Traveling with your furry, feathered, or hoppy companion? If you’re considering Spirit Airlines for your journey, you’re likely wondering, “Does Spirit Airlines Allow Pets?” The short answer is yes, Spirit Airlines does allow small domesticated pets to travel in the cabin on domestic flights. However, there are specific rules and regulations you need to know to ensure a smooth trip for both you and your pet.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines’ pet policy, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your travels.
Spirit Airlines Pet Policy: The Basics
Spirit Airlines welcomes certain types of pets onboard, making it possible to bring your beloved animal along on your domestic travels, including flights to Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. It’s important to note that Spirit Airlines only permits pets in the cabin; they do not transport animals in the cargo compartment.
What types of pets are allowed on Spirit Airlines?
Spirit Airlines allows the following domesticated pets:
- Domestic dogs
- Domestic cats
- Small household birds (excluding flights to/from Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I.)
- Small domestic rabbits (excluding flights to/from Puerto Rico and the U.S.V.I.)
Alt text: Small dog comfortably sitting inside an airline-approved pet carrier, prepared for air travel, representing Spirit Airlines’ pet-friendly cabin policy.
Important Restrictions to Keep in Mind:
- Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): As of January 11, 2021, Emotional Support Animals are no longer accepted as service animals and must travel as pets, adhering to Spirit’s pet policy and fees.
- Domestic Flights Only: This pet policy applies exclusively to domestic flights, including Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. Spirit Airlines does not accept pets on international flights, with the exception of trained service animals.
- No Exotic Pets: Spirit Airlines strictly prohibits exotic pets such as snakes, spiders, rodents, farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, birds of prey, and flightless birds.
Preparing Your Pet for a Spirit Flight
Ensuring your pet is comfortable and compliant with Spirit Airlines’ guidelines is crucial for a stress-free journey. Here’s what you need to prepare:
Pet Carrier Guidelines:
- Approved Container: Your pet must travel in an airline-approved pet carrier. Spirit Airlines has the right to inspect and approve the carrier.
- Size Restrictions: The pet carrier must not exceed 18″x14″x9″ (L x W x H) to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
- Soft-Sided Carriers Only: Only soft-sided pet carriers are permitted in the cabin. Carriers that allow pets to extend their heads outside are not allowed.
- Comfort and Safety: The carrier must be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Your pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire duration of the flight.
Alt text: Traveler holding a soft pet carrier while walking through an airport terminal, demonstrating the required carrier type for pets flying with Spirit Airlines.
Pet Requirements:
- Age and Weaning: Pets must be at least eight (8) weeks old and fully weaned to travel.
- Health and Behavior: Your pet must be harmless, inoffensive, odorless, and require no attention during the flight. Ill, violent, or distressed animals are not permitted.
- Vaccination Certificates: While Spirit Airlines generally doesn’t require health certificates for pets on domestic flights, a rabies vaccination certificate is mandatory for pets traveling to Puerto Rico. For USVI travel, health certificates are required.
Booking and Check-in with Your Pet
Planning ahead and understanding the check-in process will save you time and hassle at the airport.
Adding a Pet to Your Reservation:
- Advance Notice: While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to add your pet to your reservation in advance. Spirit Airlines limits the number of pet containers to six per flight.
- Contact Spirit Airlines: To add a pet, you should contact Spirit Airlines customer service or use the chat feature on their website. It’s best to do this when you are initially making your travel plans.
- Pet Fees: There is a fee associated with traveling with your pet. You can find the current pet charges on Spirit Airlines’ Optional Services page.
Check-in Process:
- Ticket Counter Check-in: Guests traveling with pets must check in at the ticket counter. Curbside and self-service check-in are not permitted when traveling with a pet.
- Allow Extra Time: It’s advisable to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow for the pet check-in process.
Important Considerations Before You Fly
Before you finalize your travel plans with your pet on Spirit Airlines, consider these important points:
Snub-Nosed Breeds:
- Brachycephalic Breeds: Spirit Airlines advises that brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog breeds (like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers) may face increased health risks during air travel. Consult with your veterinarian to understand any specific precautions for your snub-nosed pet.
Pets in Cargo and International Travel:
- No Cargo Transport: Remember, Spirit Airlines does not transport pets in the cargo compartment under any circumstances.
- Limited International Travel: Spirit Airlines does not accept pets on international flights, except for service animals. Service animal policies may require specific documentation depending on your international destination.
Security Screening:
- Security Checkpoint: Be prepared to present your pet in its carrier to security screeners at the checkpoint for inspection.
Conclusion
Spirit Airlines can be a pet-friendly option for domestic travel if you adhere to their specific guidelines. By understanding and preparing for Spirit’s pet policy, from carrier requirements to check-in procedures, you can ensure a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience with your animal companion. Always prioritize your pet’s comfort and safety, and remember to check Spirit Airlines’ official website for the most up-to-date information and any policy changes before your travel date.
Traveling with pets requires careful planning, but with the right preparation, you and your furry friend can explore new destinations together with Spirit Airlines.
