Pets are family, and sometimes they need to travel with us. If you’re flying with United Airlines, you might wonder: How much does it cost to ship a pet in cargo? The answer is a bit more complicated than it used to be.
United Airlines once offered a program called PetSafe that allowed larger dogs and cats to travel in the cargo hold. But after safety concerns and policy changes, that program was suspended. Today, most pets can only fly in the cabin if they fit under the seat.
This article will explain what seniors need to know about United’s pet cargo fees, the current rules, and the best options available. And if you’re still unsure, you can always call 877-297-0699 to confirm directly with United before booking.
No. United’s PetSafe cargo program was suspended in 2018 after several well-publicized safety incidents. Since then, United has limited pet travel primarily to in-cabin pets only.
The only exceptions today are:
Service animals (dogs) traveling with eligible passengers.
Some international shipments through certified third-party providers, arranged directly with United.
👉 Important: If your pet is too large to fit under the seat in front of you, United will not currently transport them in the cargo hold.
Past cargo fees: Before the program ended, costs typically ranged from $200 to $600+, depending on your pet’s size, weight, and destination.
Current fees: For in-cabin pets, the flat fee is $125 each way (domestic and most international).
Since cargo isn’t offered anymore, the only fee seniors need to plan for is this in-cabin pet fee.
💡 Tip: Always confirm the latest fee by calling 877-297-0699, as policies can change.
If you’re traveling with a small pet, here’s what you need to know:
Pets must fit in an approved carrier that slides under the seat.
Carrier dimensions: about 18” x 11” x 11” for soft-sided (slightly smaller for hard-sided).
One pet per carrier.
Pets must remain inside the carrier during the flight.
Carriers count as one of your carry-on items.
👉 Example: A senior traveler from Ohio flew with her cat in a soft-sided carrier. By measuring ahead of time and double-checking at 877-297-0699, she avoided gate stress and enjoyed a smooth trip.
Traveling with pets can be stressful, but these tips make it easier:
Book early – United limits the number of pets per flight.
Choose a soft-sided carrier – lighter and easier to handle.
Use rolling luggage so one hand is free for your pet.
Request pre-boarding for extra time to get settled.
Bring familiar items – a blanket or toy helps keep pets calm.
📊 Data-backed note: Studies show pets with familiar bedding show lower stress levels during travel.
If your pet doesn’t fit under the seat, you still have options:
Ground transport services (pet shuttles or relocation companies).
Professional pet relocation services that specialize in international travel.
Family/friend assistance—sometimes splitting travel by car and plane makes sense.
United’s agents at 877-297-0699 can guide you to the best current options.
United Airlines no longer offers traditional pet cargo services, so there’s no longer a “cargo fee” in the way there used to be. Instead, seniors flying with pets will usually pay the $125 in-cabin fee for small dogs or cats that fit under the seat.
While this change limits options for larger pets, it makes in-cabin travel safer and more predictable. With preparation—and a quick call to 877-297-0699 to confirm details—you and your pet can enjoy a smoother journey.