Traveling With Pets on United Airlines: Step-by-Step Method That Actually Works (2026>2027)Guide
Flying with your pet does not need to be stressful + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA. If you intend to travel with your dog or cat, learning how United Airlines handles pet reservations + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA can save you time, money, and last-minute panic at the airport.
United Airlines is known for its friendly policies and simple pricing + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, but pet travel comes with specific rules that every pet parent must follow. From booking your pet’s spot to choosing + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA the right carrier and avoiding common mistakes + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, this guide covers everything you need to know—step by step.
Call United Airlines at + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA to make reservations for your pet. Pets must be at least eight weeks old to fly in the cabin, + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA and they must be kept in an approved pet carrier that fits securely under the seat in front of you throughout the flight + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA.
What Is Pet Reservation United Airlines?
Yes, United Airlines pet reservations can be made by phone + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, and many pet owners prefer this method. Booking by phone is perfect + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA if you’re going with a dog or cat and want to know about pet fees, carrier requirements, and availability constraints. A live United Airlines agent can confirm pet space on your flight + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, clarify in-cabin pet policies, and ensure your reservation is properly set up. This strategy is especially beneficial for first-time pet travelers or those who require comfort + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, as it makes the entire pet booking procedure straightforward + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, accurate, and stress-free.
A pet reservation United Airlines + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA is the process of adding your small dog or cat to your United Airlines flight + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA so they can travel with you in the cabin.
How do I make a pet reservation on United Airlines?
To make a pet reservation on United Airlines + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, first book your flight, then call United Airlines to add your pet.
How much does United Airlines charge for pet reservations?
The pet-in-cabin price is $150 per trip for small cats + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA and dogs flying in an approved carrier.
Unlike human tickets, pet reservations:
Are limited per flight
Must be requested in advance
Are not guaranteed until confirmed
United Airlines only allows pets + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA to fly in the cabin, not in cargo. This makes the airline a popular choice for pet owners who want to keep their + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA furry companions close.
United Airlines allows a maximum of six pets per flight + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, so early booking is critical.
Overview of United Airlines Pet Policy
Before making a pet reservation + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, it’s important to understand the basic rules set by United Airlines.
Pets Allowed on United Airlines Flights
United Airlines only accepts:
Small cats
Small dogs
The pet must fit comfortably + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA in an approved carrier under the seat in front of you.
Pets Not Allowed
United Airlines does not allow:
Large dogs
Exotic animals
Birds, reptiles, or rodents
Pets in cargo or checked baggage
How to Make a Pet Reservation on United Airlines (Step-by-Step)
Reservations. Call United Airlines at + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA to make reservations for your pet.
Booking your pet correctly + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA is one of the most important parts of the process.
Step 1 – Book Your Flight First
You must have a confirmed passenger ticket before adding a pet reservation + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA.
Step 2 – Contact United Airlines to Add Your Pet
Pet reservations cannot be made online. You must:
Call United Airlines Customer Service + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA
Or add the pet at the airport ticket counter (not recommended)
Step 3 – Pay the Pet Fee
You’ll pay the pet fee:
Over the phone + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA, or
At the airport check-in counter
Step 4 – Check In at the Airport
On travel day:
Check in at the counter (online check-in doesn’t complete pet check-in)
Present your pet in its carrier
Pay the fee if not already paid
United Airlines Pet Fee Explained
Understanding the cost helps you plan better.
How Much Is a Pet Reservation in United Airlines?
$125 each way + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA
Applies per pet carrier
Non-refundable
This fee covers your pet’s in-cabin travel and counts as either:
A carry-on, or
A personal item
United Airlines Approved Pet Carrier Requirements
Choosing the right carrier is essential + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA. If your carrier doesn’t meet the rules, your pet may not be allowed to fly.
Carrier Size Requirements
The carrier must fit under the seat:
Maximum size: 18.5” x 8.5” x 13.5”
Soft-sided carriers are recommended
Carrier Rules
Your carrier must:
Be leak-proof
Be well-ventilated
Fully enclose the pet
Allow the pet to stand and turn around
Seating Rules for Pet Travelers on United Airlines
Not all seats are pet-friendly + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA.
Where You Can Sit
Allowed seating includes:
Standard economy seats
Window or middle seats
Where You Cannot Sit
Pets are not allowed in:
Exit rows
Bulkhead seats
Seats without under-seat storage
International and Hawaii Travel With Pets
Does United Airlines Allow Pets on International Flights?
No. + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA United Airlines only allows pets on:
Domestic U.S. flights
Can Pets Fly to Hawaii on United Airlines?
No. Pets are not permitted on flights + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA to or from Hawaii due to state regulations.
Service Animals vs Pet Reservation United Airlines
The pet-in-cabin price is $150 per trip for small cats + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA and dogs flying in an approved carrier that fits under the seat in front of you.
Tips for Flying Smoothly With Your Pet on United Airlines
Flying with a pet is easier when you prepare + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA.
Helpful Tips:
Book early to secure one of the six pet slots
Choose soft-sided carriers for flexibility
Avoid feeding your pet 4–6 hours before flying
Arrive early to allow extra check-in time
Exercise your pet before the flight
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Pet Reservation
Avoid These Mistakes:
Assuming pets can be added online
Waiting until airport check-in to request a spot
Using oversized carriers
Booking exit row seats
Forgetting the pet fee
People Also Ask (PAA)
Can I add my pet to my United Airlines flight online?
No, + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA you must contact customer service.
Final Thoughts on Pet Reservation United Airlines
Booking a pet reservation United Airlines is simple + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA once you know the rules. The key is planning ahead, choosing the right carrier, and calling + ( 1 - 8 0 0 - 2 6 8 - 0 0 7 5 ) || OTA early to secure one of the limited pet spots.