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Traveling with pets from Arlington, Texas doesn’t have to be a headache. The best airlines for pet travel focus on comfort, safety, and convenience, which makes life a lot easier for both you and your furry sidekick.
Some airlines even toss in perks like in-cabin pet options or free snacks, which can go a long way toward keeping your pet calm. It’s the little things, right?
Picking the right airline can spare you a ton of stress. Alaska and Frontier are pretty famous for their pet-friendly rules.
There are also newer options like RetrievAir, which is all about affordable and less-stressful pet travel. Knowing what’s out there helps you plan and gives your pet a smoother trip.
Prepping your pet before the flight is just as important. Understanding airline policies and what to expect can help you dodge last-minute chaos.
From carrier rules to flight routes, getting the details right is key for a safe and comfortable journey.
Key Takeaways
- Pick an airline with solid pet policies if you want a smoother trip.
- Find out what each airline needs from you before you show up with your pet.
- The right airline makes traveling with your pet less of a hassle.
Top Airlines for Pet Travel from Arlington, Texas
Flying with your pet from Arlington? Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is your main hub.
You’ve got several decent airline choices, each with their own rules about pets and how to prep. Some routes even keep your pet’s travel time short, which is always a plus.
American Airlines Pet Policies
American Airlines lets small pets ride in the cabin for about $125 each way. Your pet’s got to fit in a soft-sided carrier under the seat.
Only cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds are allowed in the cabin. Got a bigger pet? American Airlines offers a cargo service, but you’ll need to book separately and stick to their crate and health rules.
They’ve got temperature restrictions during extreme weather, so double-check before you book. You don’t want any surprises with last-minute delays.
Other Pet-Friendly Airlines Departing Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
American isn’t your only choice at DFW. Alaska Airlines lets dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds fly in the cabin for about $100 each way.
Frontier Airlines is another option, usually with affordable pet travel and mostly in-cabin options. Fees and what’s allowed will vary, so you’ll want to compare.
Look at each airline’s pet size limits, fees, and what kind of carrier you’ll need. The rules about how many pets per flight and which documents are required can be a bit different.
Direct Routes and Destinations for Pets
DFW offers lots of direct flights that make pet travel easier—no long layovers. Popular pet-friendly routes include Dallas to Seattle (Alaska Airlines), Dallas to Phoenix (American Airlines), and Dallas to Denver (Frontier Airlines).
Direct flights are less stressful for pets. Always check the latest pet policies and destination-specific health rules before booking.
Some places want health certificates or proof of vaccinations, so don’t get caught off guard.
Preparing for Pet Travel
If you’re heading out of Arlington with your pet via DFW, you’ll need to plan ahead. The right documents, an approved carrier, and some booking know-how will keep things running smoothly.
Required Documents and Health Certificates
Most airlines want a recent health certificate from your vet—usually within 10 days of travel. This proves your pet is healthy and up to date on shots.
Going out of state or abroad? You might need extra paperwork like a rabies certificate.
Keep all documents handy at the airport. If you forget, your pet could be denied boarding (or worse, quarantined).
Carrier and Kennel Requirements
Airline-approved carriers are a must. For in-cabin pets, the carrier has to fit under the seat—measure your pet and check each airline’s size rules.
If you’re using cargo or checking your pet, the kennel needs to be big enough for your pet to stand, turn, and lie down. It should be sturdy and well-ventilated.
Label the carrier with your name, your pet’s name, and contact info. “Live Animal” stickers are a good idea too.
Booking Tips for Pet Owners
Book early—DFW gets busy, and airlines limit the number of pets per flight. Let the airline know you’re bringing a pet when you book.
Double-check carrier size rules and fees for cabin or checked pets. Non-stop flights are best for pets, so try to snag one if you can.
Show up at the airport early to handle the extra steps. It’s never as quick as you hope.
Pet-Friendly Amenities and Accommodations in Arlington
Arlington’s got a handful of pet-friendly hotels, so finding a spot to stay isn’t too tough. Some places even make it easy to exercise your pet before your flight.
This can help both of you relax a bit before the travel chaos kicks in.
Hotels with Pet Policies: Sheraton, Hilton Garden Inn, Aloft, Residence Inn
The Sheraton Arlington Hotel allows pets, but there are size limits and fees. It’s near the Arlington Entertainment District, which is a bonus.
Hilton Garden Inn Dallas/Arlington South is another pet-friendly pick. They usually charge a small pet fee and can provide water bowls if you ask.
Aloft Dallas Arlington South often skips extra pet fees, which is great if you travel with your pet a lot. It’s a more budget-friendly option.
Residence Inn by Marriott Arlington accepts pets in many rooms, and there’s usually no weight limit. The place is set up for longer stays, so you get more space and a kitchen—handy if you’re sticking around.
Nearby Pet Exercise Areas and Fitness Centers
Need a spot for your pet to run off some energy? River Legacy Park and Tails N’ Trails Dog Park are both nearby and have off-leash areas.
Elzie Odom Athletic Center Dog Park is another solid choice with decent facilities for pets.
If you want to sneak in a workout, some hotels—like Sheraton and Hilton Garden Inn—have fitness centers. You can work out while your pet enjoys some outside time.
Entertainment and Activities Before Your Flight
Before flying, you can check out some pet-friendly spots around Arlington. The Arlington Entertainment District and Texas Live! both offer outdoor seating, and pets are usually welcome there.
If you’ve got a little time to spare, getting outside with your pet might help calm everyone’s nerves. Nearby shopping at the Grand Prairie Premium Outlets also has outdoor areas, so your dog can tag along for a quick stroll.
Looking for something else to do? Six Flags Over Texas and Six Flags Hurricane Harbor aren’t pet-friendly, so you’ll want to plan for that. On the other hand, the University of Texas at Arlington campus has wide open spaces, which are great for a relaxing walk before your trip.