What is Alaska Airlines’ policy on traveling with pets?

Traveling on flights with your pet can be a wonderful experience for many as it should be planned carefully while you make sure that the airline policies are followed properly. Alaska Airlines is one of the leading airlines that offers pet-friendly flying services at an affordable rate. We will explore the different guidelines you are expected to follow while traveling with Alaska to your destination with your furry companion.

In this write-up, we will help you to make your decisions a tad bit wiser, depending upon whether you are a seasoned traveler or planning your very first adventure with your four-legged companion. We will discuss pet carrier guidelines for Alaska, a brief overview of the pet policy, and additional insights and considerations for your travel so that you can have a smooth travel experience with your furry friend.

What is Alaska Airlines’ pet policy?

Alaska Airlines allows you to travel with your pet and welcomes dogs and cats in the cabin provided they fit in an airline-approved carrier stowed under the seat but for that, you must make a reservation in advance for your pet and must ensure that your companion remains in the carrier during the flight. Cargo options are available for large animals but it is subject to additional guidelines and regulations.

Why is it important to understand Alaska Airlines’ pet policy before flying?

You must understand the pet policies of American Airlines in a proper way so that you do not face any difficulty during your journey and you can have a memorable trip with your furry friend. You will also have to ensure that your pet is safe and comfortable during the entire journey and you can withstand any last-minute hassle.

Alaska Airlines Pet Policy Overview

The popular airline tries to offer you the comfort and safety of your pet and their Fur-st Class Care Program ensures that your furry friend can travel in-cabin or in the baggage compartment without any hassle. Small pets can enjoy in-cabin travel while larger animals have secure and climate-controlled baggage options. This overview highlights the essential policies with clear tables and bullet points to help you prepare for your journey with your beloved companion.

Aspect	In Cabin	Baggage Compartment
Fee	$100 USD/CAD per one-way segment	$150 USD/CAD per one-way segment (or $100 for travel in Alaska/active duty US Military)
Accepted Animals	• Small dogs • House cats • Domesticated rabbits • Household birds (Note: Only dogs and cats may travel in the cabin to Hawaii and international destinations.)	• Cats, dogs, ferrets, guinea pigs, hamsters, household birds, reptiles, pigs, and rabbits. (Note: For Hawaii/international travel, only dogs and cats are permitted.)
Carrier Requirements	• Must be approved by the airline and fit under the seat   • Carrier must be clean and secure with proper ventilation.	• Carrier must allow the pet to stand and lie down comfortably • The allowed sizes are Extra Small (21″ x 16″ x 15″) to Extra Large (40″ x 27″ x 30″) • Must be constructed safely with secure handles, proper ventilation, and escape-proof design.
Reservation & Capacity	• Reservations are required (first come, first-served) • Maximum of 3 pet carriers in First Class; 8 in Main Cabin (max 2 per passenger unless a second ticket with an adjacent seat is purchased)	• You have to reserve in advance • The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 150 lbs. • A health certificate required for each pet • Specific limits on the number of puppies/kittens in one carrier apply, especially for dogs and cats.
Additional Rules	• Passengers must be 18+ years old • Cannot occupy emergency exit or bulkhead rows • Pet remains in the carrier during boarding, deplaning, and while onboard • Up to two pets of the same species may share a carrier if appropriately sized	• Pets must travel on the same flight as the owner • Brachycephalic dogs and cats are not allowed • Food and water must be offered within 4 hours of check-in, with re-check procedures during long connections • Follow check-in time guidelines at departure airports

 

Key Points & Preparation Tips

• Alaska Airlines treats your pet like family and offers top-notch care starting at a competitive rate.
• Reserve your pet’s spot early by visiting alaskaair.com/ or by calling/chatting with reservations with the customer helpdesk by dialing 1-800-ALASKAAIR 1-800-252-7522 or 1-888-408-4970
• Acclimate your pet to its carrier before travel and ensure it is clean, leak-proof, and meets USDA/IATA guidelines.
• You will have to show a current health certificate from a licensed veterinarian for cargo travel, and you must review breed restrictions as well as age requirements.

What types of pets does Alaska Airlines allow on their flights?

You can travel comfortably with your pet companion with Alaska Airlines as it allows various pets to travel and includes small dogs, house cats, domesticated rabbits, and household birds, but you have to follow the carrier guidelines.

Are there any breed restrictions for pets on Alaska Airlines?

There are breed restrictions for pets traveling in the cargo compartment on Alaska Airlines, and the company does not allow Brachycephalic breeds.

What size and weight requirements must pets meet?

Pets traveling on Alaska Airlines with you in the cabin fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat and the combined weight of the pet and the carrier must not exceed 9 kg or 20 pounds.

How can I make a reservation for my pet on Alaska Airlines?

You have to call the customer support team to make a reservation for your pet on Alaska Airlines and provide details about it and you have to pay the fees of $100 per pet in the cabin or $150 per pet in the cargo compartment.

How much does it cost to fly with a pet on Alaska Airlines?

The fees required to fly with a pet with you on Alaska Airlines is $100 per pet in the cabin and 150 per pet in the cargo compartment. You must note that to travel within Alaska or by active duty US military on orders the baggage fee is $100, and fees are per way, per carrier, and apply only to Alaska Airlines flights.

What documentation is required for pet travel on Alaska Airlines?

There is no specific documentation required for in-cabin pets for pet travel on Alaska Airlines, but health certificates are necessary for pets traveling in the baggage compartment and you have to ensure and meet vaccination requirements. You must check that for additional documentation needed for international destinations or specific state regulations.

Alaska Airlines Pet Carrier Guidelines

The airline wants you to follow USDA and IATA standards in regard to pet carriers so that pets must fit comfortably in the carrier under the seat and the acceptable sizes are:

Hard-sided: 17″ x 11″ x 7.5″

Soft-sided: 17″ x 11″ x 9.5″.

What are the size requirements for pet carriers in cabins and cargo?

Pet carrier size requirements for in-cabin travel on Alaska Airlines are described in the table below:

Carrier Type	Dimensions (Length x Width x Height)
Hard-sided	17″ x 11″ x 7.5″
Soft-sided	17″ x 11″ x 9.5″

 

The carrier sizes for cargo travel depend on the pet’s size and must comply with USDA and IATA guidelines. The following sizes are allowed by the company for pet cargo travel:

 

Size	Kennel Size	Average Dimensions (H x W x D)
Extra Small	100	15″ x 16″ x 21″
Small	200	19″ x 20″ x 27″
Medium	300	23″ x 22″ x 32″
Large	400	26″ x 24″ x 36″
Extra Large	500	30″ x 27″ x 40″

 

What ventilation and visibility standards must pet carriers meet?

Pet carriers must provide adequate ventilation with slots covered by permanent bars or sturdy material – two sides for in-cabin and four sides for cargo travel. Carriers must have a solid roof with intact integrity and have visibility to monitor the pet. There are certain things that are not allowed which include sharp edges, protrusions, and plastic doors.

How should I choose the right pet carrier for Alaska Airlines travel?

You have to make sure that the carrier follows size requirements for in-cabin or cargo travel when you choose to travel with Alaska Airlines and should select a carrier that has proper ventilation and space so that your pet can stand and lie comfortably.

Are there specific pet carrier guidelines for international flights?

There are specific pet carrier guidelines for international pet travel on Alaska Airlines because you must follow USDA and IATA standards and should meet size requirements so that the pet can stand and lie comfortably.

Additional Considerations for Pet Travel

You have to consider some factors when traveling with your pet companions, like comfort and travel policies and have to make sure that your pet is ready for the journey and that you can ensure a smooth travel experience for both you and your pet during the trip with proper preparation.

Can I travel with a service animal on Alaska Airlines?

You can travel with a service animal because Alaska Airlines permits service dogs that are trained properly to travel with their owners free of charge, but they must be able to assist with a disability and this includes psychiatric service animals, and two service dogs will be accepted per guest.

What are the international pet travel regulations for Alaska Airlines?

You have to comply with regulations of specific destinations for international pet travel on Alaska Airlines that include health certificates and permits and the size of carriers must meet USDA and IATA standards and must provide proper ventilation for the pet.

Are there temperature or seasonal restrictions for flying pets on Alaska Airlines?

Alaska has some seasonal restrictions for pet travel in the cargo hold to ensure safety and pets are not accepted if temperatures exceed 85°F or drop below 45°F however there are less strict conditions for in-cabin pets travel though you must confirm weather guidelines with the airline.

What tips should I follow when flying with a pet on Alaska Airlines?

You must book tickets early and review the airline’s pet policies in advance when flying with a pet on Alaska Airlines. You have to get your pet accustomed to their carrier by practicing at home and on short trips.

How does Alaska Airlines ensure pet safety during the flight?

The airline focuses on the safety of your pet by some strict guidelines, and they ensure that in-cabin pets must remain approved, while for pets traveling as cargo, the airline uses weather-friendly compartments with temperature restrictions (45°F–85°F) to protect against extreme weather.

Special Cases and Pet Travel Support

Alaska Airlines has curated a policy for special cases regarding emotional support animals and service dogs and it has evolved significantly since January 2021. Now the company no longer accepts ESA letters and emotional support animals must travel as standard pets under the airline’s pet guidelines, while trained disability aiding service dogs are recognized as service animals and can fly free of charge—provided they meet strict training and documentation requirements.

 

Type	Acceptance Status	Key Requirements	Fee
Emotional Support Animals (ESA)	Not accepted as service animals; must travel as a standard pet	Must comply with Alaska Airlines’ pet guidelines (e.g., approved carrier, age, and vaccination requirements). ESA letters are not recognized.	$100 in‑cabin / $150 checked baggage (per direction)
Psychiatric Service Dogs (PSD)	Accepted as service animals	Must be trained to perform specific tasks that assist with a psychiatric disability. Documentation (e.g., DOT Service Animal Form and/or PSD letter) is required.	Fly free (if all requirements are met)

How does Alaska Airlines handle emotional support animals?

Alaska Airlines does not accept ESAs anymore emotional support animals must travel as standard pets by following the airline’s pet travel guidelines including using an approved carrier and paying the applicable fees. Trained psychiatric service dogs that meet all documentation and training criteria are recognized as service animals and fly free of charge.

What happens if my pet gets sick during the flight?

Alaska Airlines places your pet in a secure area if your pet is sick during the journey and please note that any costs charged due to necessary care are typically the responsibility of the pet owner. You have to notify flight attendants immediately if you notice any signs of sickness so that they can assist you exactly.

How can I prepare my pet for air travel with Alaska Airlines?

You have to prepare your pet for air travel with Alaska Airlines by making it to stay within the carrier in advance and consulting with a veterinarian to ensure they’re physically fit and can travel on the flight.

Are there pet relief areas at Alaska Airlines’ major airports?

Alaska Airlines’ major airports have designated pet relief areas to help ensure your pet can take a break before or after your flight and these areas are generally well-marked within the terminal so that you do not face any problem finding it.

Comparisons & Additional Insights

It is an essential part of planning a smooth journey for you and your pet and you can do it by comparing various pet travel options and gathering additional information. You can make a decision that best suits your pet’s needs by reviewing different airline policies and customer experiences.

How does Alaska Airlines’ pet policy compare to other major airlines?

Alaska Airlines is the most popular airline among travelers who want to fly with their furry friends because the company offers a comprehensive pet policy, and the below table will help you understand why this company is different from other airlines in regard to pet travel.

 

Airline	In-Cabin Fee	Weight Limit (Pet Carrier)	Checked Baggage Fee
Alaska Airlines	$100 each way (USD/CAD)	Under 20 lbs.	~$150 each way (standard)
Delta Airlines	~$125 each way	Typically, under 20 lbs.	~$125–$150 domestically; higher internationally
United Airlines	~$125 each way	Around 20 lbs.	Varies; generally similar to in‑cabin fees
American Airlines	~$125 each way	Typically, under 20 lbs.	~$125+ (varies by route)

Why choose Alaska Airlines for pet-friendly travel?

The following reasons you can consider why you should choose Alaska Airlines to travel with your furry friend and it will also elevate your flying experience, providing comfort and ease to both you and your companion:

• Competitive pet fees, with in‑cabin travel starting at $100 each way.
• Clear guidelines that simplify the reservation process.
• A dedicated Pet Connect program for larger pets in climate-controlled cargo.
• Detailed carrier requirements that ensure safety and comfort for your pet.
• Flexible booking options and supportive customer service
• Positive reviews and a reputation for reliable, pet-friendly travel experiences.

 Does Alaska Airlines offer any pet-friendly travel perks or loyalty programs?

You will be glad to know that Alaska Airlines offers a dedicated pet loyalty program known as the Fur-st Class Care program and the Pet Connect service ensures that pets receive extra care whether traveling in the cabin or as checked baggage.

Post-Flight Pet Care

Proper post-flight pet care is crucial after your flight for helping your furry friend recover from travel stress and readjust to home comforts. Through the below answers to the questions, you will get an idea about post-flight pet care.

 What should I do after landing to ensure my pet’s well-being?

Retrieve your pet promptly after landing either from baggage claim or by removing it from its carrier and then check its condition immediately and allow a visit to a pet relief area if available. Consult with your veterinarian if concerns develop or if you find your pet stressed.

How do I handle pet stress after a flight?

Ease your pet’s stress by retrieving it promptly and moving to a quiet, familiar environment after your flight, and offer water and gentle petting. Allow a short walk or time in a pet relief area and monitor your pet for signs of distress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How strict is Alaska Airlines’ pet policy?

Alaska Airlines exercises a very precise pet policy with a compact guideline regarding carrier dimensions and documentation. The guidelines are described in an effortless way and ensure pet safety but require careful adherence by pet owners.

How much does Alaska Airlines charge for pets in the cabin?

Alaska Airlines takes a charge of $100 per pet each way for in-cabin in USD/CAD and it is $150 in USD/CAD for cargo however you may have to pay additional fees if your itinerary involves travel on another airline or if the pet departs from Canada.

Which airline is the most pet-friendly?

Alaska Airlines is the most popular flight service provider in regard to pet travel and is famous among people who want to travel with their pets with much comfort and ease. Most travelers prefer this airline for pet travel due to its easy booking process and smooth guidelines regarding the same.

Does Alaska Airlines require a health certificate for pets?

Alaska seeks health certificates for pets traveling on cargo while if you are traveling with your pet in-cabin, you are not required to produce any health certificate for the same.

Is it safe to fly with my pet?

Alaska Airlines has curated its pet policy in such a way that your travel with your furry friend is safe and comfortable. You need not think much about your journey as you book it with Alaska.

Is a health certificate needed for travel?

Alaska seeks a health certificate for pets for traveling on cargo and for in-cabin, no certificate is required. Make sure that the health certificate is current and preferably not earlier than 10 days.

Should I feed my pet before the flight?

It will be a very intellectual act to feed your pet before air travel and you can provide it with a small and light meal some hours before the flight. Please do not feed any large or heavy meal that may make the pet uncomfortable and for which you may have to face problems.

What happens if my pet needs to use the bathroom during the flight?

Pets must stay in their carrier for a long time, and they can’t leave to use the bathroom that is why prepare them by lining the carrier with absorbent bedding or a pee pad and bring cleaning supplies.