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Traveling with your pet from Madison, Wisconsin doesn’t have to be a hassle—if you pick the right airline. Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines are top picks for pet travel, mostly because of their pet-friendly policies and decent services.
These airlines let pets fly in the cabin with you, which honestly just makes the whole thing less nerve-wracking for everyone involved.
Figuring out which airlines offer direct, pet-friendly flights from Madison can save you a lot of stress. Most airlines charge around $125 for pets, but at least you get clear rules and some support for traveling safely.
It’s worth knowing what’ll happen at the airport, like how security screens pets and what you’re supposed to do.
Key Takeways
- Some airlines from Madison are just better for pet travel—friendlier rules, more support.
- Fees and pet travel rules are all over the place, so always double-check before you book.
- Knowing airport procedures ahead of time can make the day a lot less overwhelming.
Top Pet-Friendly Airlines Flying From Madison, Wisconsin
Flying out of Dane County Regional Airport, you’ve got a few airlines that make it possible to bring your pet along. Each one sets its own rules for pet size, carrier dimensions, and fees.
Honestly, planning ahead is the best way to avoid headaches at check-in.
American Airlines
American Airlines lets you bring small dogs and cats in the cabin, as long as your pet fits in a carrier under the seat. The carrier has to be airline-compliant—usually about 18 x 11 x 11 inches or smaller.
There’s a pet fee, typically $125 each way.
If your pet doesn’t fit the cabin rules, checked baggage or cargo is an option, but the rules get stricter. Not every American Airlines flight accepts pets, so always check before booking, especially from Madison.
Delta Air Lines
Delta lets small pets fly in the cabin if the carrier fits under the seat. The fee’s about $125 per flight.
Your pet has to stay in the carrier the whole time.
Bigger dogs might be able to travel as checked baggage or cargo, but Delta’s picky about destinations and aircraft type. Seasonal schedules from Madison can affect your options, so always double-check if your plans aren’t set in stone.
Breeze Airways
Breeze Airways allows pets in the cabin, but only small ones—there are size restrictions like everywhere else. You need to book your pet’s spot ahead of time since there’s a limit on how many pets can fly per flight.
They focus on seasonal routes from Madison, and the fee is usually under $100, which is actually less than some bigger airlines.
Breeze doesn’t allow pets as checked baggage or cargo, so your pet’s gotta fit under the seat.
Popular Nonstop Pet-Friendly Destinations From Madison
If you’re flying with your pet from Dane County Regional Airport, you’ve got a few nonstop options to cities that are surprisingly pet-friendly. These spots offer a good mix of climate, outdoor space, and airport services—basically, they’re just easier on you and your pet.
Orlando
Orlando has nonstop flights from Madison and is known for its warm weather and tons of outdoor spaces. If you’ve got a dog, there are plenty of parks and trails for walks.
Orlando International Airport has pet relief areas, which is a lifesaver if you get stuck with a delay.
Airlines flying between Madison and Orlando usually let pets in the cabin. Once you land, you’ll find dog parks and outdoor attractions—pretty ideal if you want to mix city and nature.
Denver
Denver offers frequent nonstop flights from Madison, and it’s a solid choice for pet travelers. Denver International Airport has several pet relief stations scattered around, which makes airport time a little less stressful.
The city itself is full of dog-friendly parks and trails, so you and your pet can get some fresh air. The dry climate might actually be easier on some animals, but don’t forget water—Denver’s altitude is no joke.
Most airlines serving Denver nonstop allow pets in the cabin, which keeps things simple.
Phoenix
Nonstop flights to Phoenix drop you into a city with a warm desert climate and lots of open space. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport has pet relief areas, though the airport can get pretty busy.
Pet owners like the dog parks and hiking spots around Phoenix. The dry air might help pets with respiratory issues, but you’ll want to avoid the midday heat.
Airlines flying nonstop to Phoenix from Madison tend to have decent pet policies, so the trip isn’t too stressful.
Los Angeles International Airport
Madison has nonstop flights to LAX, which is a major hub with lots of pet amenities. LAX has several pet relief areas and services for people traveling with animals.
In Los Angeles, you’ll find dog parks and even beaches that welcome pets. The mild climate is a plus, but the city’s traffic and crowds can be a headache.
Airlines running nonstop routes to LAX usually allow pets in the cabin, so you don’t have to worry about your pet being out of sight.
Key Considerations for Traveling With Pets From Madison
If you’re flying with your pet from Dane County Regional Airport, focus on airline rules and your pet’s comfort. Keeping your pet calm and safe during travel matters just as much as paperwork.
Pet Travel Policies and Requirements
Most airlines require your pet to be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned. You’ll need a health certificate from a licensed vet, issued within 10 days of travel.
This certificate says your pet is healthy enough to fly.
Airlines often limit how many pets you can bring—sometimes it’s two per traveler, but you might have to buy a second seat if you bring both in the cabin. Be sure to check size and weight limits, especially for carry-on pets like cats and small dogs.
At Dane County Regional Airport, these rules are pretty standard. Double-check with your chosen airline before booking, since some only accept pets as checked baggage, not in the cabin.
Best Practices for Pet Comfort and Safety
Bring a well-ventilated pet carrier that fits the airline’s size rules. Your pet needs to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside.
Make sure your contact info is clearly labeled on the carrier. It’s just not worth the risk of losing track of them in a busy airport.
Carry a basic pet first aid kit. Don’t forget any medication your pet might need.
Try to get your pet used to the carrier a few days before you travel. It makes things a lot less stressful for both of you.
Skip feeding your pet for 4 to 6 hours before the flight. That usually helps cut down on travel sickness.
Always follow local leash laws. Never leave your pet alone at the airport or on the plane—tempting as it might be to grab a coffee, it’s just not safe.
During security screening, pets have to come out of their carriers but keep a good grip on them. Airports are chaotic, and the last thing you want is a runaway pet.
Pack their favorite toy or blanket. A familiar smell can do wonders for their nerves, honestly.