Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Fee

Traveling with pets can be both exciting and challenging. Spirit Airlines offers one of the most straightforward and budget-friendly pet travel policies in the U.S. Whether you’re flying with a dog, cat, or service animal, it’s essential to understand all rules, fees, and carrier requirements before booking.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything about the Spirit Airlines Pet Policy, including Spirit Airlines pet policy fees, carrier size limits, pet travel rules, ESA regulations, and step-by-step instructions on how to add your pet to a Spirit flight.

Quick Summary

• Spirit Airlines allows small domestic dogs, cats, and household birds to travel in the cabin on most U.S. flights.
• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old, fully weaned, and remain inside a soft-sided carrier during the flight.
• The Spirit Airlines pet policy fee is $125 each way per pet container.
• Each passenger may bring only one pet container, and up to two pets of the same species can travel in that carrier.
• Spirit Airlines pet carrier size must not exceed 18 x 14 x 9 inches (45 x 35 x 23 cm) to fit under the seat.
• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) are no longer accepted; only trained service dogs are permitted.
• Passengers must add pets to their Spirit flight during booking or by contacting Spirit Airlines in advance.
• Spirit Airlines does not allow pets in cargo – only in the cabin.

Understanding the Spirit Airlines Pet Policy

Spirit Airlines prioritizes safety and comfort for both pets and passengers. The Spirit Airlines pet travel policy only permits in-cabin pet travel, ensuring that animals stay close to their owners throughout the journey.

Key Points:

• Only dogs, cats, and small birds are accepted.
• Pets must remain inside their approved carrier at all times.
• The combined weight of the pet and carrier cannot exceed 40 lbs (18 kg).
• No pets are permitted on international flights, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Fee

Spirit Airlines charges a flat pet fee of $125 per container each way. This applies whether you are traveling with one or two small pets inside the same carrier.

Fee Summary:

• Cost: $125 each way per pet container
• Where to Pay: During online booking, at check-in, or at the airport ticket counter
• Refund Policy: Pet fees are non-refundable, even if you cancel or change your flight

Pro Tip: Book early since only 4 pet containers are allowed per flight, and spots fill quickly.

Spirit Airlines Pet Carrier Rules

Choosing the right pet carrier for Spirit Airlines is essential for a smooth experience.

Carrier Requirements:

• Maximum dimensions: 18 x 14 x 9 inches (45 x 35 x 23 cm)
• Must fit under the seat in front of you
• Must be well-ventilated, soft-sided, and leak-proof
• The pet must be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably inside the carrier
• Airlines allow only one carrier per passenger.

Passengers are advised to purchase TSA-approved pet carriers that meet these dimensions.

Spirit Airlines Pet Rules and Restrictions

Airlines maintains strict guidelines to ensure a safe travel experience:

• Pets must remain inside their carrier for the entire flight.
• The carrier counts as a carry-on item and must be stored under the seat.
• Aggressive or disruptive pets may be denied boarding.
• Unaccompanied minors cannot travel with pets.
• No pets in cargo – only cabin travel is permitted.
• Spirit Airlines reserves the right to refuse pets if the animal poses a health or safety risk.

Spirit Airlines Dog Rules

Flying with dogs on Spirit Airlines is easy when you follow their specific policies:

• Dogs must be small enough to fit comfortably in an approved carrier.
• Puppies must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
• Snub-nosed dog breeds (like pugs or bulldogs) are allowed, but owners must ensure their comfort due to breathing sensitivity.
• Service dogs are welcome free of charge, provided documentation and training proof are verified.

Spirit Airlines Cat Policy

Spirit also welcomes cats on board, provided they meet carrier and behavior standards.

• Cats must be at least 8 weeks old and in good health.
• Only domestic cats are allowed (no exotic or wild breeds).
• You can travel with two small cats in the same carrier if they fit comfortably.
• Cats should remain calm and confined for the entire journey.

Service Dogs on Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines fully complies with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for service animals.

Key Rules:

• Only trained service dogs that assist passengers with disabilities are acceptable.
• Each passenger may bring up to two service dogs.
• Service animals must remain under control and leashed at all times.
• Passengers must submit a DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form before travel.

Spirit Airlines does not recognize Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) after 2021 due to DOT regulatory changes.

How to Add a Pet to a Spirit Airlines Flight

Adding your pet to a Spirit Airlines flight is quick and easy:

1. Book Early: Add your pet while booking online or through Spirit’s customer service.
2. Pay the $125 pet fee in advance.
3. Prepare Documentation: Carry your pet’s health certificate (recommended) and vaccination proof.
4. Check-In at the Airport: Visit the ticket counter to verify your pet’s carrier and pay any additional fees if needed.
5. Board Early: Spirit often allows passengers with pets to board earlier for convenience.

Traveling with Pets on Spirit Airlines – Important Tips

To make pet travel smooth and stress-free, keep these tips in mind:

• Feed your pet lightly before the flight to avoid discomfort.
• Use an absorbent pad inside the carrier.
• Label the carrier with your contact details.
• Arrive early at the airport for pet verification.
• Avoid sedating your pet unless advised by a veterinarian.
• Book nonstop flights whenever possible to minimize stress.

Spirit Airlines Pet Travel Policy Restrictions

While Spirit is pet-friendly, there are specific restrictions to be aware of:

• No pets allowed on international or connecting flights.
• Pregnant pets or animals showing signs of illness may be denied boarding.
• You must not bring reptiles, rodents, or insects.
• Spirit Airlines reserves the right to deny boarding to any pet that appears unsafe or aggressive.

Final Thoughts

The Spirit Airlines Pet Policy is clear, affordable, and simple for passengers traveling with small dogs or cats. With a pet fee of $125 each way, strict carrier requirements, and in-cabin-only travel, Spirit ensures both safety and affordability.

Whether you’re traveling with a dog, cat, or service animal, following the Spirit Airlines pet rules guarantees a stress-free flying experience for you and your furry companion.

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