Table of Contents
Traveling with your pet out of Pasadena, California can be a breeze—if you pick the right airline. Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta stand out for pet travel, with straightforward rules and comfortable options for pets in the cabin or cargo.
These airlines have specific policies to help keep your pet safe and at ease during the flight.
Each airline sets its own rules based on your pet’s size, breed, and what your trip actually looks like. Some let small pets ride with you in the cabin (for a fee, of course), while others handle big pets in cargo.
Knowing these details before you book can spare you last-minute headaches. It really does make the trip smoother for you and your pet.
You’ll also need to prep your pet for the journey—think the right carrier and making sure your buddy’s healthy enough for flying.
Key Takeaways
- Top airlines have clear pet policies and offer both cabin and cargo options.
- The right airline depends on your pet’s size and what kind of travel you’re doing.
- Good prep and a proper carrier are essential for safe pet travel.
Top Airlines for Pet Travel from Pasadena California
If you’re flying with your pet from Pasadena, you’ll want to know which airlines have clear rules, reasonable fees, and safe options. Every airline sets limits on pet size, carrier types, and charges.
Some allow pets in the cabin, others require checked or cargo transport. It’s not always obvious, so you’ll want to check.
United Airlines Pet Policies
United lets you bring small dogs, cats, and household birds in the cabin—if the carrier fits under the seat. The combined weight limit is 20 pounds.
You’ll want to book your pet’s spot early since there’s a cap on how many pets can be on each flight.
Pets too big for the cabin have to travel as checked baggage or cargo, depending on the route. United asks for a health certificate from your vet, filled out within 10 days of travel.
Fees: $125 each way for cabin travel. Checked pets and cargo fees vary with destination.
American Airlines Options for Pet Owners
American Airlines allows small pets in the cabin on most flights. Pet plus carrier can’t weigh over 20 pounds.
If your pet is heavier, cargo’s the only option. American tries to keep cargo routes direct to reduce animal stress.
You’ll need a health certificate from your vet, no more than 10 days old. Pet reservations should be made by phone or online before you book your flight.
Costs: $125 per trip for the cabin. Cargo fees depend on your pet’s size, weight, and the distance traveled.
Delta Air Lines Pet-Friendly Services
Delta allows small cats and dogs in the cabin, as long as the carrier fits under your seat and the total weight is under 20 pounds.
They also offer a Pet First program for checked pets, with hands-on care and tracking during the flight.
You’ll need a health certificate dated within 10 days of travel. There’s a set fee for in-cabin pets, while cargo costs vary.
Price: $125 for cabin travel. Cargo fees depend on route and pet size.
JetBlue Airways Pet Travel Experience
JetBlue’s got a reputation for being pet-friendly and having helpful staff. Small dogs or cats can fly in the cabin if the carrier fits under the seat and the total weight is 20 pounds or less.
You can bring up to two pets per customer on most flights. Service animals fly free, which is nice.
Health certificates might be needed for certain routes. Space is limited, so book early.
Cost: $125 each way for pets in the cabin. JetBlue doesn’t offer a cargo option for pets.
Choosing the Best Pet Transport Method
When you’re planning pet travel from Pasadena, you’ll need to think about how your pet will travel, how to book, and any special rules for emotional support animals.
Cabin Versus Cargo Hold Travel
You can keep your pet in the cabin or send them in the cargo hold. Small pets usually get to ride with you in a carrier under the seat.
Bigger pets have to go in the cargo hold, which is temperature-controlled and pressurized, but it’s separated from passengers. Not all airlines allow pets in cargo during extreme weather, so check before you book.
Cabin travel’s less stressful for most pets, if you can swing it. Cargo takes more planning and paperwork.
Booking Requirements and Restrictions
Every airline has its own pet rules. You’ve got to book your pet’s spot in advance, since flights only allow a few pets each.
A health certificate from your vet—usually within 10 days of travel—is a must. Check carrier size and weight limits, and be aware of breed or temperature restrictions.
Fees can add up, especially for cargo. Always double-check what paperwork you’ll need so you’re not scrambling at the airport.
Emotional Support Animals Regulations
Rules for emotional support animals (ESAs) have changed a lot lately. Most airlines don’t treat ESAs like service animals anymore.
If you’re traveling with an ESA, you’ll probably have to book them as a regular pet and pay the same fees. Some airlines might still ask for a doctor’s note, but it’s hit or miss.
Always check the airline’s website for the latest on emotional support animal rules.
Preparing Your Pet for Safe Air Travel
Flying with your pet from Pasadena? Focus on their health, the right paperwork, and making sure they’re comfortable for the trip.
Health and Documentation Needed
Get a recent checkup from your vet before your flight. Most airlines want a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel to prove your pet’s fit to fly.
Make sure vaccinations are current—rabies is usually a must. Keep all your paperwork together and handy for check-in.
If your pet needs special meds or care, bring a note from the vet. Double-check for any breed or age restrictions before you book.
Pet Comfort Tips During Flights
To keep your pet calm, go for a soft, well-ventilated travel crate that actually fits the airline’s size rules. Make sure the crate’s labeled with your contact info and a “Live Animal” sticker—just in case.
Feed your pet a small meal a couple hours before the flight. It’s usually better to skip water right before takeoff so you don’t end up with a mess.
Toss in something familiar, like their blanket or that squeaky toy they love. A little comfort goes a long way when they’re stuck in a crate.
Try to plan flights when the weather’s not too hot or cold, since tarmac temps can get pretty wild. If your pet’s flying as checked baggage or cargo, double-check how the airline handles water and feeding during layovers.
Direct flights are usually less stressful for pets, so book those if you can.