Are you planning to travel with your pet within Canada or to international destinations? Canadian airlines offer various options for pet travel, each with its own set of rules and considerations. This guide explores the four main methods of traveling with pets on Canadian airlines: in-cabin, as checked baggage, as pet cargo, and via semi-private or private airlines.
Summary of Canadian Airline Pet Policies
To help you navigate the various airline policies, here’s a summary table of domestic and international pet travel options for major Canadian carriers:
| Airline | Pets Allowed In-Cabin | Pets Allowed as Baggage | Pets Allowed as Cargo | Fees in CAD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Canada | Cats, small dogs | Cats, dogs; Some breed restrictions | Accepts most species; Some breed restrictions | In-Cabin: $50-100; As Baggage: $105-270 |
| WestJet | Cats, small dogs | Cats, dogs; Other species may be permitted on a case-by-case basis | Cats, dogs; Other species may be permitted on a case-by-case basis | In-Cabin: $50-118; As Baggage: $100-236 |
| Canadian North | Cats, small dogs, ferrets, rabbits, hamsters, birds | Available | Available | In-Cabin: $86.25; As Baggage or Cargo: $229.94 |
| Flair Airlines | Cats, small dogs | Not Available | Not Available | In-Cabin: $79-99 |
| Air Transat | Cats, small dogs; Some breed restrictions | Cats, dogs; Some breed restrictions | Not Available | In-Cabin: $50-115; As Baggage: $100-300 |
| Porter Airlines | Cats, small dogs | Not Available | Not Available | In-Cabin: $50 |
| Semi-Private / Private Airlines | Depends | Depends | Depends | Varies. Extra seat purchase may be required for larger pets. |
Four Different Methods of Flying with a Pet
Method 1: In-Cabin Pet Travel
Many Canadian airlines allow small dogs and cats to travel in the cabin, provided they are properly contained in an airline-approved pet carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. This option is ideal for those who prefer to keep their pets close during the flight. However, it’s important to note that there are restrictions on the number of pets allowed in the cabin, and fees typically range from $50 to $100 each way. Here are some key points to consider for in-cabin pet travel:
- Pet carriers count as your carry-on baggage, so you may only bring one personal item in addition to the pet carrier.
- Pets must remain in their carriers for the entire duration of the flight, including during boarding and deplaning.
- Airlines have specific size and weight restrictions for in-cabin pet carriers, so be sure to check the requirements before booking.
- Some airlines have breed restrictions for in-cabin travel, particularly for snub-nosed or brachycephalic breeds.
- Advance reservations are usually required, and airlines may limit the number of pets allowed per flight.
In-Cabin Pet Travel 
Baggage / Cargo Pet Travel 
Semi-Private / Private Jet
Method 2: Checked Baggage Pet Travel
For larger pets or those that cannot travel in the cabin, some airlines offer the option of checking them as baggage. In this case, your pet will travel in a separate, pressurized and climate-controlled compartment in the cargo hold. Fees for this service can vary widely, ranging from $105 to $270 or more, depending on the airline and the size of your pet. When checking your pet as baggage, keep the following in mind:
- Your pet must be properly contained in an airline-approved kennel or crate that meets specific size and ventilation requirements.
- You’ll need to provide a valid health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, confirming that your pet is fit for air travel.
- Airlines may have breed restrictions or limitations on the number of pets allowed per flight.
- Pets traveling as checked baggage may be subject to additional fees or restrictions, such as layover time limits or temperature restrictions.
Method 3: Cargo Pet Travel
Cargo pet travel offers a flexible and reliable option for transporting larger animals or those not permitted to travel in the cabin or as checked baggage. This method allows your pet to travel independently of you, making it convenient for long-distance relocations or when your travel plans don’t align. Pets transported as cargo travel in a separate, pressurized, and climate-controlled compartment, ensuring their comfort and safety. When considering cargo pet travel, keep the following advantages in mind:
- Flexible scheduling: Pets can be shipped independently, providing more options for convenient travel times.
- Professional handling: Airlines’ cargo departments, along with professional pet shippers, specialize in transporting animals, ensuring they are well cared for throughout the journey.
- Safety and comfort: Pets travel in specially designed compartments that maintain proper temperature and pressure conditions.
- Comprehensive service: Many airlines and professional pet shippers offer additional services, such as pet delivery to your destination or handling arrangements for layovers.
Method 4: Flying with Semi-Private and Private Airlines
For those seeking a more personalized and pet-friendly experience, semi-private or private airlines like Tradewind Aviation, Aero, JSX, Blade, Flightpath Private Jet Charters, and Sunwest Aviation offer an alternative to traditional commercial airlines. These airlines typically have more relaxed policies regarding pet travel and may allow larger pets or those not permitted on commercial flights. When flying with these airlines, keep in mind:
- Pets are generally allowed in the cabin, but there may be weight or breed restrictions.
- Advance reservations and documentation, such as health certificates, may still be required.
- Fees for pet travel can be higher than those charged by commercial airlines.
- These airlines often have fewer routes and schedules, which may limit travel options.
Final Words
Traveling with pets can be a smooth and enjoyable experience with the right preparation and knowledge of airline policies. Whether you’re flying with your pet in-cabin, as checked baggage, as cargo, or via semi-private or private airlines, understanding the requirements and making the necessary arrangements in advance is crucial. For those looking for added convenience and peace of mind, hiring a professional pet shipper like Transcon Pet Movers can make all the difference. With expertise in handling the logistics of pet travel, we ensure your furry friend receives the best care and attention throughout the journey. Get a free quote!
Related post:
References
- Air Canada – Travelling with your Pet. Air Canada. Retrieved from https://www.aircanada.com/ca/en/aco/home/plan/special-assistance/pets.html
- Air Canada Cargo – Before you book. Air Canada Cargo. Retrieved from https://www.aircanada.com/cargo/shipping/before-you-book?productid=1
- Flying WestJet with your pet. WestJet. Retrieved from https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/pets
- International Pet Shipping Services. WestJet Cargo. Retrieved from https://www.westjetcargo.com/en-ca/what-we-ship/pets
- Flying With Pets and Airline-Approved Pet Carriers. Air Transat. Retrieved from https://www.airtransat.com/en-US/travel-information/special-services/pets-and-service-dogs
- Tradewind Aviation. Pet Travel. Retrieved from https://www.flytradewind.com/blog/aviation-private-aviation-for-pets-when-dogs-fly-tradewind/
- Flightpath Private Jet Charters. Pet Friendly Charters. Retrieved from https://www.flightpath.ca/private-flights/private-charters/
- JSX. Pet Policy. Retrieved from https://www.jsx.com/petpolicy
- Sunwest Aviation. Pet Travel. Retrieved from https://www.sunwestaviation.com/pet-travel/