Does Spirit Airlines Fly Dogs? Decoding Their Pet Policy

Unfortunately, the short and unequivocal answer is: No, Spirit Airlines does not fly dogs in the cargo hold. Spirit Airlines’ pet policy is incredibly limited, focusing almost exclusively on small domestic animals that can fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat. That’s right, unless your furry friend is a very small cat, a small household bird, or a rabbit, they’re grounded when you’re flying Spirit. Forget about bringing your beloved canine companion along, at least on Spirit. Let’s dig deeper into the specifics.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy: The Nitty-Gritty

Spirit Airlines offers one of the most restrictive pet policies in the airline industry. While other airlines might accommodate pets in the cargo hold (with varying degrees of safety and comfort, it must be said), Spirit doesn’t offer this option at all. They only allow small domestic dogs, cats, household birds, and domestic rabbits to travel in the cabin with you, and even then, there are strict limitations.

Size and Carrier Requirements

The most critical factor determining whether your pet can fly is their size. Your pet and their carrier must be able to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. The maximum dimensions for the carrier are 18 x 14 x 9 inches (length x width x height). The carrier must be leak-proof and ventilated. Furthermore, your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier. Soft-sided carriers are generally preferred, given their flexibility in fitting under the seat. Hard-sided carriers, while potentially more durable, might present difficulties.

Breed Restrictions

While breed restrictions aren’t explicitly stated in Spirit’s official policy, the size restriction effectively eliminates most dog breeds. Only extremely small dogs, such as Chihuahuas or toy breeds, are likely to meet the size requirements. This implicitly functions as a breed restriction, even if it’s not directly called one. If your dog is even slightly above the designated size, prepare to be turned away at the gate.

Advance Booking is Essential

If your pet meets all the criteria, booking your pet’s travel in advance is crucial. Spirit Airlines has a limited number of pet spaces available on each flight, and they operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You can add your pet to your reservation online during the booking process or by contacting Spirit Airlines customer service. Be prepared to pay a pet fee, which is typically $125 per segment. This fee is non-refundable, even if you cancel your flight.

Documentation Requirements

While Spirit doesn’t require a health certificate for pets traveling within the United States, it’s always a good idea to have one, especially if you’re traveling to a different state. Certain states might have their own regulations regarding animal transportation, so it’s your responsibility to be aware of and comply with them. If you’re traveling internationally (to destinations where Spirit operates, excluding those with embargoes), a health certificate is absolutely mandatory. You’ll need to check the specific requirements for your destination country well in advance of your trip.

Service Animals: A Separate Category

Service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are exempt from the restrictions placed on regular pets. Spirit Airlines is required to transport service animals free of charge, provided that they meet certain documentation and behavioral requirements. Service animals must be trained to perform a specific task or work for the benefit of a person with a disability. Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer considered service animals under the ADA and are subject to the same pet policies as regular pets.

Important Considerations Before You Fly

Traveling with a pet can be stressful, both for you and for your animal companion. Before you book your flight, consider the following:

• Your pet’s temperament: Is your pet comfortable in confined spaces and around strangers? A nervous or aggressive pet can make for a very unpleasant travel experience.
• The length of the flight: Long flights can be particularly stressful for pets. Consider whether your pet can comfortably endure the journey without becoming overly anxious.
• Alternative transportation options: If your pet is too large to fly in the cabin or if you’re concerned about their well-being, consider other transportation options, such as driving or using a pet transportation service.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Spirit Airlines and Pets

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarification:

1. What types of pets does Spirit Airlines allow in the cabin?

Spirit Airlines allows small domestic dogs, cats, household birds, and domestic rabbits to travel in the cabin, provided they meet the size and carrier requirements.

2. What is the maximum size for a pet carrier on Spirit Airlines?

The maximum dimensions for a pet carrier are 18 x 14 x 9 inches (length x width x height).

3. How much does it cost to bring a pet on Spirit Airlines?

The pet fee is typically $125 per segment.

4. Can I bring an emotional support animal (ESA) on Spirit Airlines for free?

No, emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals and are subject to the same pet fees and restrictions as regular pets.

5. Does Spirit Airlines require a health certificate for pets traveling within the United States?

While not always required, it’s recommended to have a health certificate, especially if you’re traveling to a different state. Check the specific requirements of your destination.

6. Can I book my pet’s travel online?

Yes, you can add your pet to your reservation online during the booking process or by contacting Spirit Airlines customer service.

7. What happens if my pet doesn’t meet the size requirements?

If your pet doesn’t meet the size requirements, they will not be allowed to travel on Spirit Airlines.

8. Are there any restrictions on the number of pets allowed per flight?

Yes, Spirit Airlines has a limited number of pet spaces available on each flight.

9. Can my pet sit on my lap during the flight?

No, your pet must remain inside their carrier under the seat in front of you throughout the entire flight.

10. What should I do to prepare my pet for the flight?

Make sure your pet is comfortable in their carrier and has access to food and water. Consider taking them for a walk before the flight to help them relax.

11. What are the quarantine rules for pets that are flying internationally?

This depends on the destination country. You need to check the specific quarantine rules for your destination country well in advance of your trip.

12. Can my pet travel unaccompanied on Spirit Airlines?

No, pets must be accompanied by a passenger who is at least 18 years old.

Conclusion: Plan Accordingly

In summary, while Spirit Airlines does allow certain small pets to travel in the cabin, their pet policy is quite restrictive, particularly regarding dogs. Don’t show up at the gate with your Great Dane, hoping for a miracle. Carefully review the airline’s guidelines, book in advance, and ensure your pet meets all the requirements. If you’re planning to travel with a larger dog, you’ll need to explore alternative airlines or other modes of transportation. Prioritizing your pet’s comfort and safety should always be the top priority. Safe travels!