United Airlines Pet Policy (In-Cabin, Cargo & Service Animal Rules)

Flying can make both the animal and the owner feel exhausted. Airlines have stringent policies regarding the pet’s safety and comfort during flights. United Airlines follows a detailed pet policy that covers how pets can travel whether in the cabin or as checked baggage or through a dedicated shipping service.

This blog breaks down the essentials of United Airlines pet policy so you know exactly what to expect. You may contact United Airlines at +1-800-864-8331 or FlyoGarage at +1-877-658-1183 for more details.

Can I Bring My Pet in the Cabin on United Airlines?

United Airlines has a policy to let some small pets accompany their owners in the cabin. These pets should remain in an approved carrier that fits comfortably below the seat in front of you. The important points include:

Allowed pets: Cats and dogs are the sole animals permitted for cabins.
Carrier requirements: The carriers should be ventilated and leakproof, either soft or hard-sided. Dimensions vary depending on the aircraft but the maximum United Airlines pet carrier size for soft-sided carriers is around 18 x 11 x 11 inches.
Placement: The carrier must be placed below the seat throughout the flight. Removing your pet during the flight is not allowed.
Age requirement: Pets must be at least 2 months old for domestic travel and 4 months old for international flights.

Owners are charged a one-way United Airlines pet fee for bringing an animal into the cabin. Reservations are limited so it is recommended to book early.

What Are the Restrictions for United Airlines In-Cabin Pets?

Pets are not allowed in the cabin of all flights or seating options. Some of the limitations for in-cabin pets on United flights are:

Foreign routes: Some nations do not allow in-cabin pets because of quarantine or entry regulations.
Seating restrictions: Pets are not allowed in exit rows or bulkhead seats or premium cabins like United Polaris or Premium Plus.
Number of pets: A single pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin.
Pet Breed: United Airlines has restrictions for safety reasons on certain dog and cat breeds especially brachycephalic breeds that are more prone to breathing difficulties.

It is advisable to confirm restrictions before reservations particularly for overseas travel.

What is the United Cargo PetSafe Program?

The PetSafe program is United’s dedicated pet transportation service. It is designed for animals too large to fit below a seat and for unaccompanied United Airlines pet travel. Some important features include:

Eligibility: Dogs, cats and some other domesticated animals.
Booking: Reservations must be made through United Airlines Pet Cargo and not through the passenger booking system.
Temperature constraints: Pets are not accepted during extreme weather conditions which ensures animals are not exposed to unsafe temperatures on the ground.
Special handling: Pets are transported in climate-controlled vehicles and holding areas while being transported between terminals and aircraft.
Documentation: A health certificate from a veterinarian dated within 10 days of travel is required.

This service ensures pets travel as safely and comfortably as possible when cabin travel is not an option.

What Health and Documentation Requirements Do Pets Need?

To fly with United Airlines, pets must meet specific health and vaccination standards:

Health certificate: Required for cargo travel, signed by a licensed veterinarian.
Vaccinations: Pets must be updated on rabies and other core vaccines.
International requirements: Extra documentation like import permits, microchip identification or rabies titer proof might be needed for foreign locations.

Always review location specific requirements before reservations as rules depend on the country.

What Is United Airlines Policy on Service Animals?

United Airlines recognizes service animals as distinct from pets. The airline follows the U.S. Department of Transportation’s guidelines. Only trained service dogs are accepted as service animals. Emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals and must travel under the standard pet policy.

Passengers must complete and submit U.S. DOT forms attesting to the dog’s training and health. Service dogs travel free of charge when the correct documentation is provided. They can sit at the passenger’s feet but may not take a seat.

How Should I Prepare My Pet for United Airlines Pet Travel?

Traveling can be stressful for animals. United Airlines recommends the following tips:

Acclimate your pet: Help your pet get used to its carrier well before the flight.
Avoid sedatives: Sedatives are discouraged as they can interfere with a pet’s ability to regulate body temperature and balance.
Food and water: Feed pets lightly before travel and provide water to avoid dehydration.
Identification: Label the carrier with your name along with contact details and your pet’s name.

Preparation is essential for ensuring smoother travel for both you and your pet.

How Much Does It Cost to Fly with a Pet on United Airlines?

The United Airlines pet fee for in-cabin pets is around $125 per flight segment. Additional charges may be applicable for stopovers of more than four hours within the US or 24 hours internationally. This fee applies to most standard pet travel and cannot be paid using travel credits.

The United Airlines Pet Cargo cost varies depending on the pet’s size, weight and travel route. Booking should be completed as early as possible since both cabin and cargo spaces are limited.

Conclusion: United Airlines Pet Policy

The United Airlines pet policy is made with strong attention to safety and animal welfare. Small pets can travel in the cabin under certain regulations while larger animals must go through United's PetSafe program. The policy may feel strict with breed restrictions along with health requirements and documentation rules in place but these measures are meant to minimize risks for pets.

Following United Airlines pet policy ensures a smoother and safer experience whether your pet is a travel companion at your feet or journeying through the cargo service. You can reach out to United Airlines at +1-800-864-8331 or United Airlines Pet Policy at +1-877-658-1183 in case of any queries or information.

FAQs: United Airlines Pet Policy

Can pets fly internationally with United Airlines?

Yes, pets can fly internationally with United Airlines, but specific breed, age, and documentation requirements apply.

What are United Airlines pet carrier dimensions?

United Airlines allows soft-sided carriers up to 18 x 11 x 11 inches and hard-sided carriers up to 17.5 x 12 x 7.5 inches for in-cabin pets.

How much does it cost to fly a pet on United?

United Airlines charges $150 each way per pet for in-cabin travel tickets bought earlier are $125 each way.

Are service dogs allowed on United Airlines?

Yes — trained service dogs are allowed in the cabin on United Airlines free of charge provided you submit the required DOT forms in advance and the dog remains well-behaved and positioned at your feet.