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Does Spirit Allow Dogs in 2026? Pet Policy & Exclusions
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The American airline industry has been and is still a crucial part of our economy. Today, the US has some of the most popular airline companies in the world. Though not the largest or among the “Big Four,” Spirit flies to over 75 destinations. The 3-star airline prides itself on low-cost flights and on allowing customers to travel with pets.
Read on below to find out more.
What Are Spirit Airline Pet Policies?
Spirit airline accepts passengers with small pets. However, they must comply with the company's policies in relation to the guidelines and advisories from various government departments.
| Category | Policy |
| Species/Breed | The list of pets allowed is limited to domesticated dogs, rabbits, cats, and small birds. The company does not allow exotic pets or tamed wild animals. |
| Species Restrictions | Traveling with birds and domesticated rabbits to and from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands is restricted. |
| Carrier Requirements | You must put your pet in a carrier measuring less than 18Lx14Wx8H inches. The cumulative weight of the cage and the pet should be less than 40 pounds. |
| Carrier Size | The cage must be comfortable. The pet must have enough room to stand upright, rotate, and stretch comfortably. |
| Pets Per Carrier | The maximum number of pets per carrier is two. They can either be separated or share the same compartment. |
| Passenger Policy | The company follows one carrier per passenger policy. This means that you are only allowed to carry a maximum of two small pets which will share the same carrier. If you have more than two pets, you may be required to book an extra seat or a travel buddy to help you manage them. |
| Health Certification | Spirit does not require a pet health certificate except for animals traveling to and from the Virgin Islands. Animals traveling to and from Puerto Rico must be accompanied by the latest rabies certificate. |
| Age | The company only allows fully weaned pets older than 8 weeks. |
| Temperament & Noise | Spirit airline employees have a right to stop passengers from boarding with unruly, noisy, or ill animals. Pets must be clean, calm, odorless, and harmless. |
| Roaming Restrictions | Passengers are not allowed to remove pets from their cages during the flight duration. |
| Bathroom Policy | During long flights (more than 8 hours), passengers must provide clean and safe means for pets to relieve themselves. |
| Give Proper Notice | The airline advises passengers to issue an advanced notice at least 48 hours earlier when traveling with pets, but it is not a must. |
| Cargo Transfers | The company does not transport pets in the cargo compartment because pet carriers are recognized as in-cabin luggage. |
| Seating | You are free to choose any seat except on the front and emergency exit rows. |
| Feeding | You are not allowed to feed the pet during the journey. |
| Sedation Restrictions | Sedated pets are not allowed on the flight. |
| International Flights | Pets are not allowed to and from international destinations except for service dogs. |
| Maximum Pets Per Plane | Only six pet carriers are permitted per aircraft, emphasizing the importance of advanced notices. |
How Much Does Spirit Airlines Charge Per Pet?
Spirit airline charges $125 per pet per one-way flight. You will double the amount to $250 for a to-and-from journey. Though you can pay for your pets during departure, it is best to do it while booking your seat to avoid last-minute inconveniences.
As of Jan 11th, 2021, the Department of Transport updated emotional support animals to pets. Prior to that period, they were treated differently, and in many cases, no travel charges were levied on them. But because they are now classified as pets, guests must pay for their freight charges.
This leaves service dogs as a class of animals that are not paid for by Spirit customers.
Why Are Service Dogs Given Special Treatment by Spirit Airlines?
The Americans with Disability Act (ADA) defines a service dog as an animal that helps people with disabilities live independent lives.
The Act then crowns businesses with Title I and II depending on the number of employees they have and further explains all Title I and Title II entities must permit service dogs into their facilities.
Spirit Airlines allows passengers to board with service dogs under these circumstances:
How Do Pet Check-Ins and Screening Work?
Spirit Airlines requires all passengers with pets to follow standard check-in procedures at the ticket counter.
Standard Check-In & Screening Protocol:
Important Notes:
Conclusion
Spirit is a low-cost airline company that allows passengers to travel with their pets at $125 per animal. The animal must be caged in an appropriate carrier with a cumulative weight of fewer than 40 pounds, except for service dogs.
Spirit Airlines only allows cats, dogs, birds, and rabbits on their planes to domestic destinations. Exotic animals are not permitted.
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Sources
Featured Image Credit: Reshetnikov_art, Shutterstock
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Nicole is a lover of animals of all sizes but is especially fascinated with the feline variety. She’s the proud mom of Baby, a Burmese, and works every day so he can relax in the sunshine or by the fire. She’s always had a cat in her home and has spent countless days with others, observing behaviors and softening up even the grouchiest of the lot. Nicole wants to share her kitty expertise with you so you and your cat can live happy, healthy, and care-free.
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