Choosing the right airline is the single most important decision you’ll make when flying with a pet from Des Moines International Airport (DSM). Not all carriers treat animal passengers equally, and the difference between a smooth journey and a nerve-wracking ordeal often comes down to the airline’s specific pet policies, fees, and cabin options. Des Moines is served by several major airlines, but only a few consistently earn praise from pet owners for their transparency, safety measures, and straightforward booking processes. If you’re planning to take your dog, cat, or even a small household bird on your next trip, focusing on the airlines that truly prioritize animal comfort will save you time, money, and stress.

The best airlines for pets flying out of Des Moines include Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. These three carriers stand out for their clear, accessible pet policies, reasonable fees, and the ability to keep small pets with you in the cabin rather than relegating them to the cargo hold. Alaska Airlines has built a reputation as one of the most pet-accommodating airlines in the country, allowing a variety of species beyond just dogs and cats. Frontier Airlines offers a consistent, low-cost option for in-cabin pets, while Southwest keeps the process remarkably simple with no surprise fees for larger carriers. Each of these airlines provides nonstop or easy-connection itineraries from DSM to pet-friendly destinations across the country.

This guide breaks down exactly what to expect from the top carriers, explores in-cabin versus cargo travel, and offers practical advice for booking, preparing, and enjoying your trip. You’ll also find suggestions for pet-welcoming cities you can reach from Des Moines and tips for making the entire experience as comfortable as possible for your animal companion.

Top Pet-Friendly Airlines Flying Out of Des Moines International Airport

Des Moines International Airport may not be a massive hub, but it offers nonstop and connecting routes on carriers that genuinely accommodate pets. Before we dive into the specifics, it’s worth noting that while major legacy airlines like American, Delta, and United also operate at DSM, their pet policies have become more restrictive in recent years. American Airlines, for example, only allows pets in the cabin on some flights and suspended its checked-pet program for certain routes. Delta and United have strict breed restrictions and cargo policies that often rule out many larger dogs. For the most reliable, owner-friendly experience, the three airlines below are your best starting point.

Alaska Airlines – The Gold Standard for Pet Travel

Alaska Airlines consistently ranks at the top of pet owner surveys, and for good reason. The airline allows dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin with you, providing they fit comfortably inside an approved carrier that slides under the seat in front of you. The pet travel fee is $100 each way, which is in line with the industry average but justified by Alaska’s exceptionally transparent customer support and well-trained ground crews.

One standout benefit is Alaska’s generous carrier size allowance. While you still must adhere to the maximum dimensions of 17″L x 11″W x 9.5″H for hard-sided carriers and comparable soft-sided options, they are often a bit more forgiving at check-in than some competitors—provided your animal isn’t visibly cramped. Additionally, Alaska’s Mileage Plan members can earn miles even when paying their pet’s fare, something not every loyalty program offers. If you’re connecting beyond DSM on Alaska, you’ll find their Seattle, Portland, and other West Coast hubs have designated pet relief areas and staff who are visibly comfortable around animals. For all these reasons, Alaska’s pet travel page is frequently bookmarked by owners across the Midwest.

Frontier Airlines – Budget-Friendly with Clear Pet Rules

Frontier Airlines is a practical choice for price-conscious pet owners departing from Des Moines. The carrier charges $99 per pet, per direction, for in-cabin travel—a fee that is fully documented during the booking process so there are no last-minute shocks. Frontier’s pet program covers dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, and small household birds, though the animal must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned.

The trade-off is that Frontier’s seat pitch can be tighter than on full-service airlines, which means you’ll need to pay even closer attention to the under-seat dimensions. The maximum carrier size for Frontier is 18”L x 14”W x 8”H, and the carrier must be soft-sided. You also can’t place your pet in an overhead bin—this is a no-brainer safety rule, but Frontier’s flight attendants will politely but firmly enforce it. Given that DSM is a focus city for Frontier with nonstops to destinations like Denver and Orlando, it’s an easy way to get a pet from Iowa to vacation hubs. Check the details on Frontier’s pet policy page before you purchase your ticket.

Southwest Airlines – In-Cabin Comfort with No Hidden Surprises

Southwest Airlines is the only major U.S. carrier that keeps pet travel refreshingly uncomplicated. The airline permits small, vaccinated dogs and cats in the cabin on most domestic flights, with a straightforward pet fare of $125 each way per carrier. Unlike some other low-cost or legacy carriers, Southwest doesn’t have a confusing matrix of aircraft types that suddenly disallow pets. If you book a domestic flight with Southwest, the pet cabin policy is nearly always in effect.

Southwest’s customer service agents at DSM are generally well-versed in pet check-in, and the open-seating policy means you can choose a spot that gives your animal a bit more peace—such as a window seat in a less crowded row. A critical point: Southwest does not accept pets as checked baggage or cargo, so only animals small enough to fit in under-seat carriers can travel. For many small-dog and cat owners, that’s actually a relief, because it eliminates the risk of pets being placed in a cargo hold. If you’re flying Southwest out of Des Moines to connections in Denver, Chicago Midway, or beyond, the process is consistent and predictable. Visit Southwest’s pet page for current capacity limits and to add your pet to your reservation early.

Airline Pet Policies: In-Cabin vs. Cargo vs. Checked Baggage

Understanding the different ways pets can travel on a commercial airplane is essential before you book. Most pet owners instinctively want their animal next to them in the cabin, but that’s not always possible due to the animal’s size, species, or even the specific aircraft configuration. Here’s what you need to know about the three primary travel modes, especially as they apply to flights from Des Moines.

In-Cabin Pet Travel (Under the Seat)

In-cabin travel is overwhelmingly the safest and least stressful option for pets. The animal stays in an airline-approved carrier that fits entirely under the seat in front of you. This setup keeps your pet in a pressurized, temperature-controlled environment identical to your own, and you can monitor them throughout the flight. For DSM travelers, Alaska, Frontier, and Southwest all offer in-cabin pet travel as their primary pet-service model. American Airlines also permits small pets in the cabin on most flights, though with some restrictions.

To qualify, the carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated. Soft-sided carriers are generally preferred because they can squish slightly to fit under seats that have varying clearances. Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally inside—animals that are too large for the carrier even if they physically fit into the bag will be denied boarding. Fees range from $99 to $125 each way, and the pet counts as one of your carry-on items. Always check the exact under-seat dimensions for your specific aircraft; a regional jet operated to or from DSM might have less space than a mainline Boeing 737.

Cargo and Checked Pets: When Your Pet Can't Fit Under the Seat

If your dog is a large breed or your pet simply cannot travel in the cabin, you may need to use the airline’s cargo or checked baggage service. This is where the options from Des Moines narrow sharply. Southwest does not offer any form of cargo pet transport at all. Frontier only accepts pets in the cabin. Alaska Airlines suspended its checked-pet program during the pandemic and has only partially restored it on certain routes; it’s rarely available at smaller stations like DSM.

American Airlines is the most viable option for DSM passengers needing to ship a larger pet. The carrier’s Cargo and “PetEmbark” programs allow dogs, cats, and some household birds to travel in temperature-controlled cargo compartments. However, this service comes with significant caveats: it is subject to weather embargoes (very hot or cold temperatures can halt pet cargo), breed restrictions for snub-nosed dogs and cats, and strict kennel requirements. The fee is typically higher than cabin travel and depends on the weight and dimensions of the kennel. You must also arrange drop-off and pick-up at the airline’s cargo facility, which at DSM is separate from the main terminal. If you anticipate needing cargo transport, American’s pet policy page has a comprehensive breakdown of accepted breeds, kennel specs, and seasonal cutoffs.

Many veterinarians and animal behaviorists recommend avoiding cargo unless absolutely necessary, due to the noise, temperature fluctuations, and unfamiliar handling that can cause extreme anxiety. If you do go this route, acclimate your pet to its kennel for weeks beforehand and book a direct flight whenever possible to minimize transfers.

How to Book Your Pet’s Flight from DSM

Securing your pet’s spot on a plane isn’t like adding an extra suitcase. Most airlines cap the number of in-cabin pets per flight (often between 4 and 6), and cargo space is even more limited. A methodical booking approach will keep you from being left scrambling.

Reserving Your Pet’s Spot Early

As soon as you’ve confirmed your travel dates, contact the airline directly—either by phone or through their online pet reservation portal—to add a pet to your booking. You cannot simply purchase a ticket for yourself and show up at the airport with an animal, expecting a guaranteed spot. When you call, have your flight number and confirmation code ready. The agent will check how many pets are already booked on that specific aircraft and advise if space remains. For Southwest, you’ll pay the pet fare at the airport ticket counter on the day of travel, but you should call ahead to notify them of your intent. For Alaska and Frontier, you can often add the pet during online check-in if spots are still available, but do not wait until the last minute.

Write down the pet confirmation number. At Des Moines International Airport, the check-in desks for all carriers are compact, so arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight with a pet is a prudent buffer. You’ll need extra time for the agent to inspect the carrier, verify paperwork, and process the fee.

Health Documents, Age, and Breed Restrictions

Every airline requires that your pet be healthy enough to fly and not pose a risk to other passengers or crew. At a minimum, your dog or cat should be up-to-date on rabies vaccinations, and you should carry a certificate of veterinary inspection (health certificate) issued within 10 days of travel for most airlines, or within 30 days for some. While you may not be asked for it upon boarding, having the documentation readily available is essential—especially if you’re crossing state lines, as entry requirements can vary.

Age minimums are universal: puppies and kittens must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned. Senior pets with chronic illnesses may need a letter from your vet clearing them for air travel. Breed restrictions mostly apply to cargo travel, where snub-nosed breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats, etc.) are often banned due to respiratory vulnerabilities. In-cabin travel is far less restricted, but always check the airline’s list because some, like Alaska, may limit certain breeds even in the cabin if the carrier cannot be properly ventilated.

Destination Inspiration: Pet-Friendly Cities You Can Reach from Des Moines

Once you’ve selected a pet-accommodating airline, you’ll have access to a surprising variety of great destinations. Here are three popular cities served from DSM that welcome four-legged travelers with open arms.

Denver, Colorado – Outdoor Adventure Awaits

Denver is one of the easiest destinations to reach with a pet from Des Moines, thanks to nonstop service on Frontier and connecting options on Southwest and United. The Mile High City has an extensive network of dog parks, including the expansive Cherry Creek State Park off-leash area. Many of the city’s breweries and cafes with patios permit well-behaved dogs, and you’ll find no shortage of pet-friendly hotels. Denver’s airport itself has designated pet relief areas both pre- and post-security, so you can let your animal stretch its legs immediately after landing.

Austin, Texas – Music, Parks, and Pet-Friendly Vibes

Austin’s reputation as a quirky, outdoorsy city extends to its treatment of pets. With connections from DSM through Southwest and American, you can get to Austin in a few hours. The city boasts Zilker Park, a massive green space where leashed dogs are welcome, and the off-leash Red Bud Isle if your pup is a strong swimmer. Numerous food truck parks and live music venues have outdoor seating where pets are allowed. There are also several veterinarians around downtown Austin, providing peace of mind in case of an emergency.

Additional Connections: Cleveland, Colorado Springs, and More

Frontier’s network from Des Moines includes seasonal or year-round service to Cleveland, a city with a growing number of dog-friendly eateries and the Edgewater Park beach area. Colorado Springs, reachable via a quick layover in Denver, puts you near numerous hiking trails that are pet-accessible. When booking, look for hotels near nature preserves or city centers with pedestrian-friendly layouts—this reduces the amount of time your pet spends in a car after the flight and lets them acclimate faster.

Preparing Your Pet for a Stress-Free Flight

A calm, well-prepared pet makes the entire travel experience infinitely smoother. The weeks leading up to your trip are just as important as the day of departure.

Carrier Training and Checklist

Start by turning the carrier into a positive, familiar space weeks in advance. Leave it open in your living area with a soft blanket and a few treats inside. Let your pet explore and nap there voluntarily. Practice short car rides with the carrier to simulate motion. By the time you head to Des Moines International Airport, your animal should associate the carrier with comfort rather than confinement.

Your pre-flight checklist should include: an airline-approved carrier (soft-sided for in-cabin, hard-sided for cargo), a collapsible water bowl, absorbent potty pads, a small bag of your pet’s regular food, a favorite toy, and a copy of vaccination records. Ensure the carrier is labeled with your name, phone number, and destination contact information. Attach a recent photo of your pet to the outside of the carrier in case of separation.

On Travel Day: Feeding, Exercise, and Comfort

Schedule a light meal no less than four hours before the flight to prevent motion sickness. A full stomach can make turbulence uncomfortable for your pet. Take your dog for a long walk or engage your cat in active play to burn off excess energy prior to heading to DSM. The airport’s small outdoor pet relief area, located near the terminal entrance, is a perfect last-chance bathroom spot. Once through security, you’ll need to carry your pet through the metal detector while the carrier goes through the X-ray; keeping your pet on a leash or harness during this process is crucial.

Do not sedate your pet unless explicitly directed by your veterinarian. Altitude changes can amplify the effects of sedatives, leading to respiratory or cardiovascular complications. Instead, use calming pheromone sprays or a familiar-smelling item inside the carrier to promote relaxation naturally.

What to Do After Landing: Pet-Friendly Hotels and Local Activities

The journey doesn’t end when the plane touches down. Your pet will need to decompress, hydrate, and adjust to its new surroundings. Planning your accommodation and activities ahead of time will make the arrival portion of your trip just as smooth as the flight itself.

Finding Genuinely Pet-Welcoming Accommodations

Not all hotels labelled “pet-friendly” are created equal. Some merely tolerate animals with steep non-refundable fees and strict size caps, while others roll out the welcome mat with treats, designated walking areas, and no extra charges. When researching hotels, look beyond the search-filter checkbox. Read recent reviews from guests who traveled with pets to gauge whether the property has grassy relief areas, nearby sidewalks, or noise issues that could bother a nervous animal. Chains like Kimpton, Aloft, and certain Marriott and Hilton brands consistently provide pet amenities without weight limits, but always call the specific property to confirm current policies.

For DSM-bound return trips, several hotels near the Des Moines airport and downtown—such as the Surety Hotel and certain Home2 Suites locations—offer pet packages with maps of nearby parks. The same due diligence applies wherever you land.

Exploring Your Destination with Your Pet

Once you’ve checked in, resist the urge to immediately plunge into a packed itinerary. Give your pet time to drink water, use the bathroom, and snooze. When you do venture out, search for outdoor attractions like city parks, historic districts with wide sidewalks, and open-air shopping centers. Many local tourism websites now feature dedicated “pet-friendly” sections that list restaurants with patios, hiking trails, and even museums where leashed pets are permitted. Always carry waste bags, a portable water dispenser, and an extra leash. A tired, well-hydrated pet is the best travel companion.

Seasonal Considerations and Cold-Weather Travel from Iowa

Des Moines winters are no joke, and flying with a pet during the colder months requires extra vigilance. Airlines impose cargo embargoes when ground temperatures at origin, destination, or layover airports fall below 45°F (or exceed 85°F). This is another powerful argument for in-cabin pet travel, which is rarely affected by outdoor weather. If you must use cargo services in winter, book the first flight of the morning or any middle-of-the-day slot when temperatures are most moderate, and confirm the airline’s climate-controlled holding facilities.

If your destination involves winter activities like skiing, understand that most ski resorts do not allow pets on the slopes. Instead, look for nearby Nordic trails or snowshoeing paths where leashed dogs are explicitly welcome. Bring winter gear for your animal: booties to protect paws from ice-melting chemicals, a well-fitted coat, and a towel to dry off snow and slush after walks. Before booking any ski-lodge accommodation, call to verify their pet policy in writing—some properties that advertise as pet-friendly in summer switch to a no-pet stance during ski season due to wet gear and crowded conditions.

For summer travel, the same temperature restrictions apply, but the risk shifts to heat stroke in brachycephalic breeds. Always avoid midday flights, and never leave your pet in a parked car, even for a moment. Des Moines airport parking lots can become dangerously hot in July, so consider having a friend drop you off or using the terminal’s short-term parking with immediate terminal access.

Final Pointers for Flying Out of Des Moines with Your Pet

DSM’s manageable size is actually a boon for pet travelers. The check-in lines are rarely overwhelming, and staff members often go out of their way to accommodate animals because they aren’t dealing with the chaos of a mega-hub. Still, a few last tips can tighten your plan: always have a plan B in case your pet is denied boarding (due to carrier issues, for instance). Know the location of the nearest veterinary emergency clinic at both your departure and arrival points. Keep your pet’s microchip information updated and visible. And remember that patience, from the moment you pull into the airport parking lot, sets the tone for your animal’s experience.

Choosing Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, or Southwest Airlines from Des Moines gives you a solid foundation of predictable policies and trained personnel who understand that pets are family. Combine that carrier choice with thorough preparation, thoughtful destination planning, and a focus on your pet’s comfort at every stage, and you’ll have a travel experience that is safe, enjoyable, and worth repeating.