Published on
December 25, 2025
Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United have all introduced major updates to their pet travel policies for 2025, reshaping how passengers with furry companions can journey to Europe. With France, Spain, and Italy becoming even more pet-friendly, these new regulations are set to change the travel landscape—especially for those planning to bring their pets along for the ride.
Alaska Airlines & Delta Update Pet Travel Rules for 2025: What Tourists to France, Spain, and Italy Need to Know Before Booking!
With the increasing number of pet owners traveling globally, airlines like Alaska Airlines and Delta are adjusting their pet policies for 2025 to meet both safety regulations and passenger expectations. Whether you’re planning a vacation to France, Spain, or Italy, it’s essential to understand how these changes could affect your travel experience, especially when traveling with your furry companions. In this guide, we’ll break down the latest updates, offer travel tips, and share what you need to know to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.
Understanding the New Pet Travel Rules for 2025
Airlines like Alaska Airlines and Delta have always had specific regulations for pet travel, but the new guidelines for 2025 are aimed at enhancing safety and comfort for both animals and passengers. These rules come into play as airlines continue to adjust to increasing demand for pet-friendly travel options and heightened awareness of animal welfare.
Both Alaska Airlines and Delta have implemented stricter regulations to ensure pets are securely transported and that their well-being is prioritized. Passengers will now find it more crucial than ever to adhere to specific requirements when flying with pets. These include the dimensions of pet carriers, booking in advance, and paying additional pet fees. Failing to comply with these updated policies can lead to costly rebooking, and in some cases, passengers may be denied boarding if the carrier is deemed unsuitable.
How These New Rules Affect Travelers to France, Spain, and Italy
For tourists heading to France, Spain, or Italy, these updates are particularly important because of the specific travel requirements for these countries. As Europe continues to be one of the most visited destinations for American travelers, especially with its rich culture, history, and scenic landscapes, understanding these pet policies is essential for a hassle-free vacation. Airlines are tightening their restrictions, and it’s becoming more apparent that travelers must prepare well in advance.
When flying to Europe with pets, travelers need to ensure they meet the following requirements:
Booking in Advance: Airlines like Delta and Alaska now require passengers to book pet travel at least 48 hours before departure. This ensures that enough space is available for pets in the cabin or in the hold.Pet Carrier Specifications: The new rules specify that pet carriers must be soft-sided, large enough for the pet to turn around and lie down comfortably, and no more than 17 inches tall, which fits under most airline seats.Pet Fees: A fee of $100 to $125 per pet, each way, is charged for in-cabin pets, and for those traveling in cargo, it can go up to $200 depending on the destination.Pet Health Certificates: Some European countries, including France, Spain, and Italy, require pets to have valid health certificates and proof of rabies vaccination to enter. Check with the airline for exact documentation requirements as they can vary.
Understanding these requirements will help you avoid last-minute stress and additional costs, ensuring a smooth and pleasant journey for both you and your pets.
Travel Tips for Pet-Friendly Journeys to Europe
Traveling to France, Spain, or Italy with your pet involves more than just booking the right flight. You’ll need to plan your journey carefully to ensure your pet’s comfort and meet all entry requirements. Here are a few travel tips to consider:
Plan Your Flight Early: With new pet regulations in place, airlines are limiting the number of pets allowed in the cabin per flight. Booking your pet’s seat early will ensure they have a comfortable journey, and it guarantees availability.Check Pet-Friendly Hotels and Accommodations: France, Spain, and Italy are known for their rich culture, but they are also becoming increasingly pet-friendly. Many hotels and accommodations across these countries now cater to pet owners, offering amenities like pet beds, treats, and designated play areas. Popular chains like Hilton, Accor, and Marriott offer pet-friendly options in major cities.Consider Pet Travel Insurance: Unexpected delays or health issues can arise during travel. Pet travel insurance can cover these unforeseen events, ensuring both you and your pet are protected while abroad.Be Aware of Local Pet Laws: Each country has its own pet laws and regulations. For example, France requires pets to be microchipped, while Italy mandates rabies vaccination certificates for all pets entering the country. Make sure to check local guidelines ahead of time.
How the Airline and Hospitality Industry Are Adapting
Both the airline and hospitality industries have made significant changes in response to the growing trend of pet travel. With more travelers opting to take their pets on vacation, airlines and hotels are implementing services designed to make these trips easier and more comfortable.
Airlines Adjusting to Pet Travel Demand
As the demand for pet travel rises, airlines are continuing to refine their pet policies. Alaska Airlines and Delta are leaders in this space, offering services that accommodate both in-cabin and checked pets. These airlines are continuously improving their pet travel experience by:
Enhanced Pet Travel Features: Delta offers a dedicated “Pet Travel” website for easy booking and information. Alaska Airlines has improved its pet reservation system to ensure a smoother process.Comfort for Pets During Flight: Delta has equipped its aircraft with temperature-controlled cargo holds, ensuring pets remain comfortable during their flight. Alaska Airlines also places a high priority on ensuring pets’ safety and comfort in transit.Expanded Pet Programs: Both airlines have expanded their pet programs, making it easier for passengers to bring their pets. Delta, for example, offers the “Pet Travel” program for pets traveling in the cabin, with clear instructions on how to prepare pets for air travel.
The demand for pet-friendly services is growing, and both airlines have responded by enhancing their offerings. As more passengers choose to fly with pets, the airlines are likely to introduce further improvements to ensure a seamless experience for both pets and their owners.
Hospitality Industry Welcomes Pet Travelers
Hotels in France, Spain, and Italy are increasingly becoming pet-friendly, recognizing the growing trend of travelers bringing their furry companions. In major cities like Paris, Barcelona, and Rome, numerous accommodations are opening their doors to pets.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations: Many luxury hotels, including the Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton, now allow pets and offer amenities such as pet rooms, grooming services, and outdoor spaces for pets to play. These hotels often go the extra mile to cater to pet owners, offering treats and pet-sitting services to make the stay even more comfortable.Special Pet Services: Some hotels in these European destinations offer exclusive services for pets, such as dog walkers, pet spas, and special food options. This growing pet-friendly trend ensures that pets are not just welcome but treated like VIP guests.
What Tourists Need to Know About Flight Details
When booking a flight with your pet to Europe, it’s important to consider flight details such as seat availability, travel time, and layovers. Alaska Airlines and Delta offer direct flights from major U.S. cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco to cities in France, Spain, and Italy, making the journey more convenient for both passengers and pets.
Direct Flights: Both airlines offer direct flights to major European destinations, reducing travel time and making the flight more comfortable for pets. For example, Delta’s direct flights to Paris from New York make it easy for tourists to bring their pets along without having to deal with the hassle of layovers.
Connecting Flights: If you’re flying on connecting flights, be aware of the time between connections. Pets should not be left in the carrier for too long, so choosing flights with shorter layovers will ensure their comfort.
Pet Carrier Guidelines: Ensure that your pet carrier meets the airline’s specifications. Alaska Airlines and Delta require carriers that are large enough for the pet to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably but not exceed the maximum size allowed for in-cabin travel.
Arrival in Europe: Navigating the Airport with Your Pet
Upon arriving in France, Spain, or Italy, you’ll need to navigate through customs with your pet. Be sure to have all necessary documents, including your pet’s health certificate and vaccination records, ready for inspection.
Pet Relief Areas: Many airports in Europe, including those in Paris, Madrid, and Rome, have designated pet relief areas where pets can stretch their legs and relieve themselves after a long flight. These areas are designed to make the transition from flight to ground travel as smooth as possible for both you and your pet.Customs Process: When traveling with pets to Europe, you’ll be required to go through customs with your pet and show the necessary documentation. Depending on the country, pets may need to undergo additional health checks before being allowed entry.
Preparing for a Pet-Friendly European Vacation
As airlines and hotels continue to adjust their policies to meet the growing demand for pet-friendly travel, flying with your pet to France, Spain, or Italy has never been easier. By understanding the new pet travel rules from airlines like Alaska Airlines and Delta, and planning your journey in advance, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation for both you and your furry companions.
Remember to book your pet’s seat early, check local entry requirements for pets, and choose pet-friendly accommodations that offer the amenities you need. With a little preparation, your European vacation with your pet will be a memorable and stress-free experience.
Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United are shaking up pet travel in 2025 with bold new policies that could change your vacation plans to France, Spain, and Italy!
As the world becomes more pet-friendly, travelers can look forward to an exciting future where pets are welcome almost everywhere, making travel more inclusive for everyone—human and animal alike.
