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Traveling with your pet from Riverside, California, doesn’t have to be stressful—if you pick the right airline. Alaska Airlines stands out as one of the best options for flying with pets, offering smooth experiences and pet-friendly policies.
Other airlines like American Airlines and Delta also have good reputations for accommodating pets safely.
Each airline has its own rules for pet travel, so knowing what to expect can make a big difference. Whether your destination is across the country or overseas, you’ll want to choose an airline that handles your pet with care and provides clear guidelines for your trip.
Planning ahead and understanding airline policies can help keep your pet comfortable. This guide will help you find the best airlines from Riverside and give you tips to prepare for a smooth flight with your furry friend.
Key Takeways
- Choose airlines with clear, pet-friendly policies for a safer trip.
- Preparing in advance can reduce stress for you and your pet.
- Knowing what each airline requires helps avoid last-minute issues.
Top Airlines Allowing Pets from Riverside California
You can fly with pets on several major airlines from Riverside. Each airline has specific rules about pet types, fees, and where pets can stay during the flight.
Knowing these details helps you pick the best option.
Alaska Airlines Pet Policies
Alaska Airlines lets you bring dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds in the cabin for a $100 fee each way. Your pet must fit in a small carrier under the seat in front of you.
Alaska doesn’t charge extra for pets traveling in the cargo hold, but space is limited. Their pet policies are clear and easy to follow, which pet owners really seem to appreciate.
They also offer plenty of pet travel info on their website, including health certificate requirements. Alaska Airlines is known for good pet handling and customer support.
American Airlines Pet Travel Options
American Airlines allows small pets in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat. The fee is around $125 each way.
Pets that are too large must travel in the cargo hold, which also requires a fee. You’ll need a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel.
American Airlines restricts live animal transport during extreme weather to protect pet safety. You can travel with dogs and cats in the cabin, but other animals may need special arrangements.
United Airlines Animal Services
United Airlines offers a PetSafe program for animals traveling in the cargo hold. This service provides special handling, including climate-controlled areas for your pet.
Small dogs, cats, and household birds can fly in the cabin for a fee of about $125. Larger pets must use the PetSafe service, which has extra rules and costs.
United requires up-to-date health certificates and certain crate standards. You should book pet travel early, as space can be limited.
Booking and Preparing for Pet-Friendly Flights
When you book a flight for your pet, you’ve got to know the airline’s rules and limits. Preparing your pet’s papers and health checks ahead of time helps avoid problems at the airport.
Reservation Guidelines for Pet Travel
Most airlines allow pets in the cabin or as cargo, but you need to reserve your pet’s spot early. For example, Alaska Airlines charges a $100 fee each way for pets in the cabin and allows only a few pets per flight—3 in first class and 8 in coach.
If you’re traveling with more than one pet, check if the airline requires you to purchase extra seats. United Airlines, for instance, asks you to buy a seat next to yours if you bring two pets.
Different airlines have different container size rules. Generally, your pet must fit comfortably inside a soft or hard carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
Required Documentation and Health Certificates
Most airlines require you to have proof that your pet is healthy. Usually, this means getting a health certificate from a vet dated within 10 days before travel.
Some airlines may ask for vaccination records, especially rabies shots. If your pet is traveling internationally, you must check destination rules.
Some places need quarantine or extra paperwork beyond a health certificate. Keep all documents handy when you arrive at the airport.
Staff often ask to see health papers and identification during check-in.
Tips for Stress-Free Pet Air Travel
To make traveling easier for your pet, focus on choosing the right carrier and understanding airport rules. Both help reduce stress and keep your pet safe.
Selecting the Right Pet Carrier
Pick a carrier that fits your pet comfortably and meets airline size rules. Your pet should be able to stand, turn, and lie down inside.
Soft-sided carriers work well for pets flying in the cabin because they can fit under the seat. Hard-sided crates offer more protection if your pet travels in the cargo hold.
Look for good ventilation, secure locks, and leak-proof bottoms. Start using the carrier before the trip so your pet gets used to it.
Bring familiar toys or a blanket inside to help your pet feel safe during the flight.
Airport Procedures for Traveling With Pets
Check in early if you want to snag a spot for your pet—airlines only allow a few animals per flight. It’s smart to pay any pet fees in advance, just to avoid last-minute hassle.
At security, you’ll probably have to take your pet out of the carrier. The carrier goes through the scanner on its own, while you carry your pet through.
Try to keep your pet calm by sticking close and talking quietly. For longer waits, have some water and a small bowl on hand—trust me, it helps.
If your pet’s going in cargo, make sure the crate’s labeled with your contact info and your pet’s name. Double-check the cargo drop-off spot with the airline before you get there.