What Is Delta's Policy for Traveling with Pets or Service Animals?

Delta Airlines has a policy for traveling with pets or service animals. The policy is detailed on the Delta website and states the requirements passengers must meet to travel with their pet or service animal. In addition, the policy provides information about what to do if something unexpected happens during the flight. Here is the breakdown of things.

Which Pets Are Accepted?

Delta states that only domesticated cats, dogs, rabbits, and household birds are accepted as pets in the cabin. They must be at least eight weeks old and fully weaned. The pet must also be carried in a kennel that meets specific size and weight requirements. The kennel cannot be placed in an overhead bin.

Delta accepts service animals trained to perform specific tasks for a passenger. The tasks can include providing emotional support, guiding a blind or visually impaired passenger, alerting a passenger who is deaf or hard of hearing to sounds, and pulling a wheelchair. A service animal must be leashed and under the control of the passenger at all times. Contact customer support to confirm the suitability of your pet for air travel.

Age Requirement for Pets

To be accepted on Delta, the pet must be at least ten weeks old and fully weaned. Puppies and kittens younger than this will not travel on Delta. When traveling to the US, the age ought to be sixteen weeks. However, when going to the European Union, the age limit is fifteen weeks. Delta has a team of experts that do the age verification.

What Documentation Is Required?

To travel with a pet or service animal, the passenger must provide documentation from a veterinarian that certifies the animal is in good health. The document must also list the type of animal, breed, age, and weight.

If traveling with a service animal, the passenger must also provide documentation from a mental health professional or doctor that states the animal is needed to assist with a disability. The document must also list the type of assistance the animal provides

What Happens If the Animal Becomes Disruptive?

Delta has a policy for what to do if the pet or service animal becomes disruptive during the flight. The policy states that the animal must be removed from the plane and may not travel with the passenger on future flights. The passenger may also be fined for disruptive behavior.

What Fees Are Associated With Traveling With a Pet or Service Animal?

There are several fees associated with traveling with a pet or service animal. The passenger must pay for the kennel, and ensure the pet or service animal vaccination against rabies. In addition, the passenger may be required to purchase a ticket for the pet or service animal.

The passenger may also be required to sign a release form stating that Delta is not liable for any injury or damage caused by the pet or service animal. If you need further guidance on the fees, reach out to the customer support team.

The Kennel Requirements

The kennel must meet the following requirements:

1. Made of hard plastic or metal

2. Have a door that can be secured shut

3. Be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably

4. Weigh no more than 20 pounds

5. Measure less than 18" x 11" x 11"

Your pet needs to be within the kennel not only while you're on the plane but also when at the boarding and lounge areas. It ensures that the pet is well-controlled hence making the place safe for everyone.

Pet-Travel Restrictions for the US

If you're traveling from outside of the US and want to take your pet with you, there are a few things you should be aware of. The pet must be vaccinated against rabies and have a valid rabies certificate. There is a temporal suspension if you come from nations termed as high risk for dog rabies. Contact customer for more guidance.