Traveling with your furry friend can be both an exciting and challenging experience. WestJet understands this and has established a pet policy designed to ensure a comfortable flight for both you and your pet. In this article, we will delve into the WestJet pet policy, guiding you to fly with ease alongside your beloved animal companion.

What is WestJet’s Pet Policy?

WestJet’s pet policy allows for a variety of options when it comes to traveling with pets. They provide accommodations for pets to travel in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, depending on the animal’s size and breed. It is crucial for pet owners to know that advance arrangements are necessary and spots in the cabin are limited. To ensure the well-being of all passengers, WestJet has specific requirements for pet carriers and health certifications.

The airline allows small to medium-sized cats and dogs to travel in the cabin under the seat in front of you. Each traveler is limited to one pet carrier, with a maximum of two pets per carrier if they’re of the same species and similar size. Larger pets that cannot be accommodated in the cabin may travel as checked baggage or cargo, with detailed kennel requirements to be met.

It’s imperative to note that the westjet pet policy also includes regulations for service animals. Service dogs can travel in the cabin at no additional charge, provided proper documentation is presented. However, effective from 2021, emotional support animals are no longer recognized as service animals and must adhere to regular pet travel guidelines.

Recent Changes to WestJet ESA Policy

The airline recently made changes to its Emotional Support Animal (ESA) policy, aligning with new transportation regulations. WestJet now requires that emotional support animals comply with the same requirements as other pets, meaning they must travel either in the cabin as a pet or be transported as checked baggage or cargo.

This shift means that travelers can no longer benefit from waived fees or bypass pet carrier regulations when flying with an ESA. Pet owners must ensure their emotional support animals meet all the stipulated size and weight restrictions if they wish to transport them in the cabin.

How to Fly with a Pet on WestJet

Planning ahead is essential when flying with a pet on WestJet. The first step is to contact WestJet directly to book your pet’s spot on the flight as online booking is not available for pet travel. Here is a simplified step-by-step guide:

• Contact WestJet’s customer service to reserve a spot for your pet.
• Review and comply with destination-specific entry requirements.
• Ensure your pet’s carrier meets the airline’s dimensions and standards.
• Prepare the necessary health certifications and vaccination records.
• Arrive at the airport early to accommodate any additional processes.

It is also recommended to familiarize your pet with the carrier in the weeks leading up to the flight to help reduce stress.

Understanding Kennel Requirements for WestJet Flights

WestJet has stringent kennel requirements for pets traveling as checked baggage or cargo. The kennel must be hard-sided, well-ventilated, and secure. The size of the kennel must allow the pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Here are a few guidelines to ensure your pet’s carrier is compliant:

• The kennel must have a waterproof bottom lined with absorbent material.
• Feeding and water dishes must be present and accessible from outside.
• Kennels must be labeled with “Live Animal” stickers and contact information.
• Multiple animals in the same kennel are generally not permitted unless they are compatible, small, and of similar size and weight.

How to Travel with a Psychiatric Service Dog on WestJet

For those requiring a psychiatric service dog, WestJet allows these animals to fly in the cabin at no extra charge. However, passengers must provide current documentation (no more than one year old) from a licensed mental health professional confirming the passenger’s need for the animal.

Additionally, the service dog must be harnessed during the flight. It’s crucial to notify WestJet in advance to ensure all arrangements are in place and documentation is verified.

What Are the Fees for Pet Travel on WestJet?

While service animals fly free, there are fees associated with pet travel on WestJet. As of 2024, the fees for pets traveling in the cabin are CAD/USD 50-59 each way. For pets traveling as checked baggage, the fee ranges from CAD/USD 75-88.50. These fees are subject to change, so checking with WestJet before your flight is advised.

WestJet’s Policy for Service Animals and ESAs

WestJet’s policy for service animals adheres to the Air Carrier Access Act, permitting service dogs in the cabin without additional fees. The westjet pet policy outlines that emotional support animals are now treated as regular pets, and standard fees and carrier regulations apply.

Frequently Asked Questions about WestJet’s Pet Policy

Travelers often have queries regarding WestJet’s pet policy. Below are some commonly asked questions to help you navigate the specifics:

Related Questions on WestJet Pet Policy

How Strict Is WestJet with Pet Carriers?

WestJet is quite strict with pet carriers as they prioritize animal safety. The carrier must fit under the seat in front of you and adhere to specific dimension requirements.

For in-cabin travel, the maximum dimensions for a soft-sided carrier are 41 cm x 21.5 cm x 25.4 cm (16 in x 8.5 in x 10 in) and for a hard-sided carrier, 44 cm x 21.5 cm x 19 cm (17 in x 8.5 in x 7.5 in).

Are Pets Allowed in WestJet?

Yes, pets are allowed on WestJet flights, either in the cabin, as checked baggage, or as cargo, adhering to certain conditions and fees.

What Dogs Are Restricted on WestJet?

WestJet restricts certain breeds, particularly those with snub-noses or brachycephalic, due to health risks associated with air travel. It’s best to consult with WestJet for a complete list of restricted breeds.

How Do I Add a Pet to My Flight?

To add a pet to your flight, call WestJet directly to book, as pet reservations cannot be made online. You will need to provide information about your pet and pay any applicable fees.

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, but with WestJet’s pet travel guidelines for 2024, you can ensure your travel will be as stress-free as possible. Remember to contact the airline in advance, pay attention to kennel requirements, and prepare all necessary documentation. By following these steps, you and your pet can look forward to a safe and comfortable journey.