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If you need to fly with your pet from Spokane Valley, picking the right airline is a big deal for their safety and comfort. Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines are solid choices from this area thanks to their pet-friendly policies and care.
These airlines let pets travel in-cabin under certain rules, which honestly just makes life easier.
Spokane International Airport does its part too, with pet-friendly facilities and easy-to-understand guidelines. Knowing what to expect at the airport and which airline suits your pet can take a lot of stress out of the whole process.
Key Takeaways
- Some airlines offer better pet travel options from Spokane Valley.
- Spokane airport provides useful services for pets and their owners.
- Knowing airline rules helps make pet travel smoother and safer.
Top Airlines for Traveling With Pets From Spokane Valley
Flying with pets from Spokane Valley? You’ll want clear rules and good care options. Some airlines let pets fly in the cabin or as cargo.
Others have their own rules about size and type of pet allowed. Costs, comfort, and how easy it is to book can change depending on the airline.
Alaska Airlines Pet Policies and Experience
Alaska Airlines really stands out for pet-friendliness. You can bring small pets in the cabin if their carrier fits under the seat.
That includes cats and dogs weighing up to 20 pounds with the carrier. The pet fee is $100 one way for in-cabin pets.
They also offer cargo shipping for bigger animals, with a focus on safety. Some airports even have pet lounges and special handling to keep things calm for your animal.
Booking ahead is smart, since there are only so many pet spots per flight. If your pet is flying cargo, you’ll need a health certificate too.
Delta Air Lines Pet-Friendly Options
Delta gives you a few ways to travel with your pet. Small pets can stay with you in the cabin for $125 per flight, but there are carrier size limits.
For bigger pets, Delta offers cargo shipping—no pets as checked baggage, though. They accept cats, dogs, birds, and even some rabbits.
Your pet’s crate has to meet Delta’s size and ventilation standards. You’ll need a health certificate dated within 10 days of your flight.
Delta’s staff tends to be helpful, and their pet rules are pretty clear. They also have a “Pet First” program in cargo, aiming for better care during transport.
United Airlines Pet Travel Services
United Airlines allows small pets in the cabin for $125 each way. The carrier has to fit under the seat, and there are weight limits for pet plus carrier.
United also runs PetSafe, a cargo service for bigger animals or breeds not allowed in the cabin. PetSafe features climate-controlled areas and trained staff.
A health certificate is required for all pets, and you’ll need to book PetSafe in advance. United accepts dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds.
For in-cabin pets, there’s a limit per flight—so booking early is a good idea. They lay out their rules pretty clearly, helping you prep the right carrier and documents.
Airport Guidelines and Pet Facilities at Spokane International Airport
Spokane International Airport spells out its pet travel rules and has some handy facilities. You’ll find pet relief areas both inside and outside the terminal.
Check-In Procedures for Pets
Arrive early when checking in with your pet—paperwork and security can take extra time. Airlines might ask for health certificates or proof of vaccinations, so double-check before heading out.
Let the airline know you’re traveling with a pet when you book or check in. Most airlines require specific crates or carriers.
Depending on the airline and your pet’s size, your animal might travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo. Spokane International staff will help you through security, and you’ll probably need to take your pet out of the carrier for screening.
Pet Relief Areas and Amenities
Spokane International has several pet relief areas for your convenience. Outside the terminal, you’ll find them near the C Concourse ticketing and baggage claim.
Inside, there are relief spots after security by the A Concourse and the upper C Concourse gates. These areas have grass or gravel patches for your pet to use.
Water stations are usually nearby. Stick to these areas and clean up after your pet to keep things pleasant for everyone.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Airline for Pets
Picking an airline for your pet? Focus on their size, the fees, and how long you’ll be in the air. All of these can affect your pet’s comfort and safety—and your peace of mind, honestly.
Carrier Size and Breed Restrictions
Airlines have their own rules about pet size and breed. Small dogs and cats usually get to ride in the cabin if their carrier fits under the seat.
Larger pets often go in the cargo hold, but that’s not always ideal—especially for certain breeds. Some airlines don’t allow brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs) due to breathing risks.
Always check the airline’s carrier size limits and breed restrictions before booking. Making sure your pet fits comfortably in their carrier is just common sense.
Cost Comparison and Fees
Most airlines charge extra for pets in the cabin or cargo. Cabin fees typically run from $75 to $125 one way, while cargo can get pricier, depending on weight.
Some airlines fold pet fees into the ticket price, but most tack them on as extras. Watch out for additional costs like health certificates or special carriers.
Comparing these fees can help you find an airline that fits your budget and keeps your pet safe.
Travel Duration and Flight Availability
Short flights are usually less stressful for pets. Long flights or layovers can mean more risks—temperature changes, delays, you name it.
Direct flights from Spokane Valley aren’t always plentiful, so look for airlines with the shortest total travel time. Flexibility in flight schedules is a plus in case you need to adjust plans.
Airlines with more frequent flights can make pet travel a lot less nerve-wracking.
Travel Tips for Flying With Pets From Spokane Valley
Flying with your pet from Spokane Valley takes planning if you want your animal safe and comfortable. Prepping your pet and having the right documents is key.
Preparing Your Pet for Air Travel
Get your pet used to the travel carrier well before the flight. Let them hang out inside it for a few days—it can really help with nerves.
Check the airline’s pet policies carefully. Some let pets in the cabin if they fit under the seat, while bigger animals might have to go in the cargo hold, which usually has temperature controls.
Pack familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy to make your pet feel at home. Skip feeding a big meal right before the flight to avoid any tummy trouble.
Plan bathroom breaks before you leave for the airport. Exercise your pet so they’re more relaxed.
And don’t forget to keep their ID tags and microchip info up to date. You never know—it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Required Documentation and Health Certificates
You’ll need a health certificate from your vet, and it usually has to be dated within 10 days of your trip. This proves your pet’s healthy enough to fly.
Airlines can get picky about paperwork. Double-check their rules, since some want to see vaccination records—rabies is almost always on the list.
Heading out of the country from Spokane Valley? You might run into extra forms, like quarantine paperwork or special permits.
Honestly, it’s smart to carry extra copies of everything. Someone at the airport or airline desk will probably want to see them when you check in.