Qatar Airways Pet Policy: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Planning to travel with your pet on Qatar Airways? Whether you have a small pet, a service animal, or a larger pet that requires cargo transport, it’s essential to understand Qatar Airways’ pet policy for a hassle-free journey. This guide covers carry-on pets, cargo transport, breed restrictions, and international travel requirements to help you prepare.

Qatar Airways Pet Policy

1. Carry-On Pet Policy (In-Cabin Travel)

Qatar Airways does not allow pets to travel in the passenger cabin, except for recognized service dogs on select routes.

In-Cabin Pet Travel Rules

✔ Allowed Pets: Only fully trained service dogs are permitted in the cabin.
✔ Pet Carrier Restrictions: Not applicable, as pets (except service dogs) are not allowed in the cabin.
✔ Pet Fee: Service dogs travel free, but require pre-approval and proper documentation.
✔ Flight Restrictions: Service dogs are only permitted in the cabin on flights to/from the United States and Canada.

How to Book a Service Dog Reservation

✔ Advance Booking: Passengers must notify Qatar Airways at least 48 hours before departure when traveling with a service dog.
✔ Pet Limit: One service dog per passenger is allowed.
✔ Approved Routes: Service dogs can travel in the cabin on flights to/from the U.S. and Canada, but must travel as cargo on other routes.

📌 Tip: Qatar Airways requires official training certification and health documentation for service dogs.

2. Checked Pet Travel & Qatar Airways Cargo

Since Qatar Airways does not allow pets in the cabin, all non-service animals must travel as cargo through Qatar Airways Cargo.

Checked Pet Travel Rules

✔ Eligible Pets: Cats, dogs, and other approved pets can travel as cargo.
✔ Kennel Requirements: Pets must travel in an IATA-approved, hard-sided kennel with proper ventilation.
✔ Temperature Restrictions: Qatar Airways follows strict climate control procedures, but pet travel may be restricted during extreme temperatures.
✔ Booking Requirements: All pet cargo bookings must be made directly through Qatar Airways Cargo at least 72 hours before departure.

Checked Pet Fees

✔ Fees Vary: Costs depend on the size, weight, and route of travel—contact Qatar Airways Cargo for pricing.

📌 Tip: If your pet is flying as cargo, ensure they are well-hydrated and comfortable in their crate before the flight.

3. Breed Restrictions & Special Considerations

Certain pet breeds face restrictions due to safety concerns, particularly short-nosed breeds that are prone to respiratory issues.

Banned & Restricted Breeds

Qatar Airways does not accept brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds for cargo transport, including:
✔ Bulldogs (English, French, and American)
✔ Pugs (all types)
✔ Boxers, Boston Terriers
✔ Persian & Himalayan Cats

Service Animals & Emotional Support Animals (ESA)

✔ Service Animals: Recognized service dogs can fly for free in the cabin on approved routes.
✔ Emotional Support Animals: As of 2021, Qatar Airways no longer accepts ESAs—they must travel as cargo.

📌 Tip: If traveling with a service dog, ensure you submit all required documentation in advance.

4. International Pet Travel Guidelines

Qatar Airways has strict regulations for pets traveling internationally, with many destinations requiring specific entry requirements, quarantine rules, and vaccinations.

Country-Specific Pet Policies

✔ Qatar: Pets arriving in Qatar must have an import permit, microchip, and valid rabies vaccination certificate.
✔ European Union: Requires microchip identification, rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport or health certificate.
✔ United States & Canada: Pets must have a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel and proof of rabies vaccination.
✔ Australia & New Zealand: Strict quarantine rules apply—pets must meet import regulations and may be subject to quarantine upon arrival.

📌 Tip: Research the destination country’s pet import laws well in advance to avoid travel delays or denied entry.

5. How to Prepare Your Pet for Air Travel

Traveling with a pet can be stressful, but proper preparation ensures a smoother experience for both you and your furry companion. Qatar Airways follows strict pet travel regulations, so it’s essential to be aware of their policies, booking procedures, and required documentation before your flight.

This section outlines how to prepare your pet for air travel, covering important steps before departure, on travel day, and during the flight to keep your pet safe and comfortable.

Before Your Flight: Essential Preparations

✔ Confirm Airline & Cargo Requirements

• Check Qatar Airways’ size, weight, and breed restrictions for pet travel.
• Ensure your pet meets the airline’s age and health requirements.
• Review destination-specific regulations, as some countries have quarantine laws or additional paperwork for arriving pets.

✔ Visit the Veterinarian

• Schedule a check-up to confirm your pet is fit to travel.
• Obtain a veterinary health certificate (typically required within 10 days of travel).
• Ensure your pet is up to date on vaccinations, including rabies and any country-specific immunizations.
• Ask your vet for recommendations on reducing travel anxiety for your pet.

✔ Book Early

• Qatar Airways Cargo has limited pet spaces per flight, so book as soon as possible.
• Confirm crate requirements and ensure your pet’s travel carrier meets IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards.
• If traveling internationally, verify customs and import rules for your pet’s destination.

📌 Tip: Some pets may experience anxiety during air travel—ask your vet if natural calming remedies or mild sedation (if allowed) could help.

Day of Travel: Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort & Safety

✔ Arrive Early

• Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for pet check-in at Qatar Airways Cargo.
• Allow extra time for security checks, paperwork, and final vet inspections (if required).

✔ Exercise Your Pet

• Take your pet for a walk before check-in to help reduce stress and excess energy.
• Ensure your pet relieves itself before being placed in its travel crate.

✔ Use an Absorbent Liner in the Carrier

• Line the bottom of the crate with an absorbent pad or disposable liner in case of accidents.
• Avoid materials that could tangle around your pet’s legs or pose a choking hazard.

✔ Provide Comfort Items

• Place a familiar blanket, soft bedding, or a favorite toy in the crate to reduce stress and provide a sense of security.
• Avoid placing food inside the crate—a small water container is allowed for hydration.

✔ Ensure Proper Crate Labeling

• Label the crate with your pet’s name, your contact information, and final destination details.
• Include a “Live Animal” sticker on the crate to alert airline staff.

📌 Tip: Some pets experience dehydration during flights. Provide water before check-in, but avoid heavy meals to prevent motion sickness.

During the Flight: What to Expect

✔ Temperature-Controlled Cargo Hold

• Qatar Airways Cargo transports pets in a climate-controlled and pressurized cargo area to maintain safety and comfort.
• Live animals are monitored, but pet owners cannot access the pet cargo area during the flight.

✔ Layovers & Stopovers

• For long-haul flights, pets may be given a short break at designated airport pet transit areas.
• Qatar Airways follows international regulations to ensure pet welfare during layovers.

✔ Post-Arrival Pet Pick-Up

• Upon landing, collect your pet from the designated Qatar Airways Cargo area.
• Inspect your pet for any signs of stress or discomfort and offer fresh water.
• If required by your destination, proceed to customs clearance and veterinary inspections.

📌 Tip: After the flight, give your pet time to adjust and recover from the journey before introducing them to new surroundings.

Final Thoughts on Qatar Airways’ Pet Policy

Qatar Airways provides safe and secure pet transport via Qatar Airways Cargo, but does not allow pets in the cabin (except service dogs). If you plan to fly with your pet, be sure to check all cargo transport requirements, book early, and confirm international travel regulations.

Key Takeaways

✔ Pets are not allowed in the cabin (except service dogs).
✔ All non-service pets must travel as cargo through Qatar Airways Cargo.
✔ Short-nosed breeds are restricted from cargo transport.
✔ International pet travel requires proper documentation and may involve quarantine.
✔ Service dogs fly for free on select routes with valid documentation.

📌 Plan ahead, book early, and ensure your pet meets all airline requirements for a smooth travel experience!