Traveling with pets can be a bit stressful, especially when you’re flying. If you’re planning to travel with your furry friend, understanding the pet policies of the airline you’re flying with is crucial. Lufthansa Airlines, one of Europe’s largest and most well-known carriers, has clear guidelines for passengers traveling with pets. Whether you’re bringing a small dog or cat in the cabin, or your pet is flying in the cargo hold, knowing the airline’s rules and requirements can help ensure a smooth and safe journey for both you and your pet.
In this blog, we’ll take a deep dive into Lufthansa pet policy, covering everything from in-cabin travel to requirements for pets traveling as cargo.
1. Pets in the Cabin: Small Dogs and Cats
Lufthansa allows small pets, such as dogs and cats, to travel in the cabin with their owners. However, there are some important conditions and restrictions to keep in mind.
- Size and Weight Limitations: Pets must be small enough to fit in a carrier that fits under the seat in front of you. The carrier, when fully packed, must not exceed 8 kg (17.6 lbs), including your pet. The maximum dimensions of the carrier should be 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches). This is similar to the size of a small carry-on bag, so your pet will need to be comfortable in a compact space.
- Booking Your Pet’s Spot: You must inform Lufthansa of your intent to travel with a pet when you book your flight. There’s a limited number of spaces available for pets in the cabin, so it’s important to make your reservation early. The fee for bringing a pet in the cabin varies depending on the route, but it typically ranges between €50-€200 one-way.
- Health and Safety Requirements: Your pet must be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably in its carrier. Make sure the carrier is well-ventilated and secure to prevent any escape during the flight. Additionally, your pet should be well-behaved and stay inside the carrier for the duration of the flight.
2. Pets in the Hold: Larger Dogs and Animals
If your pet is too large to fit in the cabin, it can travel as cargo in the hold. Lufthansa offers a special service called Lufthansa Cargo to accommodate pets that cannot fly in the cabin.
- Pet Travel in Cargo: For pets flying in the hold, they will be transported in temperature-controlled, pressurized compartments designed specifically for animal travel. Pets flying in the cargo hold need to be placed in an IATA-approved crate, which must be sturdy and have enough space for your pet to stand and turn around comfortably.
- Booking Process: You’ll need to book your pet’s travel through Lufthansa Cargo, which operates separately from standard passenger bookings. The process involves submitting an application and providing details about your pet’s size and weight. It’s best to book early, as spaces for pets in the hold are limited and tend to fill up quickly.
- Cost: The cost for transporting your pet in the hold varies depending on the size, weight, and route of the flight. Typically, it ranges from €100 to €500 one-way. You’ll also need to factor in additional charges for the pet crate if you don’t have your own.
3. International Pet Travel Requirements
When traveling internationally with a pet, you’ll need to make sure that both Lufthansa’s pet policies and the pet import regulations of your destination country are met. This may include:
- Vaccinations: Your pet may need specific vaccinations, such as rabies, depending on the destination country’s requirements. Be sure to check the vaccination requirements well in advance.
- Health Certificates: Many countries require a veterinary health certificate issued within a certain time frame before travel, typically within 5 to 10 days of departure.
- Microchipping: Some countries may require your pet to be microchipped for identification purposes.
- Quarantine: Depending on the country you’re flying into, your pet may be subject to quarantine upon arrival. Make sure to research the pet import rules for your destination well in advance to avoid any surprises.
4. Pet Policy for Service Animals
Lufthansa Airlines is committed to accommodating passengers with disabilities and recognizes the importance of service animals. Service dogs are allowed to travel with you in the cabin free of charge, regardless of their size. You’ll need to notify the airline in advance and provide any required documentation to prove that your animal is a certified service dog.
5. Things to Consider Before Traveling with Your Pet
- Comfort and Safety: Travel can be stressful for pets, so ensure that your pet is familiar with its carrier well before the flight. You may also want to visit the vet for a check-up before traveling, especially for long-haul flights.
- Hydration and Food: Make sure your pet is properly hydrated before the flight. You can pack water and a small amount of food, but pets are generally not allowed to eat or drink during the flight. Also, consider arriving at the airport early to give your pet time to adjust to the environment.
- Arrival: Upon arrival, be prepared to pick up your pet from the designated area, whether it’s the cabin or the cargo hold. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation and paperwork when retrieving your pet.
Final Thoughts
Lufthansa Airlines pet policy has a well-structured pet policy designed to ensure the safety and comfort of animals traveling with passengers. Whether your pet is flying in the cabin or the hold, the airline provides clear guidelines and services to help you prepare for your trip. By booking early, meeting the necessary health requirements, and ensuring your pet is comfortable during the flight, you can make the journey as smooth as possible for both you and your pet. Safe travels!
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