If you're traveling to, from, or within Canada, you may have encountered WestJet. WestJet is Canada's second-biggest airline and has several convenient routes within Canada and internationally. The airline also boasts a great and all-encompassing pet policy.
What do we love about West Jet's pet policy? It includes birds and service dogs in training, which is very cool and fills a need in Canadian aviation.
Let's dive into your guide to traveling with a dog or cat with WestJet.
Photo by MaJustin Hu on Unsplash
Note: This information is correct as of the time of writing. Please always double-check with WestJet before travel!
If you're traveling to, from, or within Canada, you may have encountered WestJet. WestJet is Canada's second-biggest airline and has several convenient routes within Canada and internationally. The airline also boasts a great and all-encompassing pet policy.
What do we love about West Jet's pet policy? It includes birds and service dogs in training, which is very cool and fills a need in Canadian aviation.
Let's dive into your guide to traveling with a dog or cat with WestJet.
Contents
Booking procedures and fees for WestJet
Overview of WestJet's Pet Policy
So, you’re thinking of traveling with your dog or cat on WestJet? Understanding their pet policy is essential to ensure a smooth journey for both of you. Whether you’re a digital nomad, traveler, or simply relocating, WestJet provides two main options for pet travel: in-cabin (carry-on) and checked animals, depending on their size and your travel needs.
Pets in the Cabin
In-cabin travel on WestJet is perfect if your pet is small enough to fit comfortably under the seat in front of you. Whether for a dog or cat, your pet's kennel must be soft-sided, leak-proof, well-ventilated, secure, and airline-approved, ensuring it does not allow your pet's head to protrude.
The maximum allowable size for the kennel is 41 cm in length, 21.5 cm in height, and 25.4 cm in width. Since the kennel counts as a personal item, it should fit beneath the seat. Note that space varies by aircraft type, which may require you to adjust the kennel dimensions or your seating arrangement. On flights, especially if you're seated in a window seat due to space restrictions beneath other types of seats, you must make sure your kennel meets these size requirements.
Additionally, if you're traveling with a cat and another passenger has a severe allergy to cat dander, WestJet may need to seat you towards the rear of the aircraft to maintain a buffer zone as required by the Canadian Transportation Agency. You will be notified before boarding if necessary.
Pets as Checked Baggage
For larger pets, checked animal travel is an option where your dog will be placed in the cargo hold, a temperature-controlled and pressurized space.
Booking Procedures and Fees for WestJet
To secure a spot for your pet, bookings must be made by phoning WestJet, as online pet space reservations are unavailable. Kennel fees apply. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
In-Cabin Travel Fees:
Within or between Canada and the U.S.: $50 - $59 CAD/USD
From Canada/U.S. to destinations outside the U.S.: $100 - $118 CAD/USD
Checked Baggage Fees:
Within or between Canada and the U.S.: $100 - $118 CAD/USD
From Canada/U.S. to international destinations: $200 - $236 CAD/USD
Tip: We strongly recommend getting a soft-sided carrier for your dog or cat. The softer material allows you to gently squish it under the seat in front of you if needed. We love the Sherpa Original Deluxe Airline Approved Pet Carrier. The 'medium' size is typically the standard size for most airplanes. Sherpa even has a Guaranteed On -Board program. |
It's important to arrange your pet's travel at least 48 hours before departure to ensure available space, as capacity is limited. Remember, kennels are considered part of your carry-on baggage allowance and must meet the airline's specifications for size and safety.
Checking in with a pet on WestJet
Because you’re traveling with a pet, you won’t be able to check in online. You’ll need to do this in person.
You’ll want to arrive a bit earlier than usual when you’re checking in with your dog or cat. WestJets policy states you should arrive at the boarding gate at least 40 minutes prior to departure time. If you arrive less than 10 minutes before your departure time — you will be denied boarding! In our experience, give yourself extra time to avoid the stress and account for any unexpected hiccups.
WestJet Pet Travel Documentation
Preparing for a trip with a pet can be a complex task, even for digital nomads who are used to organizing their own travel documentation. Gathering all the necessary documents is a crucial step in this process.
You must consider two key areas: the requirements set by WestJet and those imposed by your destination country. Both can vary significantly, so it's important to research and plan well ahead of your journey. This is especially critical if you are a digital nomad traveling from a country that isn't your home base. Be aware that Canada might have specific restrictions on animals from areas with a high risk of rabies.
For travel on WestJet, you will typically need to provide:
A health certificate issued by a veterinarian
Proof of vaccinations
Additionally, WestJet might request extra documentation if your destination country requires it. It's wise to double-check these details to ensure a smooth trip for you and your pet.
Tip: Be prepared with all the correct documentation. Allow yourself extra time incase additional tests or documents are needed. It goes without saying, some countries are stricter than others. |
Tips during the journey
Flying across Canada can mean long hours in the air, often stretching up to six hours even on domestic routes. To make this journey more comfortable for your pet, here are some effective strategies:
Familiarize your pet with their carrier
Gradually getting your dog or cat accustomed to their carrier can make a big difference. Regularly serve their meals inside the carrier and use it as a space for training exercises, rewarding them with treats to create positive associations.
Have medications ready (if needed)
Before your trip, discuss with your vet the possibility of using medication to ease your pet’s travel anxiety. While anti-anxiety meds can be helpful, it’s crucial to trial them well before your departure to understand how your pet reacts—ensuring they are alert yet calm. For a natural alternative, consider discussing CBD with your vet, as it’s legal in Canada and known for its soothing effects on some pets.
Create a comfortable environment
Aircraft temperatures can fluctuate, so bringing a blanket might provide extra warmth if it gets cold or a sense of security and comfort at any temperature. Opt for a soft, plush blanket that your pet finds comforting.
Exercise your pet before the flight
Particularly important for dogs, a good workout before heading to the airport can help them feel more relaxed during the flight. Plan your schedule to include ample time for exercise, aiming for your dog to be pleasantly tired by the time you board.
Plan for Bathroom Breaks
Most Canadian airports are equipped with pet relief areas, complete with synthetic grass and amenities like a fire hydrant. Ensure you allow your dog multiple chances to relieve themselves before boarding, making use of these facilities.
WestJet Pet Travel FAQs
Here are some of the top questions we get from digital nomads, snowbirds, and travelers looking to fly WestJet with their pet.
1. What are the main requirements of the WestJet pet policy for in-cabin travel?
For your dog or cat to travel with you in the cabin, they must be contained in an airline-approved kennel that fits under the seat in front of you. The kennel dimensions should not exceed 41 cm x 21.5 cm x 25.4 cm. Ensuring the kennel is secure, leak-proof, and well-ventilated is important.
2. What should I know about international travel with my pet on WestJet?
When planning to travel internationally with your pet on WestJet, it's your responsibility to be aware of the specific entry requirements of the destination country. These requirements can vary widely and may include specific vaccinations and health certificates. Give yourself enough time to do the research and have everything in order. While WestJet might not check your documents before you board, the national authorities will once you land. If your missing something important, you could be required to leave the country (a true story!)
3. Can I bring my dog to the WestJet lounges?
Instead of having its own lounges, WestJet has partnered with airport lounges all over the country. Each lounge has a different policy, but overall, the answer is — yes, you can bring your dog or cat to the lounge. However, you'll need to keep your pet in their carrier at all times, not allowing any part of your pet to extend outside the carrier. You can check out the WestJet lounges here for more information.
4. Does WestJet permit emotional support animals?
Unfortunately no. WestJet does not accept emotional support animals in the cabin. Only service dogs or service dogs in training are allowed.
Conclusion
WestJet is one of the largest airline carrier in Canada with some of the most convenient routes to and from (and within) the country. If you're flying with WestJet make sure you book in advance and give yourself enough time to check-in at the airport.
If you plan in advance enough, being a digital nomad and flying WestJet with your pet should be easy as one-two-three.
Have a wonderful adventure! 🇨🇦
Note: some of the links in this post are an affiliate link, which help keep Nomad with Pets up and running at no extra cost to you.
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