggage or cargo.

If you plan to travel with your pet, you’ll need to inform United Airlines at the time of booking. You’ll also need to provide a health certificate for your pet, issued by a licensed veterinarian, within ten days of travel.

United Airlines Pet Fees

United Airlines charges a pet fee of $125 each way for in-cabin travel within the United States, Canada, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. For international travel, the fee is $200 each way.

United Airlines Pet Carrier Requirements

The pet carrier must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions of the carrier should be 17.5 inches x 12 inches x 7.5 inches (44 cm x 30 cm x 19 cm). The carrier must also be leak-proof, well-ventilated, and secure.

2. United Airlines Pet Cargo Policy

If your pet is too large to travel in the cabin, you can transport them as checked baggage or cargo. United Airlines offers a PetSafe program that ensures your pet’s safety and comfort during travel.

United Airlines Pet Cargo Fees

The cost of transporting your pet as cargo depends on the weight and size of the animal and the distance traveled. The fees can range from $300 to $1,500 one way.

United Airlines Pet Cargo Requirements

Your pet must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned to travel as cargo. You’ll need to provide a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian and a signed confirmation of the pet’s acclimation to the temperature changes during the flight.

3. United Airlines Emotional Support and Service Animal Policy

United Airlines allows passengers with disabilities to travel with emotional support animals and service animals free of charge. However, passengers must provide documentation of their disability and the need for the animal.

United Airlines Emotional Support and Service Animal Fees

There are no fees for emotional support or service animals traveling on United Airlines flights.

United Airlines Emotional Support and Service Animal Requirements

Emotional support and service animals must be well-behaved and under control at all times. The animals must also be trained to behave appropriately in public settings.

4. United Airlines Pet Travel Tips

Here are some tips to make your pet’s travel on United Airlines as comfortable as possible:

Pet Carrier Training

Train your pet to get used to the carrier before the flight. Let them spend some time in the carrier, and reward them with treats and praise.

Pet Feeding and Watering

Feed your pet a light meal a few hours before the flight, and avoid feeding them during the flight. Provide them with water before the flight, and make sure they have access to it during layovers.

Pet Comfort Items

Bring your pet’s favorite toy or blanket to provide them with comfort during the flight.

5. United Airlines Pet Vs Other Airlines

Compared to other major airlines, United Airlines’ pet fees are relatively low. For example, American Airlines charges $125 each way for pets in the cabin, while Delta Airlines charges $125 to $200 each way for pets in the cabin, depending on the destination.

6. United Airlines Pet Benefits

United Airlines offers a comprehensive PetSafe program, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort during travel. Additionally, passengers can travel with emotional support and service animals free of charge.

7. Conclusion

If you plan to travel with your pet on United Airlines, be sure to review the airline’s pet policy, fees, and carrier requirements. With proper planning, you can ensure that your pet has a comfortable and safe journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is United Airlines’ pet policy?

United Airlines allows small dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds to travel in the cabin with their owners, as long as they fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of them. Larger pets must travel in the cargo hold. United Airlines also has restrictions on breeds and temperatures for pet travel, so be sure to check their website before booking.

In addition, United Airlines charges a fee for pet travel, which varies depending on the type of pet and the travel destination. The fee for in-cabin pet travel is typically $125 each way, while cargo pet travel fees can range from $200 to $1000 or more.

How do I book pet travel on United Airlines?

To book pet travel on United Airlines, you must call their dedicated PetSafe reservations line at least 48 hours before your flight. You will need to provide information about your pet, including their breed, size, and carrier dimensions. You will also need to pay the pet travel fee at the time of booking.

It is important to note that pet travel is subject to availability and some restrictions may apply based on your destination, so be sure to book your pet’s travel as early as possible.

What are the requirements for pet carriers on United Airlines?

Pet carriers for in-cabin pet travel on United Airlines must fit under the seat in front of you and provide enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated, with a secure latch and a waterproof bottom.

For cargo pet travel, the carrier must be sturdy and well-ventilated, with enough space for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. The carrier must also have a secure locking mechanism and be labeled with your pet’s name, your name, and your contact information.

What breeds of pets are restricted on United Airlines?

United Airlines has restrictions on certain breeds of dogs and cats for pet travel, due to their potential health risks. These breeds include pugs, bulldogs, Boston terriers, Persian and Himalayan cats, and others.

If you are traveling with a breed that is restricted on United Airlines, you may be required to provide additional documentation, such as a veterinarian’s health certificate, to ensure your pet is fit for travel.

What if my pet gets sick or injured during travel on United Airlines?

If your pet gets sick or injured during travel on United Airlines, they will be taken care of by their PetSafe program, which has trained professionals to provide medical care for pets. You will be notified of any issues or concerns with your pet’s health during travel.

It is important to note that United Airlines is not liable for any illness, injury, or death of pets during travel, so be sure to consider pet insurance or other options if you are concerned about your pet’s well-being during travel.

How to Book Your Dog’s Ticket on United Airlines (in cabin)


In conclusion, United Airlines charges a fee for pets to travel with their owners. The cost varies depending on the type of pet, the size of the carrier, and the destination. It’s important to note that these fees are non-refundable, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and make sure that your pet can travel safely and comfortably.

For travelers who can’t bear to leave their furry friends behind, United Airlines offers a convenient way to bring them along on their journey. With careful planning and preparation, pets can travel comfortably and safely, while their owners enjoy peace of mind knowing that they are in good hands.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, United Airlines has a range of options to accommodate your pet’s needs. From small dogs and cats to larger animals, the airline has a variety of options to choose from. So, if you’re planning a trip with your furry friend, check out United Airlines’ pet policies and fees before you book your flight.

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