Delta Airlines’ Pet Policy for Traveling with a Dog

Introduction

Traveling with a dog can be a rewarding experience, but it requires understanding the airline’s policies to ensure a smooth journey. Delta Airlines offers pet-friendly travel options, but the rules and requirements vary depending on your destination, the size of your dog, and the type of travel (cabin, cargo, or checked baggage). For international trips, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the Delta pet policy international, which includes additional regulations and documentation. This guide provides a detailed overview of Delta Airlines’ pet policy for traveling with dogs, including eligibility, fees, and tips for preparing your pet for the trip.

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Overview of Delta Airlines’ Pet Policy

Delta Airlines allows small dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the cabin, provided they meet specific requirements. Larger dogs must be transported as cargo, adhering to strict safety and health standards.

Traveling with Your Dog in the Cabin

1. Eligibility Requirements
   • Dogs must fit comfortably in a ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
   • The pet and carrier combined must meet Delta’s weight and size restrictions.
   • Only one pet per passenger is allowed in the cabin.
2. Age Restrictions
   • Dogs must be at least 10 weeks old for domestic travel. For international travel, puppies must meet the destination country’s age requirements and vaccination rules.
3. Breed Restrictions
   • Delta does not allow snub-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds in the cabin or as cargo due to health risks.
4. Travel Documentation
   • Passengers must provide proof of vaccinations and meet the destination’s pet travel regulations.
5. Fees
   • The fee for bringing a dog in the cabin is $95 for flights within the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. For international destinations, the fee may vary.

Traveling with Your Dog as Cargo

For dogs that exceed the cabin’s size and weight restrictions, Delta Cargo provides a safe and comfortable option:

1. Delta Cargo Requirements
   • Dogs must travel in an airline-approved crate with adequate ventilation.
   • The crate should be large enough for the dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
2. Booking and Check-In
   • Cargo travel for pets must be booked separately and at least 14 days in advance.
   • Pets must be dropped off at Delta Cargo locations at least three hours before departure.
3. Temperature Restrictions
   • Delta may not accept pets as cargo during extreme weather conditions to ensure their safety.
4. Fees
   • Cargo fees depend on the weight and size of the dog and crate, as well as the travel destination.

Service and Emotional Support Animals

1. Service Animals
   • Delta allows service dogs to travel in the cabin at no additional cost. Passengers must provide appropriate documentation, including proof of training and a health certificate.
2. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)
   • As of January 2021, Delta no longer recognizes ESAs as service animals. Passengers traveling with ESAs must follow the pet-in-cabin policy.

Tips for Traveling with a Dog on Delta Airlines

1. Book Early
   • Cabin space for pets is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Prepare Your Dog
   • Acclimate your dog to the carrier before the flight to reduce anxiety.
   • Ensure your dog is well-fed and hydrated but avoid feeding them a large meal just before travel.
3. Check Destination Requirements
   • Research the pet entry requirements for your destination, including quarantine rules and vaccination needs.
4. Use a Comfortable Carrier
   • Choose an airline-approved pet carrier with ample ventilation and soft padding.
5. Arrive Early at the Airport
   • Arrive at least two hours before departure to allow sufficient time for check-in and pet inspections.

Conclusion

Delta Airlines provides pet-friendly options for traveling with dogs, ensuring their safety and comfort throughout the journey. By understanding the airline’s policies and preparing in advance, you can make the travel experience stress-free for both you and your dog.