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Can Dobermans Swim? Do They Like To Swim?

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Wondering Can Dobermans Swim? Do they like to Swim? Is it possible for Dobermans to Swim?If you ask for a one-word answer, Yes, Dobermans can swim. However, there come a lot of situational and safety concerns/ conditions with that.If you own a Doberman, your fighter dog might bring you some challenges while swimming.Because of their heavily muscled body, Dobermans, at times, can find it difficult to swim.

Also, as their body carries low-fat levels, they won’t float naturally.Perhaps Doberman is born athletes; they too love Swimming and enjoy their time in the water.However, because Doberman does not respond well to coercion and is quite sensitive in nature, one should never force them to swim. With that said, let’s move towards knowing more about Dobermans, their swimming interest, abilities, and more. Are Dobermans Swimmers?Like any other dog breed, Dobermans take to water naturally. They are strong swimmers who enjoy their water time.
Despite they are not natural swimmers, they will love to swim when provided.One of the only things that makes them naturally comfortable in swimming pools is their strong athletic build and spirit.However, there come several challenges and disadvantages along. Let’s put some light upon it.Can (And Do) Maltipoos Like To Swim?Doberman Swimming ChallengesDobermans are unarguably one of the strongest dogs in the world.They have long muscled bodies with a deep and broad chest and a thinner rear end.
If looked at from a certain point of view, they are not naturally built for Swimming or floating.Despite they will enjoy the entire pool session, there can come several challenges while letting your Dobie swim.Muscular bodies with low-fat proportionsFat floats, and muscles sink. Dobermans are lean dogs, and most of their body mass consists of muscles with little fat.This fat is not enough to make them float naturally; thus, they won’t swim until Dobies struggle. Long Bodies (Broad front and Narrow end)Dobies have a really long body that normally grows over 2 feet (26 to 28 inches).
Along with that, while they possess a broader front, their rear end is narrower.It results in sinking their rear end more. Also, with effect, if the rear end sinks more, it will further result in sinking them straight deep down. Another added challenge comes with Dobie’s docked tail. While a thick power dog tail allows you dogs to propel, Dobie’s find it challenging to do so.Deep ChestDobermans have a deep chest, ranging from 29 to 40 inches depending on their age/ growth.Any dog with a deeper chest will find it difficult to swim as its chest gets elevated due to its size.
It further again results in their rear end sinking. Unwebbed pawsUnlike many other dog breeds, Dobermans have unwebbed paws, just like cats.While dogs with webbed paws find swimming easy, in contrast, dogs and cats with unwebbed paws find swimming a struggle. With all that said, Dobermans have both drive and desire to swim, but their physical build makes Swimming slightly difficult for them.Despite not being built for Swimming, Dobermans can be classified as Good swimmers (not great but).
Do Dobermans like water and Swimming?Do Dobermans Like Water And Swimming?Dobermans absolutely love stepping in water and splashing it around. They are fun-loving and love to make the Swimming pool their play and relaxing ground.Also, because Dobermans sometimes get overheated, Swimming is one fine way to cool down naturally.Despite Swimming is not natural for Dobermans, you can train them in the field.Also, considering Dobermans require plenty of daily exercises to burn their energy and maintain their athletic build, Swimming comes as a great form of playful exercise. Not just that, it also strengthens their muscles. Big swimming bool or beaches can intimidate Dobies, though that doesn’t mean they cannot enjoy their time.
You can take those who have Dobies to nearby rivers, ponds, lakes, and small swimming pools.Water bodies that have gentle slopes will help them initially build confidence. However, be cautious of water currents in rivers.Or splash pools or portable outdoor pools are another great media to introduce your Dog to water.In a very short time, they will naturally build swimming confidence.  5 Best Dog Ear Plugs For SwimmingHow Likely Would Dobermans Like To Swim? On a hot summer day, Dobermans will absolutely love Swimming.
However, loving the idea of Swimming may vary from individual dog to dog.While some Dobies can confidently go deep underwater retrieving their toys and stuff, others may find it terrifying.As an alert and carrying individual, it is your job to make your dog feel comfortable and not forcefully send them to swim.How likely would Dobermans like to swim?Can Dobermans Learn Swimming?Introducing dogs to water isn’t a great deal, even if the dog is a Doberman.They might not prove the most comfortable in the beginning but will eventually learn the art.
If you are looking forward to introducing your Dobies to Swimming, here are some tips:Can A Doberman Pinscher Swim?Doberman Pinschers are usually trained as police or guard dogs, So they have a bad reputation for strangers for being intimidating and aggressive.Nevertheless, Dobermans Pinschers are strong and natural swimmers and take to water naturally.Getting Your Doberman to Love Swimming Getting Your Doberman To Love Swimming To begin with, learn patience, softness and consideration before you take your Dobie for Swimming.Introduce them to life jackets outside water within their daily routine. It may take time, but they will eventually associate life jackets with positive results. Further, introduce them to splash pool or portable home swimming pools which does not have much depth. If there are no possibilities of drowning, you can leave them without a life jacket as well. Once your Dobie feels home and comfortable with water, take them for river walks where water is no more than half to one foot and absent current. Don’t force them but encourage them by walking like yourself as well.Eventually, in a few days, you can land your Doberman in the swimming pool. However, make sure it isn’t deep or overpopulated. Despite how comfortable they are with a splash pool or river walks, do make them wear a life jacket.Start gradually, and to boost their confidence, you too consider stepping down into the pool. Seeing their masters getting into the water and enjoying it will make them feel safe. Once your Dobie starts feeling safe at the swimming pool, start playing some easy games with him. Throw their ball/ toy and ask them to fetch it. Keep increasing the distance and ensure you are verbally encouraging them. After everyday swimming pool session, reward them with their favourite treats and tell them you are proud of them. Once it’s been a few days of the same training, try to get your Dobie in the swimming pool without a life jacket. Be right beside him and ensure that you are there to protect him. If required, you can keep the chain on. Let them swim and if you feel any suspicion, pull their chain towards yourself. If your dog panics, bring him out of the pool right away and try to comfort him.Teaching or training your Doberman how to swim requires extreme patience. Both dog and owner need to stay calm and do not get over-excited. Learning to swim is a process, and like any other art, it takes time and effort.Do Doberman Puppies Like To Swim?When provided with a safe environment, Doberman puppies enjoy Swimming thoroughly.
Also, instead of when they have grown tall and strong, it is ideal to teach them swimming when they are a pup. Dobie puppies have smaller bodies. The physical challenges that make it difficult for a grown-up Dobbie to swim might not necessarily show up during the early phase.You can begin giving them swimming lessons once they are two to 5 months old.Training them early will make your Dobbie expert in further, despite their physical (built) challenges. Can (And Should) Golden Retrievers Swim?Which Dogs Are Good Swimmers?Your pet dog will absolutely love joining you for a swimming pool session.
Not all but most of the dog breeds are naturally good swimmers.You don’t even have to teach them the basics. Once their feet touch water, they will naturally begin swimming.Here is a list Dog breeds that are good swimmers:American Water SpanielChesapeake Bay RetrieverFlat-Coated RetrieverEnglish SetterNewfoundland.Portuguese Water Dog.Poodle.Boykin SpanielBarbetNova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever.Irish Setter.Lhasa ApsoCurly-Coated RetrieverTips To Ensure Safe Swimming Session For DobermanWhile a life jacket will keep your Dobie from drowning, there are several other potential risks you will have to look upon. Here are a few listed:Swallowing too much Chlorinated water is unhealthy for your Dobie.It can result in hyponatremia resulting in a swollen body. If your dog has swallowed a lot of water, consult your vet immediately.Chlorinated water in swimming pools can also lead to skin irritation and infection.Though not all dogs will get affected, but make sure you monitor yours for a few days.Clean your dog’s ear after every swimming session. Make sure no water is clogged, or it can lead to an ear infection.SummaryDespite Swimming is not a natural talent for Dobies, safe training can expert them. While providing them safety assurance, you can introduce swimming pools, lakes, rivers, or even oceans (beaches) to your pet.
Swimming also works as a great exercise routine for Dobermans. Once they are well-versed with the sport, you can often use it to burn their energy. While they are back, give them a clean water bath and pat dry well to avoid infections. 
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Flying can be stressful for both people and animals, but especially for dogs. It can be very stressful to check in at a congested airport and board a busy plane. Due to this, many pet owners prefer traveling with their cherished furry friends in the cabin of the aircraft as opposed to the pet cargo compartment. Owners are able to keep their dog company and offer comfort and assurance in this way.

Flying can be an incredibly stressful and overwhelming experience for both people and animals, but especially for dogs. Checking in at a crowded airport and boarding a busy plane can be an intimidating experience for our beloved furry friends. As a result, many pet owners choose to fly with their beloved pets in the cabin of the aircraft, rather than in the pet cargo compartment, so that they can stay close to their dog and provide comfort and assurance. This is a much more preferable option for many pet owners.

A medium-sized dog wearing a red bandana is sitting on the floor at a busy airport, looking up anxiously at its owner. The owner is standing in front of the dog, holding its leash and comforting the animal with a soothing hand on its head. The background features a bustling airport terminal with people and luggage moving around.

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14 Airlines That Allow Pets in Cabin on International Flights [2023]

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Traveling with our furry companions has become increasingly popular, and many airlines have recognized the importance of accommodating passengers’ beloved pets. Instead of leaving them behind or entrusting them to a pet sitter, more and more pet owners are seeking airlines that allow flying with pets in the cabin on international flights. There are many airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights. 

This article will explore several airlines that go the extra mile to ensure a comfortable and safe journey for both humans and their four-legged friends. From pet policies to cabin requirements for airlines that allow pets in cabin on international flights, let’s dive into the top airlines that warmly welcome dogs and cats on board.

The following airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights:

  1. Aegean Airlines
  2. Air Canada
  3. Air Europa
  4. Air France
  5. Alaska Air
  6. American Airlines
  7. Delta
  8. French Bee
  9. JetBlue
  10. Lufthansa
  11. TAP Air Portugal
  12. TUI Fly
  13. United Airlines
  14. Vueling

Related post:
Flying Dogs in Cargo: Will my dog be safe?
Airlines that Allow Flying with a Large Dog in Cabin [Pet Policies]


Which airlines allow pets in cabin on international flights?

Aegean Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
  • Cost: 60 EUR (prices differ depending on time of year)

Additional information:

  • Transportation of dogs and cats to the UK is only permitted for flights to London Heathrow and only to be sent as cargo. 

Visit Aegean’s website for more information.


Air Canada Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 22 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 27 x 40 x 55 cm (soft-sided crate) & 23 x 40 x 55 cm (hard-sided crate)
  • Cost: $100-118 CAD

Additional information:

  • Pets cannot travel with you if you:
    • Are an unaccompanied minor
    • Are seated in an exit or bulkhead row
    • Are travelling in Premium Economy
  • On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin. 
  • On Boeing 789 and 788 aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H20 x W40 x L43 cm
  • On Boeing 777-300ER and 777-200LR aircraft, the pet carrier cannot exceed H21 x W38 x L43 cm

For more info, visit Air Canada’s website.


Air Europa Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg (10kg including carrier) or 6kg on flights operated by ATR
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 35 x 25 cm
  • Cost: 27-55 USD within Europe and 165 USD long-haul

Additional information:

  • Prices subjects to possible surcharges for taxes in certain countries.
  • Dogs must be at least 3 months old to travel on medium and long haul flights.
  • Passengers are not permitted to bring pets in the Business cabin.
  • Pets in the cabin may not fly in an emergency or XL seat.

Visit Air Europa’s website for more information.


Alaska Air Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 43 x 28 x 24 cm (soft) / 43 x 28 x 19 cm (hard)
  • Cost: 100 USD each way

Additional information:

  • You may not occupy an emergency exit row, or any seat with an airbag safety belt.
  • On flights operated by their Aribus fleet, pets may not travel in the First Class cabin. 

Visit Alaska Air’s website for more information.


American Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (call the airline for specific restrictions)
  • Cost: 125 USD each way

Additional information:

  • Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international flights over 12 hours, or transatlantic flights.
  • Due to the lack of under-seat storage space, carry-on dogs are not permitted in First or Business on the following Boeing planes:
    • 777-200
    • 777-300
    • 787-8
    • 787-9

For more info on additional restrictions, visit AA’s website.


Air France Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 24 cm (soft carriers recommended)
  • Cost: 30-125 EUR international

Additional information:

  • Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin on international intercontinental flights.
  • Pets are not permitted to fly in cabin in business on international flights.
  • Each passenger may travel with only 1 pet.

For more info, visit Air France’s website.


Delta Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: No limit, but pets must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
  • Maximum carrier size: depends on flight (check the under-seat dimensions on your aircraft here)
  • Cost: 125 USD within North America, 200 USD international and 75 USD to Brazil

Additional Information:

  • The following age restrictions apply:
    • Pets must be at least 16 weeks old for travel to/from the U.S.
    • Pets must be at least 15 weeks old for travel to/from the EU.
  • For any travel to or from the following destinations, pets are not permitted in the cabin:
    • Australia
    • Barbados
    • Dubai
    • Hong Kong
    • Iceland
    • Jamaica  
    • New Zealand
    • Republic of Ireland
    • South Africa
    • United Kingdom
    • United Arab Emirates

For more info on additional restrictions, visit Delta’s website.


French Bee Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size:43x35x20cm
  • Cost: 50€ each way

Additional information:

  • Sub-nosed animals are not permitted on their flights
    • Breeds include: pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Pekinese and shih tsus
  • Category 1 (attack dogs) and Category 2 dogs (guard and defence dogs) are not permitted to be taken by any one under the age of 18, or by adults subject to guardianship. 

For more info, head to French Bee’s website.


JetBlue Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 9 kg / 20 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 17″L x 12.5″W x 8.5″H
  • Cost: 125 USD each way

Additional information:

  • For any travel to or from the following destinations, pets are not permitted in the cabin:
    • London
    • Jamaica
    • Barbados
    • Trinidad & Tobago
    • St. Lucia
    • Cayman Islands

For more info, head to JetBlue’s website.


Lufthansa Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8 kg / 17.6 pounds (including carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 23 cm
  • Cost: 60 EUR international within Europe and 80-110 EUR international outside Europe

Additional information:

  • You must complete this form before boarding your flight.
  • You are not able to fly into the UK with a pet. 

Visit Lufthansa’s website for more information.


TAP Air Portugal Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (including pets and carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 40 x 33 x 17cm 
  • Cost: cost varies – check here

Aircraft Restrictions:

  • Pets are not permitted to be carried in Executive Class on long haul flights. 
  • You are not able to fly into the UK with a pet. 

Visit TAP Air’s website for more info.


TUI Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 8kg / 17.6 pounds (excluding carrier)
  • Maximum carrier size: 55 x 40 x 20 cm (soft-sided crates only)
  • Cost: 50 EUR

Additional information:

  • On all long-haul international flights, pets are not allowed in the cabin.
  • On all non-European destinations in combination with Antwerp, dogs or cats are not allowed

Visit TUI’s website for more information.


United Airlines Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: No limit, but must fit comfortably in carrier under seat
  • Maximum carrier size: 46 x 28 x 28 cm (soft-sided) / 44 x 30 x 19 cm (hard-sided)
  • Cost: 125 USD (+ 125 USD service charge for each stopover of more than four hours within the U.S. or more than 24 hours outside the U.S)

Additional information:

  • Pets are not permitted in cabin on the following aircrafts:
    • Boeing 757-200
    • Boeing 767
    • Boeing 777
    • Boeing 778
  • United doesn’t allow pets to fly in-cabin on international flights to and from:
    • Australia
    • Cuba
    • Guam
    • Federated States of Micronesia
    • Hawaii
    • Hong Kong
    • India
    • Ireland
    • Marshall Islands
    • New Zealand
    • Palau
    • Panama
    • Philippines
    • Singapore
    • South Africa
    • Tahiti
    • Trinidad and Tobago
    • UK

Visit United’s website for more info.


Vueling Pet Policy.

  • Maximum weight: 10 kg (including carrier) or 8kg on flights operated by Iberia
  • Maximum carrier size: 45 x 39 x 21 cm (soft-sided crates only)
  • Cost: 50 EUR international

Additional information:

  • Vueling doesn’t allow dogs to fly in-cabin on flights to and from:
    • UK
    • Ireland

Visit Vueling’s website for more information.


Prepare for flying with a pet in cabin on international flights.

1. Select an appropriate, cabin-approved travel carrier.

As mentioned above, different airlines and aircrafts have different size restrictions for carriers. Be sure to check the restrictions for your specific airline, and aircraft.

For example, Delta recommends a soft-sided kennel with maximum dimensions of 18” x 11” x 11” since this fits most aircraft types.

We would recommend using a soft sided carrier as they usually give your pet more space. 

2. Get your pet used to it’s travel carrier.

When flying with a pet in cabin, they will need to stay in its travel carrier for the duration of the journey. So, it’s very important that you spend some time to get your dog used to its travel carrier.

When first introducing your pet to its carrier, take it slow. Lure your dog into their carrier with plenty of treats, and let him/her play and sleep in there as much as possible. You want to avoid forcing your pet into the carrier as this may stress him or her out and may cause a negative association to the carrier. 

3. Train your pet to stay calm.

Your pet will need to be calm and well behaved when flying in cabin. If they show disruptive behaviour, they risk being sent into the cargo area of the plane.

4. Exhaust your pet before the flight.

Try to exhaust your pet a little by increasing the level of activity before your trip. A sleepy pet will be less prone to getting stressed out on the flight, and will likely be better behaved on the flight. 

5. Limit access to food and water before the flight.

When flying with a pet in cabin, your pet won’t be able to go potty. So, it’s a good idea to limit your pet’s access to food before the flight. Additionally, some animals may experience motion sickness if they eat just before a flight. If you are flying in the morning, then feed them the night before. Air Canada suggest feeding your dog four to six hours prior to departure, as a full stomach may cause discomfort during travel. 

Line the bottom of your pet’s travel carrier with a pee pad, just incase they do have an accident.

6. Familiarise yourself with the airport that you are departing from and arriving to.

Most airports will have a dedicated area for pets and service animals to rest. It is actually a legal requirement that all U.S. airports have pet-relief areas available for working animals and pets to rest. Take some photos of the airport maps, so you don’t have to wander around on the day trying to find a resting place.

7. Bring along your pet’s favourite comforts.

To maximise comfort and minimise stress, pop your pet’s favourite blanket or toy in the travel carrier with them. If your pet suffers from separation anxiety, you could even pop one of your t-shirts in the carrier.


Which dog and cat breeds are not allowed in cabin on international flights?

Unfortunately, some airlines have restrictions on the dog and cat breeds they permit on their flights.

This is because of their anatomical abnormalities, short-nosed breeds may be more vulnerable to changes in air quality and temperature in the cargo hold of a plane.

Only certain airlines have these breed restrictions, so while you may not be able to fly with one airline, you may be able to fly with another. However, it’s important that you are confident your pet is healthy enough to fly. 

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed dog breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

  • Affenpinscher
  • American Staffordshire Terrier
  • Boston Terriers
  • Boxers
  • Brussels Griffon
  • Bulldogs (all breeds)
  • Cane Corso
  • Chow Chow
  • Dogue De Bordeaux
  • English Toy Spaniel
  • Japanese Chin
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Mastiff (all breeds)
  • Pekingese
  • Pitbulls
  • Presa Canario
  • Pug
  • Shar Pei
  • Shih Tzu
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier
  • Tibetan Spaniel

The following brachycephalic and snub-nosed cat breeds are often not allowed in the cabin on international flights:

  • Burmese Cat
  • Exotic Shorthair Cat
  • Himalayan Cat
  • Persian Cat

Documents required for taking pets in cabin on international flights.

The documents required when flying with a pet in cabin will vary depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying from and to. 

You will need more paperwork when traveling internationally, in most cases you will usually require the following:

  1. Microchip certificate
  2. Rabies vaccination certificate
  3. Animal health certificate
  4. Additional vaccination certificates
  5. Rabies titer test results
  6. Parasite treatment certificate

a) Microchip.

Many airlines require microchip documents when flying with a dog or cat in cabin. Not only is it usually a requirement, it is in your best interest. If your pet was to go missing whilst abroad, then you are far more likely to be reunited with a microchip.

Your pet can get microchipped at your local vet or a charity, such as RSPCA.

b) Rabies vaccinations.

If you want your take dog or cat on flights, it is likely that he/she requires a valid rabies vaccination. Particularly when you are taking your pet on an international flight as this is a requirement for entering most countries. 

Most countries require dogs and cats to have their rabies vaccination between 30 days and 12 months prior to importing.

c) Animal health certificate.

Most airlines will require an official animal health certificate issued by an accredited veterinarian when flying with pets in cabin.

In most cases, your health certificate will also need to be endorsed by the country’s authority responsible for the import and export of animals. For example, if you are traveling from the US, you will need your documents endorsed by the USDA. If you are traveling from Canada, you will need to have your documents endorsed by CFIA.

They are normally valid for 10 days.

d) Additional vaccinations.

Depending on where you are flying to, your pet may also require additional vaccinations or treatments.

For example, Turkey requires that all dogs are vaccinated against parainfluenza, leptospirosis, parvovirus, bordetella, hepatitis and distemper before being allowed into the country.  

e) Rabies titer test.

Some countries require pets to have a rabies titer test before entering. This is usually the case when you are traveling from a country that is considered high risk for rabies.

If your pet requires a titer test the process is as follows:

  1. Your pet will have a blood sample taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
  2. Your vet will then send the blood sample to an approved blood testing laboratory.
  3. Your pet’s blood test results must show a rabies antibody level of at least 0.5 IU/ml.
  4. You must wait 3 months from the date the blood sample was taken before you travel.
  5. The vet will give you a copy of the test results.

f) Parasite treatment.

To enter many countries, dogs are required to be treated against internal and/or external parasites before entering. This includes treatment for tapeworm, fleas, ticks, nematodes and cestodes. 


Frequently Asked Questions

Will I have to pay extra to fly with my dog in cabin?

You will yes. The amount you pay however, will differ between airlines as they charge different amounts. The charge also depends on where you are flying to and from. International flights usually cost more.

Can I fly with my pet in cabin on international flights?

You may be able to, depending on which airline you are flying with, and where you are flying to and from. Some airlines allow dogs and cats in cabin on international flights, such as Aegean Air. Southwest, however, do not let pets in cabin on international flights.

Can I fly with my puppy or kitten in cabin?

This depends on how old your puppy is, and which airline you are flying with. Different airlines have different restrictions on the age of pets that can fly in cabin. Some require puppies and kittens to be at least 8 weeks old, where others require them to be 16 weeks old.

Can I fly with a large dog in the cabin?

Unfortunately, unless your dog is an official service dog, only small dogs are permitted. Most airlines require that pets and travel carriers must have a combined weight of no more than 8kg. There are however some semi-private airlines that will allow large dogs in cabin.


Conclusion

Traveling with your pet is a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Thankfully, several airlines have recognized the importance of allowing pets in the cabin on international flights and have established comprehensive pet policies to accommodate furry travellers. Whether you choose Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, or JetBlue Airways, you can rest assured that your dog will be treated with care and enjoy a safe and comfortable journey by your side.



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4 Things to Know About Pet Travel Insurance

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Traveling with your pet can be so rewarding; but it can also be a huge hassle. Between ever-changing airline policies regarding emotional support animals, to needing to shell out a few hundred dollars for a round-trip flight for your furry friend, traveling can get complicated (and costly) fast.

And that’s if everything goes according to plan. If your pet gets sick or injured while traveling or you have to cancel a trip for an unexpected surgery, things can get really hairy. So it pays to make sure that not only you and your trip are covered by travel insurance, but your pet is, too. Here are four things to know about pet travel insurance.

1. Pet travel insurance vs. pet health insurance

First things first, is pet travel insurance different from pet health insurance? In short, yes. Pet health insurance covers your furry companion’s healthcare needs, whereas pet travel insurance is offered by businesses hired to relocate your pet and only applies to what happens between the beginning and end of a trip.

Pet health insurance covers needs like vet visits, surgery, injuries and dental work. Like your own health insurance, you will pay a monthly or annual premium and can expect deductibles of varying amounts depending on your level of coverage.

Pet travel insurance, on the other hand, only covers your pet during a set period of time. This is usually from point to point and when your pet is traveling unaccompanied, like when you are hiring a service to relocate your pet. The most important distinction is only businesses can buy pet travel insurance, not the pet owner.

🤓Nerdy Tip

“Pet flight insurance” doesn’t exist.

Fortunately, many pet health insurance policies may cover some travel cancellation and health care costs for your pet if your trip gets interrupted because your pet gets sick or injured. To find out if that’s the case, be sure to read your individual policy for details.

2. Pets aren’t covered under most normal travel insurance and trip cancellation policies

Travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance is a handy thing to have when the unexpected happens, as it can help reimburse travel costs if you have to cancel a trip or call it short due to an emergency. Unfortunately, travel insurance and trip cancellation coverage don’t typically cover pets, only human travelers.

In fact, trip cancellation insurance rarely considers pet emergencies, deaths or overbooked pet reservations on an airline as valid reasons for cancellation — though there may be exceptions made in the case of registered service animals.

That said, if you still want the option to cancel travel plans and get reimbursed for your investment in the case of a pet emergency, there may be a way: You can select a travel insurance policy with “Cancel For Any Reason” coverage, which would include pet emergencies.

3. Some pet insurance only covers your pet in the U.S.

While there are some pet health insurance companies that offer cat and dog travel insurance coverage in the form of health care treatment when you’re away from home, not all provide coverage in all places. Some may only cover health issues and care within the U.S. and Canada, while others may reimburse you for services abroad, too (though they may be limited to certain countries).

So before you pick a plan, make sure to read the fine print to know if your pet is covered wherever you plan on traveling together, especially if you’re headed overseas.

» Learn more: How to fly with a dog

4. Pets may require additional info to fly

Do pets need insurance to fly? Generally no, though depending on the airline, you may be required to bring other information and documentation with you when you travel with an animal. Check with your specific airline before booking to ensure you’re following protocol and you don’t miss your flight for lack of appropriate paperwork.

If you’re traveling internationally with your pet and your destination country allows four-legged visitors (not all do), you’ll need an international health certificate and will be required to adhere to any specific requirements set forth by that country.

You can check the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service site from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for regulations by country.

Pet travel insurance considerations, recapped

Traveling with a pet can be complicated and costly, but pet insurance can bring peace of mind whether you’re road tripping across the country or flying around the world.

Just make sure before you head off on your adventure to check and make sure that your pet’s health insurance policy covers veterinary treatment where you’re headed, find out whether your travel insurance offers coverage for trip cancellation or interruptions insurance because of sick pets, and consider getting a “Cancel For Any Reason” policy so you can change your plans for any and all pet-related reasons.


How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2023, including those best for:



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