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If you’re thinking about flying with your pet from Baltimore, picking the right airline can really make or break your trip. Not every airline treats pets the same, so you’ll want to know which carriers actually care.
Alaska Airlines is often mentioned as a top pick for pet travel from Baltimore. They offer in-cabin options for small pets and, honestly, their service is pretty solid.
Traveling with pets isn’t just about buying a ticket. You’ve got to think about pet policies, fees, and all the prep work before you even get to the airport.
Choosing airlines that actually like animals—and knowing their rules—will help your pet stay safe and not freak out.
Some pets fly in the cabin, others go cargo. That depends on your pet’s size and personality, so it’s worth checking what each airline allows.
Key Takeaways
- Some airlines are just better for pets leaving Baltimore.
- Prepping your pet makes the trip safer and less stressful.
- The way your pet travels depends on their size and what they need.
Top Airlines for Pet Travel from Baltimore
When you’re flying with a pet from Baltimore, you want comfort and safety, but you also want clear rules. Some airlines offer both in-cabin and cargo options, while others stick to one or the other.
It’s smart to check each airline’s pet rules and fees before you book. Saves you a headache later.
American Airlines Pet Policy
American Airlines lets you bring small pets in the cabin, as long as they fit in a carrier under the seat. The fee is usually about $125 each way for domestic trips.
Got a bigger pet? They’ve got a cargo program for that, but you’ll need to book ahead. You’ll also need the right kennel and up-to-date health documents.
Their customer service is actually helpful if you get stuck. They’ll walk you through kennel sizes, pet weight, and exactly what paperwork you need.
Southwest Airlines Pet Program
Southwest only does in-cabin pet travel. So, if your pet can’t fit under the seat in a carrier, you’re out of luck.
The fee is usually $95 each way, which is less than most airlines. Only dogs and cats are allowed, and there’s a size limit, so check before booking.
You’ll want to reserve your pet’s spot early—there’s a cap on the number of pets per flight.
People say Southwest’s customer service is friendly and responsive. They lay out the carrier rules and health paperwork pretty clearly, so it’s not too confusing.
Pet Airways Options
Pet Airways is a bit different—they’re all about the animals. No people, just pets.
Your pet flies in a temperature-controlled cabin with staff watching over them the whole time. If you’re worried about your pet getting stressed, this is a solid option.
You have to book early and use a kennel that fits their guidelines. It’s more expensive than regular airlines, but you get peace of mind.
Their customer support is geared toward pet owners, so you’ll get step-by-step help if you need it.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
Flying with your pet means you’ll need the right carrier, up-to-date health records, and a careful booking process. These steps really do help keep things calm for your animal.
Choosing a Suitable Pet Carrier
The carrier has to fit your airline’s rules and your pet’s size. Most airlines want carriers that are sturdy and have good airflow.
If your pet’s in the cabin, the carrier needs to fit under the seat. Make sure your pet can stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Soft-sided carriers work well for in-cabin pets. For checked pets, you’ll probably need a hard-sided crate.
Don’t forget to put your contact info on the carrier. Toss in a water bowl and maybe an absorbent mat, just in case. Double-check the airline’s rules before buying anything.
Health and Safety Requirements
Your pet has to be healthy to fly. Most airlines won’t let pets under eight weeks old onboard.
Get a vet check before you go. You’ll probably need a health certificate dated within 10 days of your flight.
Check the vaccination rules for your destination. Some places are stricter than others.
Don’t sedate your pet unless your vet says it’s absolutely necessary. It can be risky.
Booking and Documentation Tips
Book your pet’s spot as soon as you can. Airlines only allow so many pets per flight.
You’ll fill out forms with your pet’s breed, weight, and age. Keep copies of everything—booking confirmations, health certificates, ID tags.
Fees can change depending on whether your pet’s in the cabin or cargo. Be ready to pay at check-in.
Show up early at the airport to handle pet check-in and any last-minute stuff.
Alternative Pet Transport Methods from Baltimore
If flying isn’t right for your pet, there are other ways to get them out of Baltimore. Think ships, ferries, or even connecting flights that make things easier on your animal.
Queen Mary 2 and Cunard for Transatlantic Travel
If you need to get your pet across the Atlantic, the Queen Mary 2 by Cunard is a pretty unique choice.
They’ve got special kennels onboard, and the staff actually care for your pet during the trip.
The ship’s schedule is fixed, so you’ll need to plan ahead. Usually, you’ll have to get from Baltimore to New York first, since that’s where the ship leaves.
It’s slower than flying, but for some pets, it’s way less stressful.
Ferry Options with Brittany Ferries
For shorter sea trips, Brittany Ferries moves pets between France, the UK, and Spain.
You can’t get there directly from Baltimore, but you can combine flights or other transport to reach a Brittany Ferries port.
Pets usually stay in kennels or sometimes in your vehicle, depending on the ferry. Each line has its own rules, so check requirements for vaccination, crate size, and booking ahead of time.
If your trip takes you through Europe after flying or sailing the Atlantic, Brittany Ferries is a reliable way to move pets between coastal cities.
Connecting via New York and Other Cities
Flying out of Baltimore isn’t always ideal if you’ve got a pet in tow. There just aren’t that many airlines offering in-cabin pet travel from there.
Major hubs like New York can really change the game. Airports like JFK or Newark are home to a bunch of international and pet-friendly airlines.
You’ll probably find more options for shorter travel times, whether your pet’s in cargo or the cabin. Some of these big airports even have better pet handling services—definitely something to consider.
Before you book, double-check every airline’s pet policies. Layover times matter too, especially if you’re anxious about your pet’s comfort.
Make sure your crate fits the airline’s requirements. Honestly, sometimes breaking up a long trip with a stop in a city like New York just makes the whole thing less stressful.