For pet owners in Spokane Valley, Washington, flying with a dog or cat requires more than a cheap ticket. You need an airline that treats animals as living cargo, not just luggage. Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines consistently rank as the most flexible and attentive carriers for travelers departing from Spokane International Airport (GEG), but Delta and United also offer dependable pet travel options with clear rules and safety measures. The difference between a smooth journey and a stressful one often comes down to understanding each airline’s fine print, the airport’s facilities, and how to prepare your pet for the experience.

Top Airlines for Flying With Pets From Spokane Valley

Not every airline that serves Spokane Valley makes pet travel easy. While Alaska, Delta, United, Frontier, and even Southwest allow pets on many routes, their policies on cabin access, cargo handling, breed restrictions, and fees vary significantly. Evaluating them side by side helps you choose a carrier that matches your pet’s size, temperament, and your itinerary.

Alaska Airlines: A Pet-Friendly Leader

Alaska Airlines has built a reputation as one of the most pet-welcoming carriers in the United States, and that reputation holds for flights out of Spokane International Airport. The airline permits small cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin on most domestic flights, provided the pet and carrier together weigh no more than 20 pounds. The hard-sided or soft-sided carrier must fit under the seat in front of you, with maximum dimensions of 17" x 11" x 9.5" for hard-sided kennels and 17" x 11" x 9.5" for soft-sided, though soft carriers can be slightly larger if they compress.

Alaska charges a $100 one-way fee per carrier for in-cabin pets. Up to two pets of the same species may share a single carrier if they are small enough to move around comfortably, though the total weight limit still applies. You can book your pet’s spot online or by calling reservations, but spaces are limited to a first-come, first-served basis—often no more than five pets in the main cabin per flight—so early booking is essential, especially during holiday travel.

For larger pets that can’t ride in the cabin, Alaska offers cargo travel through Alaska Air Cargo. The airline’s Pet Connect program provides climate-controlled holding areas, priority boarding for pets, and trained ground handling crews at many stations. Alaska imposed a temporary embargo on most new reservations for pets traveling in the cargo hold during the pandemic and has gradually reopened the service with enhanced safety protocols. Before booking cargo, confirm availability on your specific route from Spokane. All pets flying cargo require a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, and brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats are subject to additional weather restrictions or may be refused during extreme temperatures. You can read the full Alaska Airlines pet policy online to check for updates before you book.

Delta Air Lines: Comprehensive Pet Travel Options

Delta Air Lines provides a structured approach to pet travel that many Spokane Valley residents find straightforward. Small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel in the cabin on most domestic flights for a fee of $125 each way. The maximum carrier dimensions for cabin travel are 18" x 11" x 11" for soft-sided carriers and 18" x 11" x 11" for hard-sided, as long as the kennel fits completely under the seat. Your pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight, and the combined weight of pet and carrier cannot exceed the under-seat limit.

Unlike Alaska, Delta does not accept pets as checked baggage. Instead, larger animals must travel through Delta Cargo. Delta’s freight division operates a dedicated “Pet First” program that prioritizes animal care with temperature-controlled vehicles, pressurized and ventilated cargo holds, and specialized staff at cargo facilities. This service requires that you drop off and pick up your pet at the Delta Cargo location, which at Spokane International Airport is separate from the passenger terminal, so plan extra time before and after your flight.

Delta accepts a wider variety of pets for cargo travel, including rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs, though some breed restrictions apply. Snub-nosed dogs and cats are not accepted as cargo between May 15 and September 15, and a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel is mandatory. The cargo fee varies by weight and route, typically higher than the in-cabin rate. For complete details, review Delta’s pet travel guidelines, which are updated frequently.

United Airlines: PetSafe and In-Cabin Choices

United Airlines offers two distinct ways to transport your pet from Spokane. Small pets can ride in the cabin for a fee of $125 per flight segment, with the same under-seat carrier maximums as Delta—18" x 11" x 11" for soft-sided and 17.5" x 12" x 7.5" for hard-sided. United accepts dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds in the cabin, but a strict limit of four pets per flight means you should reserve as soon as you book your ticket. Pets must be at least 8 weeks old for in-cabin travel.

For larger pets or breeds that are not permitted in the cabin, United runs PetSafe, a specialized cargo program with climate-controlled holding areas, dedicated animal handlers, and real-time tracking capabilities. PetSafe operates year-round but may embargo certain brachycephalic breeds during the summer months. The program requires a health certificate and specific crate dimensions based on your pet’s measurements. United no longer transports pets as checked baggage on most flights, so PetSafe is your only option for animals that cannot fit under the seat. Fees vary by weight and route, often higher than in-cabin charges, but the focus on safety and comfort is significant. The United pet travel page provides a deep dive into all requirements.

Frontier Airlines: Affordable Pet-Friendly Fares

Frontier Airlines often appeals to budget-conscious travelers from Spokane Valley, and the airline allows small pets in the cabin for a relatively low fee—usually $99 each way. Only dogs and cats are accepted, and they must remain in an approved carrier that fits completely under the seat. Frontier’s carrier maximum is slightly narrower at 18" x 14" x 8", so measure carefully before you buy a new bag. Pets count toward your carry-on allowance, meaning you may need to check your larger bag and pay the associated checked bag fee.

Frontier does not transport pets as cargo or checked baggage, so it is an option only if your pet can ride in the cabin with you. Booking is simple: you can add a pet during online check-in or by calling the airline, but spots are limited to a handful per flight, so secure yours early. Even though the fee is lower, the same health certificate and documentation standards apply, and your pet must be at least 8 weeks old. Review the Frontier pet policy before booking to avoid surprises at the gate.

Airport Facilities and Guidelines at Spokane International Airport

Spokane International Airport makes traveling with your pet considerably easier, with multiple pet relief areas and clear procedures. Knowing what to expect can reduce stress for both of you on the day of departure.

Pet Relief Areas and Amenities

GEG has designated pet relief areas both before and after security. Outside the terminal, you will find a grassy spot near the C Concourse ticketing and baggage claim level. Inside security, indoor relief stations equipped with artificial turf and waste disposal bags are located by the A Concourse and the upper C Concourse gates. These areas are maintained regularly and typically include a water station or a sink nearby. Using these designated spaces keeps the terminal clean and gives your pet a chance to burn off energy before boarding. Cleaning up after your pet is mandatory, and the airport provides bags and trash bins.

Check-In and Security Procedures for Pets

When checking in with your pet at Spokane International, arrive at least two hours before your domestic flight. You will need to present your pet’s carrier to the airline agent for inspection and pay any fees that were not collected during booking. At the security checkpoint, your pet must be removed from the carrier so that the carrier can be screened by the X-ray machine. Hold your pet securely as you walk through the metal detector, or request a private screening room if your animal is skittish. The GEG pet relief page provides the latest locations and tips.

Key Factors to Evaluate Before You Book

Choosing the right airline involves more than comparing fees. Your pet’s size, breed, health status, and the length of your journey all play into which carrier will deliver the safest, least stressful experience.

Carrier Size and Breed Restrictions

Each airline publishes specific carrier dimensions for in-cabin travel. If your soft-sided kennel is even an inch too tall, you may be forced to rebook. Measure the carrier with your pet inside to ensure they can stand, turn around, and lie down naturally. For cargo, the kennel must meet International Air Transport Association (IATA) standards, with sturdy construction, ventilation on three sides, and a secure door. Airlines also restrict brachycephalic breeds—dogs and cats with pushed-in faces—because they are more susceptible to breathing issues and heat stress. If you own a Bulldog, Pug, Boston Terrier, Persian, or similar breed, verify that your chosen airline will accept them during the season you plan to travel. Many carriers embargo these animals in cargo during warm months, though in-cabin travel is often still permitted if weight and size limits are met.

Cost Comparison and Hidden Fees

In-cabin pet fees typically range from $99 (Frontier) to $125 (Delta and United) each way. Alaska’s $100 fee falls in the middle. However, the total expense can climb. You may need to pay for a health certificate ($50–$150, depending on your vet), an airline-approved carrier ($30–$100), and possibly a second checked bag if your pet carrier counts as a carry-on item. Cargo shipping costs vary dramatically based on weight and distance—expect to pay several hundred dollars for a medium-sized dog on a cross-country flight. Always confirm whether your fare includes the pet fee or if it is collected at the airport, and ask about any additional surcharges for layovers or international routes.

Flight Duration and Nonstop Availability

Direct flights from Spokane are available to major hubs on Alaska, Delta, United, and Frontier, but not every city sees nonstop service. Layovers add time, temperature fluctuations during ramp transfers, and potential handling errors. When possible, choose the shortest total travel time, even if it means paying slightly more. Early-morning or late-evening flights during warmer months can help avoid the worst of the day’s heat, and a nonstop itinerary eliminates the risk of a missed connection due to delayed pet processing. Most airlines allow you to check the number of pet spots available before you book; some even hold a spot for a short period while you finalize your ticket.

Travel Tips for a Smooth Journey From Spokane Valley

A little preparation pays off when flying with a pet. From proper crate training to paperwork, these steps help you and your animal arrive calm and ready for your destination.

Acclimate Your Pet to the Carrier

Start at least two weeks before your flight. Leave the carrier open in your living area, toss treats inside, and place a familiar blanket or a piece of your clothing in it. Feed your pet near the carrier, then inside it with the door open, and eventually close the door for short periods while you are home. This gradual conditioning teaches your pet that the carrier is a safe space, not a punishment. On travel day, spritz the carrier with a synthetic calming pheromone spray to further reduce anxiety.

Documentation and Health Requirements

A valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian is non-negotiable for any pet flying cargo and is strongly recommended for in-cabin travel as well. Most airlines require the certificate to be dated within 10 days of departure, though some accept 30-day certificates for the outbound flight only. The exam should confirm your pet is free of infectious diseases and fit to fly. Airlines may also request proof of current rabies vaccination, particularly for international trips. If your Spokane Valley plans involve international borders, check the destination country’s import rules early—some require microchips, specific blood titers, or even quarantine. Carrying extra copies of all paperwork in your carry-on bag ensures you can produce a document whenever asked.

Day-of-Travel Checklist

  • Feed early: Give a light meal three to four hours before departure to prevent motion sickness; provide water right up until you leave for the airport.
  • Exercise before heading out: A brisk walk or play session can help your pet settle down in the carrier.
  • ID and leash: Attach a current ID tag with your cell phone number to your pet’s collar, and confirm that microchip registration is up to date. Keep a leash handy for security screening.
  • Puppy pads or liner: Place an absorbent pad in the bottom of the carrier and carry spares in your bag.
  • Calming aids: If your veterinarian approves, consider a calming supplement or a ThunderShirt, but never sedate your pet without professional guidance—sedation can affect breathing and temperature regulation at altitude.

Making the Right Choice for Your Pet

For Spokane Valley travelers, Alaska Airlines and Frontier lead in cabin-pet friendliness with reasonable fees and straightforward rules, while Delta and United provide robust cargo alternatives for larger animals. Checking Spokane International Airport’s pet relief areas and arriving early simplifies the logistics. Ultimately, the safest airline is the one that understands your pet’s individual needs—size, breed, health, and temperament—and communicates its policies clearly. Book as early as possible, prepare all documentation, and condition your pet to the carrier, and you can turn a potentially nerve-wracking experience into just another leg of your adventure together.