Flying with pets can feel daunting, especially when balancing airline rules, pet comfort, and travel logistics. In 2025, United Airlines continues refining its pet travel policies to ensure safety for animals and convenience for owners. This guide offers a complete breakdown of United’s pet travel rules, updated fees, approved carriers, and actionable advice for those traveling with dogs and other companion animals.
Whether flying with a small dog in-cabin or transporting a large breed via cargo, pet owners will find the answers they need here, grounded in official policy, expert travel insights, and the latest regulations for both domestic and international routes.
What are United Airlines’ pet travel rules in 2025?
United Airlines enforces structured policies for in-cabin pets and pets traveling via cargo. These rules align with federal transportation standards and industry safety protocols.
Which pets are allowed in-cabin on United Airlines?
As of 2025, United Airlines permits only cats and dogs in the cabin, and only if they meet strict size, breed, and health requirements. The pet must:
- Be at least 2 months old (domestic) or 4 months old (international)
- Fit comfortably in a leak-proof, ventilated carrier
- Stay under the seat in front of the passenger for the entire flight
Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats are strongly discouraged for air travel due to respiratory risks. United may restrict their transport even in-cabin during high-risk seasons.
What are the pet carrier requirements?
United Airlines outlines precise carrier requirements for both hard-sided and soft-sided models:
- Soft-sided carrier: Maximum dimensions 18″ × 11″ × 11″
- Hard-sided carrier: Maximum dimensions 17.5″ × 12″ × 7.5″
The carrier must allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally, while still fitting under the seat in front of you.
What are the health and vaccination requirements?
Travelers must provide:
- A valid rabies certificate for all dogs older than 12 weeks
- A general health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
- International paperwork, such as EU Pet Passports or USDA endorsement (as required)
Some countries also require microchipping, deworming, and additional vaccines. United recommends contacting a veterinarian 30–60 days before departure for international trips.
How much does it cost to fly with pets on United Airlines in 2025?
United Airlines charges a standard fee for in-cabin pets and offers custom quotes for cargo transport.
- In-cabin pet fee: $125 USD per one-way flight
- Extended stopover fee: $125 for layovers over 4 hours (U.S.) or 24 hours (international)
- PetSafe cargo pricing: Based on route, animal weight, and crate dimensions
- Service animals: Free of charge with valid DOT documentation
The in-cabin fee must be paid at the time of booking or at check-in. Only one pet per traveler is allowed in the cabin.
What is United Airlines PetSafe® cargo program?
The PetSafe® cargo program is designed for pets that cannot travel in-cabin due to size or breed. United operates this service with specially trained staff, dedicated animal holding areas, and temperature-controlled loading.
Which animals qualify for PetSafe® cargo transport?
Eligible pets include:
- Dogs and cats that do not meet in-cabin requirements
- Pets at least 8 weeks old
- Animals not on United’s restricted breed list
Snub-nosed breeds, senior animals, and those with medical issues are often ineligible due to elevated flight risks.
What are kennel requirements for cargo?
Cargo kennels must:
- Be IATA-compliant and made of rigid plastic or metal
- Allow pets to stand, sit, turn around, and lie comfortably
- Include food and water dishes attached inside the door
- Contain absorbent bedding (no straw or hay)
The crate must be labeled with the owner’s name, address, and phone number.
What documents are required for cargo pet travel?
Cargo shipments require:
- A health certificate issued within 10 days of departure
- An acclimation certificate for extreme weather conditions
- Microchip and rabies certificate (for international travel)
- Import/export permits based on destination
Failure to provide the correct documents can result in denied boarding or customs delays.
Are emotional support animals (ESAs) allowed on United Airlines in 2025?
As of 2025, emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals under federal law. United Airlines requires all ESAs to travel as regular pets.
What is the process for flying with a service animal?
Only trained service dogs are accepted in the cabin at no charge. Passengers must:
- Submit U.S. DOT Service Animal Forms
- Notify United at least 48 hours in advance
- Ensure the animal is harnessed and under control at all times
Service dogs must not block aisles or occupy a seat. If space constraints prevent accommodation, passengers may be rebooked.
What are United Airlines dog-friendly travel tips in 2025?
Veterinarians and frequent flyers agree: preparation is key to flying with a dog.
How to prepare your dog for air travel
- Get your dog used to the travel carrier well in advance
- Avoid feeding your dog within 4–6 hours of the flight
- Take a long walk before heading to the airport
Familiar smells, familiar routines, and exercise can significantly reduce stress during air travel.
What to pack for your dog’s flight
Pack a small kit with:
- Pet carrier with liner
- Collapsible food/water bowls
- Treats and calming chews (if approved by vet)
- Leash, harness, ID tags
- Health documents and travel forms
What to expect at the airport with your dog
- Pets must be removed from carriers during TSA screening
- Designated pet relief areas are available at most hubs
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international
Pet owners should notify staff during check-in and boarding to avoid last-minute issues.
What destinations allow pet travel on United Airlines?
Pet travel eligibility depends on the route, aircraft type, and destination regulations.
Allowed domestic U.S. cities
- All 50 states allow in-cabin pets, with restrictions for Hawaii due to quarantine laws
- Pets can fly to/from Alaska on select aircraft types
- Cargo services may not be available to smaller regional airports
Allowed international destinations
United permits pet travel to many international destinations, but some countries impose strict limitations:
| Destination | In-Cabin Pets | Cargo Pets | Notes |
| Canada | Yes | Yes | Requires rabies certificate |
| Mexico | Yes | Yes | Health certificate needed |
| European Union (EU) | No | Yes | Pet passport or USDA certificate required |
| United Kingdom | No | Yes | No in-cabin pets; cargo only |
| Australia & New Zealand | No | Limited | Only via approved quarantine and agents |
Always confirm with United and the destination country’s consulate before booking international travel with pets.
How to book pet travel with United Airlines in 2025
Booking a pet on a United flight requires specific steps depending on travel type.
In-Cabin Pets
- Reserve by calling United Reservations or booking online (limited slots per flight)
- Pay the $125 fee
- Confirm carrier dimensions and documentation
PetSafe® Cargo
- Book through United Cargo (not via United.com)
- Submit documentation within required timeframes
- Deliver pet to cargo facility 3–4 hours before flight
Service Animals
- Complete and submit DOT forms online
- Notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure
- Bring printed documentation to the gate
What restrictions apply to breeds, temperatures, and aircraft?
Breed Restrictions
- Short-nosed breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Persian cats are banned from cargo travel due to breathing risks
- Some airlines also restrict aggressive breeds
Temperature Restrictions
- United suspends PetSafe® cargo services if temperatures at origin or destination exceed 85°F or fall below 45°F
- Acclimation certificates may allow exceptions with veterinarian approval
Aircraft Limitations
- Some small regional aircraft do not support in-cabin carriers
- In-cabin pets must be stowed under the seat; business/first class on some aircraft may not have suitable space
What are alternative pet travel options if United Airlines isn’t suitable?
When United Airlines isn’t a fit, travelers have other options:
- Other airlines: Delta and American Airlines offer similar in-cabin services with slight variations in pricing and breed rules
- Ground transport: Services like CitizenShipper and uShip allow dogs to travel by car with vetted drivers
- Professional pet relocation services: Companies such as Airpets International and PetRelocation manage end-to-end logistics, paperwork, and customs clearance for global travel
Frequently Asked Questions about Flying with Pets on United Airlines
Does United Airlines allow pets in the cabin?
Yes, United Airlines allows cats and dogs to travel in-cabin if they fit in an approved carrier under the seat. Only one pet per passenger is permitted.
How much is the pet fee on United Airlines in 2025?
The in-cabin pet fee is $125 USD each way. An additional $125 applies for layovers over 4 hours (domestic) or 24 hours (international).
Can large dogs fly on United Airlines?
Large dogs that don’t fit in-cabin must use the PetSafe® cargo program, subject to breed, temperature, and destination restrictions.
Are emotional support animals (ESAs) allowed to fly for free?
No. As of 2025, emotional support animals are treated as standard pets and must fly in-cabin or via cargo. Only trained service dogs fly for free.
What are the kennel requirements for United’s cargo pet transport?
Kennels must be IATA-compliant, rigid, ventilated, and allow pets to stand, turn, and lie down. Food and water dishes must be attached to the door.
Can pets fly internationally with United?
Yes, but only to approved destinations. Some countries allow only cargo pet transport and may require health certificates, microchips, or quarantines.
What documents are needed to fly with a pet?
You’ll need a rabies certificate, general health certificate (within 10 days), and destination-specific documents for international travel. Cargo travel also requires an acclimation certificate.
Are there breed restrictions for flying with United Airlines?
Yes. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Bulldogs, Boxers, and Persian cats are restricted from cargo flights due to respiratory risk. Some may also be restricted in-cabin.
Does United have temperature restrictions for pet travel?
Yes. PetSafe cargo is suspended if the temperature exceeds 85°F or drops below 45°F at any point in the journey unless an acclimation certificate is provided.
How early should you arrive at the airport with your pet?
Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours early for international travel to allow for document checks and TSA screening.