allegiant pet policy

Allegiant Pet Policy: Costs, Hidden Travel Perks Revealed (Service Animals & ESA’s)

When planning a trip with Allegiant Air, understanding the allegiant pet policy is crucial for those intending to travel with their furry friends. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth look at the types of pets allowed by Allegiant, restrictions based on the destination, and carrier requirements for pets.

We’ll also discuss the cost associated with flying your pet, including a clear explanation of fee structures and accepted payment methods. Furthermore, you’ll find valuable information about service animals onboard, from documentation required to how psychiatric service dogs can board free of charge.

The changes in the classification of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) by airlines have left many passengers confused – we aim to clarify these changes as part of our overview of the Allegiant pet policy. Additionally, we’ll offer guidance on assistance provided to disabled customers via phone bookings.

We’ll also delve into pre-travel preparation and check-in procedures to ensure smooth sailing during your travels. The key areas that will be covered are the importance of filling out DOT forms before traveling with a dog and understanding international travel document requirements.

Allegiant’s Pet Policy Overview

Traveling with your furry friend? Don’t worry; Allegiant Air allows small live animals or pets within the passenger cabin on flights across the contiguous 48 United States. Domestic dogs, cats, and even miniature horses are welcome. (Sorry, pit bull-type breeds are not permitted.)

Types of Pets Allowed by The Allegiant Air Pet Policy

The airline allows domesticated dogs and cats as well as miniature horses for passengers requiring assistance. These animals must be harmless, odorless, and require no attention during flight. Keep in mind that different rules may apply if you’re traveling internationally or to U.S. territories due to certain restrictions on accepting all types of pets.

Allegiant Pet Policy Restrictions Based on Destination

It’s important to research your destination’s specific requirements regarding pet travel. Some international destinations may not accept certain breeds or species altogether, while others may demand additional documentation at check-in time. Before you book your flight, make sure to research any pet travel requirements for the destination.

Besides breed restrictions and destination-based limitations, there are other factors involved, such as carrier requirements for safe transportation. Ask an Allegiant representative or check out Allegiant’s carrier requirements for pets here.

Carrier Requirements for Pets

When flying with Allegiant Air, ensuring your pet’s safety and comfort is a top priority. To ensure your pet’s safety and comfort, carriers that fit beneath the plane seat must be used, but an Allegiant agent may guide you to place it somewhere else, depending on the plane you’re on.

allegiant pet policy dog

Soft-Sided Carriers vs. Hard-Sided Carriers

The airline accepts both soft-sided and hard-sided carriers. However, it recommends using soft-sided carriers, which are more flexible and easier to adjust under the seat. The key point here is that whichever type you choose should be leak-proof to prevent any accidents during flight.

Size Limitations for Pet Carriers

Pet carriers should not exceed 9″H x 16″ W x 19″D dimensions. This ensures they can comfortably fit under the airplane seat without causing discomfort to other passengers or obstructing aisle ways. It’s important to note that only one pet per carrier is allowed unless they’re from the same household and small enough to cohabit without distress. So make sure you measure your pet carrier before heading off on your trip.

In addition, all pets must remain inside their respective carriers throughout the entire duration of the flight except service animals, who may sit at the passenger’s feet if necessary. Remember these guidelines when preparing to travel with a furry friend to ensure a smooth journey for everyone onboard Allegiant flights.

Dog Crate Sizing Guide

We’ve put together this super helpful dog crate sizing guide to help you find the perfect fit for your four-legged family member. So let’s dive in, shall we?

Step 1: Measure Your Dog 

Before you can pick the right crate size, you need to know your dog’s measurements. Grab a tape measure and follow these simple steps:

  1. Length: Measure your dog from the tip of its nose to the base of its tail (not including the tail itself). Add 2-4 inches to ensure they have enough room to move around.
  2. Height: Have your dog sit (if they can’t, measure them standing) and measure from the floor to the top of their head or ears (whichever is taller). Add 2-4 inches for some wiggle room.

Step 2: Choose the Right Crate Size 

Now that you have your dog’s measurements consult our handy-dandy dog crate size chart below:

Crate SizeLength RangeHeight RangeCommon Breeds
X-Small18-22 inches14-16 inchesChihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier
Small24-30 inches18-20 inchesBeagle, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog
Medium36-42 inches21-25 inchesBorder Collie, Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel
Large42-48 inches26-30 inchesBoxer, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever
X-Large48-54 inches31-35 inchesGreat Dane, Mastiff, Rottweiler

Remember, your dog should have enough space to stand, turn around, and lie comfortably. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to go a size up.

Step 3: Consider Crate Features

Now that you’ve got the size figured out think about what features are important to you and your dog:

  1. Material: Crates come in a variety of materials like wire, plastic, and soft-sided fabric. Consider your dog’s chewing habits and your home environment.
  2. Portability: If you travel a lot with your pup, look for crates that are easy to fold and transport.
  3. Divider Panels: Adjustable divider panels can help your crate grow with your puppy, saving you money in the long run.
  4. Doors: Some crates have multiple doors for easy access. Think about where you’ll place the crate and which door options work best for your space.

Step 4: Make It Cozy

Don’t forget to add some creature comforts like a soft crate mat, blankets, and toys to make your dog’s new den feel like home.

Cost Associated with Flying Your Pet

If you’re planning to fly with your furry friend on Allegiant Air, be aware of the associated costs. Almost all airlines charge a fee for pet transportation, and Allegiant is no exception.

Allegiant Pet Policy Fee Structure Explained

Bring your pet aboard an Allegiant flight costs $50 per one-way journey. If you’re flying round-trip, the total cost would be $100. The fee applies to each carrier in the cabin. If you have more than one pet and they can’t share a carrier, additional fees will apply.

For more detailed information about Allegiant’s pet policy and associated charges, check out their official pets page, as Allegiant reserves the right to change the fees at any time.

Payment Methods Accepted

You can pay these fees at the airport when checking in or online while booking your ticket. Payment can be made with a variety of methods, such as credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), debit cards, and PayPal; however, it is important to remember that these charges are non-refundable.

Keep in mind that these fees are not returnable, no matter the reason for your pet’s absence from the trip (like sickness or alterations to travel plans). Always review airline policies before making any bookings involving pets.

Tips To Save Money When Traveling With Pets

  • Pack Light: Try fitting all necessary items, like food and water bowls, into your carry-on luggage instead of paying extra for checked bags.
  • Limited Destinations: Some destinations may have lower pet fees compared to others, so consider this when planning trips.
  • Avoid Peak Times: If possible, avoid peak times, as some airlines increase prices during busy periods.

 

Service Animals Onboard

Allegiant Air strives to offer a secure and pleasant journey for all travelers, including those with psychiatric service animals. These animals are welcomed aboard Allegiant flights at no extra charge, provided they meet certain requirements.

Documentation Required for Service Animals

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew members, Allegiant requires individuals traveling with assistance animals to provide proper documentation. This includes identification cards and veterinary health forms proving their status as service animals. It’s important to note that these documents must be presented at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure time. For more information about the required documentation, visit Allegiant’s Service Animal Policy page.

The process to Board Psychiatric Service Dogs Free Of Charge

If you’re traveling with a psychiatric service dog (PSD), there are additional steps involved in boarding your flight free of charge. First, you must complete the Department Of Transportation (DOT) Form on the DOT website. This form should be submitted 48 hours prior to your flight.

In addition to this form, you’ll also need credible verbal assurance from yourself or another responsible party regarding your PSD’s behavior control capability throughout the journey. Remember: while regular pets and emotional support animals require appropriate fees without specific training functions, PSDs can board free if they fulfill these conditions.

The airline recommends checking in between 45 minutes and four hours before your scheduled departure time either online or when booking directly through an Allegiant ticket agent airport. With these preparations made ahead of time, you can look forward to a smooth journey with your trusted companion by your side.

Allegiant Pet Policy Regarding Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

Emotional support animals (ESAs) were once protected under the Air Carriers Access Act, but recent changes have reclassified them as regular pets on Allegiant flights. This means that while you can still travel with your ESA on an Allegiant flight, you will be required to pay the standard pet fee of $50 per one-way trip.

Change in ESA Classification By Airlines

In the past, passengers could bring their ESAs onboard without any additional charges. But airlines, including Allegiant, decided to change their policies due to a surge in incidents involving untrained pets posing as ESAs and causing disruptions during flights.

The Department of Transportation now allows airlines to classify ESAs as regular pets. So, make sure you factor this into your budget before heading off for vacation.

Assistance Provided To Disabled Customers Via Phone Bookings

If you’re traveling with a disability and need assistance booking your flight or managing your reservation, Allegiant offers dedicated phone lines for disabled customers. The airline’s customer service representatives are trained to assist travelers with disabilities and ensure they have a comfortable journey. More details on the assistance available for disabled travelers can be accessed here.

Remember, ESAs are now considered regular pets requiring appropriate fees without needing specific training functions. So, if you plan on flying with an ESA on Allegiant Air anytime soon, be prepared to pay the pet fee.

Pre-Flight Prep for Traveling with Your Pet on Allegiant Air

Planning to bring your furry friend on your next Allegiant Air flight? Don’t forget to prepare in advance and understand the check-in process. This includes filling out necessary forms and arriving at the airport with plenty of time to spare.

Why DOT Forms are a Must-Have for Traveling with Your Dog

The Department of Transportation (DOT) requires passengers traveling with dogs to fill out a specific form at least 48 hours before their flight. This form confirms that your dog is well-behaved and trained for air travel, and that you understand the consequences if your pet causes any disruptions during the flight.

International Travel? Check Your Pet’s Required Documents

Before embarking on an international trip, make sure you have the necessary paperwork for your pet, such as vaccination records or health certificates. Research these requirements well in advance to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Aside from completing the necessary paperwork, Allegiant requires passengers to check in between 45 minutes and four hours before their scheduled departure time. You can do this online when booking your flight or in person with an Allegiant ticket agent at the airport.

Remember, a smooth journey with your pet starts with careful preparation and understanding the airline’s policies.

Allegiant Pet Policy Q&A’s

Is Allegiant Strict with Pets?

Allegiant has specific policies for pet travel, allowing small domestic dogs and cats in the cabin, but they must be kept in a carrier under the seat.

Are Small Dogs Allowed on Allegiant Airlines?

Allegiant allows small dogs on board but they must be housed in an FAA-approved carrier that fits under the seat.

What Size Dog Can Fly on Allegiant?

Dogs flying on Allegiant should fit comfortably within a carrier measuring 9″H x 16″ W x 19″D, and the weight of both pet and carrier should not exceed 25 pounds.

Is Allegiant Strict About Pet Carrier Size?

Absolutely. Pet carriers must meet specified dimensions and fit under the passenger’s seat for safety reasons during flight.

Get An ESA Letter or PSD Letter Online

Flying with your pet is possible with Allegiant Air, though there are certain details and associated costs to take into account. Pet carriers must meet size requirements, and fees must be paid prior to boarding the flight. The airline also requires paperwork such as identification cards, health forms, and DOT forms for psychiatric service dogs. Changes made by airlines have reclassified ESAs as regular pets and require pet fees regardless of the animal’s status. Furthermore, check-in time should take place within 45 minutes to four hours before the scheduled departure time. As these details can seem complicated, taking the free pre-qualification test ensures that you know exactly what is needed when planning your next journey with your furry companion.

It is a good idea to keep yourself informed on the rules and regulations related to Allegiant’s pet policy, so be sure to read up more if necessary and get your dog certified as an ESA or PSD if you feel it will benefit both of you! Take action now – make flying with your pet easy – and take the free pre-qualification test today!

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