When travelling, many people want to bring their pets with them; however, it’s important to fully understand the rules and regulations for flying with a pet.
What Kind of Pets Are Allowed?
Generally, dogs and cats will be permitted on a plane, either in the cabin or in the pressurized cargo hold. If you have another type of pet, such as a bird or lizard, you’ll need to contact the airline directly to see if they are allowed on passenger planes. Please note that almost all airlines require advanced notification when travelling with a pet. You cannot simply show up the day of your flight with an unregistered dog or cat.
How Much Does Flying With a Pet Cost?
Airlines are free to set their own pricing for allowing pets onboard. The fee for a small pet, that fits in a carrier stowed under the seat, will usually cost less than checking a pet in the baggage hold; however, for exact prices, you’ll need to contact the airline directly.
How Can I Keep My Pet Safe?
When choosing a carrier, pick one where your pet can comfortably lie down, turn around and stand. Make sure there is adequate ventilation and that your dog or cat will not be able to escape or injure themselves while inside the carrier. If you have any other concerns about flying with a pet, don’t be afraid to talk to your veterinarian.
It’s also advisable to have pet insurance prior to a trip because accidents and emergencies can happen even when you’re on vacation. With pet insurance, you can be reimbursed for up to 80% of the cost of care and veterinary services, including X-rays, hospitalization, surgery or prescriptions that result from an accident or illness in Canada or the United States.
Hudson’s Bay Financial Services is proud to partner with Petline Insurance, Canada’s largest pet insurance company, to offer Canadians affordable pet protection. When you purchase our pet insurance, you’ll also earn Hudson’s Bay Rewards points1 along with the peace of mind.
Learn more about Petline Insurance.
1 Earn 2,000 Hudson’s Bay Rewards points when you purchase a Basic Care plan, 3,000 Rewards points for an Enhanced Care plan and 4,000 Rewards points for an Enhanced Care Plus plan. Rewards points will be issued in equal increments after every six months when you use a valid Canadian-issued credit card to pay for your premiums and will not be pro-rated. Offer valid in Alberta, British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, Ontario, Quebec and the Yukon.