How To Fly A Dog On United Airlines?

Flying with your furry friend can be a fun and exciting experience. However, it can also be quite stressful and overwhelming, especially if you are unsure of the airline’s policies and procedures. United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the United States, and they offer a pet travel program that allows you to bring your dog with you on your flight. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to fly a dog on United Airlines, so you can have a smooth and worry-free travel experience.

Whether you are traveling with your dog for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, there are certain things you need to know before you book your flight. From the requirements for pet carriers to the necessary documentation, we will cover everything you need to know to prepare your furry friend for their flight on United Airlines. So, let’s get started!

Note: It’s important to note that United Airlines has specific requirements and restrictions for flying with pets, so be sure to check their pet policy before booking your flight.

How to Fly a Dog on United Airlines?

United Airlines is one of the most popular airlines in the world. If you’re planning to travel with your dog, United Airlines provides a pet-friendly service that you can take advantage of. However, flying with your pet can be a daunting experience, especially if you haven’t done it before. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to fly your dog on United Airlines.

Step 1: Check United Airlines’ Pet Policy

Before booking your flight, it’s essential to check United Airlines’ pet policy. The airline has specific guidelines and regulations that you must comply with. United Airlines allows small cats, dogs, rabbits, and birds to travel in the cabin with their owners. However, larger pets must travel as cargo in the aircraft’s hold.

It’s crucial to note that United Airlines has breed restrictions, and some dog breeds are not allowed to fly due to their physical characteristics. Additionally, United Airlines only allows a limited number of pets on each flight, so it’s essential to book early to secure a spot for your furry friend.

Step 2: Prepare Your Dog for the Flight

Flying can be stressful for dogs, so it’s essential to prepare them for the journey. You can start by acclimating your dog to the carrier they’ll be traveling in. Let them get used to the carrier by placing treats and toys inside and letting them explore it.

Additionally, it’s essential to ensure that your dog is up to date on their vaccinations and has the necessary documents for travel. United Airlines requires a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within ten days of travel.

Step 3: Book Your Flight

Once you’ve checked United Airlines’ pet policy and prepared your dog for the flight, it’s time to book your flight. You can book your flight and your pet’s travel through United Airlines’ website, reservation center, or at the airport.

When booking your flight, inform the airline that you’ll be traveling with your dog, and make sure to provide all the necessary information, including your dog’s breed, size, and weight.

Step 4: Arrive at the Airport Early

On the day of your flight, make sure to arrive at the airport early to give yourself enough time to check-in and go through security. United Airlines recommends arriving at the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours before your international flight.

When you arrive at the airport, head to the check-in counter to check-in your dog and pay any applicable fees.

Step 5: Check-In Your Dog

When checking in your dog, you’ll need to provide the airline with all the necessary documents, including your dog’s health certificate, vaccination records, and any other required documents. Additionally, you’ll need to provide the airline with your dog’s carrier, which must meet United Airlines’ pet carrier requirements.

It’s essential to make sure that your dog is comfortable in their carrier and has enough space to move around. United Airlines requires that your dog’s carrier fits under the seat in front of you and that your dog can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Step 6: Go Through Security

After checking in your dog, you’ll need to go through security. When going through security, you’ll need to take your dog out of their carrier and carry them through the metal detector. Your dog’s carrier will go through the X-ray machine.

It’s essential to keep your dog on a leash or in their carrier while going through security to prevent them from running away or getting lost.

Step 7: Board the Plane

After going through security, it’s time to board the plane. United Airlines allows passengers traveling with pets to board early to get settled in and ensure that their pets are comfortable.

When boarding the plane, make sure to follow the airline’s guidelines on where to store your dog’s carrier. United Airlines requires that your dog’s carrier be stored under the seat in front of you during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.

Step 8: During the Flight

During the flight, it’s essential to keep your dog comfortable and calm. You can do this by providing them with water and treats and taking them for a walk during layovers if possible.

Additionally, it’s essential to keep your dog’s carrier clean and dry during the flight. You can do this by placing puppy pads at the bottom of the carrier and bringing extra pads in case of accidents.

Step 9: Arrival at Your Destination

When you arrive at your destination, head to baggage claim to collect your luggage and your dog. United Airlines requires that you pick up your dog from the baggage service office, located in the baggage claim area.

Before leaving the airport, check your dog’s carrier for any damage and make sure that your dog is healthy and not showing any signs of distress.

Step 10: Conclusion

In conclusion, flying with your dog on United Airlines requires proper preparation and compliance with the airline’s pet policy. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your furry friend has a safe and comfortable flight. Remember to check United Airlines’ pet policy, prepare your dog for the flight, book your flight, arrive at the airport early, check-in your dog, go through security, board the plane, keep your dog comfortable during the flight, and collect your dog at your destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements for flying a dog on United Airlines?

The first requirement is that your dog must be at least 16 weeks old and fully weaned. You must also have a health certificate from your veterinarian that is no more than 10 days old. Your dog must be in a kennel or carrier that meets United’s requirements for size, ventilation, and security. You will also need to pay a fee for your dog to fly.

It is important to note that certain dog breeds are not permitted to fly on United Airlines due to safety concerns. These breeds include pit bulls, American Staffordshire Terriers, and other breeds with similar physical characteristics.

How do I make a reservation for my dog on United Airlines?

You can make a reservation for your dog at the same time you book your own ticket on United’s website, over the phone, or at a United ticket counter. When making the reservation, you will need to provide your dog’s breed, weight, and kennel dimensions. It is always a good idea to call United’s PetSafe customer service line to confirm your reservation and ensure that all necessary information has been provided.

Keep in mind that there are a limited number of spots available for pets on each flight, so it is recommended to make your reservation as early as possible.

What should I do to prepare my dog for air travel?

It is important to acclimate your dog to its kennel or carrier well in advance of the flight. Make sure your dog is comfortable spending time in the kennel before the trip. You may also want to consider giving your dog a mild sedative to help it relax during the flight, but this should only be done under the guidance of your veterinarian.

Additionally, make sure your dog has access to water and has been fed a light meal before the flight. Avoid giving your dog any food or water within four hours of the flight to prevent motion sickness or accidents.

What happens to my dog during the flight?

Your dog will be transported in a pressurized and climate-controlled compartment in the cargo hold of the plane. United’s PetSafe program is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of pets during air travel, and United employees monitor the animals closely throughout the journey.

When the flight lands, your dog will be transported to the baggage claim area or to United’s cargo facility, where you can pick up your pet.

What if my dog experiences health or safety issues during the flight?

If your dog experiences any health or safety issues during the flight, United employees will notify you as soon as possible. If necessary, your dog will be taken to a veterinarian for treatment. United’s PetSafe program also includes a 24-hour emergency phone line that you can call for updates on your pet’s well-being.

It is important to note that United Airlines assumes no liability for any health or safety issues that may arise during air travel.

In conclusion, flying with your furry friend on United Airlines doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your dog is safe, comfortable, and happy throughout the journey.

First and foremost, make sure to check the airline’s policies and regulations regarding pet travel. This will help you avoid any surprises and ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork and documentation.

Next, prepare your dog for the flight by getting them used to their carrier and taking them on short car rides. This will help reduce their anxiety and make the flight more comfortable for them.

Finally, be sure to pack all the essentials, including food, water, toys, and a blanket. With these tips in mind, you can rest assured that your furry friend will have a safe and enjoyable flight on United Airlines.