Traveling abroad with your furry friend can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re a senior passenger. Between airline rules, international paperwork, and making sure your pet stays comfortable, there’s a lot to juggle. The good news? Delta makes international pet travel possible — you just need to understand the policies before you book. If you’d rather speak to a live person right away, you can call 877-297-0699 to get Delta’s latest pet travel guidance.
Delta offers three main ways for pets to travel:
In-cabin travel: Small dogs, cats, and household birds may fly in the cabin on select international routes if they fit comfortably in a carrier under the seat.
Checked baggage: No longer available on most flights, so seniors usually rely on in-cabin or cargo.
Cargo (Delta Cargo): Larger pets must travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold.
📌 Service animals are permitted free of charge, provided they meet health and documentation requirements. Emotional support animals, however, are no longer recognized under Delta’s international travel policy.
✈️ Pro tip: Rules can vary depending on your destination country, so always confirm details directly with Delta before finalizing tickets.
Traveling internationally can be tiring, and it’s natural to worry about managing luggage, mobility, and pets all at once. Delta offers special assistance for seniors, such as wheelchair service and priority boarding — helpful when you’re also guiding a pet.
Imagine Mary, a 72-year-old traveler from Florida, who shared how Delta’s staff helped her and her small poodle through customs in Paris. Having airline staff step in gave her peace of mind during a long journey.
For international flights, Delta requires:
Recent health certificate from your veterinarian.
Proof of vaccinations (rabies shots are standard).
Airline-approved carrier that meets Delta and TSA size standards.
According to the CDC, pets traveling abroad face unique health risks, so it’s smart to check both U.S. and destination country requirements early.
In-cabin pets: Around $200 each way for international travel.
Cargo: Fees vary depending on size, weight, and destination.
If you’re on a fixed income, those costs can add up. Budget for the pet fee in addition to your ticket, and factor in extra vet visits or paperwork charges.
💡 If you want to double-check the fee for your route, call 877-297-0699 — Delta’s team can confirm exact pricing.
Here’s a senior-friendly checklist to reduce stress on travel day:
🩺 Visit your vet 10 days before departure for a health certificate.
🧳 Pack a small bag with food, water, meds, and comfort items.
🐾 Choose a carrier with good ventilation and enough space.
⏰ Arrive at the airport early to allow extra time with pet check-in.
Can seniors bring service dogs for free on Delta international flights?
Yes, service animals are allowed free of charge with proper documentation.
Are there breed restrictions?
Yes, certain dog breeds may not be accepted in cargo due to safety concerns.
How far in advance should I book my pet’s ticket?
At least a few weeks before travel — spots are limited for in-cabin pets.
Does Delta allow pets to every international destination?
No. Some countries have strict bans or quarantine rules. Always confirm before booking.
Traveling internationally with pets isn’t just possible — it can be smooth if you prepare early. Make sure your vet, your airline, and your destination country’s embassy are all on the same page about requirements. And remember, Delta has staff ready to assist if you need extra help navigating the airport.
Call 877-297-0699 to confirm Delta’s pet travel policy for your destination.
Talk with your vet today about international pet travel health checks.
Visit Delta’s official website for the most current updates.
Share this guide with a friend who’s thinking about flying with their pet.
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