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Traveling with pets from Edison, New Jersey? You’ll want an airline that actually cares about your furry friend.
Alaska Airlines and Frontier are among the best options for pet travel, offering good policies and experiences for pet owners. There are others—Lufthansa, United, and KLM, for example—that also have pet-friendly services, but what works best might depend on your route, your pet, and what you’re comfortable with.
When you’re booking a flight from Edison, you’ve got a handful of major airlines to choose from—think American, Delta, JetBlue, and the rest.
Each airline has its own set of rules for traveling with pets, so picking the right one is honestly half the battle.
Key Takeways
- Go for airlines with clear, pet-friendly policies.
- Learn each airline’s rules before you book your pet’s trip from Edison.
- Planning ahead makes things less stressful for everyone (including your pet).
Top Airlines for Traveling with Pets from Edison, New Jersey
If you’re flying from Edison and want to bring your pet, you’ll want airlines with straightforward rules and a process that isn’t a headache. Every airline has different policies about pet sizes, fees, and what kind of carrier you’ll need.
American Airlines Policies for Pets
American Airlines lets small dogs, cats, and household birds travel in the cabin—if they’re in an approved carrier that fits under the seat. You’ve got to book your pet’s spot early; there’s a cap on how many pets can ride in the cabin.
The fee is around $125 one-way. Larger pets? American allows them as cargo under certain conditions, but it depends on where you’re headed.
Definitely double-check weight limits and carrier sizes before you book. The goal is to keep your pet safe and as comfortable as possible.
Delta Air Lines Pet Travel Options
Delta Air Lines takes small pets like dogs, cats, and birds in the cabin for a fee—anywhere from $75 to $200, depending on the route. Your pet has to be in a carrier that fits under the seat, and it needs to be FAA-approved.
If your pet is too big for the cabin, Delta has a cargo option. You’ll need to book ahead and follow rules about health certificates and travel seasons.
Pets flying from New Jersey airports follow the same standards, so Delta is a solid choice for a lot of folks.
United Airlines Pet-Friendly Services
United lets you bring small pets in the cabin, as long as they’re in a carrier that fits under the seat. The cost is about $125 per flight segment.
You should reserve early—spots fill up. United also runs a PetSafe program for larger pets, where animals travel as cargo with extra attention.
There are temperature restrictions, health paperwork, and crate requirements. Whether you’re flying from Newark or somewhere else nearby, United’s policies are built to keep pets safe.
Pet Travel Requirements and Guidelines
Flying with your pet from Edison means you’ll need to get some paperwork in order and follow a bunch of carrier rules. Airlines also have restrictions on breeds and types of pets.
If you know these rules ahead of time, you’re way less likely to run into problems.
Health Certificates and Documentation
Most airlines want a Fit-to-Fly health certificate from a vet, usually dated within 10 days of your flight. This just proves your pet is healthy enough to travel.
Some airlines also require up-to-date vaccination records—rabies is a big one.
If you’re in New Jersey, check with your vet early. You might need extra paperwork for interstate or international flights.
Without the right documents, your pet could be turned away at the airport.
Bring all your paperwork with you. Checked pets and carry-on pets both need proper documents.
Carrier and Kennel Specifications
Your pet’s carrier has to be FAA-approved and fit under the airplane seat if you want them in the cabin. Usually, the pet and carrier together can’t weigh more than 20 pounds.
Kennels for checked pets need to be sturdy and well-ventilated. There are specific size limits, so always check with your airline.
A good rule of thumb: your pet should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Soft-sided carriers are common for in-cabin pets. Hard-sided kennels are better for checked pets.
Breed and Species Restrictions
Most airlines let you bring cats and small dogs in the cabin. Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds are often banned—they can have trouble breathing at altitude.
Exotic animals and bigger pets usually can’t fly in the cabin and might not be allowed as checked pets either. Always double-check with your airline before you book.
Some species need special handling. Make sure you know the airline’s rules so there aren’t any surprises.
Tips for a Smooth Flight with Pets from Edison
Flying with your pet from Edison isn’t something you want to wing. You’ll have to decide how your pet will travel and get them ready for the journey.
Cargo vs. Cabin Travel
First, figure out if your pet can stay with you in the cabin or if they’ll have to go in the cargo hold. Small pets usually fit under the seat in an approved carrier.
Check the airline’s size and weight limits before you book.
Bigger pets will have to fly cargo. It’s temperature-controlled, but it can be loud and a little stressful for animals.
Use a sturdy crate that meets airline standards and label it with your contact info.
Some airlines only let certain breeds or pets fly during certain seasons.
Book your pet’s spot as early as you can. Airlines limit the number of pets per flight.
Arrive at the airport early to handle any last-minute paperwork.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
Before the flight, skip feeding your pet for about four hours. A lighter meal can help prevent their stomach from getting upset.
Let your pet have some water, but don’t let them gulp down too much. It’s a balance—nobody wants a thirsty or queasy pet.
Get your pet used to their carrier well before travel day. Try short practice sessions with them inside the carrier.
This really helps cut down on anxiety. It’s not always easy, but a bit of patience goes a long way.
Double-check that your pet has ID tags and any health records you’ll need. Your vet can tell you which shots or certificates are required for your destination.
Bring along something familiar, like a blanket or their favorite toy. That little touch of home can make a big difference.
During the trip, do your best to keep your pet calm and quiet. Speak softly, and try to avoid any sudden movements.
It’s not a perfect science, but these steps can help your pet feel a bit safer while you travel together.