Spirit Airlines Pet Policy: The Honest Truth About Fees and Rules
- ToursN TravelPro
- Jul 29
- 5 min read
Travelling with pets is not only thrilling but also can be a stressful experience and what is more, when there is an uncertainty as to what to expect. When planning your next trip and thinking of taking Spirit Airlines, the knowledge of the Spirit Airlines pet policy is necessary. Having a dog, cat or even a small bird in the flight, and Spirit is very cheap to fly in the cabin, as compared to Air Carrier, but there are Sydney rules.
When it comes to pet travel, this is also something that we can assist you with to help you easily book in your pet or understand the pet rules agreed on by the airlines. Talk to +1-866-679-5070 to get friendly, quick service prior to flying.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines’ rules for pets—including cabin travel, pet carrier size, travel fees, documentation, and restrictions on international flights.
In-Cabin Pet Policy for Spirit Airlines
The pet policy for Spirit Airlines is focused exclusively on in-cabin travel. Unlike larger carriers, Spirit Airlines does not allow pets to travel as checked baggage or in the cargo hold, regardless of the destination or duration of the flight.
Allowed Pets in the Cabin:
Domestic dogs
Domestic cats
Small household birds (only on U.S. domestic flights)
Small rabbits
Unfortunately, reptiles, amphibians, rodents, ferrets, insects, and exotic animals are not accepted under the current Spirit Airlines pet policy.
Spirit Airlines Carry-On Pet Policy & Carrier Requirements
Traveling with pets on Spirit requires strict compliance with carrier dimensions and weight limits. Here’s what to know:
Maximum carrier size: 18" L x 14" W x 9" H
Carrier + pet weight limit: 40 pounds combined
Only one pet per carrier
The carrier must be well-ventilated and leak-proof
Pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire flight
Soft-sided carriers are highly recommended for flexibility and comfort
Your pet carrier counts as your personal item, so if you’re bringing an additional carry-on or checked bag, standard spirit baggage fees will apply.
Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Fee Breakdown
If you’re flying with your pet, expect to pay a flat fee per flight segment:
Pet travel fee: $125 each way (non-refundable)
This fee applies per pet and per flight—a round-trip will cost $250
Must be paid at booking or added to your reservation through “My Trips”
While this is in line with industry averages, it’s important to remember this fee only covers your pet. Any additional bags will incur extra charges as per Spirit’s regular fare rules.
Spirit Airlines Pet Travel Policy: Domestic Travel Guidelines
On domestic routes, Spirit makes pet travel relatively hassle-free. You can bring your pet on most flights within:
The continental U.S.
Puerto Rico
U.S. Virgin Islands (birds excluded)
Key domestic travel notes:
Pets are not permitted in emergency exit rows or bulkhead seats
Spirit allows a limited number of pets per flight (usually up to 6), so early booking is advised
Health certificates are not required for most domestic routes
It’s still a good idea to carry vaccination records and a recent health check-up summary for your pet
Spirit Airlines Pet Policy International: What You Need to Know
Spirit Airlines pet policy international restrictions are strict—pets are not permitted on international flights, including to:
Mexico
Central America
South America
The Caribbean
If you’re planning international travel with a pet, you’ll need to choose another airline that allows pets in the cabin or as cargo.
Note: An exception may be made for service dogs, provided they meet all international health and import requirements.
Spirit Airlines Service Dog Policy
The Spirit Airlines service dog policy is aligned with the U.S. DOT guidelines. Only fully trained service dogs that assist passengers with disabilities are permitted to fly at no additional cost—even on international routes.
Requirements include:
Completion of the U.S. DOT Service Animal Air Transportation Form
Advance submission at least 48 hours before departure
Service dogs must be leashed, harnessed, or tethered at all times
The dog must fit at your feet or on your lap and must not obstruct aisles or emergency exits
Emotional support animals (ESAs) are no longer accepted under the updated Spirit Airlines pet travel policy.
Required Documents for Pet Travel
Though Spirit Airlines does not require a health certificate for pets on U.S. domestic flights, it’s highly recommended you carry:
Proof of rabies vaccination
Vet-issued ID tags or microchip records
Letter of health from a veterinarian within 10 days of departure (especially for puppies/kittens under 12 weeks)
If you're flying with a service dog, you'll need to complete and submit the required documentation prior to boarding.
Tips for Traveling with Pets on Spirit Airlines
Reserve early: Spirit only allows a few pets per flight
Use TSA-approved carriers that meet Spirit's dimensions
Avoid sedating your pet, which is not allowed and can be dangerous
Feed and walk your pet at least 2–3 hours before boarding
Bring absorbent material in the carrier and a few cleanup items in your personal bag
Practice carrier training for at least a week before the flight to reduce pet anxiety
Real-World Example: Traveling With a Cat on Spirit
Suppose you're flying from Orlando to Dallas with your cat. Once you book your fare, you specify a pet on the reservation at a cost of 125 dollars one-way. The dimension of your soft-sided carrier is less than 18x14x9 inches and your cat weighs 9 pounds, well below the maximum total weight of 40 lbs. You avoid the checked bags, and only you buy your personal item (the carrier) and your travel essentials in a backpack.
You get to the airport an hour and a half prior to travel time, check-in in 10 minutes, and go through security without a hustle. All is pretty simple - during flight, your cat sleeps in the carrier: no drama, no surprises, and no hidden fees.
Conclusion: Is Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Right for You?
The Spirit Airlines pet policy is the right idea as it is cheaper, and its solution is easy when short domestic travel is planned, taking a small pet with you. The airline regulations are plain, and the flat pricing system saves the conscious customer extra cash on shocks. So said, Spirit does not accommodate international pet travelers and will not transport animals of any size in the cargo department.
To anyone who fulfills the conditions and is ready to do the preparations, Spirit would still be one of the most affordable options to travel with pets in the U.S.
Need help booking your pet's flight or understanding Spirit's pet policies? Call +1-866-679-5070 today for personalized assistance and peace of mind before takeoff.
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