Delta’s Pet Policy: Traveling with Your Furry Friend

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Traveling with pets can be a complex process, but Delta Airlines has established a comprehensive pet policy to ensure a smooth journey for you and your furry friend. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning your first trip, here’s everything you need to know about Delta’s pet policy.

Types of Pet Travel Options

Delta offers several options for traveling with pets:

  • In-Cabin Travel: Small dogs, cats, and household birds can travel in the cabin for a one-way fee, provided they fit in a small, ventilated pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The pet counts as one piece of carry-on luggage.
  • Cargo Travel: For larger pets that cannot fit in the cabin, Delta offers the option to transport them as cargo through Delta Cargo. This service is designed to ensure pets travel safely and comfortably, though it operates separately from passenger baggage.
  • Service and Support Animals: Delta allows service animals to travel in the cabin with their owners free of charge. Emotional support animals, however, are subject to specific requirements and documentation.

Fees and Documentation

The fees for in-cabin pet travel are as follows:

  • Within the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico: $125 USD one way.
  • U.S. Virgin Islands and International: $200 USD one way.

For pets traveling via Delta Cargo, the cost varies based on the size of the animal and the destination. It’s essential to book this service in advance as there are limited spaces available per flight.

Documentation: All pets must be accompanied by a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel. Additionally, some destinations may have specific entry requirements, so checking with the destination’s regulations is crucial.

Pet Carrier Requirements

For in-cabin travel, Delta stipulates the following pet carrier requirements:

  • Must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
  • Must be ventilated on at least two sides.
  • The pet must be able to stand up and turn around comfortably in the carrier.

Booking and Check-In Process

Booking a flight with a pet is straightforward. When making a reservation, inform Delta that you’ll be traveling with a pet. For in-cabin travel, it’s recommended to book early as there are limitations on the number of pets allowed per flight. At check-in, visit the ticket counter to confirm your pet’s travel details and pay any applicable fees.

For cargo travel, booking must be done separately through Delta Cargo. It’s advised to book at least 14 days in advance to ensure availability and to allow for any additional preparation.

Safety and Comfort Tips

Traveling can be stressful for pets, so here are some tips to ensure their comfort and safety:

  • Familiarize Your Pet with the Carrier: Before the trip, get your pet accustomed to their travel carrier to reduce anxiety.
  • Stay Calm: Pets can sense your anxiety, so remaining calm and positive can help ease their stress.
  • Hydrate and Feed: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated and fed, but avoid feeding them a large meal right before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
  • Exercise: Give your pet ample exercise before the trip to help them relax during the flight.

Additional Resources

For more detailed information, you can visit the following resources:

Delta’s pet policy is designed to make traveling with your pet as seamless as possible. By understanding the guidelines and preparing accordingly, you can ensure a safe and comfortable journey for both you and your furry companion.

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