Spirit Airlines, known for its budget-friendly fares, also offers a pet-friendly policy that allows you to bring your companion along for the ride.
But before you pack your pet’s favorite toy, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of Spirit Airlines’ pet policy.
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Spirit Pet Policy: What Pets Are Allowed on Their Flights?
Good news, pet lovers! Spirit Airlines does indeed allow pets on their flights. However, like most airlines, they have specific rules and regulations to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers – both two-legged and four-legged.
Spirit’s pet policy is designed to accommodate small animals in the cabin. This means your furry friend gets to travel with you, rather than being relegated to the cargo hold.
It’s a win-win situation: you get peace of mind, and your pet gets to enjoy the adventure by your side.
Before you start planning your pet’s vacation wardrobe, there are some general rules you need to know:
- Only small domestic dogs, cats, and certain household birds are allowed.
- Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
- Your pet must remain in its carrier throughout the entire flight.
- Spirit allows a maximum of six pet carriers per flight, so book early!
Remember, these rules are in place to ensure a safe and comfortable journey for everyone on board. And let’s face it, nobody wants to sit next to a disgruntled cockatoo at 30,000 feet!
Types of Animals Permitted on Spirit Airlines
Dogs and cats are the most common pets allowed on Spirit Airlines. Whether you have a purring Persian or a yapping Yorkie, they’re welcome aboard – as long as they meet the size and behavior requirements.
When it comes to preparing your dog for a flight, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Make sure your furry friend is comfortable in their carrier and consider bringing along some familiar items to help them feel at ease.
A favorite toy or blanket can work wonders in keeping your pet calm during the journey.
Other Small Animals
While dogs and cats make up the majority of in-cabin pets, Spirit also allows small household birds. However, there are some restrictions:
- Birds are not permitted on flights to and from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Farm poultry, waterfowl, game birds, and birds of prey are strictly prohibited.
Prohibited Animals
Spirit Airlines has a list of animals that are not allowed on their flights under any circumstances. These include:
- Snakes and other reptiles
- Rodents
- Spiders
- Rabbits (sorry, Thumper!)
It’s worth noting that while some airlines might allow these animals, Spirit has decided to keep things simple by sticking to dogs, cats, and small birds.
Pet Size and Weight Restrictions on Spirit
When it comes to pet carriers, size matters on Spirit Airlines. The airline has specific requirements to ensure your pet’s carrier fits comfortably under the seat in front of you:
Maximum dimensions: 18″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H (45.72 cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86 cm)
These dimensions are crucial, so make sure you measure your carrier carefully before heading to the airport. Remember, your pet needs to be able to stand up and turn around comfortably within the carrier.
Weight Limits for Pets
Spirit Airlines doesn’t have a specific weight limit for pets themselves. However, they do have a weight limit for the combined weight of your pet and its carrier:
Maximum combined weight: 40 pounds (18.14 kg)
This means if you have a particularly chunky cat or a muscular bulldog, you might need to put them on a diet before your trip.
Or, you know, consider leaving the solid gold pet collar at home.
Combined Weight of Pet and Carrier
The 40-pound limit for the combined weight of your pet and carrier is pretty generous compared to some other airlines.
This includes everything – your pet, the carrier, and any accessories you might be bringing along (like food, toys, or that tiny sombrero you bought for your Chihuahua).
If you’re unsure about whether your pet and carrier will meet these requirements, it’s a good idea to do a test run at home.
Weigh your pet, then add the weight of the carrier and any essentials you plan to bring.
If you’re close to the limit, consider opting for a lightweight carrier to give yourself some wiggle room.
Cost for Bringing Pets on Spirit Airlines
Now, let’s talk about everyone’s favorite topic: fees.
Spirit Airlines charges a fee for bringing your pet on board, but compared to some other airlines, it’s relatively reasonable:
Pet fee: $125 per pet container, each way
This means if you’re flying round-trip with your pet, you’ll need to budget $250 for pet fees alone. Keep in mind that this is in addition to your own ticket price and any other fees you might incur.
Additional Charges and Considerations
While the $125 pet fee is the main charge you’ll encounter, there are a few other financial considerations to keep in mind:
- You’ll need to purchase an approved dog carrier for travel if you don’t already have one.
- Some destinations may require additional health certificates or vaccinations, which can incur extra costs.
- If you’re traveling internationally with your pet, you may face additional fees and requirements.
It’s always a good idea to budget a little extra for unexpected expenses when traveling with a pet. After all, you never know when your furry friend might decide they absolutely need that overpriced airport chew toy!
Comparison with Other Airlines
When it comes to pet fees, Spirit Airlines falls somewhere in the middle of the pack. Here’s a quick comparison with a few other popular airlines:
- Southwest Airlines: $95 each way
- JetBlue: $125 each way
- Spirit Airlines: $125 each way
- American Airlines: $125 each way
- United Airlines: $125 each way
As you can see, Spirit’s pet fee is in line with several major carriers. However, it’s always worth comparing the overall cost of your trip, including base fares and other fees, to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Pet Reservations: Advance Booking on Spirit Airlines
Booking a pet on your Spirit Airlines flight isn’t as simple as adding an extra bag of peanuts to your order. Here’s what you need to do:
- Book your own flight first.
- Contact Spirit Airlines to add your pet to your reservation.
- You can do this by texting Spirit or chatting via WhatsApp.
- Be prepared to provide details about your pet, including type, breed, and weight.
Pet reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis, so don’t wait until the last minute!
When it comes to booking your pet’s spot on a Spirit flight, the early bird gets the worm – or in this case, the comfy spot under the seat. Here’s what you need to know:
- Book your pet’s reservation as soon as possible after booking your own ticket.
- Pet spots can fill up quickly, especially on popular routes.
- Spirit allows a maximum of six pet carriers per flight, so booking early is crucial.
If you’re the type who likes to leave things to the last minute, you might want to reconsider when it comes to traveling with your pet.
Spontaneity is great, but not when it leaves your furry friend grounded!
Required Pet Carriers for Spirit Airlines Travel
When it comes to pet carriers, Spirit Airlines has some specific requirements. Here’s what you need to know:
- Soft-sided carriers are preferred, but hard-sided carriers are also allowed.
- The carrier must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
- It should be made of a material that can be cleaned easily.
- The carrier must have a secure locking mechanism.
If you’re in the market for a new carrier, check out our list of the best travel dog crates.
Remember, your pet’s comfort is key – after all, they’ll be spending the entire flight in there!
Carrier Size Requirements
We’ve mentioned this before, but it’s worth repeating: size matters when it comes to pet carriers on Spirit Airlines. Here are the maximum dimensions allowed:
- 18″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H (45.72 cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86 cm)
These dimensions ensure that the carrier can fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.
It’s crucial to measure your carrier before you head to the airport – you don’t want to be that person trying to stuff an oversized carrier under the seat while everyone watches!
Emotional Support Animals on Spirit Airlines Flights
As of January 11, 2021, Spirit no longer accepts ESAs on their flights.
This change aligns with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s revised Air Carrier Access Act regulation.
So, if you were planning to bring your emotional support peacock on your next Spirit flight, I’m afraid you’re out of luck. (And yes, someone really did try to bring an emotional support peacock on a flight once. Airlines have seen it all!)
Alternatives for ESA Owners
If you previously traveled with an ESA, you have a few options:
- If your animal meets the size requirements, you can travel with them as a pet (subject to pet fees and policies).
- If your ESA is a trained service animal, you can travel with them under Spirit’s service animal policy.
- Consider other forms of support or coping mechanisms for air travel.
Remember, while ESAs are no longer accepted, Spirit Airlines is still committed to providing accessible travel for all passengers.
If you have specific needs or concerns, it’s always best to contact the airline directly.
Cabin vs. Cargo: Pet Travel on Spirit
When it comes to pet travel on Spirit Airlines, it’s cabin or bust! Spirit only allows pets to travel in the cabin with their owners. Here’s a quick refresher on the rules:
- Pets must remain in their carrier at all times.
- The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you.
- Only one pet carrier per passenger is allowed.
Remember, your pet is essentially your carry-on luggage with fur. Treat them as such (but maybe don’t try to stuff them in the overhead bin).
Pet Behavior Expectations
Just like human passengers, pets are expected to be on their best behavior during the flight. Here are some key points:
- Your pet should be quiet and well-behaved.
- They should not disturb other passengers.
- If your pet becomes disruptive, you may be asked to leave the flight.
Pro tip: If you’re worried about keeping your dog calm during the flight, there are several strategies you can try.
A tired pet is usually a quiet pet, so consider a long walk before heading to the airport.
Spirit Airlines’ Breed Restrictions for Dogs/Cats
Unlike some airlines, Spirit Airlines doesn’t have specific breed restrictions for dogs and cats. This means that as long as your pet meets the size and weight requirements, they’re generally good to go.
However, there are some important considerations:
- Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) breeds may face higher risks when flying.
- Some destinations may have breed-specific legislation that could affect your travel plans.
It’s always a good idea to consult with your vet before flying with any pet, especially if they belong to a breed that might have respiratory issues.
Remember, even if your pug is allowed to fly, you should always prioritize their health and safety. If in doubt, consider alternative travel arrangements or consult with your veterinarian.
Required Pet Documentation for Spirit Airlines Travel
When it comes to pet documentation, Spirit Airlines keeps things relatively simple for domestic flights within the continental United States:
- Health certificates are not required for pets traveling in the cabin.
- However, your pet must be in good health and free from any signs of illness.
But don’t start celebrating just yet! There are some exceptions:
- Health certificates are required for pets traveling to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
- Some states or countries may have their own health certificate requirements.
It’s always a good idea to have a recent health certificate from your vet, even if it’s not required. Better safe than sorry, right?
Vaccination Records
While Spirit Airlines doesn’t explicitly require vaccination records for most flights, it’s always a good idea to have them on hand.
Rabies vaccination certificates are particularly important, especially if you’re traveling to or from certain destinations.
Some states or countries may have specific vaccination requirements, so it’s best to check with both Spirit Airlines and your destination’s local authorities before you travel.
Even if not required, having up-to-date vaccination records can provide peace of mind and potentially save you from headaches if questions arise.
After all, you don’t want your furry friend to be denied boarding because of a missing piece of paper!
International Travel Requirements
For international flights, you’ll typically need a health certificate issued within 10 days of travel. This certificate should be signed by a licensed veterinarian and may need to be endorsed by the USDA, depending on your destination.
Many countries require proof of rabies vaccination, and some may have additional vaccination requirements. Research your specific destination’s requirements well in advance, as some countries may have quarantine periods or other restrictions.
Some destinations might require microchipping or specific treatments, such as tapeworm medication.
Again, thorough research and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth international journey with your pet.
Remember, international pet travel regulations can be complex and vary widely between countries. It’s always best to start preparing well in advance and consider consulting with a pet travel specialist if you’re unsure about any requirements.
Comparing Spirit’s Pet Policy to Other Airlines
When it comes to pet policies, Spirit Airlines sits somewhere in the middle of the pack. Unlike some airlines, they don’t allow pets to travel in the cargo hold, which can be seen as a plus for pet safety. This also means they can’t accommodate larger animals.
Spirit’s pet fee is comparable to many major airlines, but some budget carriers like Southwest offer slightly lower fees.
On the flip side, Spirit doesn’t have breed restrictions like some other airlines do, which can be a big advantage for owners of breeds like pugs or Persian cats.
One of the biggest pros of Spirit’s pet policy is its simplicity.
The rules are straightforward and easy to understand. Plus, the lack of breed restrictions opens up travel opportunities for many pet owners.
However, there are some downsides. The limit of six pets per flight means you need to book early to secure a spot for your furry friend.
Also, the inability to transport larger pets or to purchase a seat for your pet might be deal-breakers for some travelers.
Ultimately, whether Spirit’s pet policy is right for you depends on your specific needs and the nature of your travel plans.
Fur-well Thoughts: Is Spirit Airlines the Purr-fect Choice for Pet Travel?
As we’ve seen, Spirit Airlines offers a relatively straightforward and inclusive pet policy.
They welcome small dogs, cats, and even some birds in the cabin, as long as they meet the size and weight requirements.
While they don’t allow emotional support animals, they do accommodate service animals for passengers with disabilities.
The pet fee is competitive with other airlines, and the lack of breed restrictions is a definite plus. However, the limit on the number of pets per flight and the inability to transport larger animals in cargo might be limiting factors for some pet owners.
At the end of the day, Spirit Airlines can be a good choice for pet owners looking for a budget-friendly option to travel with their small furry (or feathered) friends.
Remember, traveling with a pet requires extra preparation and patience. Always check the latest policy updates before you book, and don’t hesitate to contact the airline if you have any questions or concerns.
Whether you’re taking your cat to visit Grandma or bringing your pup on a beach vacation, with the right preparation, flying with Spirit can be a positive experience for both you and your pet.
So pack those treats, grab that favorite toy, and get ready for a tail-wagging good time in the friendly skies!
