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If you’re planning to fly with your pet out of St. Louis, picking the right airline can make a world of difference. Alaska Airlines and Frontier Airlines are solid picks for pet travel, with policies and care that actually feel considerate toward dogs and cats.
Pet Airways recently started serving St. Louis too. They’re a bit unique—pet-only flights, so your animal’s comfort is the whole point.
Airlines all have their own pet rules and fees, so it’s worth checking before you book. Some let pets in the cabin, others send them in cargo.
Knowing the details—like age, health requirements, and how to reserve a spot—can take a lot of stress out of the process.
Key Takeaways
- Pick airlines with straightforward pet policies and good in-cabin or cargo setups.
- Double-check pet travel rules before you buy your ticket.
- A little prep goes a long way for a smoother trip with your pet.
Top Airlines for Pets Departing from St. Louis
Traveling with pets from St. Louis? You’ve got options, but every airline handles things a bit differently.
There are choices for in-cabin pets, checked pets, and sometimes cargo services, depending on the airline.
American Airlines Pet-Friendly Features
American Airlines lets you bring small pets in the cabin if the total weight of your pet and the carrier is under 20 pounds. You’ll need to reserve your pet’s spot ahead of time since space runs out fast.
For bigger pets, American has Animal Stow, their checked pet travel. Not every flight or aircraft offers this, so you’ll have to check. An approved travel container is a must.
Fees usually start at $125 each way. Health and vaccination rules apply, and your pet needs to be at least eight weeks old.
Other Major Carriers with Pet Travel Options
Delta and Southwest also let small pets ride in the cabin, sticking to that under-20-pounds rule, carrier included.
Delta’s in-cabin fee is about $125, and they do cargo for bigger animals, though not everywhere. Southwest is a bit cheaper at $75, but only allows small cats and dogs in the cabin.
United Airlines has their PetSafe cargo service for larger animals. Fees and rules depend on your pet’s size and where you’re headed.
Comparing Airline Policies for Pets
| Airline | In-Cabin Fee | Max Weight (Pet + Carrier) | Checked/Cargo Options | Booking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Airlines | $125 | 20 lbs | Animal Stow (checked) | Reserve pet spot early |
| Delta | $125 | 20 lbs | Pet cargo service | Cargo not on all routes |
| Southwest | $75 | Typically 20 lbs | No checked pet option | Limited to cats and dogs only |
| United | $125 | 20 lbs | PetSafe cargo | Cargo only for large pets |
Always check the latest airline rules. Some don’t allow certain breeds or have weird seasonal restrictions. Booking early helps since pet spots fill up fast.
Pet Travel Options and Requirements
Flying with your pet from St. Louis? You’ll want to know how airlines handle pets in the cabin versus cargo. Understanding the rules for different animals helps you plan and dodge last-minute headaches.
Cabin and Checked Baggage Pet Policies
Most airlines let small dogs and cats ride in the cabin if they fit in a carrier under the seat. Cabin pet fees usually run between $100 and $150 each way.
Larger pets go as checked baggage or cargo, but you’ll need to book this in advance. Age minimums usually start at 8 weeks for domestic flights. United and Delta have specific crate size and health requirements.
Checked pet fees can be higher than cabin fees. Airlines also cap the number of pets per flight, so check their website for details before booking.
Service Animals on Flights
Got a trained service animal? They can fly in the cabin with you for free, but airlines need proof of training and a heads-up before you travel.
You’ll have to provide behavior and health info so everyone stays safe. Service animals don’t need to be in carriers, but you’re still on the hook for keeping them under control.
Emotional Support Animals Regulations
Emotional support animals (ESAs) used to be treated like service animals, but that’s changed. Now, most airlines treat ESAs like regular pets.
You’ll probably need to pay the pet fee and use an approved carrier. Some airlines might ask for a doctor’s note, but that’s rare these days.
Check the airline’s policy ahead of time. If you show up with an ESA and don’t have the right paperwork or booking, your animal might not get on the plane.
Booking and Preparing for Pet Air Travel
Getting ready to fly with your pet? Book early, follow the health rules, and pack what your pet needs. It’s not rocket science, but it does take some planning.
Reservation Tips for Pet Transport
Book your pet’s spot as soon as you grab your own ticket. Airlines only allow a few pets per flight, so don’t wait.
On United, there’s a “Travel with a pet” option online. The pet fee for cats and dogs is $150 each way.
Make sure you know if your pet can fly in the cabin or if they’ll be in cargo. American Airlines, for instance, requires pets to be at least six months old for international flights and eight weeks for domestic.
Watch for breed restrictions or carrier size limits. It’s smart to keep the airline’s pet desk number handy in case you need to tweak your reservation.
Health and Documentation Guidelines
Your pet should be healthy before flying. Most airlines want pets at least eight weeks old and fully weaned for domestic flights.
If you’re flying internationally, you’ll need a vet health certificate dated within 10 days of travel. Vaccinations and parasite treatments should be up-to-date.
Carry all your pet’s documents—vaccination records, ID tags—in both digital and paper form.
Some airlines might ask for proof your pet’s fit to fly on the day you leave. Talk to your vet about stress-reducing tips, and maybe skip feeding your pet right before the flight to avoid upset stomachs.
Pet Carrier and Comfort Essentials
Pick a well-ventilated, airline-approved carrier that gives your pet enough room. They should be able to stand up, sit, and turn around without feeling cramped.
For cabin travel, soft-sided carriers usually make things easier. Hard crates are better if your pet’s flying cargo, since they offer more protection.
Toss in some absorbent bedding or pads to keep things tidy. Don’t forget a little of your pet’s favorite food and a collapsible water bowl—hydration is key, and familiar snacks can help them relax.
Label the carrier with your contact info and your pet’s name. Skip collars or tags inside the crate; honestly, it’s just safer that way.
Before you even think about heading to the airport, let your pet try out the carrier at home. A few short practice sessions can really help with nerves and make the whole experience less scary.