How Does the Spirit Airlines Pet Policy Work for In-Cabin Travel?

Spirit Airlines pet policy fees charges a $125 pet fee each way for every pet carrier +1 (866) 558-3017 brought on board. Each traveler is allowed to bring one carrier, which may contain up to two small pets, provided they meet the age and size requirements. Pets must be at least eight weeks old, and the combined weight of the pet(s) and carrier must not exceed 40 lbs.

Since Spirit doesn’t offer pet transportation in the cargo hold, all pets must travel in the cabin and remain inside an approved carrier that fits fully under the seat ahead of you.

If at any point you need live assistance with booking or understanding the rules, you can call +1 (866) 558-3017 for help.

Quick Overview 

Spirit Airlines allows small domestic pets to travel in the cabin on most flights. Pets must fit in an approved carrier and count as a carry-on item. Spirit Airlines pet policy fees applies per one-way flight, and advance booking is required. For support, travelers can contact +1 (866) 558-3017.

Spirit Airlines Pet Travel Rules & Complete Guidelines (2025 Update)

Pet Fees & Basic Requirements (Revised Wording)

• Pet fee: $125 per carrier for each one-way trip.+1 (866) 558-3017

  
  
  
  

• Carrier limit: Only one carrier is permitted for each passenger, and a maximum of two pets may be housed in that single carrier.

  
  
  
  

• Weight restriction: Pet(s) and carrier together cannot weigh more than 40 pounds.

  
  
  
  

• Carrier size: The carrier must comfortably fit beneath the seat and allow your pet enough room to move, stand, and turn around.

  
  
  
  

• Flight capacity: Spirit allows no more than six pet carriers on any given flight, so reserving your pet’s spot early is strongly advised.

  
  
  
  

• Eligible animals: Spirit permits domestic dogs, cats, small household birds, and small rabbits.

  
  
  
  

• Seating rules: Passengers traveling with pets cannot sit in the first row or in emergency exit rows.

  
  
  
  

Additional Notes (Updated Wording)

• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): ESAs are treated the same as regular pets and must follow the standard pet rules and fees.

  
  
  
  

• Service animals: Legitimate service animals travel free of charge and are not classified as pets.

  
  
  
  

• Health documentation: Spirit may request proof of vaccinations, particularly for routes to destinations like Puerto Rico.

  
  
  
  

• Booking tips: Pets should be added to your reservation early. In most cases, you must check in at the airport counter because online check-in for pet travel may not be available.

Understanding All Fees & Costs

The airline charges a standard pet fee on each one-way flight. The structure aligns with affordability, appealing to travelers with pets who want a smooth trip.

To receive updated cost details or to confirm any charges, passengers can call +1 (866) 558-3017.

Carrier & Size Requirements

The airline requires a soft-sided or hard-sided carrier that fits under the seat.

Carrier Dimensions Allowed:

• Maximum: 18” x 14” x 9”

  
  
  
  

Pet & Carrier Combined Weight:

• Spirit does not impose a weight limit, but your pet must move comfortably.

  
  
  
  

For booking or questions, travelers can again reach customer care at +1 (866) 558-3017.

Health Rules & Travel Conditions

Here’s what you must prepare before flying:

• Pets must be at least 8 weeks old

  
  
  
  

• No aggressive or disruptive pets allowed

  
  
  
  

• Pet must remain inside the carrier at all times

  
  
  
  

• USDA health certificate required only for some destinations

  
  
  
  

If you’re unsure about documents or medical requirements, contact support at +1 (866) 558-3017 for clarification.

Comparison Table: Spirit vs. Other Major Airlines (Cabin Pet Travel)

Feature / Airline	Spirit Airlines	JetBlue	Delta
Pet Travel Type	Cabin only	Cabin only	Cabin only
Standard Pet Fee	One-way fee applies	Slightly higher	Moderate fee
Weight Limit	No set weight	20 lbs max	20 lbs max
Carrier Size	18x14x9 inches	17x12.5x8.5 inches	Varies per aircraft
Advance Booking Required	Yes	Yes	Yes
Support Contact	+1 (866) 558-3017	Via phone	Via phone

You can always confirm Spirit’s availability through +1 (866) 558-3017.

Guidelines for Stress-Free Pet Travel

Follow these best practices to ensure smooth boarding:

✔ Prepare documents early

If required for your route, obtain the health certificate ahead of your trip.

✔ Practice with the carrier

Your pet should feel comfortable inside before the travel day.

✔ Arrive early

Pet check-in may take extra time.

✔ Keep essentials ready

Food, medication, disposable pads, and comfort toys can make the journey easier.

✔ Call to verify availability

Pet slots fill quickly. Confirm before arrival at +1 (866) 558-3017.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Spirit Airlines Pet Travel

1. How much does it cost to fly a pet on Spirit Airlines?

Spirit Airlines charges $125 per pet carrier each way for pets traveling in the cabin. Only small pets that meet Spirit’s weight and size restrictions can fly, and the airline does not offer cargo transport for animals. Because Spirit limits each flight to six total pet carriers, securing the pet’s spot early is recommended.

2. What is Spirit Airlines’ pet policy?

Spirit allows small domestic dogs, cats, rabbits, and household birds to travel in the cabin on U.S. domestic routes. The pet must be at least 8 weeks old, and the combined weight of the carrier and animal cannot exceed 40 lbs. For travel to or from Puerto Rico, only small cats and dogs are eligible.

3. Can I buy my dog a seat on Spirit Airlines?

No. Spirit does not permit passengers to purchase a separate seat for a pet. All pets must remain in an airline-approved carrier that fits beneath the seat. While service animals may qualify for different seating options, regular pets cannot be placed on seats or in the aisle, and they must meet size standards (carrier max: 18" x 14" x 9").

4. What is the cheapest airline for flying with a dog?

Alaska Airlines is often the most affordable option for pet travel in the cabin, with a fee of $100 each way per carrier. If you’re traveling with two pets of similar type and size, they may share one carrier—bringing the effective cost to $50 per pet. Alaska also allows up to four pets per traveler in certain scenarios.

5. Can my 50-pound dog fly in the cabin with me?

Typically, no. Most airlines only allow pets small enough to fit in a carrier under the seat, which generally means under 15–20 lbs. A 50-lb dog would exceed cabin limits unless it is a trained and documented service animal. Otherwise, larger dogs must travel in cargo (on airlines that offer it) or via specialized pet transport services.

6. What is the 7-second rule for dogs?

The 7-second rule helps determine if the ground is too hot for your dog’s paws. Simply place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too uncomfortable for you to keep it there, it’s also unsafe for your dog, and walking could result in burned paw pads.

7. Can I buy my dog their own seat on a plane?

Generally, no. Most major airlines require pets to stay in a carrier under the seat and do not allow ticketed seats for animals. However, some carriers like JetBlue or JSX allow travelers to purchase an extra seat for added space—though the pet must still remain inside its carrier and cannot occupy the seat.

8. How much does it cost to fly with a dog on Spirit Airlines?

For Spirit Airlines, the standard in-cabin pet fee is $125 each way for a single carrier. Round-trip costs may vary depending on promotions or booking conditions, but Spirit maintains a strict in-cabin-only rule—pets cannot fly in cargo and must fit under the seat in front of you throughout the flight.

9. Can two pets travel in one carrier?

Only if they are small enough and comfortable, but fees still apply per carrier.

10. What if I need to change my flight with a pet booked?

Changes depend on fare rules. Call +1 (866) 558-3017 for rebooking help.

Conclusion

Flying with your pet on Spirit Airlines is simple and affordable once you understand the Spirit Airlines pet charges rules. With clear guidelines on carriers, required documents, and costs, you can travel with confidence. Always book in advance, prepare your pet early, and confirm flight availability.

If you need fast support with booking, fee details, or travel documents, call +1 (866) 558-3017—the team can walk you through every step and ensure your pet’s travel goes smoothly.